Tunable Nonlocal Metasurfaces for Edge Computing and Processing
SBIR Opportunity Analysis
The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory, is seeking Direct-to-Phase-II SBIR proposals to design, fabricate, and characterize tunable nonlocal metasurfaces for front-end, analog optical pre-processing. Awardees must develop devices that perform computing functions like Fourier operations, de-noising, and object recognition directly in the optical path of mid-wave infrared thermal-imaging systems. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate prior feasibility through a prior Phase I-type effort that yielded a fabricated prototype capable of analog image-processing at relevant infrared wavelengths. Key technical requirements include utilizing practical, high-index transparent dielectrics suitable for scalable fabrication and developing a predictive simulation framework to ensure device performance under realistic, partially coherent illumination. Proposals must be submitted by August 19, 2026, and the successful awardee must deliver a fully integrated prototype system with at least five devices to the Air Force Research Laboratory three months before the end of the Phase II period.