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The AFRL Alternative Night/Day Imaging Technologies (ANIT) Program investigates lighter, replacements for traditional, fielded image intensifier tubes to enable additional desired capabilities such as all-source digital information fusion/sharing, augmented reality, multispectral sensing, and weapon cueing while providing six-dimensional environmental protection (laser, head impact, noise, nuclear, biological, and chemical). The ANIT S&T challenge includes establishment of a technology basis for integration of separate clear night, clear day, and degraded visual environment (DVE) helmet vision systems into one with acceptable mass properties. The ANIT components track focuses on the development of digital replacements for analog devices, including 5 Mpx sensors, embedded processors, algorithms, microdisplays, interconnects, trackers, visors, objectives, and oculars. The ANIT performance objectives include provision of: (1) 20/20 Snellen acuity for each 40 circular portion of field-of-view; (2) adaptive all-source image/information fusion; (3) photons-to-photons latency < 5ms; and (4) integration into a small form-factor 24-hr helmet/head mounted vision system. Advanced lens systems (visors, objectives, oculars) are based on diffractive holographic, freeform surface/prism, and gradient index design principles. This program addresses an AFLCMC Tier 1 Tech Need entitled Lightweight Night Imaging and a USAF Multi-MAJCOM priority entitled Digital Helmet Mounted Display (DHMD). The approach involves several S&T efforts in a components track aimed at the development of digital replacements for analog devices and a testbed track aimed at prototyping helmet-mounted augmented reality systems (HMARS) for pilots and dismounted operators. The status of some two-dozen funded efforts will be described. Roadmaps for technology maturation and transitions to DoD acquisition offices will be presented.
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