Named Fast-Tint Protective Eyewear (FTPE), this new LCD-based technology introduced by the office of Naval Research for the Naval Special Warfare community is designed to dynamically change from dark to clear in half a second according to Stephanie Everett, ONR’s TechSolutions program manager. The technology is based on work designing laser eyeshields for aircrewmen who risk being dazzled or blinded by lasers.
“Currently, warfighters are using a set of interchangeable lenses that require them to stop and manually switch lenses to adjust the goggles to a particular light environment,” Everett said. “But they can’t take the time to stop and remove and replace the lenses.” According to information provided by ONR, the glasses meet the American National Standards Institute’s ballistic impact safety requirements.
The goal is obviously to get the wearer to keep his eyepro on whether inside or outside. However, as was pointed out to me by an industry insider, there’s a big difference between passing ANSI and the MILPRF 31013 milspec ballistic requirement. Thus far, LCDs haven’t been able to do it.
ONR’s TechSolutions department has already delivered the first 30 sets with promises of 100 more. The actual technology comes from Ohio-based AlphaMicron’s e-tint.
The photo came from jamesvaughanphoto.blogspot.com who shot it for AlphaMicron.
Further information on the e-tint technology can be found at www.alphamicron.com.
