High Dynamic Range Sensor Simulation
Navy SBIR FY2008.1


Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2008.1
Topic No.: N08-010
Topic Title: High Dynamic Range Sensor Simulation
Proposal No.: N081-010-0868
Firm: CG2, Inc., a Quantum3D Company
6330 San Ignacio Avenue
San Jose, California 95119
Contact: Jeff Potter
Phone: (407) 737-8800
Web Site: www.cg2.com
Abstract: CG2 proposes a rework of several methodologies in the current work flow:  Overhaul the sensor database generation pipeline to upgrade the source texture data from eight-bit (or lower) to a minimum of 16 bits per component. Propose new methods of generating this data more effectively from available source imagery. Create or adopt new means of texture map compression to reduce bandwidth issues that would otherwise prevent this increased load of high dynamic range imagery from becoming useful with employed GPUs. Ensure that detectable modulation remains visible even at extreme magnification settings, to provide detail for high magnificaton sensors.  Strategically insert upgrades to the rendering pipeline to allow the utilization of higher dynamic range texture maps. Include new texture map decompression that works with the above compression methods. Retain "microtexture" detail to support high magnification scenarios.  Propose a new sensor effects simulation (optical blurring, temporal and fixed pattern noise, AC coupling, manual or automatic gain and level, etc.) that exceeds the current state-of-the-art eight or 16-bit fixed point data paths.  Investigate current prototype and future High Dynamic Range (HDR) display devices, and the means of interfacing to these.
Benefits: Successful implementation of technologies developed under this SBIR will result in several benefits. Chief among those are:  An improved database generation pipeline that allows for the efficient creation of higher dynamic range source data for the image generator. Reliance on improved, innovative methods of data compression will help alleviate bandwidth and storage size issues that would otherwise occur.  Realistic simulations of night or thermal vision devices capable of much higher dynamic range than before. Removal or amelioration of artificial limitations imposed by a limited dynamic range pipeline (issues with intensity saturation, etc.).  Suppression of distracting "Mach band" anomalies that plague lower dynamic range sensor simulations.  Allow integration with new and soon to be available HDR displays.

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