KEYWORDS: Cryogenics, Analog electronics, Electronics, Prototyping, Packaging, Interfaces, Mid-IR, Digital electronics, Microelectromechanical systems, Temperature metrology
SBIR has completed the development of the first lot of OASIS emitter arrays and custom packaging for cryogenic IR scene projection applications. OASIS performance requirements include a maximum MWIR apparent temperature of greater than 600 K, with 10-90% radiance rise time of less than 6.5 ms. Four (4) arrays have been packaged, integrated, tested and delivered.
This paper will report on the first measurements taken of the OASIS resistive emitter arrays at both ambient and cryogenic temperatures. This paper will also provide a discussion of the OASIS cryogenic projector/electronics module (Cryo-PEM) design. We will also describe the novel thermal design employed within the array package and Cryo-PEM assemblies, which allows OASIS to produce radiometrically accurate imagery with reduced thermal lag/gradient artifacts compared to legacy Honeywell cryogenic IRSP assemblies. As OASIS supports both analog and digital input, we will discuss the differences between the two modes in terms of system integration, support electronics and overall array performance.
The modulation transfer function (MTF) measurement has been a staple of optics testing for many years. Obtaining a highly accurate measurement of the MTF of a lens, however, has remained a challenge for a number of reasons. Traditional MTF tests give a measure of overall system performance, rather than characterizing individual parts such as the lens. Also, the theoretical performance of the optics generally outstrips FPA/camera performance by a wide margin. This typically requires intricate hardware setups to quantify lens performance, such as specialized single-detector systems. These systems, however, are very difficult to use, have few other applications, and are quite expensive.
This paper will describe an improved technique for measuring the optical quality of infrared optical systems, as well as preliminary research regarding individual component (i.e. - lens) MTF. In particular, the methodology presented will expand upon the traditional "tilted slit" technique and demonstrate an improved test capability for characterization of MTF and other optical unit under test (UUT) performance parameters. We will describe a methodology which uses Gaussian energy profiling and novel collection optics to deliver an MTF measurement capability with resolution and usability superior to that of single point measurement techniques. The paper will also discuss the optical system requirements and mathematical algorithms required to provide a fast, accurate, and high-resolution FFT/MTF capability, and support for a range of other optical UUT characterization modes.
SBIR has completed design and development of prototype emitter arrays and is completing custom cryogenic vacuum device packaging and support electronics for the Optimized Arrays for Space-background Infrared Simulation (OASIS) program. The OASIS array is a 512 x 512 device featuring high output dynamic range, a selectable analog/digital scene data interface, and the capability to operate from cryogenic to ambient substrate temperatures - thereby providing an enabling technology for projection of simulated radiance of space-background scenes. Prototype emitter production has been completed at RTI International in support of initial deliveries. The OASIS array package incorporates novel electrical bussing schemes optimized for the OASIS RIIC and a modular architecture to allow user re-configuration of both window and emitter shield. The OASIS package leverages LFRA operation features, and supports both ambient and cryogenic chamber-based operation with a minimum of mechanical and electrical re-configuration. The OASIS close support electronics (CSE) supports both analog and digital input data modes, while providing easy electronic connection between arrays installed in the cryogenic chamber and the external control and scene-generation systems. We present a technical overview of the OASIS array/package and CSE designs, and will report on measured radiometric performance from prototype OASIS arrays.
SBIR has completed development of the Large Format Resistive Array (LFRA) Infrared Scene Projector (IRSP) and shipped the first production system. Nine more systems are in production and will be shipped to several US Government customers on approximately six week centers. The commercial name of the LFRA IRSP is Mirage XL. System performance meets a broad range of program requirements and SBIR has been extremely successful in producing this ground breaking projector. Tests performed on System #1 reveal broad compliance to the specification and, in particular, outstanding emitter array performance. Key emitter requirements that have been met or exceeded include Operability, Maximum Apparent Temperature, and Array Uniformity. Key System specifications are:
Large-format emitter array (1024x1024);
High maximum apparent temperature (>700K);
200 Hz full-frame operation;
400 Hz static window mode (1024x512);
Non Uniformity (uncorrected) <10%.
