Modeling and Simulation: Linking Entertainment and Defense

The entertainment industry and the U.S. Department of Defense―though differing widely in their motivations, objectives, and cultures―share a common, growing interest in modeling and simulation. In entertainment, modeling and simulation technologies drive multi-billion dollar markets in video games, virtual reality attractions and theme parks, and film. In DOD, modeling and simulation provides a cost-effective means of training troops, developing doctrine and tactics, and evaluating new and upgraded systems. Modeling and Simulation explores both entertainment and military applications of modeling and simulation technology and examines ways in which the two communities can better leverage each others capabilities to strengthen the overall technology base. It identifies common research challenges in immersive synthetic environments, networked simulation, and computer-generated characters, as well as the hardware and software tools needed to create simulated environments. The book also discusses the differences in the business models of the entertainment and defense communities and addresses the need for continued support of multidisciplinary educational and research initiatives in modeling and simulation.