Micro-Structure Enhanced MWIR/LWIR Uncooled Imager Navy SBIR FY2008.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2008.2 Topic No.: N08-140 Topic Title: Micro-Structure Enhanced MWIR/LWIR Uncooled Imager Proposal No.: N082-140-0833 Firm: Agiltron Corporation 15 Cabot Road Woburn, Massachusetts 01801-1003 Contact: Guanhai Jin Phone: (781) 935-1200 Web Site: http://www.agiltron.com Abstract: Agiltron has developed and demonstrated fabrication capability for a new category of uncooled photomechanical IR imagers that convert infrared radiation into visible images using a conventional visible-light CMOS camera. This breakthrough thermal image technology potentially offers next generation thermal camera performance attributes of: Large Pixel Array, Uncooled Operation, High Sensitivity, Fast Response and Low Cost. Leveraging this uncooled IR image technology developed in the past 7 years and in collaboration with Prof. Rana Biswas of Iowa State University, we propose a new improvement via incorporating micro-machined photonic crystal structure. This new design will simplify the manufacture process at the same time address the critical requirements of high sensitivity and extremely large dynamic range as well as multiple band operation for may critical military and commercial applications. The proposed imager will feature simultaneous dual-band MWIR/LWIR operation, high sensitivity, large dynamic range, megapixel resolution, uncooled operation, minimized weight, volume, power, and cost. During Phase I, the feasibility of the proposed technique approach will be demonstrated. A fully functional photonic crystal enhanced dual-band MWIR/LWIR imager will be prototyped in Phase II. Benefits: The first product that will incorporate the proposed technology is the uncooled dual-band MWIR/LWIR photomechanical imager. The proposed PhC enhanced IR detection development represents a major technology breakthrough, facilitating wide use of IR detectors/imagers in military applications. Infrared radiation detectors/imagers are the key component for military surveillance, night vision, target identification, and countermeasures. Agiltron's breakthrough IR imager marks a significant shift in the commercial market as well by facilitating the accessibility of high-quality, thermal imagers to price sensitive markets including security, firefighting, automotive, industrial markets. Return