Distributed Interactive Simulation (DIS) Synthesis with Interactive Television (DISSIT) is a technological quantum leap made possible by combining two existing network technologies. DISSIT is an entirely new and innovative method for harnessing the power of video compression (i.e., MPEG/JPEG), DIS, and network systems to deliver high quality simulations to homes, schools and military personnel. The key concept to emphasize is that the DISSIT system allows EXISTING Simulations and Computer Applications (military and commercial) to be utilized across EXISTING communication networks including the prototype Interactive Television (ITV) systems. This concept leverages already spent dollars to be reused to a larger, wider, more diverse consumer base and provide a new foundation for future Training Development and Delivery paradigms. The expansion of DIS in this fashion will allow enhanced distance learning including hands-on user interaction and remote simulator training. Further, this use of DIS compliant simulators fulfills the promise of distance learning by providing a cooperative interactive environment that enables large numbers of participants to team train or interact together.

The objective of this research was to demonstrate a synthesis of the DIS & ITV network technologies. The case for DISSIT is supported by theoretical calculations, design, and most significantly by prototype implementations of DISSIT. The implementations presented in this paper include a low-cost PC / MPEG solution and an innovative method DIS Stealth Visual Solution. Both methods enable existing analog cable, telephone, and satellite links to be utilized. Future implementations will run over Time Warner Cables Full Service Network (TWC-FSN) and be included as one of the new technologies being tested by TWC-FSN.

Application of DISSIT to Multi-Channel, Virtual Reality, World-Wide Distribution and Tele-presence issues are demonstrated, plus the actual design and implementation details. Discussion of the key software concepts and structures of the MPEG Virtual Disc, and Server-Pass-Through-Commands are presented along with design calculations. The results of the pilot implementations are given with discussion to improve performance in future versions. Future Research and Applications for Military, Civilian, and Education are discussed in the context of Training Development and Delivery including:

• Automatic integration with Real-World Data via the DIS Interactive Playback Unit

• Revolution of simulation architecture and paradigm, using Interactive Television Networks to allow low cost mass produced simulators. (The local simulator requirements become the I/O system, and TVs for the visual displays, with the expensive computational and image generation systems being shared across the ITV network)