Applying Gaming Technology to Military Visualization - Games where You Only Live Once!

Applied Visions, Inc. proposes to implement a flexible, extensible application program interface (API) to commercial game engines that will provide Military Commanders with high-quality, cost-effective, 3D visualization for use in current and emerging C2 applications. In Phase I we demonstrated the feasibility of the concept by developing a prototype API and using it to interface a commercial game engine with the Army's Mobile Command and Control (MC2) system. In addition to exploiting the powerful rendering of the game engine, the prototype system also provides a game-like user interface that is familiar and intuitive to the latest generation of computer-savvy Commanders. Our Phase II project will investigate adding non-visual enhancements for elements such as communications and sensors, prove the API's ability to leverage the wealth of functionality in other game engines, and develop a fully functional, advanced development prototype that has immediate benefit for the Army and will provide a basis for successful commercial products in Phase III. Phase II will culminate with an integration and demonstration with a FCS C2 system such as Commander's Support Environment (CSE). Potential Phase III work includes extending the concept to the problem of Asymmetrical threats and Homeland Security.