SBIR-STTR Award

The proposed Phase I investigation is expected to yield an innovative sensor system design of a very small, lightweight, and minimally detectable periscope imaging system capable of instantaneous 360-degree viewing. The approach exploits innovative research and development activities in advanced optics designs coupled with modern sensors, including visual, near infrared, and short wave infrared. We present an innovative panoramic sensor module that can integrate with the existing Seal Delivery Vehicle (SDV) mast system and inboard electronics. It will provide visual, low light, and short wave infrared sensing capability. This system will provide unique capabilities for red and green differentiation. The unique design concept permits a very compact system solution and is build of cost effective and rugged devices to be able to withstand the harsh operating environment. We anticipate that the results of this effort will demonstrate the feasibility of the system approach and the path to implementation.

Benefits:
The Phase I effort will generate optical imaging designs, and will identify suitable sensor technologies that will allow the development of a covert, 360-degree panoramic imaging system. Results of the Phase I will produce an architecture for a complete electronics/firmware system to meet or exceed all the requirements. We expect the imaging system will readily scale to the application and be adapted to meet all the imaging requirements. Successful completion of Phase I will establish the feasibility of the approach and the development of the conceptual design that will transition into the Phase II effort. The imaging system design developed in Phase I will be used to develop a demonstration system in Phase II to investigate the performance of the system.

Keywords:
Periscope, 360 Degree Imaging, Optical Imaging Design, Stealth, High Resolution Color Video, Swir, Low Light Level

3 Phoenix, Inc. proposes to build, integrate, test and deliver a modular non-rotational high definition compact periscope system for use on submerged or surface vehicles. Our design is compliant with the Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) as it is based on commercial interface standards and commercially available electronics. The system will provide instantaneous 360-degree field of view in an exceptionally low profile form factor. The proposed system will provide day and night operations from full direct sunlight to star light background illumination. The unique high dynamic range multi-spectral sensor architecture provides over 120 dB of dynamic range at 30 frames per second. The proposed system is very rugged and requires no moving parts to image the entire scene. Our design incorporates RF antenna capabilities for L1/L2 Band GPS signals and can be extended to include other RF communications bands. The system incorporates a unique permanent super-hydrophobic window modification that prohibits accumulation of water, ice, or debris on the window. The multi-spectral sensor system incorporates image stabilization. The system is comprised of a range of commercially available modules that are integrated and can be adapted to multiple applications. The entire mast system only requires DC power and Ethernet.

Keywords:
Multi-Spectral Imaging, Compact Periscope, Short Wave Infrared, Near Infrared, High Dynamic Range, Image Stabilization, 360-Degree Imaging, Panoramic Imaging