Using Real-Time Chemical Plume Models in Virtual Training Systems

This paper describes the design, implementation, and use of integrated chemical plume-models in virtual training systems. The US Naval Research Laboratory has linked its CT-Analyst® software, a high-fidelity real-time plume modeling tool, with VBS2, a widely-used virtual gaming and training program, to produce new training capabilities that were previously unavailable. This work benefits two different but overlapping training scenarios: 1) tactical training for large-scale chemical gas attacks with a specific focus on crowd management, and 2) handler-focused training for users interested in working with IED-detecting dogs. The use of accurate, faster-than-real-time plume modeling enhances the virtual training systems to provide broader realistic support to the simulation and training communities.