Multifocal Augmented Reality Visual Informatics System

The Proposed Innovation. Holochip’s proposed innovation, the Multifocal Augmented Reality Visual Informatics System (MARVIS), is a spacesuit-integrated, head-decoupled, solid-state, augmented reality (AR) system designed to provide astronauts with an immersive, informative visual interface that significantly enhances decision-making capabilities and situational awareness (SA) during extravehicular activity (EVA). MARVIS provides accurate vergence and accommodation visual cues over a wide range of 35 cm to infinity while meeting the demanding optical requirements (i.e., eye box, eye relief and field of view) for integration within the Artemis Program Spacesuit helmet bubble (AHB). Further, MARVIS meets the extreme requirements associated with use and storage in space operations and 100% oxygen environment. These innovations enable the MARVIS to provide astronauts with a comfortable visual interface that addresses the physiological aspects of using an AR system periodically for up to 8 hr during a single EVA.

MARVIS will be a strategic asset for the Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate (ESDMD). The ESDMD's initiatives, which include the Artemis program aimed at landing 'the first woman and the next man' on the Moon by 2024, necessitate advanced systems that can assure astronaut autonomy and safety in remote environments. MARVIS offers vital support for these missions. ESDMD and participating centers, Ames Research Center (ARC) and Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC), have interests within the Technology Taxonomy Areas: TX 02 Flight Computing and Avionics; and TX 02.2 Avionics Systems and Subsystems. These same TTAs are also of interest to the Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) and Johnson Space Center (JSC). STMD and JSC are the lead mission The Army has need of a similar display represented in the SBIR topic A244-011 “Off the Visor Heads Up Display (HUD)”, the demands of modern ground operations echo the complex requirements of space missions. Further, we will establish and grow our connections with Program Managers within the Army Research Laboratory (ARL) and other related entities to ensure our technology solutions are known and considered in procurement and modernization plans. MARVIS is also positioned to serve a diverse portfolio of other customers in the government sphere. The technology aligns with the operational needs of agencies such as the Department of Defense, with applications for the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) and the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) enhancing command and control capabilities during critical missions. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) could also benefit from the AR technology for conducting more precise environmental assessments and for training personnel in simulated emergency response operations.

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