New items (01/14/2001) are in BLUE
FISCHER CUSTOM COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
2917 West Lomita Blvd.
Torrance, CA 90505 Phone:
PI:
Topic#: (310) 891-0635
Joseph Fischer
NAVY 00-028 Title: High Frequency Transmit Mast Clamp Current Probe Abstract: Fischer Custom Communications, Inc. proposes to determine the types of magnetic core materials required to design and fabricate a current injection transformer capable of exciting various parts of a ships superstructure to act as a transmit antenna in the 2 MHz to 30 MHz frequency range. Conventional high frequency shipboard antennas occupy substantial volume, making them difficult to site on the ship without interfering with ship operations. Conventional anntennas have high maintenance and have a significant and distinct radar cross section. A current injection transformer is virtually maintenance free and would replace existing transmit antennas. By using the existing ship structure as an antenna, the current injection transformer provides HF communication and eliminates adverse operations, maintenance and RCS impact of conventional antennas. In Phase I the appropriate magnetic core materials will be determined and feasibility of the current injection transformer will be demonstrated Conventional high frequency shipboard antennas are difficult to site on the ship without interfering with ship operations, have high maintenance and a significant radar cross section. The transmit mast current probe is virtually maintenance free, has a significantly lower radar cross section and would replace the exisitng transmit antennas. The price of a transmit mast probe will be significantly less than the conventional shipboard HF communication antenna. The annual maintenance cost of the transmit mast probe will be a fraction of the conventional HF transmit antenna. Commercial applications include industrial and recreational maritime communications as well as other industrial and recreational HF communications systems.
SONALYSTS, INC.
215 Parkway North, P.O. Box 280
Waterford, CT 06385 Phone:
PI:
Topic#: (401) 849-0400
Michael W. Phelps
NAVY 00-052 Title: Application of Virtual Large Display Video Goggles to Submarine Imaging Systems Abstract: Sonalysts, Inc. proposes leveraging our Team's extensive research and development background with state-of-the-art visual technologies to introduce goggles displaying a large field of view video scene from the periscope imaging sensors. A number of benefits are offered to the imaging system operator and his supervisor, including filling the operator's field of view and reducing peripheral distractions, thereby creating a sense of "immersion" into the current scene; and enabling the supervisor to be mobile while viewing what the operator sees. Key Phase I objectives include: defining the operational and technical requirements that will be used to assess available technology and evaluate candidate goggles, demonstrating the video scene with prototype goggles, and developing the architecture for integration of goggles with the submarine imaging system hardware and software. Our focus will ensure that submarine fleet requirements and issues are addressed and weighed in the investigation of the most appropriate commercial off-the- shelf (COTS) components. We will ensure interoperability between all components and explore the commercial applications to broaden the opportunities of this topic area. Our proposed approach will advance the state-of-the-art applications for the submarine fleet and bring increased performance opportunities for the imaging operator and his supervisor. An immersive environment that allows mobility and flexibility will be the effect of the integration of COTS goggle technology. Commercial opportunities for goggles include remote surveillance and security monitoring uses, medical and surgical procedures, and machinery diagnostics and inspections.
QUANTUM MAGNETICS, INC.
7740 Kenamar Ct.
San Diego, CA 92121 Phone:
PI:
Topic#: (858) 566-9200
Robert Mathews
NAVY 00-077 Title: Integration of Advanced Magnetic Sensors into Underwater Vehicles to Provide High-Quality Spatiotemporal Magnetic Data Abstract: Ultrasensitive magnetometers have demonstrated their responsiveness to Navy needs ranging from basic science (ocean floor geomagnetic surveys) to military operations (detection, classification and localization of buried mines). Taking advantage of their sensitivity requires means to suppress noise caused by sensor motion in the earth's magnetic field. An additional problem with using magnetometers on an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) is magnetic interference generated by the AUV itself. A unique new instrument, the Room Temperature Three Sensor Gradiometer (RTG), developed by IBM, Quantum Magnetics and the Naval Coastal Systems Station, lends itself especially well to solving the AUV interference problem. It offers unprecedented potential for magnetic measurements of high sensitivity from AUV platforms for both research and military operations. In Phase I, we propose to characterize the magnetic interference field of low-cost, plastic-body AUV's and to use the information to design a generalized RTG optimized for AUV operation. In Phase II, we will fabricate, integrate and demonstrate the RTG aboard an AUV. Room Temperature Three Sensor Gradiometers (RTGs) integrated into small, inexpensive AUVs offer a new capability in sea floor geological research and military operations such as shallow-water mine reconnaissance. The generalization of RTG technology proposed here allows implementation in new application areas such as magnetic detection of corrosion and biomagnetometry.
