TERAOPS

1051 Cragmont Avenue

Berkeley, CA 94708 Phone:

PI:

Topic#: (510) 204-9555

Tibor Kozek

NAVY 00-089 Title: Compact, Light Weight Color Night Vision Goggles Abstract: TeraOps Corporation proposes to develop techniques for reproducible coloring of nighttime imagery and to implement a color night vision device based on TeraOps' powerful CNN array processing technology. In addition to CNN, the unit will combine other state-of-the-art technologies including miniature image intensifiers and high-contrast head mounted displays to create a low-power, portable unit that meets operational requirements. TeraOps will exploit the unique architecture of the CNN supercomputer-on-a-chip and its more than 10 to the 12th operations per second computing speed to implement the developed algorithmic techniques in real-time. These spatial-temporal image-processing algorithms will perform enhancement and adaptive, reproducible coloring of night imagery input through the integrated multi-band sensor. The algorithms will draw upon studies of biological image processing as well as on CNN models for color constancy and color visualization developed earlier by TeraOps researchers Colorized night vision goggles will greatly enhance the navigational and target recognition capabilities of military personnel. Color night vision units are expected to be of significant use for commercial aviation, police, rescue, and other civilian surveillance applications. Moreover, the CNN computer is a general- purpose machine that can be programmed to perform a variety of sophisticated image processing functions. The development of the CNN-based image processing engine will facilitate the development of products for real-time medical imaging (ultrasonic, MRI, CT, etc.), high-resolution displays, augmented reality systems, "smart" video cameras for automatic image acquisition, etc. The CNN computer will also be applicable to high-speed image processing for multimedia and video conferencing.

IC TECH, INC. 4295 Okemos Road Suite 100 Okemos, MI 48864

Phone: PI: Topic#: (517) 349-9000 Gail Erten BMDO 00-010

Title: Ultra low power motorless pan/tilt control for single chip cameras

Abstract: This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will investigate and implement a low power motorless camera pan/tilt mechanism and control. The platform, as well as the image processing and control modules will be tailored for single chip and miniature cameras that can be readily interfaced with personal computers. A wide expanse of fields, ranging from the biological modeling of the ocular motor system to the engineering design of adaptive control mechanisms, will be put to use upon the proposed work. Rather than using motorized mechanisms, shape memory alloy (also known as "muscle") wires are proposed as the means of actuation. The control objective during Phase I of this project will be to position an object of interest, e.g., a face or a hand, on the center image plane. A variety of control procedures will be investigated, including, first the conventional PID method, as well as methods based on sophisticated kinematics and dynamics models of the actuation platform, best described as nonlinear differential equations. A demonstration is planned at the end of Phase I to illustrate the results. The novel vision oriented control techniques developed and implemented during this project will expand the domain of vision based human-machine interaction. Moreover, an active camera can facilitate an enhanced telepresence experience through video. As a participant in the SBIR Fast Track program, IC Tech has an established ongoing commercialization process and the proposed project is fully aligned with that on going effort.

VOXTEL, INC.

2640 SW Georgian Place

Portland, OR 97201 Phone:

PI:

Topic#: (503) 224-8379

George Williams

NAVY 00-089 Title: Compact, Light Weight Color Night Vision Goggles Abstract: Voxtel Inc. proposes to develop and demonstrate innovative technologies for combining infrared and low light sensor that, when integrated into a lightweight, low-power, rugged, reliable helmet mounted package, will provide high information content, fused IV/IR imagery and color night vision capability. Due to the complementary nature of the spectral bands, such thermal and low light level sensors are ideally suited for image fusion. In flight demonstrations, pilots have found that fused imagery maximized information content and provided the most contrast when compared to either sensor alone. In the proposed Phase I program, Voxtel Inc. will demonstrate high information content, fused color night vision imagery. An application driven tradeoff will be performed to analyze the respective information contributions of visible (0.4 - 1.1 mm) back-illuminated CCD and (0.4 - 0.9 mm) intensified CCD cameras, NIR (0.4 mm - 1.7mm) InGaAs sensors, and uncooled infrared sensors both individually and when fused using Color Night Vision algorithms. Testing and algorithm development/validation will be performed on the existing PixelVision multi-processor image fusion test bed. A color night vision goggle concept will be developed. During the Phase I program, PixelVision, taking into consideration the state-of-the-art in technologies, will design a common aperture, helmet mounted dual VIS/LWIR Color Night Vision system with a belt mounted color night vision fusion processor that will be manufactured in the Phase II effort. Color night vision goggles would be of great value to policemen, sportsmen, surveillance personnel, FBI and other organizations requiring enhanced night vision capabilities. Variations on this design could improve drive vision in cars and trucks traveling at night, and would be particularly useful in fog or other conditions that obscure viewing but are transparent to infrared.

