Covert Compact Camera

A compact (less than one-tenth cubic inch) covert camera with digital data capture is proposed to satisfy military, DEA, and FBI surveillance requirements. The product, which will be developed during Phase II, integrates an imaging active pixel sensor with ultra low power analog and digital signal processing electronics and Flash memory into a small assembly which can be powered for up to one year by a small battery. 3D Silicon, the vehicle which enables this system level miniaturization , is comprised of a number of very thin (25 micrometers) heterogeneous integrated circuits laminated together implementing an event actuated video camera with digital data compression and solid state data storage. Playback of the the recorded imagery is commanded by a bi-directional IR data link. Data compression is accomplished by SIMD/MIMD processors integrated within the stack. During Phase I, the individual elements of the Compact Covert Camera will be demonstrated at the integrated circuit level. The Phase II/III partnerships will be perfected during Phase I with a local police force, a military user, and a federal law enforcement agency. Anticipated Military Benefits/Potential Commercial Applications of the Research or Development: The camera can be carried covertly by law enforcement officers or emplaced in rooms, parcels, luggage or vehicles. The FBI has an airport surveilance requirement. Military special operating forces have many relevant applications and will be the primary performance drivers.