Creating 3D Classes with ActionScript 2.0

This article describes how to create 3D effects in Macromedia Flash using a class-based programming model. I begin with an overview of the new syntax describing many of the new features in ActionScript 2.0, followed by a presentation of a 3D calculation method that uses quaternion math for fast, efficient 3D transformations.

Rather than demonstrating cool 3D effects, I emphasize creating classes that you can use in 3D engines. I examine these classes and demonstrate how to implement them to create a 3D scene. Hopefully, after reading this article you’ll be able to use or modify the code presented here to explore 3D and class-based programming on your own.

To complete this tutorial you will need to install the following software and files:

Macromedia Flash MX Professional 2004

Download sample files for this tutorial

• 3Dclasses.zip (15K)