Analysis of Two-Color Infrared Polarization Imaging Characteristics for Target Detection and Recognition

Abstract

Infrared polarization imaging has demonstrated significant advantages in target detection and recognition in natural environments. While there have been numerous research achievements on medium-wave/long-wave infrared polarization in a single band, there is a lack of related conclusions on the characteristics of wide spectral two-color infrared polarization imaging. To address this gap, this article employs a theoretical model in infrared polarization imaging to investigate the influence of temperature, incident angle, and refractive index on polarization degree and polarization angle. These findings have been substantiated through discussions on experimental results. We conducted a comparative analysis between intensity imaging and polarization imaging within the framework of traditional single-band infrared imaging. We then delineated the benefits of dual-color infrared polarization imaging. Finally, we harnessed image registration fusion algorithms to amalgamate multiple-band images. Our findings demonstrate that this fusion technique not only enables penetration through water mist but also enhances target visibility, providing theoretical support for all-weather target detection and identification.

Polarization-Based Reflection Suppression Method and Its Application to Target Detection

“…Conventional photoelectric imaging detection techniques distinguish targets by the value of the difference between the reflected or radiated intensity of the target and the background [1]. The reflected light from the target can be increased by active illumination in scenes with insufficient natural light.…”