3D Synthetic Environment Representation Using the “Non-Manifold 3D Winged-Edge” Data Structure

Abstract

A Non-Manifold data structure for the modeling of 3D synthetic environments is proposed. The data structure uses a boundary representation (B-rep) method. B-rep models 3D objects by describing them in terms of their bounding entities and by topologically orienting them in a manner that enables the distinction between the object’s interior and exterior. Consistent with B-rep, the representational scheme of the proposed data structure includes both topologic and geometric information. The topologic information encompasses the adjacencies involved in 3D manifold and non-manifold objects, and is described using a new, extended Winged-Edge data structure. This data structure is referred to as “Non-Manifold 3D Winged-Edge Topology”. The time complexity of the newly introduced data structure is investigated. Additionally, the Non-Manifold 3D Winged-Edge Topology is being prototyped in a Web-Based virtual reality application. The prototype data consists of Military Operation in Urban Terrain (MOUT) data for Camp LeJeune, North Carolina. The application is expected to be ideal for training and simulation exercises as well as actual field operations requiring on-site assistance in urban areas.

This work was sponsored by the Defense Modeling Simulation Office (DMSO) and the National Imagery and Mapping Agency’s (NIMA) Terrain Modeling Project Office (TMPO), under Program Element 0603832D, with Jerry Lenczowski and Ron Magee as program managers. The views and conclusions contained in this paper are those of the authors and should not be considered as representing those of DMSO and NIMA.