Information-theoretic assessment of sampled imaging systems

Trichromacy is the representation of a light spectrum by three scalar coordinates. Such representation is universally implemented by the human visual system and by RGB (Red Green Blue) cameras. We propose here an informational model for trichromacy. Based on a statistical analysis of the dynamics of individual photons, the model demonstrates a possibility for describing trichromacy as an information channel, for which the input–output mutual information can be computed to serve as a measure of performance. The capabilities and significance of the informational model are illustrated and motivated in various situations. The model especially enables an assessment of the influence of the spectral sensitivities of the three types of photodetectors realizing the trichromatic representation. It provides a criterion to optimize possibly adjustable parameters of the spectral sensitivities such as their center wavelength, spectral width or magnitude. The model shows, for instance, the usefulness of some overlap with smooth graded spectral sensitivities, as observed for instance in the human retina. The approach also, starting from hyperspectral images with high spectral resolution measured in the laboratory, can be used to devise low-cost trichromatic imaging systems optimized for observation of specific spectral signatures. This is illustrated with an example from plant science, and demonstrates a potential of application especially to life sciences. The approach particularizes connections between physics, biophysics and information theory.

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Information theoretic assessment and design of hyperspectral imaging systems

10.1117/12.354696 ◽

1999 ◽

Author(s):

Stephen E. Reichenbach ◽

Yan Xiong ◽

Ram M. Narayanan ◽

Luyin Cao

Keyword(s):

Hyperspectral Imaging ◽

Imaging Systems ◽

Information Theoretic

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Digital imaging and quantitative image analysis of polymer blends

Proceedings, annual meeting, Electron Microscopy Society of America ◽

10.1017/s0424820100163319 ◽

1996 ◽

Vol 54 ◽

pp. 170-171

Author(s):

Xiao Zhang

Keyword(s):

Digital Imaging ◽

Imaging Techniques ◽

Imaging Systems ◽

Polymer Science ◽

Key Factors ◽

Multiple Imaging ◽

Quantitative Image ◽

Digital Imaging Systems ◽

Multi Phase ◽

Network Technologies

Polymer microscopy involves multiple imaging techniques. Speed, simplicity, and productivity are key factors in running an industrial polymer microscopy lab. In polymer science, the morphology of a multi-phase blend is often the link between process and properties. The extent to which the researcher can quantify the morphology determines the strength of the link. To aid the polymer microscopist in these tasks, digital imaging systems are becoming more prevalent. Advances in computers, digital imaging hardware and software, and network technologies have made it possible to implement digital imaging systems in industrial microscopy labs.

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