Prototyping 3D Virtual Learning Environments with X3D-based Content and Visualization Tools-Figure 4. Iteration of the 3D modeling of the virtual faculty building (3D modeling by Marius Hodea)

<p>For our research, several iterations and methods were employed for the 3D design of an online campus. Different virtual models of a faculty building (see Figures 4,5) were designed and finally a virtual model of a 3D campus comprising a simplified 3-story faculty building (Figure 6) was created. The objective was the optimization of the 3D model and the demonstration of the desired functionalities. For these purposes two 3D modeling and post-processing software were used, i.e. 3DSMax and Trimble Sketchup. The model of the building resulted in 5962 vertices and 4528 faces. The textures and illumination were applied using OpenSim’s in-world tools. Furniture objects (tables, chair, computer monitors) were taken from the Google 3D Warehouse, distributed and shared under Trimble General Model License.