Fused reflected/emitted light sensors

Fusion of reflected/emitted radiation light sensors can provide significant advantages for target identification and detection. The two bands -- 0.6 - 0.9 or 1 - 2 micrometer reflected light and 8 - 12 micrometer emitted radiation -- offer the greatest contrast since those bands have the lowest correlation, hence the greatest amount of combined information for infrared imaging. Data from fused imaging systems is presented for optical overlay as well as digital pixel fusion. Advantages of the digital fusion process are discussed as well as the advantages of having both bands present for military operations. Finally perception tests results are presented that show how color can significantly enhance target detection. A factor of two reduction in minimum resolvable temperature difference is postulated from perception tests in the chromaticity plane. Although initial results do not yet validate this finding, it is expected with the right fusion algorithms and displays that this important result will be proven shortly.