A Dynamic Imaging Simulation Method of Infrared Aero-Optical Effect Based on Continuously Varying Gaussian...

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Aerospace Engineering
• Computational Imaging

Background:

• Aero-optical effects significantly degrade airborne infrared imaging quality.
• Current methods for testing correction algorithms, like flight tests and numerical simulations, are costly and impractical.
• Developing efficient simulation techniques is crucial for advancing airborne infrared imaging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a dynamic imaging simulation method for infrared aero-optical effects.
• To investigate the influence of aerodynamic flow fields on infrared image degradation.
• To provide a cost-effective and data-rich alternative to traditional testing methods.

Main Methods:

• Developed a continuously varying Gaussian superposition model accounting for flight parameters (speed, altitude, attitude).
• Constructed a dynamic infrared scene simulation model based on the Gaussian superposition model.
• Investigated infrared image degradation under various high-speed aerodynamic conditions.

Main Results:

• The proposed method realistically simulates aero-optical effects for diverse flight scenarios.
• Continuous frames of aerodynamically degraded infrared images can be simulated.
• The simulation model is simpler and generates more data compared to numerical simulations.

Conclusions:

• The dynamic imaging simulation method effectively addresses the need for practical aero-optical effect testing.
• This approach offers a valuable tool for developing and validating infrared image correction algorithms.
• The method provides a more accessible and versatile solution for research and development in airborne infrared imaging.