SBIR-STTR Award

This project will identify, develop, and demonstrate opticsoptimized for head mounted displays. Al potential approaches will beexplored, but special attention will be given to a holographic opticalconcept developed at the University of Central Florida (UCF). Thisholographic approach promises to provide the combination of compact size,high performance, affordability, light-weight, and manufacturability neededfor many head mounted display applications useful to the individualsoldier. Phase I will result in an analysis of the UCF approach and of moreconventional approaches. These analyses will include the effects ofinteraction with various image generating devices. In addition to reports,this project will generate simple prototype exhibits of the most promisingoptical concept. Phase II will take the optical design determined to beoptimal during Phase I and produce a working display prototype. Thisprototype will be capable of operating with both computer and video inputs.In addition, the prototype will be evaluated for utility to Army needs.

Phase I research has resulted in a demonstration of the feasibility of using a holographic optical element (HOE) as the sole optical element in a head mounted display (HMD). In addition to providing simplicity and ruggedness, this approach permits seeing through into the real world by the HMD wearer. In Phase II, Phase I work with silver emulsion material for HOEs will be expanded and perfected. Other materials such as DuPont's HRF will also be considered. Efforts will be coordinated with display development to ensure compatible optical designs. After the holographic media and the display interface are optimized, an HMD prototype for production during Phase III will be constructed. In addition, the use of embossed HOEs will be evaluated for possible mass production during Phase III. Dr. Philip Gatt of the University of Central for Research and Education in Optics and Lasers has joined the project for Phase II. His experience in the applications of lasers and the production of holographs will be invaluable. Preliminary contacts by computer display manufacturers indicate interest in advance HMD designs, and a patent search indicates the HOE design proposed should receive a good patent coverage. Both factors show that Phase III funding will be available.