Flat Optic Micro Lenslet Array
ID: AF24B-T001Type: Phase I
Overview

Topic

Flat Optic Micro Lenslet Array

Agency

Department of DefenseN/A

Program

Type: STTRPhase: Phase IYear: 2024

Topic Link

https://www.sbir.gov/node/2605985

Additional Information

https://www.defensesbirsttr.mil/SBIR-STTR/Opportunities/
Timeline
  1. 1
    Release Apr 17, 2024 12:00 AM
  2. 2
    Open May 15, 2024 12:00 AM
  3. 3
    Next Submission Due Jun 12, 2024 12:00 AM
  4. 4
    Close Jun 12, 2024 12:00 AM
Description

The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the development of a flat optic micro lenslet array as part of their Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I program. The research topic, titled "Flat Optic Micro Lenslet Array," falls under the Air Force branch. The objective is to develop a concept and demonstrate a flat optical system that can be used as a micro lenslet array, specifically for digital micromirror (DMD) devices.

Lenslet arrays are desired for their optical functionality with arrayed devices such as DMD devices, LED arrays, and laser arrays. However, traditional glass/plastic lenslet arrays have limitations in terms of wavefront errors, acceptance angle, focal length, and device pitch. The DOD is looking for flat replacements for these lenslet arrays that can match standard DMD formats, operate in the visible spectrum, have significant working distance, large angular acceptance, polarization agnostic, high transmittance, tunable designs, and can be manufactured at scale. The ability to "tile" lenslet arrays to create larger format devices is also desirable. Additionally, there is interest in extending the technology for use in the mid-wave infrared range (3.0μm to 5.0μm).

The Phase I evaluation will focus on optical and geometrical characteristics such as lens fill factor, minimum achievable focus spot, wavefront error/image quality, acceptance angle, working distance, bandwidth, uniformity across polarization states, and transmittance. Simulations or actual hardware feasibility demonstrations using DMDs or representative hardware are preferred.

In Phase II, the concept will be refined, and a prototype will be developed, fabricated, and demonstrated. The prototype should be versatile and not specific to a single illumination type. The design process should include planning for demonstration, testing, and measurements. The final portion of Phase II is expected to produce high-quality data that indicates the design functions as intended.

Phase III will focus on manufacturability and the manufacturing process itself to prepare the vendor to commercially offer a fully operational product. The final product is expected to be demonstrated and marketed to the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) and the transition partner in the 782d Test Squadron.

The solicitation is currently open, with a release date of April 17, 2024, and an application due date of June 12, 2024. More information can be found on the grants.gov website or the DOD SBIR/STTR Opportunities page.

Files
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