Softimage|XSI integrated into flight simulator

Defence R&D Canada have augmented their virtual reality (VR) helicopter deck landing simulation with Softimage|XSI, the industry's leading 3-D and animation software.
The DRDC helicopter simulation facilitates team training for Canadian Forces maritime helicopter pilots landing on the deck of a moving naval ship, without the costs or hazards associated with an actual deck landing. The simulator is expected to cost a fraction of most multi-million dollar commercial simulators and its use will greatly reduce the overall cost of training Canadian Forces pilots and deck landing teams.
Real-life landing teams include a landing signals officer on the ship deck who communicates with the helicopter pilot via hand signals; the motions of the landing signals officer are critical to coordinate the team activities. Reproducing these movements in a shared real-time VR space requires a realistic, efficient 3D model of the deck crew.
Using the Softimage|XSI software, DRDC Toronto was able to add a deck crew 'avatar' to train pilots in haul-down helicopter deck landings.
Already the tool of choice in the film, broadcast, games and architectural industries, the Softimage|XSI software is now enjoying successes in the defence and military sectors, offering uniquely powerful tools for training, simulation and security planning applications.
(GB)