3D visualization of tactical communications for planning and operations using Virtual Reality Modeling Language (VRML) and Extensible 3D (X3D)

Abstract

The military is increasingly reliant on communication networks for day-to-day tasks as well as large-scale military operations. Tactical communications networks are growing progressively more complex as the amount of information required on the battlefield increases. Communication planners require more advanced tools to perform and manage signal-planning activities. This work examines the use of 3D visualizations to assist in tactical signal planning. These visualizations are developed using Virtual Reality Modeling Language (VRML), Extensible 3D (X3D) graphics, and Distributed Information Simulation (DIS) for network connectivity. These visualizations and the connectivity provide signal planners the ability to generate 3D scenarios quickly identifying problems such as frequency interference, connectivity problems, and marginal-coverage areas. Network connectivity also provides a collaborative planning environment for geographically dispersed units. The NATO Global Hub Land C2 Information Exchange Data Model (LC2IEDM) is a semantic model designed for information passing between systems. This work also examines LC2IEDM for its ability to represent tactical communication plans and facilitate the autogeneration of 3D scenarios.