Tridimensional scenes management and optimization for virtual reality simulators

Abstract

Virtual Reality (VR) simulation offers a new paradigm for realistic control and operation training, employing 3D digital objects and environments to create immersive experiences. The virtual scenarios should be as similar to the real ones as possible, to improve training. Furthermore, obtaining a digital version of these scenarios is a complex process that involves several tasks including mathematical modeling and 3D detailed geometry generation, among others. This paper presents some novel software tools that easier the development of a 3D virtual subterranean simulator. By providing tight integration between traditional CAD software and visualization engines, these tools are successfully applied to the construction of several virtual scenarios. Moreover, some strategies to optimize digital resources to allow loading and visualizing large maneuver exercises along realistic train trajectories in desktop computers are presented.