Multispectral Targets Hardware-In-the-Loop Scene Projector System Navy SBIR FY2016.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2016.1 Topic No.: N161-045 Topic Title: Multispectral Targets Hardware-In-the-Loop Scene Projector System Proposal No.: N161-045-0268 Firm: Physical Optics Corporation 1845 West 205th Street Torrance, California 90501 Contact: Fang Zhang Phone: (310) 320-3088 Web Site: http://www.poc.com Abstract: To address the Navy need for a Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) test-bed for current and future multi-spectral imaging (MSI), simultaneous multi-spectral imaging (SMSI), and future coastal battlefield reconnaissance and analysis (COBRA) Block II sensors, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new MUltiSpectral Targets Hardware-In-The-Loop Scene Projector (MUSTHILP). The MUSTHILP system innovatively integrates multispectral illumination, high-resolution spatial light modulators (SLMs) and image-projection optics with image tilting and resolution enhancement. MUSTHILP provides a unique modular multispectral design and novel implementation of high dynamic range (>12-bit) SLMs for pixel-wise test scene image generation, and offers super high resolution (8K, needed to test 4K sensors), high fidelity scene projection (simultaneously or sequentially) of 6 sub-bands from UV to near infrared (380-1000 nm). It provides real-time performance comparisons of current and future (i.e., COBRA) sensors against a consistent baseline without the need to collect extensive imagery data as in physical trial and error tests. In Phase I, POC plans to establish the technical feasibility of MUSTHILP by performing modeling and simulation, trade studies, optimizing system design and predicting its performance, as well as by material testing, proof-of-concept prototype integration and testing. In Phase II, a working MUSTHILP prototype will be developed for Navy's evaluation. Benefits: MUSTHILP's main performance advantage over the competitors is its ability to support new Multi-Spectral Imaging (MSI), Simultaneous Multi-Spectral Imaging (SMSI), and other future COBRA Block II sensors. As such, it allows objective comparison of multiple cameras on the same test-bed. The MUSTHILP technology is adaptable directly to many commercial activities that have significant potential in the private sector, including commercial photography, agriculture, and medical imaging. It can also be used as a test-bed for commercial sensors with applications in UV, visible and infrared vision, monitoring, surveillance, and imaging systems; for on-board systems; and in commercial simulation test facilities; testing trackers for use in commercial maritime, aviation, and space navigation applications. Return