Multifunction, High Resolution, High Frame Rate Infrared Sensor

A program to develop an advanced multifunction, high resolution, high speed sensor capable of operating in the MWIR or LWIR bands is proposed. The proposed system builds upon Surface Optics? real-time hyperspectral imaging activities, modifying thehigh-speed camera electronics developed for the real-time hyperspectral imagers, and integrating them with Rockwell Scientific?s brand new TCM6504 high-speed 512x640 FPA. Capable of 200 frames-per-second (fps) operation at 512 x 512 resolution, and 50,000fps when windowed down to 32 x 32 resolution, the proposed imager is ideal for a wide variety of applications, including detection and tracking. As part of the phase I effort, inclusion of super framing (variable integration time for increasingintra-scene dynamic range) and multispectral capability based on current work at Surface Optics will also be investigated. Leveraging proven electronics and an existing focal plane rather than developing new electronics and a new focal plane ensures thatthis effort will produce a high performance imager by the end of the anticipated Phase II effort. By building on Surface Optics Corporation?s and Rockwell Scientific?s combined decades experience in high-speed imaging system development, sensordevelopment, and algorithm development, the proposed program will produce a new High-Speed IR (HiSIR) imager of unsurpassed capability, with varied military and commercial applications. By developing a new high-speed, high-resolution MWIR/LWIR imager,potentially with multi-spectral capability, the proposed effort will dramatically increase the military?s ability to perform real-time passive and active detection and tracking. Using the system?s integration time synchronization will also enablehigh-speed ranging, making HiSIRs ideal for targeting and seeker applications. Potential non-threat sensing applications include remote sensing, surveillance, pollution monitoring, plume analysis, medical diagnostics, and industrial production control.