Physical Optics Corporation — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: To address the MDA need for techniques to perform warhead characterization, Physical Optic

Description

To address the MDA need for techniques to perform warhead characterization, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Omnidirection Pulsed Three-dimension Imaging Coherent Aperture Sensor (OPTICAS) system based on a multi-aperture coherent 3D imaging system omnidirection view. The innovation in using coherent detection system with electro-optic gating allows recording the amplitude and phase of the backscattered light and will enable capturing of full-hemisphere warhead fragments data during warhead tests. As a result, this system offers high-velocity capturing of objects with sufficient resolution and determines individual fragment velocities, which directly address the MDA requirements. In Phase I, POC plans to develop a preliminary design of OPTICAS system and evaluate its effectiveness by using a laboratory prototype to dynamically image multiple objects in 3D space, map their velocities, and estimate their masses. A software model to detect, track, and derive position and velocity of each debris object will be demonstrated. Based on Phase I results, in Phase II, POC will design, develop, and implement a full-hemispherical warhead characterization system and associated test and data collection software to demonstrate its performance in a simulated environment. A path to support a ground-based warhead characterization test for field environment will be presented.