Use Of Minimum Resolvable Temperature Difference (MRTD) For The Evaluation And Specification Of Thermal Imaging Systems

A. R. Newbery

doi:10.1117/12.931859

29 October 1981 Use Of Minimum Resolvable Temperature Difference (MRTD) For The Evaluation And Specification Of Thermal Imaging Systems

A. R. Newbery

Author Affiliations +

Proceedings Volume 0274, Assessment of Imaging Systems II; (1981) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.931859
Event: Assessment of Imaging Systems: Visible and Infrared, 1981, Reading, United Kingdom

Abstract

Minimum Resolvable Temperature Difference (MRTD) is now the most widely used parameter for describing both the temperature sensitivity, and spatial resolution of thermal imaging systems. It can be measured in the laboratory, using fairly simple equipment, it can be calculated from component parameters, and a good correlation has been established between MRTD and the field performance of systems, eg detection and recognition ranges of targets. However, both the strength, and the weakness of MRTD lies in the fact that it is a subjective parameter. It is measured by an observer viewing standard bar targets, and so it combines the spatial resolution and noise characteristics (thermal resolution) in the correct way. It also takes account of the performance degradations due for example to cosmetic defects. On the other hand, being a subjective measurement, there is bound to be some variations in measured values, particularly from one laboratory to another. This causes problems, if only from an administrative point of view, when testing a system against a given specification.

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A. R. Newbery "Use Of Minimum Resolvable Temperature Difference (MRTD) For The Evaluation And Specification Of Thermal Imaging Systems", Proc. SPIE 0274, Assessment of Imaging Systems II, (29 October 1981); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.931859

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