ORETTC partners with DigiLens for next-gen AR development

  • Posted: Friday, June 21, 2024, 7:38 am

Consolidated Nuclear Security and DigiLens signed a memorandum of understanding with DigiLens to collaborate on advanced augmented, mixed, virtual, and extended reality technologies
Consolidated Nuclear Security and DigiLens signed a memorandum of understanding with DigiLens to collaborate on advanced augmented, mixed, virtual, and extended reality technologies in waveguides and heads-up displays. In the photo from left are Ashley Stowe, director of the Oak Ridge Enhanced Technology and Training Center for Consolidated Nuclear Security at the Y-12 National Security Complex, and Chris Pickett, DigiLens CEO.

Oak Ridge, Tenn.— Consolidated Nuclear Security (CNS) recently signed a memorandum of understanding with DigiLens to collaborate on advanced augmented, mixed, virtual, and extended reality (AR/MR/VR/XR) technologies in waveguides and heads-up displays. These technologies will support U.S. government missions, including the integration of wearable computers and smart glasses to enhance immersion.

The Y-12 National Security Complex (Y-12) is managed and operated by CNS for the National Nuclear Security Administration. The site is a leader within the Nuclear Security Enterprise in developing these technologies for applications in emergency response training and preparedness, nuclear material processing, special tooling and machining, workforce development and training, and rapid, agile prototyping. The Oak Ridge Enhanced Technology and Training Center is leading the site’s efforts in AR/MR/VR/XR.

DigiLens ARGO™, the first purpose-built standalone AR/XR smart glasses device, checks many of the boxes required by the U.S. government for true AR solutions, such as modularity for future products, high display transparency for improved situational awareness, and low eye glow. The smart glasses are built to military specifications and compliance-based ruggedization. ARGO is powered by DigiLens’ state-of-the-art Crystal30 waveguides, a transparent display that overlays digital information onto the real world. DigiLens’ patented waveguide technology is the only one able to hit a consumer price point and enable an advanced, adaptable, scalable manufacturing process with a high yield, low development costs, and small footprint.

Improving usability

“We believe the lightweight size and functionality compared to the bulkier headsets will help adoption of AR within manufacturing where extended use is required,” said Ashley Stowe, director of the Oak Ridge Enhanced Technology and Training Center. “Additionally, since DigiLens manufactures the waveguides through their ITAR [International Traffic in Arms Regulations]-approved licensees, we believe we can partner to create custom AR devices that insert into tactical personal protective equipment. Because of their U.S.-based, high-yield waveguide manufacturing process, they are a viable long-term partner for work in secure environments.”

“DigiLens is making significant strides in AR technology, particularly in collaboration with the U.S. government and the Y-12 National Security Complex,” said Brian Hamilton, DigiLens vice president of Sales and Marketing. “The Y-12 partnership will focus on advancing sensor integrations and developing a total solutions package … tailored to support advanced maintenance repair and operations, and situational awareness for first responders, maintainers, and operators. We are thrilled to begin this work to concentrate on expanding the depth of Y-12’s applications with heads-up displays and removing technological barriers from technological limitations.”

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Consolidated Nuclear Security, LLC operates the Pantex Plant, located in Amarillo, Texas, and the Y-12 National Security Complex, located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, for the U.S. National Nuclear Security Administration. Bechtel National, Inc. is the lead member of CNS; minority members include Leidos, Inc.; ATK Launch Systems, LLC; and SOC LLC. Pantex and Y-12 are key facilities in the U.S. Nuclear Security Enterprise, and CNS performs its work with a focus on performance excellence and the imperatives of safety, security, zero defects, and delivery as promised.

For more information on each site, visit www.pantex.energy.gov or www.y12.doe.gov. Follow Pantex on Facebook, X or LinkedIn. Follow Y-12 on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.

About DigiLens
DigiLens is a leader in holographic waveguides used for XR displays. The company has developed a patented optical platform and photopolymer technology that delivers best-in-class solutions using a unique, low-cost, contact-copy manufacturing process. DigiLens enables OEM partners to design and build XR-enabled devices for the global automobile, enterprise, consumer, avionics, and defense industries. Based in Sunnyvale, CA, DigiLens’ investors include industry leaders like Samsung Electronics, Samsung Electro-Mechanics, Diamond Edge Ventures, the strategic investment arm of Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings Corporation, Alsop Louie Partners, Optimas Capital Management, 37 Interactive Entertainment, UDC Ventures, the corporate venture arm of Universal Display Corporation, Niantic, Inc., Sony Innovation Fund, Dolby Family Ventures, Continental AG, and more.

Press Contact:
Brian Hamilton
brian.hamilton@digilens.com

CONTACT
Kathryn King, APR
Communications
Office (865) 315.5996
Kathryn.King@pxy12.doe.gov

Follow Y-12 on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Flickr.

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