SWIR Vision Systems Secures Direct to Phase II SBIR Award for Low-Cost SWIR ALPD Technology

 

January 5, 2024

Durham, NC – SWIR Vision Systems, a leader in shortwave infrared (SWIR) imaging technology, proudly announces its achievement in receiving a direct to Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) award. This prestigious grant underscores the company’s commitment to advancing military technology through its innovative, low-cost CQD SWIR sensor fabrication process.

Project Objectives and Innovation

 

The focus of this SBIR Phase II project is to develop a revolutionary Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR) detector

with Asynchronous Laser Pulse Detection (ALPD) capabilities, primarily for military applications such as target marking and detection tasks. Key objectives include:

 

• Creating a SWIR detector capable of identifying short laser pulses efficiently and cost-effectively.
• Leveraging SWIR Vision Systems’ proven, low-cost CQD SWIR sensor fabrication method to significantly reduce production costs.

 

 

Overcoming Traditional Challenges

 

Traditionally, SWIR ALPD cameras, based on Indium Gallium Arsenide (InGaAs) focal plane arrays, have been hindered by high manufacturing costs. SWIR Vision Systems addresses these challenges by:

 

• Utilizing innovative low-cost detector materials like quantum dots.
• Integrating these materials with a sophisticated Read Out Integrated Circuit (ROIC) for enhanced laser detection capabilities.
• Offering a novel approach to lower the overall cost of production and increase the feasibility of widespread deployment in military applications.

 

Strategic Impact of the SBIR Award

 

This direct to Phase II SBIR award marks a significant step forward in the proliferation of advanced SWIR technology within the armed forces. The development of this cost-effective, high-performance SWIR laser detector is poised to transform military operations, improving soldier lethality and the capabilities of Next Generation Combat Vehicles (NGCV).

Original Publication:

SBIR-Announcment-01052024.pdf (swirvisionsystems.com)