By J.R. Wilson
ORLANDO, Fla. - Several major upgrades and new modules have been included in the Paradigm Simulation Vega 3.0 release of its flagship virtual reality development tool.
New version features from Paradigm in Dallas include active preview, which enables interactive creation and manipulation with immediate graphic rendering and feedback; unlimited texturing for existing Vega objects; directional horizon glow based on sun location; dynamically reduced frame-by-frame screen resolution on fill-demanding applications; correct sun and moon position calculations based on date, time, and observer location; and multiple cloud deck rendering.
Vega Navigation and Signal Lighting, one of two new modules introduced at the Interservice/Industry Training Systems and Education Conference, generates, controls, and renders light points, systems, and, groups for aviation and naval applications. The other new module, Vega Class Recorder, can rapidly build complex virtual environments by recording and playing back multiple observers, objects, players, and special effects.
Updates include adding textured and particle-animated special effects to Vega Special Effects; offering true 3-D sinusoidal and trochoidal ocean models; sea-state- dependent textures; improved multi- processor support with Vega Marine; Lynx-based advanced protocol data unit filters; fire/detonate effects mapping with clamping correlation; and remotely controllable stealth observers to Vega DIS.
