MUSTANG OPTICS LLC — Department of Defense SBIR Phase II: HR001121S0007-26

Description

Mustang Optics, in collaboration with Southern Methodist University, is focused on the research, development and commercialization of an Open Architecture optical technology platform utilizing the capabilities of a modified Texas Instruments Deformable Micromirror Device (DMD). The required modifications include replacing the window on the DMD, changing the physical operating characteristics of the device, and changing the drive electronics and software.  In addition to developing the modified DMD, our team has developed extensive simulation tools to model the operating characteristics of the device over a broad range of wavelengths and operating conditions.  Our approach leverages existing, high volume, commercial components, through our partnership with Texas Instruments. The physical and electronic modifications of commercially available TI DMDs provide the unique potential for the device to operate over a broad spectrum of wavelengths, from 200 nm to 20 µm, and with operating speeds in excess of 20 kHz. Mustang Optics has previously demonstrated all of the Phase I metrics, 1024x768 format at a frame rate in excess of 20 kHz, for > 3 patterns.  In the THEBES Phase II program, we will demonstrate a hardware-in-the-loop test system with 4 Megapixels, a frame rate of at least 20 kHz, which will operate in the 3-5 µm waveband.  In addition to the hardware-in-the-loop system, we will develop the sensitivity analysis tools which will allow us to generate patterns that test the limitations of the event sensors. The THEBES Phase II effort will demonstrate the key capabilities, performance metrics, and product maturity needed to transition to a Phase III Program. The THEBES Phase II effort will provide the foundation for this transition for both DoD requirements associated with new Event Sensors, as well as enabling capabilities for Hardware-in-the-Loop testing of many DoD visible and infrared sensors. In addition, the THEBES program will provide a foundation for military applications such as agile laser beam steering.  Success of the THEBES Phase II SBIR program will provide Mustang Optics, and DARPA, with a proven prototype capability for testing event sensors, and will provide Mustang Optics with a transition of our Open Architecture approach to where we can address multiple additional DoD and commercial markets with a demonstrated, low risk capability.  Completion of the THEBES program will transition the systems to a TRL of 6/7, and an MRL of 5, allowing us to address near term markets such as 3D Printing, and IR Scene Projection with significantly lower transition risk, and less cost required to reach production.