QUEST2 is one of the newest plug-ins developed by Quantum3D to extend Independence® IDX 6000’s Software Suite, Mantis®, to include shader-based, simulated sensor post processing. Using the highly programmable vertex and fragment shaders available in current generation GPUs, QUEST2 renders simulated sensor effects in software. The new shader-based solution has several major advantages: cost reduction due to the elimination of custom hardware, increased flexibility and implementation, and final rendering of overlays and symbology after performing the simulated sensor effects post processing, thus eliminating the need to render them on a separate channel.

Simulated Night Vision Goggles (NVG) Sensor Effects Using QUEST2
QUEST2 can post-process either optical out the window imagery or simulated at-aperture sensor imagery. It may be used to complement viXsen®, a separate Mantis® plug-in, that provides accurate at-aperture physics-based image generation of material coded terrains, moving models, effects and environmental phenomena with highly flexible sensor configuration options. Combining the QUEST2 and viXsen® plug-ins provide a complete solution for the entire simulation pipeline ranging from visible light (CCD cameras) and near Infrared (Low Light Level Televisions (LLLTV), Image Intensifiers (II), and Night Vision Goggles (NVG)) to Short Wavelength IR (SWIR), Mid-Wavelength IR (MWIR), and Long Wavelength IR (LWIR) imaging systems.