This paper provides a procedure for radiometric calibration of infrared target projectors using the RAD-9000 MWIR/LWIR spectral radiometer - a high-performance instrument supporting extremely accurate absolute and relative radiometric calibration of EO test systems. We describe the rationale for radiometric calibration, an analysis of error sources typically encountered by investigators during calibration of infrared imaging cameras when using target
projectors, and a strategy for performing an absolute system end-to-end radiometric calibration with emphasis on high accuracy and ease of use.
The leading IR scene projection (IRSP) device technology, resistive emitter arrays, has grown from its early roots in the uncooled microbolometer community into a separate and highly specialized field of its own. IRSP systems incorporating "microbolometers running backwards" are critical tools now ubiquitous in laboratory testing and evaluation of high performance IR sensors and their embedded algorithms. Adoption of IRSPs has reduced the scope of flight/field testing, producing dramatic resource savings and strong system development advantages.
Modern IRSP systems provide the capability to project high-resolution (1024 x 1024), high-temperature (750 K) dynamic MWIR-LWIR imagery at frame rates up to 200 Hz, with 16-bit input resolution. Novel IRSP systems are now being developed to test advanced FPAs and sensors requiring wide-format (768 x 1536), cryogenic background (50-80 K), fast-framing (400 Hz), and/or very high-temperature (2500 K) dynamic IR simulation in order to be properly evaluated.
The ongoing cycle of sensor improvement and test system evolution is perfectly illustrated by the parallel development of IRSP and emerging FPA/sensor technologies. The cross-pollination of technology between the sensor and projector domains continues to bring innovation to both communities. Technological trends related to semiconductor and microelectrical-mechanical system (MEMS) device fabrication, real-time digital video processing, and EO system design are being exploited by both sensor and projector developers alike - with advantages realized by both.
This paper presents a lighthearted overview of the technical evolution of IRSP from its early microbolometer roots, discusses current and emerging IRSP capabilities, illustrates the device-level to system-level synergy between sensors and projectors, and offers a peek into the advanced EO simulation capabilities and technologies which will be required to address emerging FPA and sensor trends.
SBIR's family of MIRAGE infrared scene projection systems is undergoing significant growth and expansion. The first two lots of production IR emitters have completed fabrication at Microelectronics Center of North Carolina/Research and Development Institute (MCNC-RDI), and the next round(s) of emitter production has begun. These latest emitter arrays support programs such as Large Format Resistive Array (LFRA), Optimized Array for Space-based Infrared Simulation (OASIS), MIRAGE 1.5, and MIRAGE II. We present the latest performance data on emitters fabricated at MCNC-RDI, plus integrated system performance on recently completed IRSP systems. Teamed with FLIR Systems/Indigo Operations, SBIR and the Tri-Services IRSP Working Group have completed development of the CMOS Read-In Integrated Circuit (RIIC) portion of the Wide Format Resistive Array (WFRA) program-to extend LFRA performance to a 768 x 1536 "wide screen" projection configuration. WFRA RIIC architecture and performance is presented. Finally, we summarize development of the LFRA Digital Emitter Engine (DEE) and OASIS cryogenic package assemblies, the next-generation Command & Control Electronics (C&CE).
This paper provides an update on the RAD9000 MWIR/LWIR spectral radiometer: a high-performance instrument supporting extremely accurate absolute and relative radiometric calibration of EO test systems. The system features an all-reflective optical system, internal and external thermal reference sources, a visible camera-based sighting/alignment capability, modular MWIR and LWIR detector/filter subassemblies, flexible control/display software, and a sophisticated graphical user interface (GUI). We present prototype performance data describing the instrument's thermal sensitivity, radiometric accuracy, spectral resolution, calibration, and other key parameters.
This paper presents the latest developments in instrumentation for military laser range-finder/designator (LRF/D) test and evaluation. SBIR has completed development of two new laser test modules designed to support a wide range of laser measurements including range accuracy and receiver sensitivity, pulse energy and temporal characteristics, beam spatial/angular characteristics, and VIS/IR to laser co-boresighting. The new Laser Energy Module (LEM) provides automated, variable attenuation of UUT laser energy, and performs measurement of beam amplitude and temporal characteristics. The new Laser/Boresight Module (LBM) supports range simulation and receiver sensitivity measurement, performs UUT laser beam analysis (divergence, satellite beams, etc), and supports high-accuracy co-boresighting of VIS, IR, and laser UUT subsystems. The LBM includes a three-color, fiber-coupled laser source (1064, 1540, and 1570 nm), a sophisticated fiber-optic module (FOM) for output energy amplitude modulation, a 1-2 μm SWIR camera, and a variety of advanced triggering and range simulation functions.
