SBIR-STTR Award

Topic N92-159 stated a NAVAIR requirement for environmental degradation models to enhance the effectiveness of PC-based training devices. The purpose of this Phase I SBIR effort is to demonstrate feasibility of upgrading NAVAIR training devices with environmental degradation models using real world infrared video of target and background scenes. Phase I objectives will seek to (1) identify efficient PC-based degradation algorithms for environmental modelling (2) investigate real scene database and computer processing requirements for simulating infrared weapon performance in varying environmental conditions, (3) determine architectures for upgrading NAVAIR training devices for infrared Maverick and SLAM with environmental degradation modules. Multimedia technologies will be considered to optimize PC configuration for video storage, image processing, dynamic simulating and graphic realism. PC-based training devices for the laser and infrared Maverick will provide proof of concept opportunities for the proposed Phase I and Phase II SBIR effort.

An innovative graphical user interface (GUI) for environmental degradation modeling is proposed under this Phase II effort. The innovation will bring infrared visualization technology normally associated with workstations to the PC through an easy-to-use GUI. the development of the GUI and concomitant databases of targets and backgrounds will offer immediate enhancements to PC-based training devices developed by NAWC-AD Warminster such as Maverick and Harpoon engagement training aids (META and HETA). Technical objectives for Phase II include (1) expansion of IR target and background database; (2) completion of software development kits for degrading video images; (3) developing infrared sensor and simulation models; (4) developing a standard GUI architecture; (5) Implementing GUI on both PC and workstation training hosts. The Environmental Research Institute of the University of Michigan (ERIM) is a principal technology partner for EAST and is proposed as a subcontractor to reduce the risks associated with incorporating IR sensor and scene simulation into PC-based training devices.