Low-Power Integrated Radar Proximity Sensor for Fuzing

Not Available Innovative filter designs can add capability and function to smart sensors while hardening the sensor against laser jamming and dazzle and the effects of nuclear radiation. Depositing these filters directly on a focal plane array can reduce the sensor's size, customize the detector to a specific application, and allow for retrofitting the capability and function of the smart sensor without the need to modify the optical train. Rugate optical interference filters provide high optical throughput while providing laser protection. By using low Z, thermally matched materials, these filters offer radiation and x-ray survivability as well as laser protection. The refractive index of rugate filters, continuously varied as a function of the film's optical thickness, is achieved by blending materials during deposition. In addition to refractive index, other physical properties can be adjusted to mitigate the effects of ionizing radiation and thermal gradients. For instance, a narrow bandpass coating can be applied to a focal plane array used in a scanning sensor. The wavelength of the passband can be varied from pixel to pixel, giving the array spectral discrimination across the scanning axis. This Phase I program will serve to develop a methodology for coating temperature-sensitive substrates. Several filters, using selected materials, will be fabricated to demonstrate spectral performance, low temperature compatibility, and low defects and stress. Innovative rugate filters improve spectral performance, add capability, and harden sensors to laser and nuclear radiation. In addition, depositing the filters directly on a focal plane array can reduce the sensor's size and customize the detector to specific applications. Applications are many and varied, from threat hardening to hyperspectral sensors to thermal control.