A Multiaperture Bioinspired Sensor With Hyperacuity

We have developed a multiaperture sensor based on the visual system of the common housefly (Musca domestica). The Musca domestica insect has compound eyes, which have been shown to exhibit the ability to detect object motion much finer than their photoreceptor spacing suggests, a phenomenon often called motion hyperacuity. We describe how such motion hyperacuity can be achieved through a controlled preblurring of an optical imaging system. We used this method to develop a software model of a new fly eye sensor and to optimize its motion hyperacuity. Finally, we compare the completed sensor to previously developed fly eye sensors. The new design shows a threefold improvement in signal-to-noise ratio and motion acuity.