Hyperpixel Array Imager for Contact Identification Navy SBIR FY2009.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2009.1 Topic No.: N091-055 Topic Title: Hyperpixel Array Imager for Contact Identification Proposal No.: N091-055-1646 Firm: Bodkin Design & Engineering, LLC P.O. Box 81386 Wellesley, Massachusetts 02481 Contact: James Daly Phone: (617) 795-1968 Web Site: www.bodkindesign.com Abstract: The Navy is seeking hyperspectral imaging (HSI) systems to integrate with Type 18 periscopes and/or newer Photonics Masts in order to perform contact recognition, identification and classification. Hyperspectral technology offers potential performance enhancement to attain additional target information and discrimination as well as possibly attain better penetration through adverse weather. Surface craft exhibit anomalous signatures compared to both water and sky horizon backgrounds in NIR/SWIR spectral bands making autonomous detection from the ocean surface feasible. Bodkin Design & Engineering, LLC (Newton, MA) and Space Computer Corporation (Los Angeles, CA) will collaborate to develop a versatile hyperspectral imaging system for visible to short-wavelength infrared (SWIR) wavelengths. Specifically, we propose to combine BD&E's proprietary HyperPixel� Array (HPA�) imager and SCC's proprietary hyperspectral image processing capabilities to design and build a system which will automatically identify contacts, associate a hyperspectral `tag' with each contact so that it may be tracked or recognized and re-acquired at a later time, and classify each contact according to type. The system will operate over the wavelength range 400-1700 nm. The phase 1 program will be a specification development and systems design effort leading to a prototype design which will be built and tested in phase 2. Benefits: Hyperspectral imaging promises to enable identification and tracking of targets in cluttered environments as well as the re-acquisition of targets after their movement out-of-view. Along with military applications, this technology should be of interest to homeland security and law enforcement personnel engaged in surveillance operations. Return