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.
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.
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.
SYTRONICS, INC.
4433 Dayton-Xenia Road Building 1
Dayton, OH 45432 Phone:
PI:
Topic#: (937) 255-8771
Scott Grigsby
AF 00-084 Title: Integrated, Hands-free Control Suites for Maintenance Wearable Computers Abstract: Sytronics and the University of Dayton Research Institute propose an innovative combination of head-tracking and speech recognition for effective and intuitive maintenance interfacing. A simple two-controller approach uses voice for test and click entry and head movement for pointing. A damped throat microphone filters noise and a simple inertial tracker provides cursor movement. The simplicity and ease of a speech-based system integrated with a proven, cost-effective pointing solution, eliminates problems with using EMG for discrete inputs and avoids known problems with eye-tracking. Our Phase I objectives are to (1) analyze applicability and user acceptance through interactions with maintenance users, (2) define how to integrate with user system across all platforms and as a retro-fit, (3) apply proven technology--a commerical speech recognizer, an inertial head tracker, and mouse emulation software--to determine the feasibility of bimodal speech recognition for noise reduction and watchword signaling for differentiating speech from extraneous inputs, (4) implement a conceptual proptotype and test feasibility aspects at AFRL/HE, and (5) assess commercialization potential through interactions with users and partners. The Phase I results will be (1) a final report documenting: requirements, technologies, feasibility, experimental results, designs for Phase II, and commercialization; and (2) concept demonstration(s).
PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP. Engineering & Products Div. 20600 Gramercy Place, Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: PI: Topic#: (310) 320-3088 Andrew Kostrzewski AF 00-181
Title: Real-Time, Low Bandwidth, Detachable Damage Assessment Eye
Abstract: Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop beyond-line-of-sight video processing, compression, and transmission with communications capability for ranges out to few hundred kilometers. The proposed Smart Munition Smart Sensor (SMSS) system will be capable of sending sensor data to a ground or air station, fully compressed at 2000:1 while preserving high signal quality and integrity. The sensor data will include full motion, high resolution video/IR data, and still imagery, GPS positioning and sensor fusion control. SMSS will send messages and video at extended ranges for real-time target identification, target location, and battle damage indication. The proposed research will be in two areas: high fidelity video compression to low bandwidth with minimum digital video artifacts; and wireless, real-time transmission of video from the munition to the base and control signals from the base to the munition. The R&D effort will be carried out as algorithm, software, and hardware development for both encoding and decoding as well as efficient wireless communication. The supercomputer-class (8BOPS) digital video processing, based on soft-computing technology (where POC has a leadership) will be sufficiently fast to support semi-autonomous and in near-future, fully-autonomous on-the-fly target reassignment by real-time BDI.
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.
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.
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.
