A Real 3-Dimensional Digital Terrain Map System

A soldier's ability to get a feel for terrain from maps before or even while he walks over it can be critical to the success of a mission. A virtual three-dimensional view of the terrain is a dream of every warfighter. To address this Army need, PhysicalOptics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new 3-Dimensional Map System (3DIMAS). POC's approach is to store geographic data independently in a separate database imported from other applications or through the Internet. This ensures that the data tobe processed is on the server, and transfers maps directly to the warfighter's portable map device, which displays real-time/static geographic data from multiple sources. This will be the first real three-dimensional map viewer application in the world.This dual mode capabilities of the proposed DIMAS provides the user with a flexible user-friendly environment. It combines portability with full client-server capability in a single application. In Phase I, POC will complete a feasibility prototype3DIMAS. Adding a third dimension to standard 2-D displays enhances the viewer's awareness, providing better visualization of data, events, and messages. Commercial benefits in the areas of TV, medical education, and computer aided design fields will behuge.