VPARK - A Windows NT Software Platform for a Virtual Networked Amusement Park

In this paper we present the Virtual Park (or VPARK) system. This includes a Networked Virtual Environment (NVE) System, called W-VLNET and an Attraction Building System, able to create and modify attractions used in the NVES. Both systems have been developed in the Windows NT environment. The paper outlines the techniques for communication, scene management, facial and body animation, and general user interaction modules. The use of VRML97 and MPEG-4 SHNC is overviewed for the purpose of outlining the compatibility of the system with other similar Virtual Reality systems. The software provides realistic virtual actors as well as sets of high-level actions applicable to them in real-time. Related issues on obtaining actor models and animating them in real-time are presented. The creation process of an attraction incorporates assembling animation units through a timeline. Using this software, the users are able to bring their own scenario-based applications into a shared virtual environment.