Multi-spectral Tunable Detection (MultiTuDe) Lens for Rapid In-situ Forensic Analysis

Teledyne Scientific & Imaging (TS&I) proposes to develop a novel Multispectral Tunable Detection (MultiTuDe) Lens for rapid, in-situ, high resolution imaging of crime scene. Uniqueness of the MultiTuDe Lens lies in an innovative lens architecture and incorporation of agile, tunable, Liquid Crystal (LC) technology. The proposed program is our continued effort in this area after a five-year gap, with a fundamentally different approach enabled by recent advances in the LC technology. The new approach dramatically lowers the number of components and the bill of material cost, providing a path for an affordable solution. In an ongoing IR&D program, we have recently conducted a proof-of-concept demonstration of the new approach. Building upon the preliminary work, we plan to focus on two technology challenges: (1) Extend the spectral coverage to the entire UV-VIS-NIR – addressed by LC formulation improvement and process optimization for UV exposure; and (2) Improve the field of view (FOV) of the lens while maintaining sharp imaging performance across the broad spectral range – addressed through lens design and optimization. We will also perform opto-mechanical design, fabricate and integrate the lens, test the lens performance and validate the design. Our goal is to achieve a lens that provides broad spectral tuning range (400 to 800 nm), adequate Field of View (FOV), and optimal imaging resolution and contrast. The technical goals of the proposed effort are structured in a way so that the MultiTuDe lens is a standalone component that can be integrated with any commercial-off-the-shelf camera with compatible optical format and mounts. This significantly simplifies the path for technology transition and productization. As a final outcome, we envision a novel lens technology that enables improved detection, analysis throughput, portability, and affordability providing enhanced probative value of physical evidence. This project contains a research and/or development component, as defined in applicable law, and complies with Part 200 Uniform Requirements - 2 CFR 200.210(a)(14). CA/NCF