PC PHOTONICS 64 Windward Way Waterford, CT 06385

Phone: PI: Topic#: (860) 443-4356 Peter K. Cheo AF 00-002

Title: Injection Locking of a Clad-Pumped Multicore Fiber Laser Array

Abstract: This proposal introduces an innovative idea to generate a very high output power from a clad-pumped multicore fiber laser array embedded in a common low loss cladding with a unique "isometric" structure. An injection technique is used to actively phase lock the array emitting in the in-phase supermode. A double-clad multicore fiber laser array consisting of a total of seven single-mode fibers spaced within a circle of 28 micron in diameter will be used. A computer analysis of the far-field radiation patterns indicated that a high brightness laser beam with an amplitude 40 dB greater than the side lobes, can be obtained form this multicore fiber laser array for the in-phase supermode with a V-value of ~2 and a core separation of 1.5 times the core diameter. We have also analyzed threshold requirements for generating supermodes by using coupled mode theory. Results indicate that the thresholds for the higher order supermodes are lower than that of the fundamental supermode. Therefore, an injection-locking technique must be developed to suppress the higher order supermodes. Under the Phase I-SBIR, various injection schemes will be explored for the purpose of establishing a stable laser oscillation in the fundamental in-phase super mode of phase locked, clad-pumped fiber laser array. Other important issues to be addressed in Phase I are: the optimum core size and core separation for scaling the output power from a clad-pumped fiber laser array up to 1 kW, and the cladding dimension which can reliably accommodate the pump laser power to 1.6 kW at 915 nm without causing catastrophic damage to the cladding material.

LAMBDA INSTRUMENTS

1607 Glade Road

Blacksburg, VA 24060 Phone:

PI:

Topic#: (540) 953-0568

Jon Greene

AF 00-022 Title: Gratings for High-Power Yb-doped Fiber Lasers Abstract: High-power fiber lasers are emerging as viable alternatives to traditional gas and solid-state laser systems for many military and industrial applications. The advantages of fiber lasers are numerous: extremely high damage thresholds, excellent beam quality, superior wavelength and temperature stability, small size, and very high powers using novel double-cladding fiber (DCF). Another advantage of using fiber as the lasing medium is the unique ability to fabricate mode conversion gratings directly within the fiber laser cavity for manipulation of both the signal and pump light. During Phase I, Lambda Instruments proposes to investigate the performance of novel fiber gratings as laser mirrors, pump light mode converters, and as signal light mode converters within future kilowatt-class fiber laser systems. To assist in the design, fabrication, and characterization of fiber gratings, Lambda has assembled a highly-experienced development team. The development team proposes to investigate the feasibility of advanced grating technology during Phase I, finalize the development of grating components for fiber laser applications during Phase II, and work with industry partners to commercialize advanced fiber laser and amplifier systems during Phase III and beyond.

PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP. Engineering & Products Div. 20600 Gramercy Place, Torrance, CA 90501

Phone: PI: Topic#: (310) 320-3088 Tin M. Aye AF 00-076

Title: Compact HMD Optic System Based on Multiplexed Aberration Compensated Holographic Optical Elements

Abstract: Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop novel, compact, lightweight wide field-of-view optics for head (and helmet) mounted displays (HMDs) based on three-color multiplexed aberration-compensated holographic optical elements (Mac-HOEs). Taking advantage of the flexibility of holography, the HMD optics can be made compact using waveguide projection through the curved visor substrate, filling a wide field of view (FOV) without large, bulky optical components. This waveguide projection optics approach would be particularly suitable for applications that require see-through capability. The proposed Mac-HOE projection optics can also be implemented as on-axis low F-number wide FOV collimating optics, similar to the "pancake window", but more compact and with not less than about 90% light efficiency. Using narrowband red-green-blue Mac-HOEs can significantly reduce the chromatic and geometrical aberration introduced by conventional HOEs and refractive optics. The proposed HMD optics will be most suitable for laser scanned displays, in which elaborate optical components are otherwise required to achieve high pixel resolution with a large exit pupil diameter. In Phase I, POC will demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed HMD optics through computer design and analysis, and by fabricating and demonstrating a Mac-HOE component.

OPTRA, INC.

461 Boston Street

Topsfield, MA 01983 Phone:

PI:

Topic#: (978) 887-6600

Julia H. Rentz

AF 00-095 Title: Dual Channel Remote Infrared Thermographer Abstract: OPTRA proposes a dual channel remote thermographer comprised of two infrared interference filters with nearby spectral passbands in front of uncooled amorphous silicon microbolometer detectors. The difference signal between the two channels indicates a shift in the emitted spectrum of the target; for a quasi-blackbody, this spectral shift is proportional to temperature according to Planck's blackbody function. This system offers high resolution (0.001 C) and accuracy (0.01 C) and is insensitive to changes in emissivity of the target. Our system is designed with reflective collection optics and an extremely narrow field of view (0.06 degrees or a 10 cm spot size at a 100 m standoff), allowing a target's skin temperature to be measured in the absence of background radiation.

PHYSICAL SCIENCES, INC.

20 New England Business Center

Andover, MA 01810 Phone:

PI:

Topic#: (978) 689-0003

John Lennhoff

AF 00-141 Title: Processing of Inflatable Parabolic Reflectors from Polymeric Thin Films Abstract: Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) will utilize a novel membrane reinforcement method on this proposed Phase I SBIR effort to demonstrate the ability to eliminate shape-related optical aberrations common to polymeric inflatable parabolic reflectors. Hencky model based calculations indicate that reinforcement required to correct the reflector optics are in the 1 micron size range. Conventional reinforcement methods have been unable to provide sizes of this thickness. A new method, pioneered by PSI, will provide circumferential and radial location specific reinforcement of the membrane by generating and then bonding small diameter (100 to 3000 nm) polymeric fibers directly to the thin membrane in sequential steps. The locations of the reinforcement of the membrane before inflation will be derived from a Finite Element Analysis (FEA) model of the parabolic surface based upon mechanical properties of the polymer membrane, the Henke model of inflatable membranes and optical measurements of the inflated membrane reflector. The optical measurements provide the specifics of the geometric aberrations. PSI will demonstrate the ability to accurately and inexpensively correct optical aberrations of inflatable parabolic reflectors using the newly developed method.

WRIGHT MATERIALS RESEARCH CO. 3591 Apple Grove Dr. Beavercreek, OH 45430

Phone: PI: Topic#: (937) 643-0007 Seng C. Tan AF 00-141

Title: Processing of Deployable, Metallized Parabolic Reflectors from Biphenyl Endcapped Poly(Arylene Ether) Polymers

Abstract: Space mirrors with ultra-lightweight, high temperature stability, space durability, and high precision are highly desirable to improve the resolution and light-gathering ability of space structures. A number of currently used polymeric materials for space applications have shown signs of deterioration due to the space environmental effects. Fabrication cost of large components is another major issue. In this Phase I research, we propose to develop a free forming technique to process space reflectors using AFRL's biphenyl endcapped poly(arylene ether) thermoplastic polymers. This family of polymers have excellent resistant capability to atomic oxygen and ultra-violet light exposure. Thin films casted from these polymers will be metallized using a chemical route rather than by the conventional coating techniques to reduce the interfacial stresses and eliminate the interfacial bonding problems. They will then be transformed into parabolic shapes with small focal numbers. A series of microscopic analysis and thermal-mechanical testing will be performed to examine the samples fabricated. The proposed research will result in a processing technique and highly reflective thin films for space, deployable mirrors with exceptional thermal-mechanical properties, and controllable uniform thickness at affordable price.

