TerraTools rapidly constructs simulation databases, using standard mapping and aerial imagery (DoD/NGA/USGS) source data, custom Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Geographic Information System (GIS) data, and imagery, in a standard Windows environment. The system follows an automatic, parametric generation of complex visual geometry critical for MOUT. The objects exported by the system can be embedded into the supported simulation tools to create 3D images.
At I/ITSEC 2007 TerraSim demonstrated the system’s capability to automatically create building interiors, and support OneSAF Terrain Format (OTF) database, integration with other presentation editing tools and the ability to publish simulations on the internet. TerraTools 3.5 Core has been extended to support advanced urban generation and now fully integrated with the “Urban Details” software package. The package assist the designer in the creation of a realistic urban model, supporting placement, density, model vanishing ranges, and levels of detail. Users can design objects based on the standard TerraTools model library or use their own models to match regional or cultural specific design.
In addition to automatic model placement and alignment using geometric constraints, model groups can be constructed and scripted to avoid simple repetition. Starting with a basic set of building footprints and road centerlines, TerraTools automatically calculates model positions. Using TerraSim’s integrated triangulated irregular network (ITIN) technology, surface features such as sewer grates and pavement anomalies can be directly integrated into existing curbs and sidewalks. Because TerraTools maintains full feature topology in the source data, light poles, power lines, fire hydrants, and parking meters can be automatically placed and displaced relative to other urban features. Collision detection is automatically performed so that urban details models will not overlap or be placed unnaturally close to one another. Model generation placement points and orientations can be exported as source data for correlation with computer generated forces (CGF) databases.
