NPSNET: software requirements for implementation of a sand table in the virtual environment

Abstract

The problem this thesis addresses is the lack of current computer applications which allow 3D graphical visualization and manipulation of abstract control measures during military planning. 3D depiction of a battle plan is needed to reduce ambiguity in planning and provide a clearer depiction of a commander's actual intent. The approach taken was to build a networked Virtual Environment Sand Table. The system was built using NPSNET for 3D visualization and manipulation of control measures and ModSAF for the management of the measures. The result of this thesis was the implementation of a Virtual Environment Sand Table in NPSNET. The system enables the creation and manipulation of control measures in a networked 3D Virtual Environment. The system provides intuitive visualization of control measures overlaid on Virtual Terrain. Incorporating these features into a planning tool in a Virtual Environment makes battle planning more effective and increases situational awareness by allowing expression and depiction of abstract concepts and ideas in a shared medium.