Real-Time, Image Compression System for Use in Autonomous Navigation

High compression ratios possible through wavelet transforms offer the potential for realtime image transmission over narrow-band data channels. This type of transmission capability would allow for low-power image transmission using existing communication hardware. Q-DOT proposes a real-time image compression system based upon optically based wavelet decomposition. Optical processing allows for massively parallel processing of the image data. A novel electro-optic spatial light modulator is used to preprocess the image by programmably correlating the input image with a wavelet basis set. The image compression system is programmable allowing the wavelet basis (resolution set) to be optimally selected based upon the operating scenario. The system proposed is independent of the type of image data and is therefore compatible with a variety of image types including LADAR, conventional visible light, infrared and even RADAR data. The Phase I objective is to analyze the technical feasibility of the proposed image compression system including prototyping an electro-optical modulator cell which is key to the compression concept. The experimental and theoretical data gathered during Phase I will provide the foundation needed for a Phase II development effort.