Innovative Approach for Modeling the Impact of Paint Gloss on Visual and Near IR Detection Navy SBIR FY2014.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2014.1 Topic No.: N141-057 Topic Title: Innovative Approach for Modeling the Impact of Paint Gloss on Visual and Near IR Detection Proposal No.: N141-057-0321 Firm: ThermoAnalytics, Inc. 23440 Airpark Blvd P.O. Box 66 Calumet, Michigan 49913-0066 Contact: Peter Rynes Phone: (906) 482-9560 Web Site: www.ThermoAnalytics.com Abstract: The assessment of aircraft paint schemes requires predictions of the signature and detection of aircraft targets. When paints are semi-gloss or gloss, specular reflections of the sun can result in intense glints that make the aircraft susceptible to detection. Accurate modeling of glints requires precise and high-resolution modeling of the specular lobe, the curvature of surfaces, pixel super-sampling, and accurate prediction of sky radiance. ThermoAnalytics proposes to use its MuSES (Multi-Service Electro-optic Signature) thermal and signature modeling tool to predict the visual-through-infrared signature of air targets that employ specular paints. The MuSES rendering engine is capable of accurate signature prediction, having been specially designed for the arduous work of modeling narrow specular lobes. In Phase I, we will demonstrate the rendering capability of MuSES by modeling the signature of cylinders, spheres, and flat paints using a variety of matte, semi-gloss, and glossy paints. Benefits: The signature and detection improvements from the proposed effort can be applied to signature management and vehicle design efforts, virtual training, performance assessment, test planning, and post-test analysis. Radiometric-accurate and realistic visualizations of targets can be used in human observer perception testing, and as input for search and detection simulations and for sensor testing and development. Return