Homeland Defense Center Network - capitalizing on simulation, modeling and visualization for emergency preparedness, response and mitigation

Emerging simulation, modeling and 3D visualization technologies (3D-SMV) could be used to dramatically improve how we prepare for, respond to and recover from disaster across federal, state, and local lines. It is now possible, at low-cost, to: 1) address 3D-SMV needs with seamlessly integrated, commercial, scalable, networked solutions; 2) provide unique flexibility to reuse 3D-SMV content across PC, laptop, or mobile devices via CD, LAN or Internet; and 3) portray fully interactive 3D-SMV on multi-wall display and, without change, on monitors with optional accessories including head-mounted displays, haptic gloves, 3D glasses. In the Homeland Defense Center Network, ATI is teamed with Eon Reality and University-based Homeland Defense Centers. Each Center has unique expertise in applying 3D-SMV to: urban assessment; surveillance; sensor simulation; critical infrastructure; scalable training; firefighting; and HAZMAT. This paper describes efforts to use these centers to capitalize on 3D-SMV for training and decision support throughout the emergency life-cycle.