The simulation of terrain-following targets in tactical air-defense scenario simulators is discussed with respect to sizing and/or timing problems in the simulation software. A critical analysis of the several less desirable consequences of direct approaches to this simulation puts this problem in a more realistic perspective. A near-perfect simulation (in principle) is described which represents the terrain via two-dimensional digital altitude data and makes the targets 'levitate' over the terrain thus simulated. The required data base is, however, prohibitively large and the number of altitude changes required is similarly objectionable. An image of the above-mentioned array, as a strange stairway that wanders along both horizontal axes, is shown to lead to certain simplifications. The principal simplification results from establishing a coordinate system whose origin is at the radar site. The second is suggested by the fact that one high step (or hill) near the site will abscure many other steps at longer ranges and increasing relative angle.
The simulation of terrain-following targets
Simulation eines ueberlandfliegenden Zielobjekts
1983
8 Seiten, 8 Bilder
Aufsatz (Konferenz)
Englisch