(Huntsville, Ala. | November 20, 2023) – CFD Research has been awarded a contract from the US Army to develop novel infrared (IR) optics solutions using thin and lightweight metasurface technologies. The metasurfaces will reproduce the functionality of traditional large, bulky optics in a compact, lightweight footprint.
“The US Army employs many infrared optical sensor platforms to enhance targeting, situational awareness, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations. As these platforms are integrated into smaller systems, there is a critical need to reduce the size, weight, and power (SWAP) required for these systems,” said Dr. Zack Coppens, CFD Research Principal Investigator for this project. “Developing a next-generation lightweight and ultrathin optic will provide a broad solution that can be adapted to numerous SWAP-constrained military and commercial imaging systems.”
In prior work, CFD Research partnered with the University of Washington in demonstrating the ability to design, fabricate, and test an long wavelength infrared (LWIR) metasurface lens. In this follow-on effort, the team will optimize the lens using inverse design methods and a higher-efficiency material system. They will also integrate the lens into an Army-relevant long-wavelength infrared (LWIR) camera.
“The success of this research will significantly accelerate the metasurface development cycle by shrinking the design, fabrication, and testing iteration loop. It will also markedly enhance IR sensing and imaging capabilities of the Warfighter, thereby increasing their situational awareness and lethality,” noted Ashok Raman, CFD Research Senior Director. “The technology will also be useful for commercial applications in cell phone camera chips, thermal cameras for automobiles, fire/flare detection, gas detection, and perimeter security.”
About CFD Research:
Since its inception in 1987, CFD Research has worked with government agencies, businesses and academia to provide innovative solutions within the Aerospace & Defense, Biomedical & Life Sciences, and Energy & Materials industries. Over the years CFD Research has earned multiple national awards for successful application and commercialization of innovative technology prototypes, multi-physics simulation software, multi-disciplinary analyses, and expert support services. CFD Research’s impressive three-year growth rate was high enough to recognize the company in the Inc. Magazine’s 5000 for the third year. CFD Research is an ISO9001 and AS9100 registered company and is appraised at CMMI Level II for services. Learn more at www.cfd-research.com.
