Passive Single-Aperture Rifle Scope for 3D Rangefinding Navy SBIR FY2007.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2007.1 Topic No.: N07-002 Topic Title: Passive Single-Aperture Rifle Scope for 3D Rangefinding Proposal No.: N071-002-0201 Firm: Physical Optics Corporation Applied Technologies Division 20600 Gramercy Place, Bldg 100 Torrance, California 90501-1821 Contact: Ilya Agurok Phone: (310) 320-3088 Web Site: www.poc.com Abstract: To address the U.S. Marine Corps need for a single-aperture passive rangefinder, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Passive Single-Aperture Rifle Scope for 3D Rangefinding (Pass-Range), a rifle scope rangefinder based on a high light gathering power scope with a variable Fresnel zone plate (VFZP) mounted in the aperture stop. This innovation will give the Pass-Range without any moving parts, completely passive rangefinding capability in a single aperture device with a range resolution that is better than 1% that is achievable by active rangefinders. It will be compatible with current electro-optical imaging sensors, weigh less than a pound and be smaller than current U.S. military night vision scopes. It performs rangefinding with distance scan by changing VFZP arrangement and detecting objects twinkle. In Phase I POC will analyze the device design for its rangefinding accuracy as a function of target distance and geometry and assemble and test a proof-of-concept prototype to demonstrate feasibility. In Phase II a full scale Pass-Range engineering prototype, including a redesigned scope, custom electronics and software, and operator interface, will be developed and tested to show how the approach meets the need of the U.S. Marines. Benefits: The proposed Pass-Range will be a compact and lightweight rangefinding device that will benefit all branches of the U.S. military. Not only will it be a rifle scope that is completely passive, but devices with the same principle of operation can be packaged as other scopes and head-mounted displays to improve warfighter situational awareness. Modified versions of this device can be included into larger platforms, including ground vehicles and helicopters. Outside of the military, the device has enormous potential for homeland security. For example, police can use it to map 3D locations of suspects covertly, and firefighters can use modified versions with thermal imaging sensors to locate fire hazards in a 3D scene. On the commercial side, this device will benefit small aircraft and wildlife enthusiasts. Return