Bio-Inspired Sensing and Display of Polarization Imagery
Abstract
During our research efforts on this program, we have introduced, developed, and studied various imaging algorithms, sensing schemes and visualization and display methodologies inspired and informed by biological consideration, and have demonstrated that these bio-inspired polarization sensing and imaging techniques enable us to achieve better target detection, enhanced visibility in otherwise low-contrast conditions, longer detection range in optically scattering media, man-made polarization-sensing adaptation based on changing environments, surface deformation/variation detection (e.g., detection of finger prints on a smooth surface using polarization-based vision), "shadow removal" by displaying polarization information instead of conventional intensity information, and many more novel outcomes. These results have shown the numerous possibilities and potential applications of these bio-inspired methods in various sensing, imaging, and display technologies. We have also explored several ideas for mapping polarization information onto visual cues suitable for observers, including using pseudocolor mapping, static and dynamic textures with varying in orientations, flickering and modulating luminance and/or color contrast of scenes in terms of certain aspects of polarization values, and fusing polarization information into optical imagery. Our efforts have shown that the polarization can bring another "dimension" of information into the domain of imaging and sensing for detection, visibility enhancement, and display methodologies.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 17, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA435868
Entities
People
- Edward N. Pugh Jr.
- Nader Engheta
Organizations
- University of Pennsylvania