Psychophysical assessments of image-sensor fused imagery

Hum Factors. 2002 Summer;44(2):257-71. doi: 10.1518/0018720024497880.

Abstract

The goal of this study was to determine the perceptual advantages of multiband sensor-fused (achromatic and chromatic) imagery over conventional single-band nighttime (image-intensified and infrared) imagery for a wide range of visual tasks, including detection, orientation, and scene recognition. Participants were 151 active-duty military observers whose reaction time and accuracy scores were recorded during a visual search task. Data indicate that sensor fusion did not improve performance relative to that obtained with single-band imagery on a target detection task but did facilitate object recognition, judgments of spatial orientation, and scene recognition. Observers' recognition and orientation judgments were improved by the emergent information within the image-fused imagery (i.e., combining dominant information from two or more sensors into a single displayed image). Actual or potential applications of this research include the deployment of image-sensor fused systems for automobile, aviation, and maritime displays to increase operators' visual processing during low-light conditions.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Data Display*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Military Personnel / psychology
  • Psychophysics*
  • Task Performance and Analysis
  • Visual Perception*