A Novel Visual Landing Aid Toolkit using VRML and X3D

The Phase II program proposed here represents a novel approach to provide a PC-based tool for the design and evaluation of Visual Landing Aids (VLAs) in supporting Naval aviation launch and recovery operations. The software is based on the use of a suite of tools built around Virtual Reality Modeling Language (VRML) and X3D constructs. VRML and X3D are open 3D graphics standards supported by several free plug-in modules operating within standard Internet browser windows. The resulting cross-platform software will serve multiple roles for use in ship design, Navy operational doctrine development, and aviator and sailor training support. Phase I work has been designed to demonstrate technical feasibility for accurately rendering VLA systems using PC-based 3D graphics, while simultaneously investigating approaches for rapid user representation and configuration of VLA systems, and dynamic evaluation of their impact on the visual scene. Phase II will complete the software development, and include features for representing detailed environmental effects, night vision aiding devices, and manned simulation extensions. The toolkit will be validated through comparison with actual data from at-sea VLA system qualification tests.