Scanning Second-Order Holographic Laser Acoustic System

Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new self-aiming laser acoustic target designator/classifier based on Second-Order Scanning Holographic Laser Acoustic (SOHLA) technology. SOHLA is a novel laser acoustic designator that uniquely integrates a multifunctional near-infrared holographic antenna with laser acoustic sensing via ruggedized second-order holographic interferometry (vibrometer), and a fast liquid crystal scanner tracking subsystem to place a laser-lock on a target. SOHLA’s unique advantages include high precision and reliability, small size, low weight, immunity to platform vibrations and environmental variations of the sensing medium, self-adaptability to changes in beam deviation, and the self-referencing effect of photorefractive nonlinear crystals or polymers, which remarkably reduces the coherence and stability requirements of interferometer- and vibrometer-based designator systems. In Phase I POC developed a preliminary design, and analysis of scanning laser target tracking and classification, fabricated a proof-of-concept laboratory breadboard system, and demonstrated the key SOHLA concept of laser-acoustic sensing and beam-scanning by a unique liquid crystal scanner that has strong potential to meet U.S. Army needs. Phase II will further develop and optimize the SOHLA system, resulting in a practical field-deployable, self-aiming laser acoustic target designator with a fully developed target classification database for more than seven ground vehicles.