A comparison of methods to measure the modulation transfer function of aerial survey lens systems from the image structures

Abstract

For the image quality analysis of photogrammetrical systems using the Modulation Transfer Function (MTF), the edge gradient analysis (EGA), using a Hanning function, and the grating pattern method are compared. Artificial edge and grating patterns were photographed from an airplane and were analyzed to determine the quality of the photogrammetric system. The pictures were scanned with a microdensitometer. For comparison with the artificial patterns, a natural roof edge was examined. Good agreement of all MTF measurements was found. Furthermore, the resolution found from MTF curves agreed well with the resolution obtained from three-bar targets. Generally, the MTF curves obtained from patterns in the flight direction were lower than the MTF's perpendicular to the flight direction due to airplane movement. The influence of linear image motion and its compensation was examined and is discussed.