Novel Approaches to Fully Digital Optical Solutions

"In this Phase I effort, the PI2 team will perform a set of technology and algorithmic trade studies with the goal of finding innovative new system concepts for a head-mounted display system for TALOS using all digital processing, and with extremely low latency (objective: 1.2ms, threshold: 5ms) from light into the sensor to light out of the display. We approach this with trade studies to survey the art of the possible to meet the system threshold and objective goals as stated, and expect to develop multiple implementation options as we perform the trade study. At a minimum, two solutions will be architecteda high risk approach, which targets the objective goals, and a low risk approach, which is free to relax metrics to the threshold goals. We will also explore value-added information and techniques that can be derived from the all-digital imaging system and presented to the operator. It is of the utmost importance that the trade study be performed in the context of the TALOS system and objectives, including interfaces to other sensors and components. Finally, after selection of appropriate imager, microdisplay, SoC, and FPGA technologies, along with image processing algorithms and techniques, we will develop requirements and a recommended architecture for prototyping in Phase II. The Phase I effort will conclude with a Final Review and Final Report."