Form 9.B Project Summary

Chron:

971347

Proposal Number:

27.03-8958

Project Title:

High Frame-Rate Analog SLM for

Active Diffractive Optics

Technical Abstract (Limit 200 words)

Spatial light modulators (SLMs) for implementing

active diffractive elements place unique demands

on both the modulator and the addressing structure.

The modulator is ideally analog phase-only, with at

least one wave of modulation depth, and a

reconfiguration time that is ideally sub-millisecond.

The addressing structure can update imagery at a

similar rate, is light efficient, optical quality, and

has a high pixel density. An SLM component such

as this does not currently exist. Boulder Nonlinear

Systems proposes to use expertise in liquid crystal

phase shifters and draw on experience in very large

scale integrated (VLSI) circuits and high speed

drivers to build an SLM that satisfies the required

specifications. As the only current supplier of high

frame rate analog SLMs, BNS is qualified to

successfully complete such a program. The program

would leverage a current $450,000 investment

specifically in the 512x512 development.

Potential Commercial Applications (Limit 200 words)

BNS is dedicated to providing SLM products to

customers in non-display applications. Our study of

the market indicates that a 1kHz frame rate,

512x512 analog SLM with 15 micron pixels is

optimum for meeting the needs of most of these

customers. In addition, optical quality specifications

must be met that mandate planarization on the

VLSI addressing structure. Applications that are

targeted include active diffractive elements, target

tracking (such as beamsteering), optical pattern

recognition, atmospheric correction (adaptive

optics), interconnects, and optical data storage.

BNS intends to build an optical correlator

subsystem product around the 512x512 engine for

addressing high data reduction problems in machine

vision. This includes inspection of manufactured

parts and medical imaging, such as papsmear.

Name and Address of Principal Investigator (Name,

Organization Name, Mail Address, City/State/Zip)

Dr. Gary Sharp

Boulder Nonlinear Systems, Inc.

1898 South Flatiron Court

Boulder , CO 80301

Name and Address of Offeror (Firm Name, Mail Address,

City/State/Zip)

Roylnn Serati

Boulder Nonlinear Systems, Inc.

1898 South Flatiron Court

Boulder , CO 80301