Distributed computer communications in support of real-time visual simulations

Abstract

The modern tactical commander has a flood of sensory and intelligence information at his disposal. A tool is required to sort that information, allowing the commander to choose the information that is most pertinent to the decisions he must make at that time. This study is the preliminary work on the command and control workstation of the future. The focus of this effort is in two areas. One is a user interface using multiple windows and a mouse controlled cursor. This interface allows the user to set up the display to give him the information he needs in a way that is easy for him to interpret. The second focus is preliminary work on a real-time display that presents the user with a three-dimensional picture of the situation. This initial display uses three resolutions to display large areas of Defense Mapping Agency Digital Terrain Elevation Data with near real time animation