MEMS Based Scalable Infrared Projector System (SIPS)

The complexity of advanced systems employing IR imaging demands that test capabilities be developed to allow the insertion of simulated scenes into the controlled testing environment to form a critical link between advanced simulations and field trials. Such hardware in the loop testing can be significantly less expensive and complex then full field trials while still providing real-time test capability of critical system functions. To meet this testing challenge, Aerius Photonics is proposing to use new micro-electromechanical system technologies to fabricate and build a Scalable Infrared Projector System (SIPS). This system will be built on a scalable platform allowing for additional numbers of beams and expanded angular range to be added as an upgrade for enhanced capabilities. In addition, the modular system will be capable of achieving beam focusing and defocusing using an array of adaptive optical elements capable of beam spoiling. With this system, hundreds to thousands of Mid-Wave Infrared and Long-Wave Infrared beams can be simultaneous scanned with sub-pixel resolution over the detector plane of an infrared camera.