Interweaving IR and Visible Images for Night Vision Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional night vision imaging devices have limited fields of view, making it difficult for users to navigate or operate vehicles safely, and traditional training simulators using two projectors are costly and prone to alignment issues.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for interweaving infrared and visible moving image data using a single optical system and image processing computer, allowing for the substitution of infrared image data into visible image frames or alternating display of both on a single display device, reducing costs and improving usability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If night vision imaging devices are used to detect thermal signatures in low light conditions, then detection capability is improved, but field of view is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the imaging function into separate infrared and visible light channels, each optimized for specific detection needs. The infrared channel provides thermal signature detection while the visible channel provides broader scene awareness, and both are processed independently before being combined or displayed separately.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adds spectral dimension by combining infrared and visible light imaging modes. This allows users to switch between or combine different spectral ranges, effectively expanding the functional field of view beyond what a single visible light camera could provide.
2Illumination intensity
If conventional artificial light sources are used to illuminate scenes, then visibility is improved, but infrared light and heat overload night vision imaging devices
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses visible light illumination that is optimized for human vision without excessive infrared content. By controlling the spectral quality of the illumination source to match human visual sensitivity rather than infrared detector sensitivity, the system achieves good visibility while avoiding overload of the infrared imaging channel.
3Ease of manufacture
If a single projector is used for training simulators, then cost is reduced, but alignment between infrared and visible images becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines infrared and visible light image processing and display functions into a single integrated projector unit. This eliminates the need for separate projectors and complex alignment mechanisms, reducing both cost and alignment difficulties while maintaining the ability to display both image types.
Solution Approach 2:
The single projector is designed to handle multiple functions: displaying visible light images, displaying infrared images, and potentially displaying combined or alternating views of both. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated projectors for each image type.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for interweaving infrared and visible moving image data using a single optical system and imager device based on an infrared input signal and a visible input signal are disclosed. Infrared image frames can be substituted in for complete visible image input frames or for partial visible image input frames, i.e. substituting in an infrared image input frame for one or more of the color channels in one or more visible image input frames. Moving video or computer-generated moving graphics can include both infrared and visible image data to be displayed users viewing the resulting images with and without night vision imaging devices. In particular, the system and method can be used in projection systems for night-vision imaging device team training simulators to reduce the cost of the system while increasing the ease of use and performance of such systems.