High fidelity, low cost data bases for visual simulation

A number of novel database generation system (DBGS) concepts are introduced. The notion of a common geographic database as a single, unambiguous repository of corrected and fused source data is explained. The need for fusion of topographic features with the terrain is shown to favor a TIN (triangulated irregular network) as opposed to a grid-based terrain model. The need for planning and production control tools is identified, and a computerized production approach is described. Automated validation combined with rapid mission previewing will permit databases to be built without recourse to the IG. A novel DBGS software architecture is described, and shown to provide significant life cycle cost advantages. The DBGS kernel will provide a consistent user interface across all applications, a database manager to control database access, and a number of integrated viewing and editing tools. A computing platform based on industry standard components is described