Method and program for scenario provision in a simulation system

Abstract

A simulation system (20) facilitates training for trainees (26) subject to multi-directional threats. A method for providing a scenario (211) for use in the simulation system (20) utilizes a scenario provision process (202) executable on a computing system (26). The process (202) calls for choosing a background image (234) for the scenario (211), and selecting a video clip(s) (386) of one or more actors (266) from a database (203) of video clips (386). The video clip(s) (386) are filmed using a green or blue screen technique, and include a mask portion (394) of the actor (266) and a transparent portion (396). The video clip(s) (386) are combined with the background image (234) to create the scenario (211), with the mask portion (394) forming a foreground image over the background image (234). The scenario (211) is displayed on a display of the simulation system (20).

Description

RELATED INVENTION [0001] The present invention is a continuation in part (CIP) of “Multiple Screen Simulation System and Method for Situational Response Training,” U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 800,942, filed 15 Mar. 2004, which is incorporated by reference herein. [0002] In addition, the present invention claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to: “Video Hybrid Computer-Generated Imaging Software,” U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 633,087, filed 3 Dec. 2004, which is incorporated by reference herein.TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0003] The present invention relates to the field of simulation systems for weapons training. More specifically, the present invention relates to scenario authoring and provision in a simulation system. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0004] Due to current world events, there is an urgent need for highly effective law enforcement, security, and military training. Training involves practicing marksmanship skills with lethal and / or non-le...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0013] It is an advantage of the present invention that a simulation system is provided for situational response training.

[0014] It is another advantage of the present invention is that a simulation system is provided in which a trainee can face multiple risks from different directions, thus encouraging teamwork and reinforcing the use of appropriate tactics.

[0015] Another advantage of the present invention is that a simulation system is provided having realistic scenarios in which a trainee may practice observation techniques, practice time-critical judgment and target identification, and improve decision-making skills.

[0016] Yet another advantage of the present invention is that a cost-effective simulation system is provided that can be configured to enable situational response training, marksmanship training, and / or can be utilized for weapons qualification testing.

[0017] The above and other advantages of the present invention are carried out in one form by a simulation system. The simulation system includes a first screen for displaying a first view of a scenario, and a second screen for displaying a second view of the scenario. The first and second views of the scenario occur at a same instant, and the scenario is a visually presented situation. The simulation system further includes a device for selective actuation toward a target within the scenario displayed on the first and second screens, a detection subsystem for detecting an actuation of the device toward the first and second screens, and a processor in communication with the detection subsystem for receiving information associated with the actuation of the device and processing the received information to evaluate user response to the situation.

[0018] The above and other advantages of the present invention are carried out in another form by a method of training a participant utilizing a simulation system, the participant being enabled to selectively actuate a device toward a target. The method calls for displaying a first view of a scenario on a first screen of the simulation system and displaying a second view of the scenario on a second screen of the simulation system. The first and second views of the scenario occur at a same instant, the scenario is prerecorded video of a situation, and the first and second views are adjacent portions of the prerecorded video. The method further calls for detecting an actuation of the device toward a target within the scenario displayed on the first and second screens, and evaluating user response to the situation in response to the actuation of the device.

Problems solved by technology

Additionally, training involves the development of decision-making skills in situations that are stressful and potentially dangerous.

Indeed, perhaps the greatest challenges faced by a trainee are when to use force and how much force to use.

If an officer is unprepared to make rapid decisions under the various threats he or she faces, injury to the officer or citizens may result.

Although scenario training is essential for preparing a trainee to react safely with appropriate force and judgment, such training under various real-life situations is a difficult and costly endeavor.

Live-fire weapons training may be utilized in firing ranges, but it is inherently dangerous, tightly safety regulated, costly in terms of training ammunition, and firing ranges may not be readily available in all regions.

Moreover, live-fire weapons cannot be safely utilized under various real-life situation training.

Single screen simulators utilize technology which restricts realism in tactical training situations and restricts the ability for thorough performance measurements.

Unfortunately, a conventional single screen simulator does not expand or stimulate a trainee's awareness to these multi-directional threats because the trainee is compelled to focus on a situation directly in front of the trainee, as presented on the single screen.

However, the trainee is not provided with peripheral stimulation in such a dual screen simulation system.

The front screen / rear screen simulation system also suffers from the “tunnel vision” problem mentioned above.

Training scenarios based on NTSC analog television standards suffer from poor realism due to low resolution images that are expanded to fit the large screen of the simulator system.

In addition, detection cameras based on NTSC standards suffer from poor tracking accuracy, again due to low resolution.

Consequently, the need to provide cost effective, yet highly realistic, simulation systems for situational response training in austere budget times has presented additional challenges to the simulation system community.

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