E/O Sensor Performance Analysis and Synthesis (TV/IR Comparison Study)

摘要

TV (LLTV and ACTV) and IR (FLIR) sensors, as real-time imaging systems for night operations, have become competitive for many applications. While both systems provide TV-type displays for an operator to view and are used in a similar manner, their uncommon backgrounds (evolutions) have resulted in different descriptive parameters and specifications. This report describes the two types of systems in a parallel manner and language so that persons familiar with TV can better understand IR and vice versa. The sources of signal information; i.e., differences in reflectivity for the TV and differences in temperature for the IR are covered so as to provide a better understanding of the differences and similarities of the inputs. The man as the final element of the system is discussed using the theory that the operator is a spatial and temporal integrator. Then with the approach of Otto Schade, Sr., and the result of the psychophysical tests of the coauthor, Rosell, the systems are analyzed and performance prediction equations are derived. While a detection/recognition theory for predicting results against objects of general interest is presented, the three bar object is the basic object for performance definition and detection/recognition theory development.