SBIR-STTR Award

The objective of topic A07-192 of Army SBIR 07.2 is to develop and demonstrate a prototype visual imaging solution for low-cost, virtual, fully embedded vehicle driver training focused on current force combat vehicle vision blocks and night driving sources. Optical Resolutions Incorporated (ORI) and its subcontractor, RTI International, propose to select and design a visual system concept chosen from trade offs conducted between possible visualization system solutions and the physical constraints of current force combat systems driver stations. These solutions will be based on extensions to the vehicle vision blocks and will incorporate the ability to display the output of night vision sensors. We will research newly available optical and display components; view-mode switching techniques; micro-fabrication methodologies; and interface technologies to transform the conventional, direct view vision block into a dual-purpose viewing device that supports, in addition, a driver visualization of a virtual battlefield. In phase I, the project team will study the configuration of driver crew stations of current force fighting vehicles (Abrams, Bradley, Stryker, etc.) to determine which one is most amenable to the implementation of a switchable vision block (SVB). This determination will be based on tradeoffs between possible solutions to provide ET to the driver station. The interface between the SVB and the image generator will be implemented to connect, in the indirect view mode, to either the VR training data base or the video products of the night vision technology device(s) to support day and night combat operations without the need for a separate, dedicated night vision port. We will also investigate HUD-like projection technologies capable of supporting yet a blended view mode in which sensor-derived information can be overlayed over the real world scene for enhanced situational awareness. This phase of the project will culminate with the selection of a combat system and a corresponding SVB concept design for driver ET. Available and developing technologies in optics, displays, and wireless transmission will also be researched to attain the most reliable, lowest cost and weight possible implementation of an SVB to satisfy the ET, virtual driver training requirements.

Keywords:
Embedded Training, Driver Training, Simulation, Switchable Vision Block (Svb), Collimated Optics, Motion Parallax, Ergonomics, Night Vision Technology

The objective of topic A07-192 of Army SBIR 07.2 is to develop and demonstrate a prototype collimated visual imaging solution for low-cost, virtual, fully embedded vehicle driver training focused on current force combat vehicle vision blocks and night driving sources. This multi-purpose visualization solution is referred to as a switchable vision block (SVB). In phase I, driver crew stations of the Abrams, Bradley, and Stryker were considered to determine which one was most amenable to the implementation of a SVB. Based on space availability and possible occlusion of displays, we selected the M17 vision blocks in the Stryker driver compartment as the host for the SVB. We also researched newly available optical and display components; view-mode switching techniques; micro-fabrication methodologies; and interface technologies to develop concepts for the SVB. During Phase I we constructed an EO switch mirror based on a prior ORI concept. We developed six SVB configurations from which we down-selected to one on the basis of minimum number of optical elements and simplicity of the view mode switch. The recommended SVB concept consists of an optical subsystem with three optical elements; a switch mirror; a display subsystem and an SVB to vehicle interface subsystem housed in an additional physical module below the basic vision block; and the SVB housing subsystem. In phase II of this project, we will design, develop, characterize and demonstrate a prototype of the recommended SVB. This will be done in two stages. In stage 1, we will implement an SVB for stand alone demonstration in December, 2008. In stage 2, an engineering prototype will be implemented for demonstration and evaluation in a Stryker driver compartment environment in December, 2009. During stage 2, we will also continue to track developments in optical elements, displays (OLEDs), and wireless transmission (video and power) and report the findings in the Phase final report which will also include a technical data package and an updated commercialization plan for the SVB.

Keywords:
Embedded Training, Driver Training, Simulation, Switchable Vision Block (Svb), Collimated Optics, Motion Parallax, Ergonomics, Night Vision Technology