A Novel User Interface Controller for Dismounted Infantry Training
Abstract
For more than a decade, the Immersive Simulation Section has developed novel user interfaces for U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) infantry training simulators that let users interact in the 3D virtual world with close to the same abilities and constraints people have in the real world, in terms of moving through the environment and coordinating with teammates. Pointman is a new desktop control interface that combines a dual-joystick gamepad, head tracking, and sliding foot-pedals (inexpensive rudder pedals used with flight simulator games) that, for the first time, gives users the capability to apply correct tactical infantry movements using a desktop system. The USMC has adopted VBS2 (Virtual BattleSpace-2), an infantry and combined arms desktop training simulator to supplement live training. VBS2 is a product of Bohemia Interactive and will be used within the framework of the USMC's Deployable Virtual Training Environment (DVTE). Training simulators present dangerous situations without risking injury or accidents. They can represent any location that has been modeled, have a small footprint, and are deployable. They are less costly because they do not require travel to physical training sites and do not use consumables. The USMC recognizes the advantages of Pointman for increasing training effectiveness and has endorsed Pointman's integration with VBS2 through the Office of Naval Research's Rapid Technology Transition (RTT) Program and in cooperation with the USMC Program Manager Training Systems office (PMTRASYS) in Orlando, Florida.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA525077
Entities
People
- J. N. Templeman
- L. E. Sibert
- P. S. Denbrook
- R. C. Page
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory