Network Centric Mapping Database

W.J. Altice, R.P. Cooke, Z. Yang, R.A. Greer

Abstract:	This paper examines the military and commercial benefits of developing a Network Centric Mapping Database (NCMD) server to host navigational data of various resources. The NCMD server functions much like a terminal server in that it allows simultaneous access by different mapping software applications. The NCMD server is platform independent and capable of providing mapping data to two- and three-dimensional (3D) vector- based mapping software applications. The NCMD server will provide multiple points of access resulting in increased overall fault tolerance. The NCMD concept involves a multi-tiered global network. Updates to the NCMD server are automatically performed from a single point. Clients are guaranteed to always have the most updated map data. Clients using NCMD will have the ability to post updates to the Global NCMD server. Client applications can download mapping data from Digital Nautical Charts (DNC™), Digital Terrain Elevation Data (DTED), Tactical Ocean Data (TOD), Digital Bathymetric Database (DBDB-V), Vector Map (VMAP) data, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The local clients will also be able to retrieve weather, water current, and tide information. The client can download any part of the mapping data on the NCMD server according to the current position or specific mapping data request. The NCMD concept will save money by reducing the amount of manpower to update charts. NCMD will eliminate the time required for manual correction and delivery of updated paper charts. Currently, seven men are involved in updating charts on a CG cruiser. NCMD will reduce the amount of manpower, possibly saving the U.S. Navy up to $100,000.00 annually per ship. The client will be configured to share information with other clients in the same region, such as route and mission planning, navigation aids used, best practices, etc.
Published in:	Proceedings of the 2003 National Technical Meeting of The Institute of Navigation January 22 - 24, 2003 Disneyland Paradise Pier Hotel Anaheim, CA
Pages:	728 - 733
Cite this article:	Altice, W.J., Cooke, R.P., Yang, Z., Greer, R.A., "Network Centric Mapping Database," Proceedings of the 2003 National Technical Meeting of The Institute of Navigation, Anaheim, CA, January 2003, pp. 728-733.
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