Features
Chip Design Systems Technology Features
PDP
Advancing High-Speed Object Analysis with CDS’s PDP Technology in Infrared Sensor Applications
CDS’s Packetized Display Protocol (PDP) technology is a critical component in infrared sensor testing, especially when working with high-speed objects such as supersonic projectiles or space debris. PDP’s capacity to handle multiple frame rates concurrently enables efficient simulation and analysis of rapidly moving targets.
PDP employs a physical layer independent method of pixel data transmission, providing latency guarantees while maximizing performance. By transmitting small sub-windows of data at increased apparent frame rates, PDP achieves faster decoding and display throughout the array, while preserving full-resolution modes of operation. This functionality is essential for applications like tracking or detecting high-speed objects in advanced infrared sensor testing.
CDS’s PDP technology has been demonstrated in various scenarios, highlighting its ability to manage intricate multi-frame scenes involving high-speed targets. For example, during a demonstration at the Air Force Research Lab (AFRL) on NSLEDS 5, a 100Hz PDP background was combined with an 800Hz hot object, simulating the swift motion of a high-speed target.
800Hz, 100Hz, 2Hz
Displaying a scene with three (3) different frame rates: 800Hz bouncing number, 100Hz background of numbers (small numbers displayed on the whole scene), and 2Hz large number. Recorded at 100Hz. New compositor, PDP firmware, and command-line PDP display are working.
20KHz Frame Rate
20kHz PDP demo with a Hot Object moving across the 1024×1024 spatial resolution IRLED array. The scene is heavily slowed down as indicated by the timestamp. The scene was captured using FLIR’s latest X69 series IR cameras which then had to be windowed down extensively to match CDS’ 20kHz IRLED Scene Projector System.
Furthermore, CDS’s PDP technology has been utilized in a 20kHz demonstration, featuring a hot object traversing a 1024×1024 spatial resolution IRLED array. This scene was captured using FLIR’s cutting-edge X69 series IR cameras, which required extensive windowing to match CDS’ 20KHz IRLED Scene Projector System.
In conclusion, CDS’s PDP technology significantly enhances the infrared sensor testing process by enabling the simulation and analysis of high-speed objects such as supersonic projectiles and space debris. Its ability to manage multiple frame rates and maintain high-resolution modes of operation greatly contributes to the precision and efficacy of infrared sensor applications.
Scalability
Discover the exceptional adaptability of CDS arrays, featuring configurable resolutions 64×64, 512×512, 1024×1024, up to 2048×2048, enabled by their scalable architecture. Our advanced methodology utilizes a proprietary process to seamlessly integrate multiple 1024×1024 arrays, facilitating the creation of custom, high-resolution arrays. Optimize your testing capabilities with the unparalleled performance of CDS arrays, engineered to cater to your unique needs.
This is made possible through our cutting-edge Mach RIIC design, which employs innovative stitching techniques to achieve a highly-scalable and modular design. This approach allows for resolutions ranging from 64×64 to 2048×2048, with the potential for even greater resolutions as technology progresses. Furthermore, native dual-band arrays are available, offering double the physical size of single-band arrays at an equivalent resolution, enhancing the adaptability and versatility of the CDS arrays.
Leverage the robust scalability and state-of-the-art performance of CDS arrays to elevate your testing environment. With a strong focus on adaptability, these arrays are precisely tailored to accommodate various applications and performance requirements, setting a new benchmark for industry standards.
Apparent Temperatures
Engineered to perfection, the CDS IRLED Scene Projector is specifically designed to represent high apparent temperature objects within full-frame backgrounds with peerless accuracy, delivering unmatched fidelity to infrared sensors. The cornerstone of this projector lies in its exceptional 16-bit resolution and multi-gear system, enabling an extensive array of colors and brightness levels, thereby elevating the overall image quality discernible by advanced IR sensors.
To guarantee unparalleled precision and superior contrast in imagery, the CDS IRLED Scene Projector is equipped with a 30mK temperature resolution. This extraordinary capability allows the projector to faithfully render hot objects and their surrounding environments, discerning even the most minute temperature variations with exceptional detail. As a result, the CDS IRLED Scene Projector delivers accurate and hyper-realistic IR scenes, satisfying the requirements of a myriad of applications demanding precise temperature representation and visualization.
The projector achieves a maximum apparent temperature of 1,450 K within the 3-5μm band. However, with a 99.98% NUC (Non-Uniformity Correction) applied, this maximum apparent temperature is reduced to 1,220 K. The range of apparent temperatures that the CDS IRLED Scene Projector can accurately reproduce is as follows:
● Maximum Apparent Temperature (with 99.98% NUC applied): 1,220 K
● Maximum Apparent Temperature (in 3-5μm): 1,450 K
These robust features solidify the CDS IRLED Scene Projector’s standing as a leader in accurate and realistic IR scene representation. It showcases a wide array of temperatures with remarkable accuracy and exquisite detail. This meticulously crafted, technologically advanced tool reshapes the boundaries of infrared visualization, emerging as an indispensable resource for professionals engaged in advanced IR sensor technologies.
Dynamic Range
Embodying an unparalleled prowess in dynamic range capabilities, CDS IRLED Scene Projectors set a new industry standard, leaving other infrared scene projectors trailing in their wake. By deploying an ingenious combination of 4 high-end digital-to-analog converters (DACs) and 2 meticulously calibrated drive gears (1x, 100x), they have established a formidable 16-bit dynamic range. This is further enhanced by distinct dynamic range controls, culminating in premium quality scenes that offer a striking breadth of brightness and contrast.
Tailored to meet the rigorous demands of next-generation focal plane arrays, these projectors integrate cutting-edge RIIC chips, LED arrays, along with sophisticated hybridization processes. Their high functionality is supplemented by state-of-the-art electronics systems, including NESSIE1 and NESSIE2. CDS maintains an unwavering commitment to enhancing the projectors’ performance through continual refinement of software, firmware, and non-uniformity correction (NUC) algorithms.
Focusing squarely on dynamic range, CDS IRLED Scene Projectors stand as an optimal solution for probing the limits of state-of-the-art sensor technologies in challenging environments.
Dynamic Range Specifications
A formidable 16-bit dynamic range empowered by 4 DACs and 2 drive gears
Drive gears meticulously calibrated at 1x and 100x
Dynamic range controls spanning from 1x to 100x (constrained only by the 10Gb/s HDMI protocol)
Why LEDs?
High Frame Rates
IR LED scene projectors can achieve hypersonic frame rates, allowing for more accurate and precise testing of IR sensors and FPAs.
High Resolutions
With the ability to produce high resolution images, IR LED scene projectors can provide more detail and clarity in testing results.
Hot Apparent Temperatures
IR LED scene projectors can simulate hot apparent temperatures, which is essential for testing the performance of IR sensors in high-heat environments.
Customization
IR LED scene projectors can be customized to match specific testing requirements, including desired wavelengths (MWIR, LWIR, UV; single-band or dual-band), projector resolution (64×64, 512×512, 1024×1024, 2048×2048), and more.
Advanced Technology
IR LED scene projectors utilize advanced technologies, such as CDS’s proprietary Non-Uniformity Correction (NUC) and Packetized Display Protocol (PDP), to further enhance their performance and capabilities.
