Physical Optics Corporation — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: To address the Army"s need for a cost-effective method of optically performing sensor

Description

To address the Army"s need for a cost-effective method of optically performing sensor fusion of thermal and night vision imagery, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Variable Magnification Optical Fused Clip-On Thermal Imager (ZoomCOTI). The system is based on novel uses of POC"s see-through imaging waveguide and Alvarez lens for variable magnification (zooming) to provide a new clip-on thermal imaging capability to conventional scopes, binoculars, and camera. ZoomCOTI"s unique design utilizes advanced optical components using mature optical fabrication technology and COTS components. As a result, ZoomCOTI offers a method of providing a clip-on thermal imaging system with variable magnification, lightweight, low-power, and high-resolution, overcoming the limitations of existing state-of-the-art clip-on systems and directly addressing the Army"s requirements. In Phase I, POC will identify, evaluate, and compare the ZoomCOTI system concepts against existing technologies and systems based on cost, weight, power consumption, resolution, predicted thermal range, and magnification. We will also conduct research to determine the level of compatibility of optical overlay concepts with legacy hardware. In Phase II, we will further optimize the ZoomCOTI system to meet the Army"s needs, fabricate and deliver a prototype with documentation for evaluation and future transition.