X3D Binary Compression Capabilities and Plans
From Web3D.org
- Approved ISO standard Compressed Binary Encoding (CBE) for X3D
- .x3db file extension
- Based on ISO standard Fast Infoset (FI) for XML compression
- Two independent open-source implementations available
- C++ codebase: XIOT X3D Input Output Tool library
- Java codebase: Xj3D
- CAD Distillation Filter (CDF) technique allowing successive refinement of large X3D scenes into tighter X3D scenes
- Multiple filters implemented in open-source Xj3D, X3D-Edit
- Multiple other conversion and translation tools available with supporting capabilities
- X3D Canonicalization (C14N) provides standardized formatting so that digital signatures are not thwarted by whitespace variations
- Plan to add a further-improved X3D Compressed Binary Encoding using now-approved W3C Recommendation for Efficient XML Interchange (EXI)
- Web3D contributed to EXI working group and XML Binary Characterization working group efforts, ensuring that 3D Model Compression, Serialization and Transmission use-case requirements are defined and met
- Design includes compatibility with CDF techniques, XML Encryption, and XML Digital Signature for author authentication
- Relevant example scenes maintained as part of X3D Basic Examples Archive - Security
- This meets most needs of digital authors for digital rights management
- Several capabilities are available for flexible network transmission
- Anchor, Inline, LOD, LoadSensor, Script and Prototype nodes support successive retrieval of content once initial model is displayed
- Willing to consider further addition of progressive-mesh geometric streaming technologies, perhaps by a public Call for Contributions
- Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) protections for X3D specification
- Patented technologies can be considered, but only when eventual use will be royalty free for X3D use (if eventually accepted)
- Submitters can restrict patented submissions to working group while under consideration, if desired
- Web3D's X3D and CAD Working Groups each have member commitments to pursue this continued innovative work in 2012
- X3D appears to have have an 80% solution already available that meets various requirements for a general 3D transmission format
