Wide Angle, Infinite-Depth-of-Field Optical Pickup for Visual Simulation

During Phase I of the program, a study was undertaken to establish the most favorable approach toward producing a wide-angle, infinite depth-of-field, inclined-image plane viewing probe for purposes of simulation. The second phase involved fabrication, test and evaluation of an engineering feasibility model of such a device. This report describes both phases of the program. Previous optical pickups for flight simulators were limited by slant range focus at close approaches to a model. Obtaining closer approaches has important size, cost and versatility advantages in making simulator terrain models and support equipment. Phase I study results indicated the feasibility of producing a 140 deg circular field pickup with full pitch capability and a close approach of 4.1 mm. A preliminary but realistic design was developed and evaluated. The design approach was confirmed by photographing a runway model with a modified 110 deg probe. Other concepts examined that had promise of improving resolution were dual sensor outputs and dual relays. Component trade-offs, simplifications, and techniques were sufficiently developed for the design and fabrication phase of the program to proceed directly.