Physical Optics Corporation — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: MDA15-014

Description

Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Thermally Efficient Infrared Emitter (THEIRE). The proposed THEIRE technology is based on spatially tiled high-resolution spatial light modulators (SLMs) and optically induced near-blackbody radiation from vertically aligned carbon nanotube (VACNT) arrays. Using the novel implementation of high dynamic range SLMs for pixelwise control of laser power, THEIRE enables large formats (4k4k) presentation of dynamic wide temperature (also capable of high temperature scene of 2000K) at higher frame rates (greater than or equal to 400 Hz) for high fidelity infrared projection in ground test environments. Due to the thermal integration at the VACNT and the fast speed of SLM, THEIRE offers flickerless emission. The system design also makes it thermally efficient and compatible with cryo-vacuum operation (at ~100K). In Phase I, POC plans to establish the technical feasibility of THEIRE by investigating potential emitter solutions, performing modeling and simulation to conduct trade studies, optimize system and predict performance, and testing materials at the coupon level to anchor model predictions. In Phase II, a working THEIRE prototype will be developed and demonstrated for evaluation.(Approved for Public Release 15-MDA-8482 (17 November 15))