Optical Processing Technology For Infrared Sensors

Jeffrey L. Nelson

doi:10.1117/12.936383

19 January 1984 Optical Processing Technology For Infrared Sensors

Jeffrey L. Nelson

Proceedings Volume 0430, Infrared Technology IX; (1984) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.936383
Event: 27th Annual Technical Symposium, 1983, San Diego, United States

Abstract

As modern infrared sensing systems become smarter and able to collect more data at faster rates, the complexity of on-board data processing systems becomes greater. While V HSIC and VLSI digital systems offer a great amount of support for the on-board processing, there is a place for optical data processing. This paper discusses one processor architecture which performs several on-board analysis functions optically as well as reduces the data processing load which the electronic digital processing portion must address. The application exemplified is an infrared search and track system with optical processing to support background rejection and moving target indication. Backgrounds to be rejected in this application do not generally exceed the target intensity; that is, the targets are typically as bright as or brighter than the background. Background rejection consists of a spatial filter to eliminate large distributed sources on which a small target is superimposed, and optical image subtraction to remove small stationary targets. Moving target indication is performed with a spatial filter and a wedge detector array. Techniques for target characterization and identification have been developed but will not be discussed in this paper; nor will techniques for ballistic target impact point prediction be presented. One of the more difficult aspects of optical processing is the interconnect between the infrared detector array and the optical processor; candidate technologies for this optical interconnect will be reviewed.

Citation Download Citation

Jeffrey L. Nelson "Optical Processing Technology For Infrared Sensors", Proc. SPIE 0430, Infrared Technology IX, (19 January 1984); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.936383

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KEYWORDS

Image filtering

Detector arrays

Optical signal processing

Optical interconnects

Optical filters

Liquid crystals

Data processing

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