Optical Microsystem Sensors for Vehicle Systems

Leading edge technology in integrated optics, related to MEMS (microelectromechanical systems), are a new frontier in highly sensitive measurement systems with substantial and extremely broad application potential in FCS and other programs. Using ournovel femtosecond-laser femtoWriteT process, Translume will manufacture micro-interferometer sensors that are self-encapsulated inside a solid piece of glass. We will show that these extremely sensitive microsensors meet the reliability, survivability,performance, and cost demands of present and future military monitoring systems, with strong potential in commercial applications as well. This program will provide the Army and its suppliers with a powerful new platform to manufacture battle hardenedMach-Zehnder Interferometer (MZI) microsensors. MZI microsensors will perform vehicle diagnostics and prognostics such as monitoring pressure, temperature, vibration, hydraulic fluid contamination, and oil degradation for vehicle propulsion systems;systems health in some weapons systems; and chemical and biological gas and liquid toxins for human environment control systems. The femtoWriteT platform will create these sensors for high performance and highly specialized military systems first, andthen apply the technology for more general applications in civilian commercial applications.