Self-Regulating Variable Transmission Device for HMD's

Triton will develop flexible, self-regulating variable transmission optical element to reduce the high brightness requirements for current helmet mounted displays (HMD). The device will automatically regulate the transmission level to provide adequatedarkening in intense sunlight and high transmission in low light and twilight. The variable transmission element will have low power consumption and will be fabricated from low cost commercially available components. We will incorporate state of the artelectrochromic materials into the system to meet the transmission requirements and provide stable and spectrally neutral transmission across the visible range. This work will culminate in a preliminary design of variable transmission element in Phase Iand the development of a working prototype in Phase II. The resulting reductions in the brightness for HMD's will reduce their power requirements, reduce the weight and heat generation associated with HMD systems, and dramatically improve the reliabilityof HMD systems. These variable tint devices will enhance the reliability of HMD's and increase the rate of their introduction into the field for mounted and unmounted soldiers. These devices will also be useful for displays and devices that will be viewedoutdoors or in uneven light such as laptop computers, ATM display screens, etc. The materials may also be applied in commercial applications such as self-dimming rear view mirrors, auto sunroofs, or smart windows for office buildings.