Physical Optics Corporation — Department of Defense SBIR Phase II: CBD152-001

Description

To address the CBDs need for adjustable optical correction technology for respiratory protective systems, Physical Optics Corporation (POC)proposes to continue the development of a new low-cost Adaptive Lens for Ocular Correction (ALOC). The ALOC is formed by thin-filmmicroarrays of wavefront correctors (MWCs), which are conformably laminated onto the facemask visor and controlled by a miniature driver.Ocular correction from -5 to 5 diopters was successfully modeled for the ALOC, integrated with a C50 visor and experimentally validated on ascaled prototype with controllable optical power and astigmatism. The Phase I prototype demonstrated <1 s response for 4 diopters opticalpower change with <3 mW power consumption, and >83% transparency. POC also established collaboration with Avon Protection and Wiley Xfor transition of ALOC technology to the market. Phase II efforts will focus on optimization of the ALOC design compatible with an M50respirator, fabrication of a prototype reaching (TRL)-5, and testing of the prototype. The Phase II prototype will provide >8 hr of continuous onthe-fly ocular correction in a range from -9 to 9 diopters without obscuration while powered by a small battery. POC will also identify a PhaseIII path ahead for military qualification.