INTEVAC PHOTONICS, INC. — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: AF151-018

Description

ABSTRACT:The objective of this Phase 1 effort is to assess the feasibility of a Binocular, Wide field of view Digital Goggle named the BiWiDG, with day/night imaging capability. The BiWiDG is based on a binocular, partially overlapped central field of view using Intevacs 4Mp (megapixel) ISIE4000 EBAPS (electron-bombarded active pixel sensor) and its IROC (interline reflective optical collimator) eyepiece to achieve fields of view (FoV) beyond todays binocular analog NVG, with optimum and low light acuity suitable for aviation and ground applications. The BiWiDG will include fusion of imported digital imagery / information and video export capability, as well as use a new design concept for day use. This Phase 1 feasibility study will perform trade analyses between two similar design options against low light acuity, central FoV overlap size, frame rate, size/weight/power/cost, and diagonal field of view to yield an optimized design for Phase 2 consideration. It is expected that the proposed Phase 2 design shall be implemented and a working prototype BiWiDG shall be produced and delivered in Phase 2BENEFIT:There is a recurring need for a wide field of view, cost-effective night vision goggle (NVG) with acuity equivalent to todays fielded analog goggle technology. Analog NVG technology has limited utility during day operation and cannot optimally fuse external imagery and information. A binocular, wide field of view digital goggle which can operate during day as well as night and fuse input information and export sensor video with night performance equivalent to todays analog NVG offers a new capability for both the aviator and dismounted Air Force warrior.