The US Army Research, Development and Engineering Command’s (RDECOM) has awarded phase I of a multiphase contract to Vuzix for the development of a wide field of view (WFOV) see-through waveguide (STWG) system.

Awarded by the Night Vision and Electronics Sensors Directorate of Communications-Electronics Research, Development and Engineering Center (CERDEC), the undisclosed contract aims to explore the possibility of supporting waveguide optics with FOVs in excess of 50° and a path to full colour operation.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all

The phase I includes two options, and under the first, Vuzix will develop and deliver a full colour capable, 30° FOV STWG system as a basic demonstration of the principles of waveguide technology.

"When it comes to see-through optics, the combination of these two features is critical for the coming needs of personal heads-up displays and augmented reality applications."

The second component represents a trade-off study of two independent approaches, under which the company will solve the WFOV problem.

Vuzix president Paul Travers said that the STWG system would be based on Vuzix waveguide technology, comprising a 1.4mm-thick transparent blade of glass or polymer, which is used as the primary lens in see -hrough video glasses similar to regular sunglasses.

"Vuzix waveguide technology is unique compared to competitive solutions, in that it is capable of producing very wide fields of view with full colour operation," Travers added.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

"When it comes to see-through optics, the combination of these two features is critical for the coming needs of personal heads-up displays and Augmented Reality applications."

The army is expected to award follow-on phases of the three-phase contract, which will cover deliveries of working prototypes of one of the two options, according to the company.

The STWG will be used in helmet-mounted queuing systems, as well as other head-mounted display applications, to provide pilots with enhanced situational awareness in difficult environments.