Ultrawide Transmission Range for Variable Transmission Eyewear (VTE)

This STTR Phase II proposal aims to develop ultrawide variable transmission eyewear (VTE) in anti-ballistic goggle format using our recently advanced guest-host liquid crystal (LC) technologies to accommodatelighting level between bright and dark environments.  In daylight, the VTE attenuates the light to reduce staining and fatigue of the eyes. Under low light and twilight conditions, the VTE exhibits high transmission of the light to enable natural vision for situational awareness.  The VTE is anticipated to fully comply with the MIL-PRF-32432 and ANSI Z87.1 standards. The proposed VTE aims to reach the following main realistic performance characteristics. 15-85% variable light transmission range; 85% power-off transmission;< 0.3 second transition speed;72-hour continuous operation after one battery charge;Anti-ballistic capability;Close to 5.1 oz weight; Truly color neutral. Established on our successful Phase I feasibility study, Phase II aims to develop VTE goggles using the developed guest-host LC material. The Phase II developed VTE goggle prototype are anticipated to reach TRL6 which can be manufactured on our current LCD product manufacturing line.