GENEX TECHNOLOGIES, INC. |
| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
| Title: Integration of 3D Camera and 3D Display Technologies |
| Abstract: Under separate efforts in the past, our team has developed technologies for a novel high speed 3D Camera and a true volumetric 3D display device. The unique features of our 3D Camera include the capability of providing instantaneous, full frame 3D range images at a CCD camera's frame rate (30 frames per second or faster), a capability that no other currently available 3D image acquisition systems or 3D rangefinders can achieve at any cost. Our 3D display device is able to generate volumetric 3D patterns in true 3D space by a set of activated voxels that emit light. Besides no moving parts and high voxel bandwidth, additional advantages of our 3D display approach are all angle of view, simultaneous multiple user views, large viewing volumes, flexibility in voxel size and shape, inherent parallel architecture, and without the requirement of viewing spectacles. The primary objectives of Phase I is to study the feasibility to seamlessly integrate a 3D camera system with a volumetric 3D display monitor, so that the integrated system can capture continuously 3D images of objects in the scene at a standard video rate (30 fps) and display the captured 3D images immediately on the 3D display monitor. In our phase I effort, we will focus on the interface and 3D data exchange protocol between the 3D camera and 3D monitor. Both current designs of the 3D camera and 3D monitor will be modified and optimized. Preliminary experiments will be performed to validate the interface design. In Phase II we will design a high speed 3D Camera/Monitor system suitable for real-time 3D image acquisitions and visualization. |
ETALON, INC. |
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| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(617) 482-2488 Mark Miles DARPA 96-023 |
| Title: Low-Power Reflective Flat Panel Displays Using Spatial Dithering | |
| Abstract: Etalon has recently demonstrated a fundamentally new display technology based on Microelectromechanical (MEM) Strucutres. Exploiting the phenomena of interference, these interferometric modulators (IMods) are simple membrane structures whose colors change when deformed electrostatically. IMods have already demonstrated drive voltages of 25 volts, response times of 1 microsecond, and prominent hysteresis. The latter is due to the electromechanical behavior of the device which precludes the need for TFTs in the fabrication of large arrays. The nature of the IMods is such that it can be designed to switch from any color to black, white, or any other color, with theoretical pixel contrast ratios of 900:1. Currently fabricated on glass substrates, the IMod is being developed as the core for a new generation of full-color, video rate, refelective Flat Panel Displays. These displays are expected to consume as little as 5 milliwatts of power excluding driver circuits. Power consumption could be further reducedby a factor of 8 or more if spatial dithering were used instead of pulse width modulation to provide gray-scale. The goal of this effort will be to explore the potential of spatially dithered IMod arrays in fabricating high performance FPDs which draw only hundreds of microwatts of display power. | |
ETALON, INC. |
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| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(617) 482-2488 Mark Miles DARPA 96-023 |
| Title: Low-Power Reflective Flat Panel Displays Using Spatial Dithering | |
| Abstract: Etalon has recently demonstrated a fundamentally new display technology based on Microelectromechanical (MEM) Strucutres. Exploiting the phenomena of interference, these interferometric modulators (IMods) are simple membrane structures whose colors change when deformed electrostatically. IMods have already demonstrated drive voltages of 25 volts, response times of 1 microsecond, and prominent hysteresis. The latter is due to the electromechanical behavior of the device which precludes the need for TFTs in the fabrication of large arrays. The nature of the IMods is such that it can be designed to switch from any color to black, white, or any other color, with theoretical pixel contrast ratios of 900:1. Currently fabricated on glass substrates, the IMod is being developed as the core for a new generation of full-color, video rate, refelective Flat Panel Displays. These displays are expected to consume as little as 5 milliwatts of power excluding driver circuits. Power consumption could be further reducedby a factor of 8 or more if spatial dithering were used instead of pulse width modulation to provide gray-scale. The goal of this effort will be to explore the potential of spatially dithered IMod arrays in fabricating high performance FPDs which draw only hundreds of microwatts of display power. | |
| PHOTOBIT, LLC 2529 Foothill Blvd., Suite #104 La Crescenta, CA 91214 |
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| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(818) 248-4394 Sabrina Kemeny DARPA 96-070 |
| Title: Micropower Microdot CMOS APS Image Sensor | |
