September 21, 2009

Game Production Services completes Multifunction Dome prototype

Largest commercially available rear projected dome has business and military applications

Albuquerque, N.M.—September 21, 2009—Game Production Services has completed construction of the prototype of their new immersive environment dome.

The GPS Multifunction Dome lets people experience almost any situation for training or entertainment purposes by immersing them in an environment that combines a Hollywood-style set and realistic props, such as functioning, simulated instruments, along with projected high-resolution images.

At almost 40 feet in diameter and over 18 feet high, the GPS Multifunction Dome gives participants inside the hemisphere an unobstructed 360^o view of whatever environment is being simulated. The prototype of the Multifunction Dome demonstrates a 60^o section of the dome.

The environment appears realistic because with 84 projectors, the system displays more than 46 megapixels. This compares to the typical high definition home theater system with 2 megapixels. The realistic imagery is complemented by a 3D Surround Audio 14.2 sound system.

The first dome will be in operation at Ft. Sill, Okla., in early 2010.  It will be used by the U.S. Army Air Defense Artillery School for immersive training of Stinger missile crews and forward observers, as well as for mission rehearsal and other purposes.

Since it uses rear projection, the image inside the dome is seamless, with no projectors hanging from the ceiling to disrupt the realistic view.  For training that involves aircraft coming in, participants can watch the plane fly in overhead, and interact with the situation through the use of simulated instruments, such as binoculars, radios, and global positioning systems.

The entire Multifunction Dome, including proprietary hardware and software, was designed by Game Production Services. GPS is already exploring other applications, both military and commercial.  Some possibilities include training for air traffic controllers, unmanned aerial systems pilot training, as well as applications for the entertainment industry and amusement parks.