PC-Based Real-Time Infrared/Millimeter Wave Scene Generator

Modern scene generators perform complex, real-time rendering functions such as polygon fill, texture mapping, antialiasing, edge blending, and atmospheric and lighting effects. Unfortunately the advances available in the consumer graphics acceleratormarket do not translate into product applications for military scene generators required to test the next generation sensors. Video graphics cards are limited in frame rate-typically 30 Hz or at most 60 Hz-and are not likely to increase. Testing infrared(IR) sensors used in missile warning systems (MWS) require generating frame rates of 200 Hz or more. Modern IR emitter arrays are now able to project dynamic scenes at this higher rate, however PC based scene rendering systems cannot generate thereal-time frames fast enough. InterSpace proposes to leverage its high-speed pixel processor technology to produce high-speed rendering based on PC commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) devices. The proposed technology will allow a significant cost savings forIR sensor and hardware-in-the-loop testing. This testing is required for most all branches of the military. Commercial applica-tions include flight simulators, digital cinema, and virtual reality environments.