User`s guide

5 Build Virtual Reality Worlds
5-30
Using CAD Models with the Simulink 3D Animation Product
In this section...
“Section Overview” on page 5-30
“Import STL and Physical Modeling XML Files Directly into a VRML Virtual World” on
page 5-30
“Import VRML Models from CAD Tools” on page 5-31
“CAD Virtual World Modeling” on page 5-38
“Link to CAD Virtual Worlds” on page 5-41
“Import VRML Models from CATIA Software” on page 5-46
Section Overview
When you work with models of dynamic systems, it is often necessary to visualize
them in a three-dimensional virtual reality environment. As most of the 3D designs in
companies are created using CAD tools, users need to be able to convert these designs
into forms that can be used with Simulink or SimMechanics models and applications
based on the MATLAB software.
This section describes how to adapt existing CAD designs for visualization using the
Simulink 3D Animation software.
This section assumes that the reader has a moderate knowledge of the Simulink 3D
Animation product. For VRML-specific information, such as the description of VRML
nodes and their fields, refer to the VRML97 standard.
Import STL and Physical Modeling XML Files Directly into a VRML Virtual
World
CAD models frequently use STL (STereoLithography) format files or Physical Modeling
XML files.
You can use the 3D World Editor to import STL and Physical Modeling XML files directly
into a VRML scene. You can integrate content from those files into a virtual world,
converting the structure into VRML.
To import an STL or Physical Modeling XML file: