High-Fidelity Runtime Terrain Database Engine

Advances in 3D display, visualization and remote sensing provide an unprecedented opportunity to achieve a “20/20” terrain representation, whose resolution would match human perceptual ability. The barriers to this revolution are the difficulties in processing high-resolution sensed-data into a Modeling and Simulation (M&S) terrain model, the lack of support for raster-based semantic data in constructive simulation, and difficulties in scaling current runtime terrain formats to the data density required. UtopiaCompression (UC) and Lockheed Martin Simulation, Training, and Support (LM-STS) together, with UC’s extensive background in computational intelligence, adaptive 2D/3D modeling/compression/analysis/visualization, and LM-STS’ expertise in urban operation simulations, present a new generation of pattern-driven runtime terrain database engine (RTDE), capable of providing high-fidelity terrain data and services to support the full-spectrum L-V-C (Live, Virtual, and Constructive) M&S. Based on the successful Phase I feasibility study, in Phase II, the team will fully develop the pattern-driven terrain codec, prototype the high-fidelity RTDE, and demonstrate the rapid incorporation of physical terrain changes and the efficient propagation of high-fidelity dynamic terrain to exemplar L-V-C simulators. Phase II will result in a complete RTDE prototype with compact high-fidelity terrain storage, improved accuracy, runtime performance, and interoperability for L-V-C M&S and support for dynamic terrain updates/modifications.