Visual Landing Aid (VLA) Design Toolkit Using VRML and X3D

Results from an ongoing investigation into a novel approach to provide a PC-based tool for the design and evaluation of Visual Landing Aids (VLAs) in supporting Naval aviation launch and recovery operations (often referred to as the Dynamic Interface (DI) problem) are to be presented. The software is based on the use of a suite of tools built around Virtual Reality Modeling Language (VRML) and X3D constructs. VRML, and its successor X3D, are both open 3D graphics standards supported by several free plug-in modules operating within standard Internet browser windows. The resulting cross-platform software will serve multiple roles for use in flight simulation, ship design, Navy operational doctrine development, and aviator and sailor training support.