SPHERE OPTICS COMPANY LLC — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: AFX235-CSO1

Description

(sphere) invented the world’s first and only single-lens 360° full-spherical (4pi Steradians) image capture solution. Our patented technology captures the entire omnidirectional field of view (FOV) on a single frame using a single camera and can be streamed in real-time. Absolutely no stitching, no parallax and no stitching artifacts. Subject matter can get extremely close to the lens without image loss (it is a 1mm). The use of a single sensor greatly reduces overall system complexity, heat and energy requirements while allowing familiar user workflows for data transmission and post processing. Our system includes a robust and customizable Machine Learning (ML)-enabled computer vision (CV) model that could be adapted for UAS, as well as other DoD and DAF applications to provide real-time 360° situational awareness, hazard detection and avoidance, surveillance, and security. For Phase I, (sphere) proposes adapting our existing state-of-the-art optics hardware and ML software to provide real-time omnidirectional 360° situational awareness, hazard detection/avoidance, surveillance, and security for various DAF platforms. This effort aligns with multiple strategic capabilities and Core Missions of the DAF, including: Air Superiority; Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance; Rapid Global Strike; and Command and Control.  (sphere) will work directly with key DAF and DoD stakeholders, operators and suppliers to identify the most important features and applications for additional (sphere) technology integration. This may include rotary and fixed wing manned and unmanned air systems as well as other fixed position (non-aerial) air base security and protection systems.