MP TECHNOLOGIES, LLC

1500 Sheridan Road, Unit 8A

Wilmette, IL 60091 Phone:

PI:

Topic#: (847) 491-7251

Hooman Mohseni

AF 00-156 Title: Materials for Superlattice Infrared Detectors Abstract: Recently, novel electronic and optoelectronic devices such as hundred gigahertz logic circuits, room temperature infrared lasers, and detectors have been demonstrated from III-V based mixed anion heterostructures. The importance of the interfaces quality and crystal perfection in this material system has been proven to be the key issue by many groups. The objective of this project is to develop epitaxial growth techniques that will significantly increase the interface smoothness and abruptness, as well as the material crystal quality. The proposed growth techniques and source material switching sequences will reduce some of the fundamental growth problems such as cross incorporation, cation and anion segregation, and atomic exchange. These techniques are expected to result in a root mean square (rms) surface roughness below 1/2 monolayer over large areas, abrupt interfaces, and high crystal quality reproducibly.

SONOMA DESIGN GROUP

400 Breezewood Dr.

Geyserville, CA 95441 Phone:

PI:

Topic#: (707) 857-2010

Allan Voigt

AF 00-256 Title: Low Cost Electro-Optical Reconnaissance Sensor System Abstract: The development of high altitude, long standoff UAVs for the Air Force creates the need for high performance long standoff gimbaled optical sensor systems that are significantly more cost effective than previous generations originally developed for more expensive manned reconnaissance aircraft. To obtain high performance and low cost we have combined a modular approach to the system design with the use of COTS sensors and electronics. The sensors and electronics are housed in an elegant, low parts count, simple to manufacture gimbal system. The gimbal can easily be scaled to a range of gimbal sizes typical of those required for Air Force applications. This will represent a breakthrough product combining unprecedented gimbaled sensor performance and low cost. We intend to build this system for one-third to one-half the cost of current systems. The Government will realize very substantial cost savings from fielding these systems.Sonoma Design Group has formed a team of capable companies to carry the effort from design to production. During Phases I and II, SDG will do the initial system design and fabrication. Upon completion of Phase II, our team will carry the reconnaissance system into production.

SSG, INC. 65 Jonspin Road Wilmington, MA 01887

Phone: PI: Topic#: (978) 694-9991 Michael I. Anapol AF 00-256

Title: Next Generation Staring Reconnaissance Sensor

Abstract: SSG is proposing a low cost, next generation high altitude/long range Staring Reconnaissance sensor that provides a smaller overall size, weight and power solution with significant improvements over current gimballed whiskbroom and limited FOV pushbroom approaches; e.g., simpler LOS control at very high precision; high agility multi-mode coverage capability; high resolution imaging and high sensitivity even with a reduced aperture size due to longer stare time and sub-pixel image processing using microscan techniques; and inherent athermal operation over non controlled UAV temperature excursions. Lower cost can be achieved due to a smaller aperture size; advanced SiC telescope manufacturing techniques including bolt together construction; and utilization of commercially available optical encoders, fog gyros and large area digital 2 D CCD arrays with internal image processing and electronic stabilization control. The integration of several key enabling technologies will dramatically improve mission performance and utility, while significantly lowering payload cost. Key technologies include (1) commercially available, large 2 D visible CCD arrays (9000 x 9000 format) with integrated on chip multi-color operation using striped filters and electronic processing; (2) ultralightweight, thermally stable SiC reflective telescope (Vis to IR for day/night operation); (3) sub microradian LOS control over wide Fields of Regard using an inertially stabilized pointing mirror with a highly innovative optical fringe counting encoder (<20 nrad LSB resolution) and smart bearings; (4) sub-pixel image enhancement algorithms combined with a microscan mode; and (5) potential integration of a wide FOV hyperspectral imaging spectrometer for improved target detection against highly cluttered and camouflaged scenes. Phase 1 will develop the preliminary design of the staring Reconn sensor with supporting analyses to validate overall performance and cost advantages. Phase 2 will develop prototype(s) of the key enabling technology subsystem(s), preferably as flight demos. SSG has already obtained very strong commercial support from Emerge (a Division of TASC that distributes commercial remote sensing data products), who is planning to commit matching Phase 2 funding for a next generation commercial airborne digital camera.

