Procedure for calculating the resolution of electro-optical systems

Theodore J. Schulze

doi:10.1117/12.23130

1 November 1990 Procedure for calculating the resolution of electro-optical systems

Theodore J. Schulze

Proceedings Volume 1342, Airborne Reconnaissance XIV; (1990) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.23130
Event: 34th Annual International Technical Symposium on Optical and Optoelectronic Applied Science and Engineering, 1990, San Diego, CA, United States

Abstract

The measurement or estimation of the resolution (usually tribar) of an Electro-Optical (E-O) system is complicated primarily by two effects: 1) The phase of the periodic detector array relative to the periodic target bar spacing produces a moire effect in which the target can appear stronger and weaker. 2) The electronic signal is enhanced in some manner thereby precluding contrast as a limiter of resolution. The algorithm described in this paper avoids the phase problem by using only the continuous part of the generated noise, and avoids the contrast problem by using the signal-to-noise ratio as the resolution determining criterium. The acceptance spectrum of the human eye is used to define both signal and noise. A typical system with variable parameters is analyzed; the results indicate there are practical limits to the quality required of system elements.

Citation Download Citation

Theodore J. Schulze "Procedure for calculating the resolution of electro-optical systems", Proc. SPIE 1342, Airborne Reconnaissance XIV, (1 November 1990); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.23130

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