Resolving the differences in oversampled and undersampled imaging sensors: updated target acquisition modeling strategies for staring and scanning FLIR systems

摘要

Abstract: Imaging IR sensors which are used as target acquisition devices in weapon systems, i.e. FLIRs, have diversified in the 15 years following the development of the Ratches method for predicting static detection and recognition probabilities. Current FLIRs vary from devices which are completely analog in nature, such as the common module FLIR, to those which utilize spatial and temporal sampling to a significant degree, such as scanning or staring FPAs. Due to non-monotonic behavior in the Minimum Resolvable Temperature Difference (MRT) curves typical of most staring systems and uncertainties in the measurement of the MRT, direct use of the Ratches technique for comparing scanning and staring systems has become limited or impossible. Through the use of field test observations and data collection, in conjunction with laboratory measurements of MRT, a revisitation of the analysis procedure is offered which allows for direct and nonambiguous comparisons between scanning and staring FLIR systems. Specifically, cycle criteria appropriate for staring systems are presented along with validating data using multiple scanning and staring systems.!21