Disruptive imaging field trial (DRIFT) on computational and compressive imaging systems

Abstract

This paper describes a comprehensive computational imaging field trial conducted in Meppen, Germany, aimed at assessing the performance of cutting-edge computational imaging systems (compressive hyper-spectral, visible/shortwave infrared single-pixel, wide-area infrared, neuromorphic, high-speed, photon counting cameras, and many more) by the members of NATO SET-RTG-310. The trial encompassed a diverse set of targets, including dismounts equipped with various two-handheld objects and adorned with a range of camouflage patterns, as well as fixed and rotary-wing Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) targets. These targets covered the entire spectrum of spatial, temporal, and spectral signatures, forming a comprehensive trade space for performance evaluation of each system. The trial, which serves as the foundation for subsequent data analysis, encompassed a multitude of scenarios designed to challenge the limits of computational imaging technologies. The diverse set of targets, each with its unique set of challenges, allows for the examination of system performance across various environmental and operational conditions.