| Abstract: The problem to be addressed in this work is the development of a micropower microdot CMOS active pixel image sensor that dissipates an order of magnitude less power than the current state of the art CMOS APS (already orders of magnitude less power than comparable CCD-based imaging systems), and occupy only a few square millimeters in area. A micropower microdot CMOS APS would require such a low power level that it could be powered by ambient light, or by an optical fiber, or parasitically from electronic control signals. Such a micropower CMOS APS would be useful for future insect-sized nanorovers or free fliers. The sensor would be of low enough power and mass that hundreds of sensor "eyes" could cover the exterior surface of a larger microUAV, or UAV. In Phase I, methods to achieve the micropower microdot CMOS APS (including optics) would be investigated. The starting point will be the state-of-the-art very low power CMOS APS technology developed by the proposers during their former employment at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Trades for power, performance, mass, and producibility will be conducted. A strawman target of specifications for Phase II concept validation experiments will be developed. | |
PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP. |
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| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(310) 320-3088 Tin Aye DARPA 96-082 |
| Title: Holographic Waveguide Array Rollable Display | |
| Abstract: In this project, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) addresses the problem of fabricating a large number of layered waveguide structures in flexible polymeric material for use as a large-format rollable display substrate. Current approaches use physical lamination and coextrusion methods using thin plates of glass or plastic film. POC proposes a unique method of fabricating a large number of graded-index layered waveguides in a single polymer film by a simple holographic (interferometric) standing-wave recording technique. This is superior to current methods in that it can simultaneously generate large numbers of thin graded-index channel waveguide layers by a single holographic recording process, and can fabricate input and output holographic couplers in each waveguide layer -- not possible in other approaches. Since POC's approach uses well established low-cost polymer materials and simple fabrication methods, it is commercially very attractive. In Phase I, POC proposes to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed approach by computer modeling and analysis of the optically producible multiplanar waveguide structure; to identify suitable volume holographic polymer materials; and to experimentally characterize the proposed concept. | |
PRINCETON ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS, INC. |
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| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(609) 799-5414 Chuni Ghosh DARPA 95-006 |
| Title: Development of a Low Light Level Imaging System Using Microlenses for Improved Performance and Digital Systems Interface Capability | |
| Abstract: Microlenses integrated with the focal plane arrays are found to improve its performance very significantly, through improvement of the fill factor, signal to noise ratio and increase of the operating temperature. Princeton Electronic Systems has developed a very sophisticated technique for fabrication of the microlenses on semiconductor wafers which can be applied to fill one critical DOD need, which is to devlop improved low cost night vision systems compatible with the existing digital systems in the field and the systems in the digital battlefield of the future. It is extremely important for the helicoter pilots and gunners to be able to have the information from the IFF and GPS and other simialr systems displayed on the output of the night vision system. The current low light level system which is the Gen III type of night vision system based on GaAs photocathodes, does not display these kinds of information and does not interface with the outside digital systems. We propose to develop an InGaAs detector based FPA which can be the basis for an extremely high performance, low cost night vision system with digital interface and display capability. A low cost commercial system can be developed by the end of the program which can be sold in large quantities to the civilian users like law enforcement, security systems manufacturers, drug interdiction operations, television reporting and many other applications. Anticipated Military Benefits/Potential Commercial Applications of the Research or Development: An improved low cost, low light level imaging system capable of interfacing with the other digital systems will have a large number of potential applications in the military. In the commercial area, a low cost, low light level system will have applications in law enforcement, television reporting, perimenter security and other areas. | |
Q-DOT, INC. |
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| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(719) 590-1112 Thomas Bohley DARPA 96-079 |
| Title: Telerobotic Vision for Uninhabited Tactical Aircraft (UTA) | |
| Abstract: Q-DOT proposes to develop a custom, charge-coupled device imager to work in conjunction with an innovative lens already designed and built by Q-DOT. The imager will exploit the characteristics of a variable focal lens to provide both a detailed, narrow field-of-view image seamlessly combined with a lower resolution, wide field-of-view image in the same display. The lens and imager combination is particularly suited to create a virtual reality telerobotic display while using minimum transmission bandwidth. The lens and imager, together, mimic the functioning of the human vision system. | |
SPIRE CORP. |
