Precision Metric Zoom Lens

Current weapons system testing frequently requires optical data collection under adverse conditions. In the case of missile testing, the extreme range of target-to-instrument distance stresses current test operation instrumentation. A single imaginginstrument that can automatically zoom and focus during a missile test can overcome loss of critical data that occurs during the switching of instrumentation. We propose to assess the feasibility of developing a metric zoom lens that has a continuous zoomcapability over the varying mission range and incorporates automatic focus and iris control. We envision that the metric zoom system would be compatible with existing 35mm camera film and 20mm digital image formats and would have a remote communicationlink for control and diagnostics. There are many applications and benefits to the proposed technology outside of the primary application of missile trajectory monitoring during flight. The zoom lens devices and technology developed through this effort mayoffer a solution to numerous problems encountered in industry. The tracking precision developed in this technology may be applicable to assisting assembly line and other types of robots. Another commercial potential application area is adapting the designto tracking photography and broadband communications, and space applications as well as earthbound applications such as using the track and positioning signals to provide a low cost automotive guidance system, which could lead to collision avoidanceapplications. It could also apply to boating and aviation uses. The television and motion picture industries could also use the zoom technology to track sporting events or other variable range imaging situations such as tracking golf ball trajectories.Also, law enforcement and surveillance could benefit.