Advanced electro-mechanical micro-shutters for thermal infrared night vision imaging and targeting systems

David Durfee; Walter Johnson; Scott McLeod

doi:10.1117/12.736249

14 May 2007 Advanced electro-mechanical micro-shutters for thermal infrared night vision imaging and targeting systems

David Durfee, Walter Johnson, Scott McLeod

Proceedings Volume 6542, Infrared Technology and Applications XXXIII; 65422C (2007) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.736249
Event: Defense and Security Symposium, 2007, Orlando, Florida, United States

Abstract

Un-cooled microbolometer sensors used in modern infrared night vision systems such as driver vehicle enhancement (DVE) or thermal weapons sights (TWS) require a mechanical shutter. Although much consideration is given to the performance requirements of the sensor, supporting electronic components and imaging optics, the shutter technology required to survive in combat is typically the last consideration in the system design. Electro-mechanical shutters used in military IR applications must be reliable in temperature extremes from a low temperature of -40°C to a high temperature of +70°C. They must be extremely light weight while having the ability to withstand the high vibration and shock forces associated with systems mounted in military combat vehicles, weapon telescopic sights, or downed unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV). Electro-mechanical shutters must have minimal power consumption and contain circuitry integrated into the shutter to manage battery power while simultaneously adapting to changes in electrical component operating parameters caused by extreme temperature variations. The technology required to produce a miniature electro-mechanical shutter capable of fitting into a rifle scope with these capabilities requires innovations in mechanical design, material science, and electronics. This paper describes a new, miniature electro-mechanical shutter technology with integrated power management electronics designed for extreme service infra-red night vision systems.

Citation Download Citation

David Durfee, Walter Johnson, and Scott McLeod "Advanced electro-mechanical micro-shutters for thermal infrared night vision imaging and targeting systems", Proc. SPIE 6542, Infrared Technology and Applications XXXIII, 65422C (14 May 2007); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.736249

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