MSDN Magazine - September 2008 - (Page 120)

Todd LANdSTAd End BrackEt A New Era In Visual Simulation Microsoft® ESP™ delivers a full, all-in-one visual simulation plat- combine missions with the Core Utilities API to add .NET or C++ form—a simulation engine, software development tools, and ex- code to interact with the training. You can combine the structured tensive realistic world content—that enables developers to create experiences with multi-user support along with a Shared Cockpit compelling simulations using 3D modeling tools, the Microsoft mode, which allows you to “virtually” sit with another user in the .NET Framework, C++, and XML-based training missions. The same aircraft for networked situations, communicating through ESP simulation engine, the same one on which Microsoft Flight built-in Voice over IP (VoIP). Simulator is built, handles the visual rendering, physics, a 5.1 Sur- The SimObject Kit Importing high-resolution aircraft models round Sound engine, and other environmental capabilities. using traditional modeling tools is enabled by the SimObject Kit. Although the ESP v1.0 core technology heritage is deeply rooted Imported 3D models for aircraft, vehicles, ships, or other objects in the flight industry, the future of PC-based can include animations and customized texsimulation has huge potential in many areas, tures as well as detailed interiors. The model including human interaction, ground- and interiors can have XML- or code-based gauges ocean-based vehicle training, and geographic and realistic panels. and spatial navigation. These advancements The ESP virtual world uses many data sources come in addition to the already-tested aviato create a detailed representation of the Earth tion scenarios that include training for pilots complete with land and ocean classifications, and air traffic controllers. regional architecture, scenery, and generated ESP-based training could include teaching AI traffic. Above the Earth’s surface, real-world physics concepts, taking people on landmark weather conditions are represented. ESP accutours, or instructing a pilot on a new airport rately places the sun, the moon, and more than ESP Delivers Flight Simulation approach. With each of these examples, stu10,000 stars based on the simulation engine’s dents can gain new experiences while participating in 3D model- continuous time-of-day capability. ing tests in a comfortable, familiar environment that minimizes Using the various components of the ESP SDK, a developer can fuel and maintenance costs and eliminates the risk associated with customize the world to meet the needs of his solution while relying real-world training. on the content, simulation engine, and environment to provide the The ESP platform contains four separate development kits: minutia—generating fog when the local temperature drops below The Core Utilities Kit With an API for .NET or C++ applica- the dew point, for example. tions to interact with the platform, the Core Utilities Kit allows a ESP draws on its aviation expertise and focuses on training and developer to set environment details such as weather or aircraft learning solutions, decision-support scenarios (such as disaster state. The kit includes the ability to create AI-driven objects or planning or black-box data review), and R&D modeling. A develplace static scenery. There are more than 200 variables available oper can transform computer-based training from checkboxes and to be queried or set inside the simulation. radio buttons to a customized immersive experience that is more The Environment Kit Developers can augment the living world effective and memorable. within the platform utilizing the Environment Kit. High-resolution You can find more specific information on the simulation platland textures and 3D buildings can be imported or changed using form at the MSDN® Developer Center for Microsoft ESP (see utilities provided in the SDK. In addition to static objects, dynamic msdn.microsoft.com/esp). It includes documentation, white papers, tuspecial effects can be added to a specific location in the living world, torials, code samples, videos, and webcasts. It also highlights the such as fireworks, water fountains, or lightning. passion of the modeling and simulation community.  The Mission Creation Kit Structured training experiences that guide the user through customized, goal-oriented training Todd LandsTad works as a Developer Evangelist for ACES Studio at Microare possible with the Mission Creation Kit. A developer can use soft. He joined Microsoft in 1995 and has worked on a variety of software and the included editor to create the XML-based scripted missions or hardware platforms. 120 msdn magazine http://msdn.microsoft.com/esp

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of MSDN Magazine - September 2008

MSDN Magazine - September 2008 Contents Toolbox CLR Inside Out Data Points Advanced Basics Office Space Cutting Edge Hierarchy ID New Features for Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Prism Data Services Advanced WPF Test Run Security Briefs Foundations { End Bracket }

MSDN Magazine - September 2008

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