Multi-spectral, short-pulse, high-pulse-energy laser transmitter
Navy SBIR FY2013.1


Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2013.1
Topic No.: N131-074
Topic Title: Multi-spectral, short-pulse, high-pulse-energy laser transmitter
Proposal No.: N131-074-0688
Firm: Q Peak, Inc.
135 South Road
Bedford, Massachusetts 01730-2307
Contact: Yelena Isyanova
Phone: (781) 275-9535
Web Site: www.qpeak.com
Abstract: The Navy SBIR topic solicits the development of a 4-color laser system that enables the detection of ocean mines on the beach and floating/submerged mines in the ocean. Q-Peak and PSI have collaborated to submit a proposal that leverages the laser system development expertise of Q-Peak and the ocean LIDAR modeling experience of PSI to provide an exceptionally strong development team to meet Navy requirements. During the Phase I program a study effort to (1) guide the selection of the laser wavelengths and (2) develop an innovative, compact, multi-spectral laser transmitter based on the combination of an efficient, high-energy, fundamental laser source and nonlinear optical frequency converters suitable for EO based mine detection. The output wavelengths will span across the visible and near infrared spectral region to enable discrimination between targets, separating mines and vegetation. The primary objective of the Phase I Option program is to develop the initial layout of the transmitter and provide capability description of the unit to be built during the Phase II effort. The laser system designed will meet requirements on SWaP parameters to support deployment on a tactical unmanned Airborne vehicle (TUAV).
Benefits: The Phase I effort is dedicated to developing a concept for a compact, efficient, 4-color laser system. The next stage in applications development will be to integrate the Phase II developed multi-spectral laser prototype with an imager, flight test the complete system, and integrate into the SHD-12-04 FNC program for transition to the ALMDS and/or COBRA acquisition programs. In addition, Q-Peak will seek to adapt, develop and scale the technology for ground based and airborne LIDAR for atmospheric monitoring, topographic charting, and bathymetry for ocean depth monitoring, hand-held and UAV-based seawater attenuation meter, mine detection and ASW.The associated pump-laser technology, developed as part of the effort, would find a much greater sales potential in laser materials processing, specifically the market in advanced manufacturing based on nanosecond pulsed lasers. Applications are in current and developing processes in semiconductors, microelectronics, solar cells, flat-panel displays and medical devices.

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