November 2, 2007, Orlando, FL--LightPath Technologies was awarded a Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant from the Naval Air Warfare Center to develop molding technologies for infrared (IR) optical components. These molding processes in IR glass materials will provide lower costs for both government and commercial applications.
LightPath has more than 20 years of experience molding visible and near-IR aspherical optics. This grant will provide funding that will expand LightPath's existing molding technology and provide enhanced capabilities for larger-diameter lenses in the mid- and long-wavelength IR spectrum.
"Lower-cost infrared optics will enable new markets and applications in thermal imaging," said James Magos, VP of sales and marketing for LightPath. "The U.S. government and commercial industries are making significant investments in reducing infrared detector costs. This program is the first step in reducing the cost of optical components, which are a large factor in overall system design. The development program will enable larger infrared aspheric lenses and a broader market penetration," he added.
For more information, visit www.lightpath.com.