Variable Emissivity Panel for Identification of Friend or Foe

To address the Army need for an Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) panel with dynamic contrast at long-wave infrared (LWIR) wavelengths, Intellisense Systems, Inc. (ISI) proposes to develop a new Variable Emissivity Panel for Identification of Friend or Foe (VEPIFF) consisting of a two-dimensional segment (pixel) array with each segment individually electro-optically controllable for variable LWIR emissivity. Specifically, the innovative design enables VEPIFF to adjust emissivity independently and dynamically at each segment, while the panel maintains its hue with visible reflectivity within 10% during infrared switching. Hence, VEPIFF offers an IFF technology with dynamic and electrically adjustable contrast when viewed through LWIR imagers. The VEPIFF can be turned on/off independently at each segment depending upon the mission profile, and can be adjusted for various backgrounds. It does not require electric power to remain in the on/off states (bistable), making it power efficient. Based on mature electro-optical technologies, VEPIFF is reliable and has low technology risk, directly addressing the Army requirements. In Phase I, ISI will demonstrate the feasibility of VEPIFF through design, simulation, development and testing of proof-of-concept prototypes. In Phase II, ISI plans to develop and demonstrate full size engineering prototypes suitable for use on military ground vehicles.