Miniature Visible-Band Video Camera for Afterburner Probes, Hypersonic Propulsion Systems, and Combustion Driven Test Facilities

The objective of this effort will be to develop a miniature camera for embedding into small, water-cooled probes used to evaluate turbine engine augmentors, hypersonic propulsion systems, and combustion-driven units. Our solution will offer RGB / color output, have a global shutter to minimize motion artifacts, and provide all-digital data transfer over serialized lines in order to mitigate noise. The proposed camera will withstand temperatures up to 160°F, offer remote operation over Ethernet, and feature adjustable shutter speeds and gains. Our solution will meet threshold requirements of 1280 x 960 resolution and a frame rate of 60 fps with extensions planned for higher resolutions and frame rates. Our camera will be mechanically compatible with existing probes. The Phase I will focus on interaction with AEDC and technology demonstrations. The goal of the Phase I will be to ensure the solutions being offered are fully compatible with existing equipment and the eventual solution meets the technical requirements of AEDC. Phase II will focus on implementing the final technical solution and producing enough new cameras to fully replace AEDC's existing equipment while also providing backups. Phase II will also budget in onsite testing at AEDC.