VRML-based laboratory system for material mechanical performance testing

A virtual lab system for material mechanical performance testing is developed by virtual reality modeling language (VRML). The structure, function and design principles of the system are described and its implementation procedure is also discussed. Taking the tensile test for example, the authors provide a feasible solution to realize a platform of complex interactive actions by Visual Basic 2005. The platform supplies a friendly 3D interface. The user can form virtual 3D experiment scene directly and control the inner virtual tester´s movements through a keyboard and mouse. Besides, with instructions, the user can invoke the virtual scenes, perform the interaction of experiment events, control the motions of 3D models and finish every step of the whole experiment.