RPA Electronic Solutions

Topic Number N02-191
Phase II+

Many existing image generator (IG) systems lack the required fidelity for particular tasks because the tradeoff between rendering performance and image update rate.  Low update rates causes the scene load management to limit, or cull, certain objects from the scene.  Several methods are used, including  dynamically limiting the back of the viewing frustum (range limiting), dropping moving objects, or forcing the level of detail of selected objects to a lower level in times of heavy load.  Allowing the IG more time to render each frame of imagery would provide a mechanism for those systems to include more of these objects back into the scene.

A system which can manipulate raster imagery from a video source, to provide smooth motion on display refresh intervals based on ownship motion, would allow the IG the extra time it desires to improve scene content.

This proposal addresses two essential areas of image generator (IG) performance improvement.

1. Use with low cost – PC IG solutions
2. Use with existing – older technology IGs

In both cases, a system is desired which has minimal impact on the current design of such systems.  The proposed system would have no requirement for specific real-time operating software, or database formats.  It will operate using only previously rendered images, with an interface to real-time software to provide current vehicle (ownship) attitude (Pitch, Roll, Yaw), as well as initialization information to define the window to be altered relative to the vehicle coordinate system.