System and method for combining independent scene layers to form computer generated environments

Abstract

A system and method is provided for combining independent scene layers to form computer generated environments. The method includes the operation of constructing a terrain layer using stored terrain data. Another operation is generating a feature layer using feature layer data that is stored separately from the stored terrain data. The feature layer and the terrain layer can then be combined to form a composite scene.

1 . A method for combining scene layers from independent databases to form a computer generated environment and associated images, comprising the steps of: 
 forming a terrain layer using a terrain database;    processing a two-dimensional feature layer to determine a location of the two-dimensional features in the terrain layer;    processing a three-dimensional feature model layer to determine a location of the three-dimensional feature models in the terrain layer;    applying the two-dimensional feature layer and three-dimensional feature model layer to the terrain layer to form a composite environment;    rendering the composite environment for viewing by a user.    
     
     
         2 . A method as in  claim 1 , wherein the steps of processing a two-dimensional feature layer and processing a three-dimensional feature model layer, further comprise the step of processing a plurality of feature layers which are applied to the terrain layer.  
     
     
         3 . A method as in  claim 1 , wherein the step of processing a two-dimensional feature layer further comprises the step of computing a two-dimensional feature layer selected from the group of two-dimensional features consisting of terrain modifiers, terrain texture, terrain co-planars, model texture, point features, lineal features, areal features, sky, roads, runways, and shadows.  
     
     
         4 . A method as in  claim 1 , wherein the step of processing a three-dimensional feature layer further comprises the step of processing a three-dimensional feature layer selected from the group of three-dimensional features consisting of buildings, trees, foliage, vehicles, utility structures, road cuts, craters, land fills, airport skirts, and people.