FastScript3D is a computer program, written in the Java 3D™ programming language, that establishes an alternative language that helps users who lack expertise in Java 3D to use Java 3D for constructing three-dimensional (3D)-appearing graphics.
The FastScript3D language provides a set of simple, intuitive, one-line text-string commands for creating, controlling, and animating 3D models. The first word in a string is the name of a command; the rest of the string contains the data arguments for the command. The commands can also be used as an aid to learning Java 3D. Developers can extend the language by adding custom text-string commands. The commands can define new 3D objects or load representations of 3D objects from files in formats compatible with such other software systems as X3D. The text strings can be easily integrated into other languages. FastScript3D facilitates communication between scripting languages [which enable programming of hyper-text markup language (HTML) documents to interact with users] and Java 3D. The FastScript3D language can be extended and customized on both the scripting side and the Java 3D side.
This program was written by Patti Koenig of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. For further information, access the Technical Support Package (TSP) free online at www.techbriefs.com/tsp under the Software category.
This software is available for commercial licensing. Please contact Karina Edmonds of the California Institute of Technology at (818) 393-2827. Refer to NPO-30592.
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
FastScript3D  a Companion to Java 3D
(reference NPO-30592) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
Don't have an account?
Overview
The document is a Technical Support Package for FastScript3D, a software application developed by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) as a companion to Java3D. FastScript3D is designed to simplify the creation of 3D interactive content, making it accessible to web designers, application programmers, and scripting language enthusiasts who may not have extensive programming experience.
FastScript3D utilizes a text string-based language implemented in Java3D, consisting of simple, one-line commands that allow users to create and animate 3D models with minimal programming effort. The commands are intuitive and serve as a learning tool for those looking to understand Java3D better. The software facilitates rapid prototyping and enables users to define new 3D objects or load geometry from various file formats, such as X3D.
One of the key advantages of FastScript3D is its ability to integrate seamlessly with other programming languages, particularly JavaScript, which is commonly used to create dynamic HTML pages. This integration allows for interactive web applications where user inputs can control 3D graphics displayed in Java applets, and vice versa. The simplicity of the text string commands makes it easy to embed FastScript3D into other languages and protocols, including XML documents.
The document also highlights the potential for developers to extend and customize the FastScript3D language by adding their own commands, thereby creating specialized command sets tailored to specific applications. This flexibility makes FastScript3D a powerful tool for developers looking to enhance their 3D graphics capabilities without the burden of extensive programming.
Additionally, the document includes a section on contributors to the project, emphasizing the importance of recognizing those who have made significant contributions to the software's development. It also notes the proprietary nature of the information contained within the report and provides contact details for further assistance through NASA's Scientific and Technical Information (STI) Program Office.
In summary, FastScript3D is a user-friendly, extensible tool that bridges the gap between scripting languages and Java3D, enabling the creation of interactive 3D content with minimal programming effort. Its integration capabilities and ease of use make it an attractive option for a wide range of users, from web designers to application developers.
