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