Extended-area IR Emitter Arrays

Independently-controllable extended-area (up to 4 x 4 inch) IR emitter arrays are needed to adequately test critical performance parameters (algorithms, optics, sensors) of missile seekers and targeting systems. Current technology is limited in temperature, crosstalk, refresh rate, controllability, heat dissipation and packaging. Ion Optics is the emerging technology and product leader for small, low-power (single-element) IR sources for use in infrared gas sensors and as IR beacons for IFF, night vision and other military applications. In 2004, we shipped about 25,000 of these (½-inch, 1W) light sources, mostly to OEM gas sensor customers. For this program, we propose to assemble and demonstrate a 4 x 4 inch array of our IR emitters. We will test its performance relative to the Air Force's stated requirements. We will then refine the array design and re-fabricate and re-test large-are panel. By the end of Phase 2, we expect to be able to demonstrate a large-area (4 x 4 inch) array of ~¼ inch pixels (64 x 64 elements) operating at temperatures to 800C and with refresh rates of at least 200 Hz. The arrays will be packaged in modular fashion with self-contained drive circuitry so that any number of modules can be placed side-by-side to make even larger image panels.