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Image Intensified Lightweight Lens Development

Award Information
Agency: Department of Defense
Branch: Special Operations Command
Contract: H92222-05-P-0004
Agency Tracking Number: S043-009-0050
Amount: $99,963.00
Phase: Phase I
Program: SBIR
Solicitation Topic Code: SOCOM04-009
Solicitation Number: 2004.3
Timeline
Solicitation Year: 2004
Award Year: 2004
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): 2004-12-02
Award End Date (Contract End Date): 2005-06-02
Small Business Information
6400 E. Grant Road, Suite 350
Tucson, AZ 85715
United States
DUNS: 099378374
HUBZone Owned: No
Woman Owned: No
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: No
Principal Investigator
 Mark Fink
 Optical Engineer
 (520) 721-0500
 mfink@breault.com
Business Contact
 Mark Fink
Title: Director Engineering Services
Phone: (520) 721-0500
Email: mfink@breault.com
Research Institution
N/A
Abstract

In recent engagements, the military has employed unconventional methods to gain a tactical advantage. One of these methods is increased night patrols and night combat operations using night vision goggles. Even though the capabilities of these devices have increased, they are still large and heavy, which reduces individual mobility and increases soldier fatigue. The classical approach at reducing system weight is to replace the glass lenses with plastic components. However, this has had limited success because of the large index difference between glass and plastic and the large focus shift with temperature from plastic components. We propose a new approach where the requirements for the application match the performance of the light-weight, all plastic lens, NVG system. We will survey and analyze existing NVG systems and select a system whose performance and layout allow the glass lenses to be replaced with plastic lenses. We will also investigate different mechanical housing configurations using dissimilar metals and composite materials to compensate the focus shift from changes in temperature. By this approach, we will develop new processes that will further develop the capabilities of light weight night vision optics.

* Information listed above is at the time of submission. *

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