This project will develop a decision tool for Load and Route Evaluation for Dismounted Operations (LAREDO). The research efforts will expand upon infantry routing algorithms and decision tools we are developing for the Armys Geospatial Engineering Center. LAREDO will provide an interactive 3D environment for selecting loads and planning routes to maximize soldier performance for a given mission. In Phase I we will identify the specific METT-TC and OACOK related decisions made by Small Unit Leaders at multiple echelon levels, and the information needed to support them. We will select a subset of those for Phase I development and build a proof-of-concept system that will undergo feasibility testing to allow the Army to evaluate our concept. Phase I will also include plans for verification and validation of the algorithms and techniques during Phase II. Our Phase II efforts will extend and refine the Phase I algorithms and methodologies, incorporate subject matter expert feedback to ensure proper fit with real-world factors, and produce a fully functional, validated Phase II prototype which will be demonstrated in a realistic environment.
Keywords: Soldier Load Planning, Route Planning, Routing Algorithms, Terrain Analysis, Dismounted Operations, Load And Route Evaluation For Dismounted Operations, Open Source, Game Tech
