System structures for efficient rendering in virtual worlds and virtual testbeds

Abstract

To date, it is still a challenge to develop a comprehensive simulation system which has the capabilities to serve as a Virtual Testbed. In this paper, we present an efficient system structure, based on a novel 3D simulation database approach, which has been designed according to testbed requirements collect from space robotics to virtual production requirements. The simulation framework VEROSIM®which is the basis of our current developments, has been specifically designed to be able to handle a comprehensive class of process simulations in one modular framework. By combining different capabilites - like advanced rendering techniques, rigid body dynamics, terra machanics, etc. - in a single framework, it is now possible to make the step from virtual worlds to virtual testbeds. This paper focuses on the framework's simulation database, system structure and render engine. It also shows how the render engine extracts a view onto the simulation database in order to work performantly. Furthermore, the simulation system is able to produce high quality real-time renderings of complex scenes on standard consumer PC hardware as well as functional, intuitive graphics on low-end hardware like ruggedized notebooks designed for outdoor usage. Last but not least, examples of different application areas for virtual testbeds are shown and discussed. © 2010 Springer-Verlag.