VRML Models
Virtual Reality Modeling Language (VRML) is the only common non-raster output format that successfully captures most capabilities and features common in environmental visualizations. VRML is an ASCII file format that provides a vector description of three-dimensional models. It includes information about grids, data, subsetting, rendering properties (e.g. transparency) and raster images that are used as texture maps. Generally, models output as VRML look nearly identical to the rendered model in modeling and visualization software like EVS.
VRML models provide a great degree of functionality and support nearly all rendering modes and visualization techniques. Ray tracing and all types of volume rendering are not currently supported in VRML.
Customization
VRML models can be customized by hand editing or the use of VRML authoring and/or editing software. These packages provide a mechanism to add sounds, interactivity, and functionality to what are normally static VRML models.
Viewing of VRML files is possible in most web browsers like Internet Explorer and Netscape Navigator. The processing and viewing of VRML models requires a browser plug-in or dedicated VRML viewer.
VRML is also used as a generic format for the printing of 3D models (see www.zprint.com)