Real-time image fusion: a vision aid for helicopter pilotage

Moira I. Smith; Andrew Ball; David Hooper

doi:10.1117/12.458519

27 February 2002 Real-time image fusion: a vision aid for helicopter pilotage

Moira I. Smith, Andrew Ball, David Hooper

Proceedings Volume 4666, Real-Time Imaging VI; (2002) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.458519
Event: Electronic Imaging, 2002, San Jose, California, United States

Abstract

This paper reports on the development of a real-time image fusion demonstration system using COTS technology. The system is designed to operate in a highly dynamic helicopter environment and across a challenging variety of operational conditions. The targeted application for the demonstrator system is low-level helicopter nap-of-the-earth flight, with particular emphasis being placed on providing improved pilot vision for an increased situational awareness capability. This work provides key technology assessment for the UK Ministry of Defence's Day/Night All Weather (D/NAW) helicopter program. The current operational requirement is to fuse imagery from two sensors - one a thermal imager, the other an image intensifier or visible band camera. However, provision has been made within the software and hardware architectures to support scaling to different cameras and further processors. Over the past two years the research has matured from algorithmic development and analysis using pre-registered recorded imagery to the current real-time image fusion demonstrator system which performs registration and warping prior to an adaptive image processing control scheme. This paper concentrates on the design and hardware implementation issues associated with the process of moving from experimental non real-time algorithms to a real-time image fusion demonstrator. Background information about the program is provided to help put the current system in context, and a brief overview of the algorithm set is also given. The design and hardware implementation issues associated with this scheme are discussed and results from initial field trials are presented.

Citation Download Citation

Moira I. Smith, Andrew Ball, and David Hooper "Real-time image fusion: a vision aid for helicopter pilotage", Proc. SPIE 4666, Real-Time Imaging VI, (27 February 2002); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.458519

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