In an age where threats are constantly evolving, the question arises of how we can best support our soldiers. By effectively planning and preparing beforehand, we can mitigate risks and identify scenarios to prepare the warfighter for situations that may be encountered in combat. At Invariant, we use our modeling and simulation expertise to evaluate real-world problems safely and efficiently.
What is Modeling and Simulation?
Modeling and Simulation (M&S) is the use of models (e.g., physical, mathematical, or logical representation of a system, entity, phenomenon, or process) as a basis for simulations to develop data utilized for managerial or technical decision-making. By utilizing models for our customers, we can ensure that products or systems work as intended and help determine what needs testing in the field. One way we support our customers via simulation is by integrating our infrared scene generation capabilities into our M&S approach.
The Power of Infrared Scene Generator
Imagine playing a video game - oftentimes the scenarios and environments can feel real and life-like. Similarly, our team can simulate real-world environments utilizing our infrared scene generation capabilities. Infrared describes light at the red end of the spectrum, which cannot be seen by humans, but can be detected by specialized sensors or cameras at night and during the day.
By using this technology, our team can generate complex scenes that an infrared sensor would encounter such as terrain, atmospheric effects, clouds, vehicles, and many other model types. When pairing this sensor with a weapon system, we can test out the pros and cons of different scenarios to ensure the system will work properly or where the project needs to pivot. This software is useful to represent real-world imagery for performance evaluation or potential hardware designs.
Many of Invariant’s M&S activities have been utilized via the Army’s Common Simulation Framework (CSF). Invariant’s expertise derives from participation in the original development of CSF and continued application across many Army missile programs. Current M&S and program support includes the Multiple Simultaneous Engagement Technologies (MSET), Joint Air to Ground (JAGM) Missiles, and Land-Based Anti-Ship Missiles (LBASM) at the Army’s Aviation and Missile Command (AvMC).
The Scenario
Currently, Invariant is working on precision targeting and teaming for multiple platforms. For example, how do we best support our soldiers by utilizing multiple agents or multiple defense systems and coordinating those assets? Our team is using our infrared scene generating capabilities to simulate multiple agents and threats to help identify and test various strategies and algorithms in these types of environments beforehand. In this approach, soldiers can be acclimated to multiple scenarios before a situation occurs.
An extension of the M&S approach is the use of trainers to acclimate a soldier to the hardware and software aspects of a particular weapon system used in the field. Often, infrared sensors are used to target enemy threats. Our infrared scene generation technology is incorporated into these systems as well to test these weapon simulations. Ultimately, these simulations prepare soldiers so that once they are in combat, they are better prepared and equipped to respond to various enemy threats.
While modeling and simulation is just one piece of the pie in a project or evaluation, it’s an essential step to ensure effective solutions for our customers. Utilizing this technology saves time and money so we can investigate different system concepts without having to order a new part or build a new solution to test an idea. If you’re interested in learning more about our modeling and simulation expertise and how we support our customers, visit https://www.invariant-corp.com/model-and-simulation.