While 3D interactive imagery has been producing interesting special effects in movies such as Iron Man and Minority Report, the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) aims to make it a reality.

The NGA has submitted a request for proposal (RFP) seeking a series of projects to enhance keyboard-related 3-D imaging platforms, as well as kinesthetic interaction with imagery, similar to Microsoft’s Xbox 360 Kinect technology. The goal is to improve digital signal processing to make 3D coordinate-under-cursor capabilities, like overlapping images onto one image and creating images from several platforms that include video and still picture capabilities.

“We’re looking for a new approach through applying existing off-the-shelf technology in a modern way or introducing new modern technology,” said Joeanna Arthur, project scientist in the GEOINT Analytics Division at the NGA, in Signal Connections.

The NGA is looking for applied science that is similar to video game consoles like the Nintendo Wii and Microsoft Kinect, where motion is used to manipulate games and console platforms, Arthur said.

The first phase of research entails development of 3D auto-georegistration using dense pixel matching to create 3-D images from 2-D video or pictures. While this technology already exists, it requires a great deal of resources and time that often delays the delivery of actionable intelligence to the field. The second research phase involves creating ways to interact with 3D images, such as the computer imagery seen in the film Iron Man, including manipulating 3D images with their hands and “feeling” the movement of the image.

The RFP states that continued contact and increased body interaction makes comprehending and analyzing data more efficient. The technology is more engaging than using a mouse and keyboard to sift through images since it will enable analysts to interact, manipulate, zoom and be in the image they are evaluating.

The current RFPs are for two phase contracts, with the possibility of a third phase. Phase one is predicted to last between six to nine months which entails exploring the possibility of solutions and determining if they are feasible in real world applications. Phase two can last as long as two years to create a working prototype. If successful, the third phase would be to create a product for the military and/or private sector.

In January the NGA moved into a “purpose-built” headquarters at Fort Belvoir in Springfield, Va. The new facility promotes collaboration among NGA employees through greater information sharing and new computer systems. It also improves collaboration with partners worldwide and increase geospatial intelligence, including predictive intelligence.

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Chandler Harris is a freelance business and technology writer located in Silicon Valley. He has written for numerous publications including Entrepreneur, InformationWeek, San Jose Magazine, Government Technology, Public CIO, AllBusiness.com, U.S. Banker, Digital Communities Magazine, Converge Magazine, Surfer's Journal, Adventure Sports Magazine, ClearanceJobs.com, and the San Jose Business Journal. Chandler is also engaged in helping companies further their content marketing needs through content strategy, optimization and creation, as well as blogging and social media platforms. When he's not writing, Chandler enjoys his beach haunt of Santa Cruz where he rides roller coasters with his son, surfs and bikes across mountain ranges.