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| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(617) 275-6000 Themis Parodos DARPA 95-006 |
| Title: Low Cost Thin Film Electroluminescent Heat Mounted Displays | |
| Abstract: Spire and its subcontractor, Westinghouse/Norden Systems, propose development of color, thin film electroluminescent (TFEL) head mounted displays (HMDs) using passive matrix addressing and indium bump-bonded drive electronics. Passive matrix addressing vastly simplifies fabrication and improves manufacturing yields by decreasing the number of high voltage drive transistors required for display operation. Ion implantation of multicolor activators through high resolution masks will be used to selectively introduce luminescent centers and form color pixels. Spire has patented this manufacturing concept and seeks to reduce it to practice. Phase I will first establish ion-implantation's feasibility as a means of producing multicolor pixels at resolutions of 1000 lines per inch, then demonstrate a 640 x 480 TFEL/miniature display, driven through an indium bump-bond interconnect. This approach offers the potential for so greatly simplifying HMD manufacture that units costing less than one hundred dollars will ultimately result. Furthermore, because it brings together proven technologies in an unconventional way, technological risk is low. Existing ARPA-sponsored programs at Spire complement the proposed effort by making available optimized TFEL phosphors; additional collateral benefit will derive from a parallel, Army Night Vision Electro-optics Laboratory contract with Westinghouse/Norden which explores advanced TFEL HMDs. Anticipated Military Benefits/Potential Commercial Applications of the Research or Development: Low cost, miniaturized TFEL displays will be used in applications requiring hands-free transfer of information; equipment maintenance, training simulators, and telepresence surgery are among these applications. The largest commercial application will be in high performance virtual reality entertainment systems. | |
LASER POWER CORP. |
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| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(617) 755-0700 Robert A. Bergstedt AF 98-001 |
| Title: | Microlaser Illumination for Helmet Mounted Displays |
| Abstract: | Helmet and Head Mounted Displays (HMD) offer pilots a significant advantage in warfighting capability. Howver, displays to date have been limited in brightness, resolution, and chromaticity. Recent developments with AMLCD technology, based upon subtractive color promise high brightness, high resolution, and full color HMD's, suitable for operational environments. Laser Power Corporation has identified red, green and blue microlasers as ideal illumination sources for the HMD. Microlasers offer several advantages over are lamps as the illumination source, related to9 the spectral purity of the laser light and the near diffraction limited beam which makes the lasers will suited for use as a light source with LCD's. Therefore, LPC is proposing the development of red and green lasers coupled with the fiber optic delivery bundle. During Phase I, LPC will develop the laser configuration and demonstrate key technologies. This will lead to a design for an integrated laser illumination system which will be delivered as part of the Phase II program. This package will then be ready for full-scale engineering and MIL qualification, leading to production of a rugged microlaser system. |
PHYSICAL OPTICS CORP. |
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| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(310) 320-3088 Andrew Kostrzewski, Ph.D. AF 99-133 |
| Title: | Frame Management Video Hypercompression |
| Abstract: | Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop an innovative compression technique that combines high compression ratio (4,000:1, for NTSC/VGA), high image quality, and low internal system latency. The compression ratio is at least 10 times higher than current technology. The proposed Frame Management Video Hypercompression (FMVH) is a soft computing (information theory) algorithm and runs on the newest IC chip-sets (graphic ICs: 12-layer; 3.3 V power supply; 256 processors in parallel). It will enhance Air Force C3 capabilities with live video and multi-media (video, audio, data), transmitting TV through 64 kbps telephone communication channels; continuous video imagery (T1 and fraction T1); low latency (<250 ms total); operator-transparent remote-controlled by RS232 visual communication with a sensor; very low bandwidth (<8 kbps) by "cartooning," 3 hour flash memory storage of video; real-time motion picture communication with AWACS, operational aircraft, helicopters, UAVs, UGVs, etc., "last moment" surface/aerial target updating; and real-time damage assessment. While Phase I efforts will focus on demonstrating the feasibility of a frame management hypercompression (FMVH) narrowband channel communication system, Phase II will be expanded to a full FMVH preproduction system prototype; including software, chipset hardware, with a physical layer and user application layer adapted to a specific Air Force communication network. |
| INTELLIGENT AUTOMATION,
INC. 1715 Glastonberry Road Rockville, MD 20854 |
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| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(301) 590-3155 ChiMan Kwan BMDO 99-010 |
| Title: | A Novel Video Compression Technique Using Wavelets for Distributed Command and Control Applications |
