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Increased 3D Virtual Image Opaqueness and Contrast Resolution in Optical See-Through Head Mounted Displays

Award Information
Agency: Department of Defense
Branch: Army
Contract: W91CRB-12-C-0004
Agency Tracking Number: A112-114-0527
Amount: $147,577.00
Phase: Phase I
Program: SBIR
Solicitation Topic Code: A11-114
Solicitation Number: 2011.2
Timeline
Solicitation Year: 2011
Award Year: 2012
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): 2011-10-28
Award End Date (Contract End Date): 2012-04-30
Small Business Information
10455 Pacific Center Court
San Diego, CA -
United States
DUNS: 841440832
HUBZone Owned: No
Woman Owned: No
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: No
Principal Investigator
 Mikhail Belenkii
 Program Manager
 (858) 646-5479
 mbelenkii@trexenterprises.com
Business Contact
 Deborah Doyle
Title: VP&Director
Phone: (858) 646-5462
Email: ddoyle@trexenterprises.com
Research Institution
 Stub
Abstract

Mixed-Augmented Reality (M-AR) provides the Warfighter with a unique and realistic training experience that blends virtual objects into the live training environment. The see-through head mounted display (HMD) is the critical interface into this type of training environment. Current HMDs, however, have principal limitations. Virtual 3D objects projected within see-through HMDs tend to appear translucent and ghostly. Also, the HMDs are lacking of opaqueness and resolution under varying levels of luminance both indoors and outdoors. We propose a novel approach that overcomes the above shortcomings. Our HMD is based on retinal scanning display (RSD) technology that uses a curved primary mirror in front of the eye in conjunction with novel method of creating local opaqueness. With the format of eye safety goggles, it is ergonomic, compact, and lightweight and provides minimal reduction of the see-through FOV. In Phase I, we will evaluate the feasibility of the proposed concept and develop a technology roadmap and system design addressing methods for increasing the level of opaqueness and contrast resolution. We will investigate trade-offs, limitations and cost factors associated with using the new HMD design to increase fidelity. We will demonstrate a working breadboard and develop initial designs of a Phase II prototype.

* Information listed above is at the time of submission. *

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