Development of a three dimensional terrain display for a light infantry platoon combat model

As an augmentation to field training, the author identifies a need for an easily available light infantry platoon combat model that presents a realistic view of the battlefield environment. To meet this need, the author examines the feasibility of developing a realistic three dimensional display of a terrain representation on a personal computer. The target computer provides only limited graphics support with an Enhanced Graphics Adapter and all graphics routines are implemented in software. Three methods of terrain representation are examined, and the Dynamic Tactical Simulation (DYNTACS) terrain model is chosen for implementation. The DYNTACS representation uses a specialized triangle drawing procedure written in assembly language, the painter's algorithm for hidden surface removal, and Defense Mapping Agency Digital Terrain Elevation Data. The implementation obtains a display rate between 1.2 and 1.5 seconds on a 80386 based 25 MHz computer. The author concludes that with the addition of enhancements that provide the capability to display cultural features, and model the target acquisition process, the program could be developed into a light infantry platoon combat model or a research tool for examining effects of human factors effects on tactical decision making.

Department dc:contributor.department

Command, Control and Communications (C3) Academic Group

Grantor dc:publisher

Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School

Year dc:date.issued

1990

Author dc:creator

• Dodd, Thomas G.

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Parry, Samuel H.

Statement dc:rights

• This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/10945/27735

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:calhoun.nps.edu:10945/27735