| Abstract: | In distributed command and control applications, video can provide significant help in terms of interpersonal communications, intelligence gathering, resource management, and other military functions. However, the available bandwidth is very limited in battlefield that necessitates the use of video compression. Current standards such as MPEG-1 (Motion Pictures Experts Group) can only achieve a compression ratio of 400, i.e. from 472 Mbps to 1.2 Mbps. There are I (Intracoded), P (Predictive), B (Bidirectional), and D (DC-coded) frames in MPEG-1. Although D-frames are not necessary for military application since they are mainly used for fast-forward function in VCRs. Thus one can eliminate D-frames to save some bandwidths. This is still not enough. The aim of this Phase 1 research is to develop a new technique that can achieve a compression ratio of 1000:1 so that it is feasible to use video in military command and control applications. Here Intelligent Automation Incorporated (IAI) and Boston University propose a new overlapping block transform based wavelet coder (OBTWC) to compress video images. The objective is to reduce the transmission time without sacrificing too much the performance of the image quality. Wavelet technology is a promising technique for image compression. Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) has adopted a Wavelet Scalar Quantization technique to compress all fingerprints in its headquarter in Washington DC. FBI's technique achieves compression ratio of 18:1. We have applied our proposed new technique to fingerprint image compression. Our approach can achieve 26:1 with the same quality as the FBI coder. Therefore, we strongly believe that our algorithm can achieve 1000:1 compression ratio if we replace the DCT coding scheme in MPEG-1 by our OBTWC scheme. |
| MICROVISION, INC. 2203 Airport Way South,, Suite 100 Seattle, WA 98134 |
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| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(206) 515-0447 Abraham Gross DARPA 99-020 |
| Title: | Autoscope: The Application of Virtual Retinal Display (TM) (VRD(TM)) Technology to the Design and Development of a High Performance Stereogr |
| Abstract: | Present approaches to providing high-quality sterographic display of complex images and visual information typically involve mechanical aids including passive and active polarizers. Microvision's solution advances a innovative auto-stereoscopic design principle integrated with VRD technology to produce a stereographic display that permits the full-color, 3-dimensional display and visualization of complex data sets and images without viewing aids of any kind. |
| REVEO, INC. 85 Executive Blvd. Elmsford, NY 10523 |
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| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(914) 345-9556 Zhan He DARPA 99-020 |
| Title: | 3D Image Displays Using Variable Focal Length Liquid Crystal Microlens Arrays |
| Abstract: | In this SBIR program, Reveo proposes to develop and commercialize the world's first mass-market 3D display technology. There does not currently exist a technically and commercially viable 3D technology having no viewing angle or encumbering eyewear restriction - holographic and varifocal techniques are far too expensive and cumbersome. Leveraging Reveo's extensive experience in developing and commercializing liquid crystal (LC) technologies, Reveo proposes a 3D display technique utilizing an innovative variable focal length LC micro-lens array. When coupled with AMLCD technology, each array element focuses its pixel's light at the required depth. The total effect is an imaged shape in free space emitting light in a broad range of angles from each point of its surface requiring no encumbering eyewear to view. In Phase I, Reveo will develop two elements micro-lens array, which will then be used in conjunction with an AMLCD array and a static glass micro-lens array to make a 2x2 element 3D demonstration display that exhibits all of the important properties of an ideal 3D display discussed above. In this manner, the feasibility of this frontier technology will be established. |
AEPTEC MICROSYSTEMS, INC. |
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| Phone: PI: Topic#: |
(301) 670-6770 Steven C. Chen NAVY 99-118 |
| Title: | Advanced Connectivity for CIC Operations |
| Abstract: | AEPTEC proposes to provide a COMMON TACTICAL 3D PICTURE to all surface combatants operating in a battle group, by implementing advanced connectivity technologies that will support the sharing of a 3D tactical picture. AEPTEC has teamed with Lockheed Martin, and Multispectral Solutions, Inc. (MSSI) to offer a high bandwidth connectivity solution that will enable every ship's CIC to share a COMMON TACTICAL 3D PICTURE of the battlefield. We will further develop our revolutionary Ultra Wide Band (UWB) radio which uses water as a wave guide and is currently being used by Special Forces to send T1 packets of data and imagery up to 20 miles over water. We plan to upgrade this technology to offer T1 connectivity for up to 60 miles over salt water to allow ships in a battle group to send each other the COMMON TACTICAL 3D PICTURE in a real time, secure and low-cost manner that independent of satellites. We will also research the feasibility of 1) developing a low-cost flat antenna kit which could enable a ship's fire control antenna to receive T1 bandwidth connectivity, and 2) of utilizing low-cost kites to expand a ship's connectivity range. |