This paper describes recent developments in the area of target projection technologies for measurement of staring IR sensor image quality. In addition to the latest reflective target techniques, we describe a novel Variable Slit Target (VSTa) device, which allows extremely precise slit, edge, and rectangular features to be generated at the focus of a reflective target projection system, and stepped across a UUT’s FOV with a high degree of sub-pixel resolution. We also present the Collimator Line of Sight Alignment Techniques (CLOSAT) as a means of both precisely aligning the target projector and adding dynamic capability to static targets. The discussion includes a review of the applicability of VSTa and CLOSAT to current and emerging UUTs incorporating advanced staring focal plane technologies.
This paper presents the latest developments in instrumentation for military fixed and head-mounted camera test and evaluation. SBIR has completed development of a new variable contrast test system for evaluating camera day/night mode performance. The system utilizes an integrating sphere with variable, full field-of-regard background illumination combined with a collimator, controlled ambient background, a set of variably illuminated chrome-on-glass targets, and visible/NIR filters. The system employs precision azimuth and elevation motion stages to facilitate FOV size and uniformity evaluation. SBIR’s IRWindowsTM software provides a series of automated tests such as boresight, MTF, MRTD, FPN, pixel defects, spectral response and dynamic range/contrast. The system uses a second integrating sphere with a variable luminance control to measure FOV uniformity, individual pixel response, and automatic brightness control efficiency.
This paper presents the latest developments in instrumentation for military laser range-finder/designator (LRF/D) test and evaluation. Santa Barbara Infrared (SBIR) has completed development of a new integrated laser test module supporting a wide range of laser measurements including range accuracy and receiver sensitivity, pulse energy and temporal characteristics, beam spatial/angular characteristics, and VIS/IR to laser co-boresighting. The new Active Laser Test Asset (ALTA) incorporates all the functionality of the previous Active Range Module (ARM) and Laser Test Module (LTM) in a form factor suited to both modular/portable EO test systems and standard product configurations. Key discriminators of the ALTA design include a three-color, fiber-coupled laser source (1064, 1540, and 1570 nm), a simplified optical path design, and enhanced laser output energy density in all three wavebands.
KEYWORDS: Sensors, Calibration, Optical filters, Control systems, Temperature metrology, Radiometry, Infrared radiation, Radio optics, Mid-IR, Long wavelength infrared
Santa Barbara Infrared, Inc (SBIR) has developed a dual-band infrared spectroradiometer for highly accurate radiometric calibration of electro-optical (EO) test stations, light sources, and optical surfaces. The "RAD-9000" design covers the 3-5 mm and 8-12 mm spectral bands, provides thermal sensitivity of better than 40 mK, supports object temperatures from 278-373 K, and delivers better than 2% spectral resolution (Dl/l). The RAD-9000 features computer-controlled operation, an intuitive graphical user interface (GUI), motorized focus adjustment, VIS-CCD sighting/alignment capability, less than 2 mrad detector IFOV, and an internal ambient reference for background subtraction and enhanced stability.
In addition to high-performance relative radiometry, the RAD-9000 offers a high degree of absolute radiometric accuracy by utilizing a dedicated radiometric reference module. The reference module incorporates two 8-inch, variable temperature, high-emissivity extended sources to provide a stable, accurate absolute radiometric reference external to the main optics.
