A Wireless Intra-Soldier Data Communication System

Providing weapon sight imagery along with other important data to mounted/dismounted soldiers via a Helmet Mounted Display (HMD) will improve soldier situational awareness (SA) and ultimately increase survivability. Currently the data interface between the HMD and the weapon sight system is achieved with a cable and connectors that: restrict movement, contribute significant carrying weight, is a source of system failure, and can constitute a safety hazard. Replacement of the cable with a robust, high reliability, small, and lightweight wireless communications system would enhance soldier maneuverability, reduce the load, and increase the reliability/availability of the weapon sight and HMD system. The long term objective of the proposed effort is to develop such a device. For this Phase I effort, Sporian Microsystems, Inc. proposes to explore the requirements for the intra-soldier wireless data communication system, analyze potential design options for suitability with the requirements, and develop a baseline design. This will include the definition of system requirements, characterization of potential options for key portions of the system, selection of a group of these key options that will yield the optimal combination elements, and the definition of a baseline design for follow on development efforts.