Littoral Environment Visualization Tool

A tool does not currently exist that allows an individual to visualize the littoral environment or changes to that environment with a fair degree of realism and on a near real-time basis. Sonalysts, Inc. wants to improve upon this situation by applying gaming expertise to develop a simulation tool that addresses these issues. The tool we propose will make use of Sonalysts’ state-of-the-art commercial simulation technology. This technology will be applied to provide computations, graphics, video capture, and simulation for the environmental elements within the littoral zone. We will demonstrate an ability to simulate environmental changes and observe their effect on a near real-time basis in such elements as wind speed and direction or in wave height, period, or direction. We will illustrate the capability to modify these environmental elements by interactions between the user and the simulation tool through easy-to-use graphical user interfaces. Our Phase I approach will address three key technical objectives: 1) Obtain information to provide an understanding of the computational effort required for varying degrees of visualization detail and realism, 2) Evaluate forecast model data to determine sufficiency for providing realistic animations, and 3) Determine ability of animation to realistically reflect changes to the littoral environment.