Santa Barbara Infrared's (SBIR) family of MIRAGE infrared scene projection systems is undergoing significant growth and expansion. The first lot of production IR emitters is in fabrication at Microelectronics Center of North Carolina/Research and Development Institute (MCNC-RDI), the state-of-the-art MEMS foundry and R&D center which completed prototype fabrication in early 2003. The latest emitter arrays are being produced in support of programs such as Large Format Resistive Array (LFRA) and MIRAGE 1.5, MIRAGE II, and OASIS. The goal of these new development programs is to increase maximum scene temperature, decrease radiance rise time, support cryogenic operation, and improve operability and yield. After having completed an extremely successful prototype run in 2003, SBIR and MCNC-RDI have implemented a variety of emitter process improvements aimed at maximizing performance and process yield. SBIR has also completed development and integration of the next-generation MIRAGE command and control electronics (C&CE), an upgraded calibration radiometry system (CRS), and has developed test equipment and facilities for use in MIRAGE device wafer probing, test, evaluation, diagnostic, and assembly processes. We present the latest emitter performance data, an overview of emitter foundry processing and packaging improvements, and an update on MIRAGE II, LFRA, and OASIS development programs.
Hyperspectral systems are increasingly being mated with on-board target detection algorithms. However the only way to test these algorithms is with field testing which are expensive and inherently unrepeatable. This paper will describe a Hyperspectral Scene Generator that can display hundreds of programmable high resolution spectra simultaneously. This allows a target to be inserted into a previously measured field for testing of a hyperspectral sensor and target detection algorithms in the lab. The design of the Hyperspectral Scene Generator is presently applied to the Visible and Near InfraRed (VNIR) and Short Wave InfraRed (SWIR) but may also be applied to the MidWave InfraRed (MWIR) and Long Wave InfraRed (LWIR) spectral region. Funding for this study is provided from Office of the Secretary of Defense and Director, Operational Test and Evaluation (DOT&E) to investigate the development of a hyperspectral scene generator that will have broad application to many hyperspectral systems.
Resistive emitter-based IRSP technology still leads the industry in terms of a flickerless, high dynamic range test solution. Santa Barbara Infrared (SBIR) is producing a high performance 1024 x 1024 Large Format Resistive emitter Array (LFRA) for use in the next generation of IR Scene Projectors (IRSPs). The CMOS Read-In Integrated Circuit (RIIC) was designed by SBIR and Indigo Systems, and fabricated at AMI Semiconductor. Performance and features include > 700 K MWIR maximum apparent temperature, 5 ms radiance rise time (10-90%), 200 Hz full frame update, and 400 Hz window mode operation. Ten 8” CMOS wafers have been fabricated and preliminarily characterized. Emitter pixel design is underway and emitter fabrication is scheduled to start at Microelectronics Center of North Carolina Research & Development Institute (MCNC-RDI) in mid-2003. This paper discusses the RIIC design, wafer probe test results, emitter pixel design, emitter fabrication plans, packaging and test plans, and reports on 1024 x 1024 IRSP system component development status.
The next generation of resistively heated emitter pixels is expected to attain apparent temperatures more than a factor of two higher than presently achievable - in excess of 2000 K. The peak temperatures for the current generation of devices are determined by the balance between the power input to the pixel and the conductive loss of heat through the leg structures. At pixel temperatures higher than approximately 1500-2000 K, radiative losses will begin to dominate over conductive losses. We explore the physics of this regime and find that the peak temperature is determined primarily by the power input, emissivity and emitting area. The speed of radiatively limited pixels is also examined and found to be considerably more complicated than that of conductively limited pixels since both loss terms play significant roles in the pixel's dynamic behavior. In order to attain the higher temperatures required, development work will be required on two fronts: materials science and advanced, higher power drive circuitry. Some of the critical issues related to these tasks are discussed.
SBIR's family of MIRAGE infrared scene projection systems is undergoing significant growth and expansion. SBIR has completed the transition of Honeywell's resistive emitter technology to MCNC Research and Development Institute (MCNC-RDI), and is preparing for first-lot production of IR emitters in support of ongoing programs. Development of MIRAGE resistive emitter-based products is underway in order to increase maximum scene temperature, decrease radiance rise time, and improve overall operation. The 1024 x 1024 Large Format Resistive Array (LFRA) Read-In Integrated Circuit (RIIC) has been fabricated and tested, with emitter fabrication to start in mid-2003. A next-generation MIRAGE II(512 x 512) RIIC is also ready for fabrication, in support of high-performance MIRAGE II 512 x 512 systems providing greater than 750 K MWIR apparent temperature, and less than 5 ms 10-90% MWIR radiance rise time. In support of these new technologies and products, SBIR has developed test equipment and facilities for use in next-generation MIRAGE device wafer probing, test, evaluation, diagnostic, and assembly processes.
