Plume Simulation Using Advanced Image Processing Techniques

ABSTRACT: Missile exhaust plume radiant emission is a key observable for any missile defense system using optical sensors. Current flowfield and signature tools cannot properly capture the plume structrue observed by missile defense sensors. This effort is designed to develop and implement image morphing techniques which can be used to interpolate, extrapolate, and correct the spatial distribution of computed plume signature radiant intensities. The tool developed in Phase II will incorporate a morphing engine with a generalized interface for use with flowfields, SPURC output and measured pixelated images. In addition, image processing tools will be developed and incorporated into the tool to automatically identify key corresponding features (specific to plumes) for image morphing (interpolation) and warping (extrapolation) BENEFIT: The tools developed during Phase II have application to a wide variety of plume signature applications. For example, these modeling techniques can be applied to tactical missiles, especially in providing more realistic target signatures for early warning receiver design. In addition, the application of these techniques to missiles flying at angle of attack provide a realistic 3-D scenario upon which to evaluate the newly developed tools and overall concept."