High Definition, High Dynamic Range Color Camera

A program to develop a high definition, high dynamic range color camera employing pixel-level sensitivity control and advanced integration time control is proposed. The proposed High Definition, High Dynamic Range (HD2) color camera builds upon Surface Optics real-time multi-spectral and hyperspectral imaging activities, including the DuoChrome SWIR/MWIR imager, and the Multi-band Identification and Discrimination Imaging Spectroradiometer (MIDIS). Employing both on-chip sensitivity control and off-chip integration time control, the camera is capable of up to 200 dB of intrascene dynamic range; This dynamic range is available throughout the 5.5 megapixel color imagery. Under the Phase I effort, this capability was proven. The Phase II base effort develops the prototype camera appropriate for integration in a Photonics Mast Head, and the option effort starts the integration and testing. The proposed effort represents an extension of Surface Optics 20 years experience in multispectral and hyperspectral imager design, and in ultra-high dynamic range imagers. By building on Surface Optics Corporations experience in imaging system development, sensor development, and algorithm development, the proposed program will produce a new ultra-high dynamic range high-definition color camera.