Actively Cooled Infrared Sensor Window

Adiabatic heating of sensor windows produces a background of infrared radiation which may overwhelm the incoming signal from the target. This background will be present at the sensor regardless of the material used in the window. We propose to control the temperature with a flow of coolant through the sensor regardless of the with a flow of coolant through the sensor window by intergrating an array of sensors and microvalves into the window. The proposal describes the integration of SMART materials and actuator structures. The goal is to demonstrate an active cooling system in the window of an infrared sensor. The research will focus on development of microfabricated actuators, flow channels, and electronic interconnects. The Phase I effort will strive to evolve designs and manufacturing methodologies, resulting in at least two deliverable prototypes for testing. The Phase II effort will focus on refining these methodologies into manufacturable hardware, and integrating them with sensors to complete a control system to maintain a uniform temperature profile.