Recognition of Settlement Patterns Against a Complex Background

摘要

The application of aerial photo-interpretation to estimation of dwelling units in areas of high population density is examined. In this study, color infrared photography of metropolitan Boston at a scale of 1:20,000 is found capable of providing the signatures necessary for making accurate dwelling unit estimates. Repetitive multisensor overflights of New England have made it possible to compare directly the utility of radar and thermal line-scanners with optical systems for discrimination of built-up areas. Six sample areas were selected, three from Boston metropolitan area and three from the Connecticut Valley. It was determined that the optical system could be used with confidence, the thermal infrared was acceptable, and the radar was marginally acceptable; scanning sensors are at their best depicting urban patterns, not rural ones; and there are essentially no built-up area targets against which line-scan systems perform better than optical ones. (Author)