Spatially Controlled Opto-Fluidic Attenuator

ABSTRACT: Glint Photonics will develop advanced prototypes of the Spatially Controlled Opto-Fluidic Attenuator (SCOFA), a new type of optical element that can addressably and selectively block incoming light over arbitrary areas. The SCOFA is an array of shutter pixels, each of which contains a small droplet of light-blocking fluid. Electrowetting actuation is used to modulate each light valve, toggling the light-blocking fluid between two states: a round droplet shape that leaves most of the pixel area transparent, and a thin opaque film that blocks incident light with>50dB attenuation. In this Phase II program, arrays of optimized shutter elements will be designed, fabricated, and tested. BENEFIT: The Spatially Controlled Opto-Fluidic Attenuator (SCOFA) is designed to improve the imaging capabilities of airborne and space-based camera sensors in sun-facing orientations or high-glare situations. Optical sensors have a limited dynamic range, so the presence of bright sources in the field of view can prevent the sensor from resolving other, dimmer, elements in the scene. By selectively blocking out the light from bright sources, the SCOFA will allow sensors to devote their full dynamic range to the remainder of the scene. The ability to provide high-quality data in these difficult imaging conditions would expand intelligence-gathering and targeting capabilities, allowing US forces to operate with greater speed, flexibility, and accuracy. Numerous other applications are also possible, in both military and civilian uses. Airborne imagers are increasingly used by domestic law enforcement agencies, and also find application in agriculture, forestry, and other fields. Each of these applications could benefit from the SCOFA in order to provide better imagery in high-glare situations.