SURVEY OF THERMAL IMAGING METHODS
Abstract
Methods of detection of thermal images by nonscanning devices with the ultimate goal a portable device which registers an image produced by small differences in temperature of an object were studied. Radiant energy from an object must produce a latent image on a receiver, in terms of optical inhomogeneity, which can be made visible by direct optical methods. The basic requirements for a thermal imaging device are the following: (1) Temperature resolution sufficient to show differences of one degree centigrade in a black object; (2) Sufficient linear and angular resolution to show these temperature differences at a separation of 0.1 mm on a film as large as 4 x 4; and (3) A characteristic response time which allows formation of the image for an infrared exposure of one second or less. Project studies consisted mainly of theoretical investigations of the capabilities and limitations of various nonscanning systems. Those under consideration have been steady-state, triggered, and isothermal systems. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1958
- Accession Number
- AD0287748
Entities
People
- Conrad Schadt
- R.l. Kelly
Organizations
- SRI International