SBIR/STTR Award attributes
This project addresses the U.S. Air Force needs for single-piece, electronically dimmable eye protection device (EDEPD). Toward demonstrating the proof-of-principle, InnoSense LLC (ISL) in Phase I developed and evaluated individual layer components and their stacked structures. ISL also demonstrated the fabrication processes for individual-layer components, stacked structures and the scale-up potential. In Phase II, ISL will optimize the formulation and significantly-improve the fabrication process by employing automated equipment specifically designed for this process. An EDEPD prototype will be fabricated and characterized on curved polycarbonate substrates. Rigorous evaluation per MIL-DTL-43511D will be performed, including transmission range, switching speed, haze, uniformity, color neutrality and life time. The EDEPD roadmap developed in Phase I, which addresses military validation, integration into current manufacturing process and scale up, will be updated for Phase III engineering and commercialization. The project team has significant experience developing coatings for military goggle/visor applications. Teaming arrangements are in place for transitioning the product to Air Force applications.
