Infrared Single-Element Achromatic Focusing Lens System

To address the Army’s need for single plane optics with broadband color correction applicable to infrared imaging systems, Intellisense Systems, Inc. (Intellisense) proposes a new Infrared Single-Element Achromatic Focusing Lens (IR-SEAL), based on metamaterials and form birefringence. Specifically, this innovative design enables achromatic, diffraction-limited, and polarization-insensitive performance with a wide field of view and a low f-number over a broad band. This design allows ultrathin lenses, which can be cost-effectively manufactured using advanced nanoimprint lithography. As a result, the IR-SEAL enables lightweight, compact imaging systems with minimal payloads. In Phase I, Intellisense will investigate the requirements associated with military optical systems, and prove feasibility of a conforming design by designing, simulating, fabricating by the proposed process, and testing a prototype. In Phase II, Intellisense will further develop a fully operational IR-SEAL by refining and optimizing the design, developing the complete manufacturing process for mass production, and conducting thorough evaluation of optical performance in comparison to conventional lenses. By the end of Phase II, Intellisense will have fabricated mature working IR-SEAL prototypes that meet all Army requirements, demonstrated their desired performance and ruggedness under various military environments, conducted selected MIL-STD-810G environmental testing parameters, and delivered prototype lenses to C5ISR Center NVESD for further testing.