True3D*Shell is a free and open source 3D desktop environment that enables users to browse the web in a 3D environment.
With True3D*Shell, users can browse local and remote filesystems and download and run selected files. This software also includes a robot mode that provides automatic browsing capabilities.
Key features of True3D*Shell include a shell that provides access to kernel services, a desktop environment that offers a graphical user interface (GUI) solution to operate a computer, an avatar that provides a fantastic representation of a person's self with which users can explore the virtual universe, and virtual reality capabilities that allow users to interact with a virtual environment through standard input devices such as a keyboard and mouse or through multimodal devices.
This software is based on the MVC paradigm, which separates an application's data model, user interface, and control logic into three distinct components. Additionally, True3D*Shell features multithreading, allowing for the execution of multiple threads in parallel on a variety of computer systems.
True3D*Shell offers grid computing, which provides the ability to perform higher throughput computing by taking advantage of many networked computers to model a virtual computer architecture that is able to distribute process execution across a parallel infrastructure. This software also integrates the MOM paradigms, which rely on asynchronous message passing as opposed to a request/response metaphor.
Requirements for True3D*Shell include OpenGL, FreeGLUT, and MQ4CPP. Binaries are usually included within operating system distributions.
In the latest release of True3D*Shell, there are several exciting new features including an integration with the DOTCONFPP project to handle configuration files and the LIB3DS project to handle Autodesk files. Meshes are now separated from the engine and loaded during startup from .3DS files within a texture in .BMP 24 bit RGB format. Users can now fully customize the product through a configuration file specified by using the "-f" option at startup.
Overall, True3D*Shell is an innovative and unique 3D desktop environment that provides an exciting virtual reality universe for users to explore while also offering a multitude of features and capabilities to enhance their computing experience.