The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic "Off the Visor Heads Up Display (HUD)" as part of their SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation. The objective of this topic is to develop available daylight readable off-the-visor display solutions for use in mixed reality (MR) head mounted display (HMD) systems. The goal is to move on to a Phase 2 applied SBIR where the most optimal off-the-visor solution can be designed, produced, delivered, and characterized for use in future soldier vision products.
The technology being solicited would enable the use of low-cost visor optics to complete a display system with performance compatible with the Army's Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) requirements. It may also provide increased display-image performance, allowing the Warfighter to comfortably view sensor and computer-generated information during long-duration missions while maintaining situational awareness and light security on the battlefield. The optimal product or solution would also provide ergonomic benefits of lower weight and improved center of gravity and achieve affordability objectives consistent with wide-spread system fielding.
The solicitation outlines a two-phase approach. Phase I involves researching and defining three viable see-through vision technology configurations. Phase II focuses on prototyping the most ideal see-through vision technology configuration developed in Phase I. The prototype should have the ability to display static imagery or video content to the wearer at a brightness suitable for daytime use and support at least a 30-degree field of view. It should also provide a minimally distorted view of the real world through the visor.
The potential impacts and applications of this technology extend beyond military use. There are commercial dual-use potential applications in industries such as workforce and automotive, providing hands-free critical information within complex environments. Examples include manufacturing workers using HUDs to receive instructions or monitor equipment status, automotive applications in vehicles and motorcycle helmets, environmental monitoring in hazardous sites, healthcare applications in operating rooms, and immersive entertainment including gaming and media consumption.
The solicitation is currently open, with a close date of March 31, 2025. More information can be found on the grants.gov website (https://www.sbir.gov/node/2496867) or the Defense SBIR/STTR website (https://www.defensesbirsttr.mil/SBIR-STTR/Opportunities/).