Deep learning-based object detection networks outperform the traditional detection methods. However, they lack interpretability and solid theoretical guidance. To guide and support the application of object detection networks in infrared images, this work analyzes the influence of infrared image quantization on the performance of object detection networks. Firstly, the traditional infrared quantization methods and deep learning-based object detection networks are introduced, and the characteristics of these methods are analyzed. Then, the influence of four typical quantization methods on the performances of two object detection networks is compared, and the influence mechanism is analyzed through a cross-comparison experiment. The experimental results show that infrared image quantization is more helpful for learning the discriminative feature of the object/background for the object detection networks. Moreover, the feature difference of object/background caused by different quantization methods will seriously affect the performance of object detection networks. The research provides support for the application of deep learning-based detection networks in infrared scenes, which is of great significance. Key words:Object detection; Deep learning networks; Infrared image quantization; Experimental comparative analysis
PrefaceIn recent years, with the rapid development of deep learning, new target detection algorithms continue to emerge, and intelligent target detection algorithms based on deep learning networks have gradually been applied to military reconnaissance, missile guidance and other fields. Infrared images have the characteristics of large dynamic range and concentrated gray level. In the traditional target detection framework, it is often necessary to quantitatively enhance the infrared image to improve the contrast between the target and the background, thereby improving the detection performance. However, for deep learning detection networks, given their powerful feature learning and representation capabilities, whether infrared image quantification is necessary and the impact of quantification methods on detection performance remains to be studied. This paper analyzes the characteristics of different infrared image quantization methods, compares the effects of different quantization methods on the performance of the detection network, studies the feature differences learned by the detection network in different quantized images, and gives suggestions for the selection of quantization methods in practical applications.