Scanned remote imaging method and system and method of determining optimum design characteristics of a filter for use therein

TLDR: In this paper, an imaging method and system for optimum sampling, image restoration and enhancement is disclosed where imaging errors associated with scanning a fiber optic image guide are identified and filtered to restore image quality to the available resolution limit.

Abstract: An imaging method and system for optimum sampling, image restoration and enhancement is disclosed where imaging errors associated with scanning a fiber optic image guide are identified and filtered to restore image quality to the available resolution limit. Scanned image samples are synchronized with spot positions corresponding to the center of each fiber to avoid generating spurious data resulting from unwanted modulation of the scanning beam by the fiber optic array, manifested as large amplitude multiplicative noise. A detector, such as a position sensitive device, is utilized which allows for monitoring both spot intensity and position. Peak detection on the intensity waveform determines the instant at which the beam is to be sampled. The method applies to any imaging system where a beam of electromagnetic energy such as radiant energy is scanned through a plurality of optical fibers to irradiate the object under examination. Various embodiments are disclosed which, depending upon application requirements, affect the level and sophistication of the signal processing hardware. The imaging system may utilize grey scale, color, motion (as in a Doppler vibrometry system) or 3D information.