ARDAL ELECTRONICS, INC.

1165 Sessions Drive

Dayton, OH 45459 Phone:

PI:

Topic#: (937) 432-0040

Allan Lightman

DARPA 00-010 Title: Layered Manufacturing of GRIN Optics Abstract: A layered manufacturing process is proposed for solid freeform production (SFF) of gradient index of refraction (GRIN) optics. The process will be based upon modifying a commercial off-the-shelf ink-jet printer to deposit "inks" composed of mixtures of liquid monomer and ceramic nano-particulates, each "ink" having a different concentration of ceramic. The multiple "ink" reservoir heads will provide "inks" with finely graded ceramic loadings, so that the printing process will be able to achieve concentration gradients with optical quality smoothness. The printer will be controlled by a GRIN CAD system that will optimize the performance of printed optic, using the known performance of the materials and the printer. Use of layered manufacturing will permit production of optic elements with arbitrary three-dimensional index of refraction profiles, a goal that cannot be achieved by current GRIN manufacturing systems. This system will enable a major advance in optical systems for DoD applications, providing lighter weight optics having optical properties not achievable by either current standard or GRIN lens fabrication. Furthermore, the SFF approach will yield cost-effective first-article optics and it can be scaled to to meet full production needs.

SMART PIXEL, INC.

1416, Dunrobin Rd

Naperville, IL 60540 Phone:

PI:

Topic#: (630) 248-7441

Renganathan Ashokan

BMDO 00-003 Title: Large format HgCdTe/CdTe/Silicon infrared focal plane arrays based on MBE technology Abstract: The infrared technology has provided the theatrical superiority to U.S Defense. Intensive research and development efforts have led to the existence of a robust infrared focal plane array (IRFPA) technology for small and medium size formats. 256 x 256 IRFPAs are available for inclusion into military systems and 480 x 640 have been demonstrated. Ongoing production programs include JAVELIN, SADA II, JASSM, and AGM130. Large format IRFPA is a critical technology to enhance the resolution and range of detection to meet the U.S future security needs. HgCdTe IRFPAs with 1024 x 1024 elements have been identified as the candidate for the new generation of IRFPAs. The thermal mismatch between the CdZnTe and the readout circuit limits the extension to larger formats. An alternative technology is proposed here, the essence of which is the replacement of the exotic CdZnTe substrate with a readily available and inexpensive silicon (Si) substrate. We propose to exploit the recent advances in molecular beam epitaxially grown HgCdTe/CdTe/Si to produce large format (1024x1024), high resolution IRFPAs. No supplier, domestic or foreign, for mega pixel IRFPAs exists. Optimization of the proposed technology will lead to rugged, low cost, high density and high resolution IRFPAs with operability >99.9%. Large format focal plane arrays will find enormous applications in military, space and medical imaging areas for infrared imaging and low-background detection. It will be particularly suitable for military's intelligence, countermeasure operations and NASA's space based spectroscopic applications. HgCdTe based devices, with the advantage of small electron mass, high mobilities, large electron saturation velocities have considerable advantages for a variety of new micro-electronic and optoelectronic applications. SPI is fully committed to fabricate and commercialize infrared detectors and arrays if this program is successful. Smartpixel Inc will work closely with Northrop Grumman DS to integrate it into the systems.