Multi-Band IR Scene Projection Display for Scene Simulation in Hardware-In-the-Loop

This STTR Phase I proposal proposes a feasibility of a novel multi-band IR scene display for scene simulation for missile interception simulation in the Hardware-in-the-Loop. This development addresses the DOD need for infrared spatial light modulators (SLM), primarily as an enabling technology for infrared scene projection, but also for dynamic control of infrared coherent light, as beamsteering, wavefront control and adaptive optics devices. The ultimate goal from this program is a multi-band IR projection display system where the central part is a liquid crystal SLM. The display operates in both middle wave Infrared (MWIR) and long wave infrared (LWIR) with optional capability in SWIR or visible. The device is suited for missile interception simulation in MDA Kinetic-kill-vehicle Hardware-in-the-Loop (KHILS) facility. The Phase I program is designed for a feasibility study addressing several critical issues such as liquid crystal (LC) materials in the IR regions, SLM backplane, and performance evaluation through a demo device development. The phase II program concentrates on developing the prototype of scene display followed by the Phase III when the product will be commercialized.