MAPHAC"Modeling And Perception for HAndheld Computers

In order to improve situational awareness in high-density urban areas and complex terrains where threats can come from different elevations, three-dimensional mapping and visualization systems could prove to be very effective. Building systems that can integrate dense, live sensor data with existing geographic data to visualize a 3D environment in a timely fashion has proven difficult. Properly designing these systems requires deviating from orthodox algorithms in the fields of computer graphics, data management, and distributed systems. Spatial Cognition proposes a design for a modular, distributed, and portable 3D mapping and visualization system for mounted/dismounted operations. This system is built on new spatial partitioning algorithms, rendering techniques, and collective localization heuristics designed to integrate live and existing data sources and leverage the latest advances in GPU technology. The proposed Phase I effort will demonstrate the feasibility of building this system, create a detailed design for a prototype system, and validate that this system can significantly reduce collective engagement timelines for fleeting, time-sensitive targets.