Automatic target recognition during sensor motion and vibration

The resolution capability of imaging systems is affected by blur resulting from vibration and motion during the exposure. This blur is often more severe than electronic and optical resolution limitations inherent in the system. Such image quality degradation must be considered when dealing with the development and analysis of automatic target recognition (ATR) systems. This research analyzes the influence of image vibrations and motion on the probability of acquiring a target with an ATR system. The analysis includes accepted metrics that characterize the relationship existing between the target and its background. A high level of correlation is expected between these factors and the probability of target detection permitting efficient performance in the prediction and evaluation of any ATR system. Such correlations are considered here in the presence of sensor motion and vibration and situations are considered in which the probability of recognition is improved by the motion, despite the blur. The results of this research can be implemented in military applications as well as in developing image restoration procedures for image-blur conditions.