Smart Optical Proximity Fuze

To address the U.S. Navy Marine Corps need for a new generation of 40 mm low/medium-velocity munitions with higher lethality via airburst capability, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes in Phase II to advance the Phase I Smart Optical Proximity Fuze (SOProF) prototype to an integrated 40 mm munition ready for testing, certification, and productization. SOProF is based on three POC innovations: (1) use of a new axially symmetric optical/mechanical configuration, (2) use of multiple detectors to increase SNR, and (3) novel integration of state-of-the-art optical and optimized electronic components. These innovations, and the principle of laser triangulation, will enable the new 40 mm airburst projectile to hit camouflaged and defilade targets without any fuze preset and with minimal modification to the fire control system. SOProF will activate a round’s payload 2-3 m from the target. In Phase II POC will design and build a prototype SOProF, making maximum use of COTS components, integrate it into a 40 mm projectile, and test it in cooperation with Metal Storm Inc. This laboratory and field testing will demonstrate the airburst capabilities of a SOProF prototype assembled with a dummy practice round and an HE airburst round, reaching TRL-5/6 by project end.