VOLUMETRIC 3D VISUALIZATION OF TEST AND EVALUATION OPERATIONS

Abstract

Time-Space-Position-Information (TSPI) visualization systems used today at the Air Force Flight Test Center (AFFTC) and simulation visualization tools used at the Air Armament Center (AAC) utilize two-dimensional (2D) display systems for both real-time and post-mission data analysis. Examples are monitors and large screen projection systems. Some TSPI visualization systems generate three-dimensional (3D) data as output, but the 3D data is translated so that it is compatible with 2D display systems. Currently, 3D volumetric display systems are being utilized by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for monitoring air traffic in 3D without 3D goggles. The aircraft’s position information is derived from radar and fed to a volumetric display. The AFFTC and AAC need a similar system for Open Air Range testing utilizing the Global Positioning System (GPS) as the source of position information and Installed Systems Testing utilizing 6 Degree of Freedom (DOF) flight simulation data as the source of position information. This system should be capable of displaying realistic terrain structures, vehicle models and physical test configurations along with text data overlays. The ability to display the mission in real-time on a volumetric 3D display makes it possible for test engineers to observe resource utilization continuously as the mission develops. Quicker turn-around times in the decision process will lead to more efficient use of limited test resources and will increase the information content of the data being collected.