A generalized optimization method for night vision devices design considering stochastic external surveillance conditions

Abstract

The paper describes a generalized optimization method for night vision devices (NVDs) design taking into account stochastic external surveillance conditions – ambient light illumination, atmosphere transmittance, contrast between target and background and target type. The main idea of the presented method is optimizing of the NVD design process by optimal choice of the optoelectronic channel modules – objective, image intensifier tube, ocular and electrical battery power supply while considering the influence of the external surveillance conditions uncertainty. For that goal a stochastic nonlinear mixed-integer multicriteria optimization problem is formulated and solved. The problem solution gives the optimal modules combination and some preliminary estimation about the operational characteristics of the designed NVD – working range (consistent with the uncertainty of the external surveillance conditions), weight, price and electrical batteries power supply operational duration. An illustrative numerical example based on the optimal choice from sets of objectives, image intensifier tubes, oculars and electrical batteries types is solved. The described method increases the effectiveness of the NVD design.