The development of a new generation PC-based array control electronics (PACE) system was completed during the first quarter of 2003 in the Kinetic Kill Vehicle Hardware-in-the-loop (KHILS) facility. This system replaces the bulky VME-based system that was the previous standard with more compact digital control electronics using field-programmable gate array (FPGA) technology hosted on a personal computer. The analog interface electronics (AIE) were redesigned to eliminate obsolete components and miniaturize the package for better compatibility with harsh environments. The resulting PACE system supports both Santa Barbara Infrared Inc. (SBIR) and Honeywell Technology Center's (HTC's) 512 x 512 legacy emitter array infrared projection devices as well as SBIR's upcoming 1024 x 1024 and next-generation 512 x 512 arrays. Two FPGA-based PCI boards enable this system to reconfigure the inputs, processing and outputs of the projection electronics through firmware loaded from the control PC. The increased flexibility provides potential for additional real-time functions such as distortion correction, convolution and calibration to be implemented along with nonuniformity correction (NUC) techniques by simply reconfiguring firmware. This paper describes the capabilities of the new PACE system in terms of current and future hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) requirements.
This paper discusses recent advances in the development of test and evaluation instrumentation for military laser range-finder (LRF) and designation systems. Recent strides have been made at Santa Barbara Infrared (SBIR) in the development of sophisticated active ranging simulation instruments for range accuracy and receiver sensitivity measurement, integrated measurement modules for laser pulse energy and temporal characteristics, and pulsed laser diode targets/sources for shared-aperture IR/laser sensor test and evaluation. In parallel with these activities, NAVSEA has led the development and validation of state-of-the-art reference standard radiometers used in the calibration of narrow-pulse laser systems at 1060 nm and 1550 nm. This paper will describe the application, capabilities, and performance of SBIR's active ranging, laser measurements, and pulsed laser source modules, and NAVSEA's high-performance 1060/1550 nm radiometric instrumentation.
KEYWORDS: Reflectivity, Minimum resolvable temperature difference, Projection systems, Thermography, Black bodies, Temperature metrology, Imaging systems, Infrared imaging, Infrared sensors, Control systems
This paper presents qualitative and quantitative comparisons between emissive and reflective target technologies used in the application of IR target projection for thermal imager test and evaluation. Comparison of target projector performance in MRTD, SiTF, MTF, and other test areas will be presented. Relative advantages and disadvantages of emissive and reflective systems will be shown, in addition to requirements placed upon test laboratory environment by the different projector technologies. Discussion of software-based compensation techniques for mitigating reflected ambient effects, environmental ambient drift, and other anomalies will also be provided.
Santa Barbara Infrared (SBIR) is producing a high performance 1,024 x 1,024 Large Format Resistive emitter Array (LFRA) for use in the next generation of IR Scene Projectors (IRSPs). LFRA requirements were developed through close cooperation with the Tri-Service IR Scene Projector working group, and through detailed trade studies sponsored by the OSD Central T&E Investment Program (CTEIP) and a Phase I US Navy Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) contract. The CMOS Read-In Integrated Circuit (RIIC) is being designed by SBIR and Indigo Systems under a Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) contract. Performance and features include 750 K MWIR maximum apparent temperature, 5 ms radiance rise time, 200 Hz full frame update, and 400 Hz window mode operation. Ten 8-inch CMOS wafers will be fabricated and characterized in mid-2002, followed by emitter fabrication in late 2002. This paper discusses array performance, requirements flow-down, array design, fabrication of 2 X 2-inch CMOS devices, and plans for subsequent RIIC wafer test and emitter pixel fabrication.
SBIR's MIRAGE Infrared scene projector continues to break new ground in the area of dynamic IR scene projection. In July 2001, SBIR reached an exclusive licensing agreement with Honeywell Research Laboratories to fabricate emitter arrays using their industry standard process. SBIR has moved out aggressively to bring the benefits of this process coupled with the MIRAGE CMOS to the IR projection community. This paper discusses emitter array performance from Honeywell devices fabricated on legacy MIRAGE CMOS. It also discusses SBIR's upgraded CMOS plans, which will take advantage of the Honeywell process to extend the state-of-the-art of IR scene projector performance.
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