An improved active imaging method for upgrading low-light-level image detection sensitivity

Abstract

Active imaging is an essential tool for low-light-level imaging. However, it has some drawbacks, such as limited imaging range and lack of security. We optimize the imaging approach by casting a saw-tooth wave auxiliary light signal over the sensor. Here, the auxiliary signal is superposed with a low-light-level signal, which is too weak to be measured by the sensor. After acquiring a superimposed image set in one saw-tooth wave circle, low-light-level image estimation is achieved by implementing least-square algorithm during data processing. This improved method not only makes active imaging overcome the drawbacks mentioned above, but also provides a feasible way to improve the low-light-level image detection sensitivity. © 2013 AIP Publishing LLC.