IR Camera Gas Detection via Dual-Modal Image Comparison

The patent combines thermal imaging and visible light imaging into a single camera system. The processing device merges images from both imaging parts, using visible light image information to enhance the detection of small amounts of gas in thermal images. This combination allows the system to detect gas that would be invisible or unclear in thermal images alone, while maintaining the ability to detect larger gas amounts through thermal imaging.

The patent introduces visible light imaging as an intermediary to distinguish true gas detections from false positives. The processing device compares moving objects detected in thermal images with corresponding objects in visible light images. Objects visible in both images are identified as false positives (such as camera movements or other physical objects), while objects visible only in thermal images are identified as potential gas leaks. This intermediary comparison mechanism significantly reduces false positive rates.

The patent creates a universal camera system that can detect multiple types of gas through thermal imaging combined with visible light imaging. Unlike specialized cameras designed for specific gas wavelengths, this system uses broad-spectrum thermal imaging that can detect various gases based on their thermal signatures and movement patterns. The visible light component provides contextual information that enhances detection across different gas types, making the camera adaptable to diverse gas detection scenarios without requiring specialized tuning for each gas type.