Multi-Spectral Flickerless Dynamic Scene Projector

ABSTRACT: To address the Air Force need for a compact multi-spectral scene projector technology, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Multi-Spectral Flickerless Dynamic Scene Projector (MSFDSP) system based on a novel integration of broadband light sources with spatial light modulators (SLMs) combined with dynamic range enhancement and stray ray reduction. The unique system design, which combines analog amplitude modulation with dynamic range enhancement controlled electro-optically and pixel-wisely, will enable the MSFDSP to provide low background flickerless generation of dynamic imagery over the wavelength band of 0.4 to 5.0 microns (scalable to UV or LWIR). Therefore, this system offers flicker-free grayscale operation, multi-spectral (visible, SWIR, and MWIR) coverage, stray light reduction, and compact footprint, which directly address the Air Force requirements for a multi-spectral scene projector. In Phase I, POC will demonstrate the feasibility of MSFDSP by researching a variety of technical approaches, choosing an optimum design approach, and developing an estimate of expected performance. A proof-of-concept prototype will be constructed and tested to demonstrate MSFDSP"s feasibility. In Phase II, POC plans to develop and demonstrate a fully functional engineering prototype that meets Air Force requirements for a compact multi-spectral scene projector. BENEFIT: The proposed MSFDSP will address the need for a compact multi-spectral scene projector technology to provide low background flickerless generation of dynamic imagery over the wavelength band of ~0.4-5.0 microns. Therefore, it will meet Air Force test requirements (unlike current technologies) without significant modifications to the existing hardware. The innovative design makes possible low background flickerless generation of dynamic imagery over the visible, SWIR, and MWIR wavelength band (0.4-5.0 microns). As a result, we believe MSFDSP technology has advantages in performance over the competitors. These advantages include flicker-free grayscale operation, multi-spectral operation, stray light reduction, and a compact footprint. Commercial applications of MSFDSP will include testing optics and imaging systems for scientific and entertainment markets, as presentation and movie projectors, for on-board systems, and in commercial simulation test facilities.