Test Chamber Thermal Imaging Calibration via Reference Body
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current test chamber control methods are inefficient and costly due to the need for repetitive test sequences and inability to accurately monitor changes in test materials under varying environmental conditions, especially in complex setups with reflective surfaces and temperature gradients.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a camera to capture image datasets of test items within a test chamber, processed by an evaluation device to detect changes, which signals the control device to adapt test conditions in real-time, eliminating the need for repetitive test sequences by continuously monitoring and adjusting environmental conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If thermal imaging cameras are used to measure temperature on test material, then temperature distribution can be visualized, but measurement precision deteriorates due to reflections from highly reflective walls and fixtures in the test chamber
Solution Approach 1:
A reference body with known, high emissivity is introduced into the test chamber as an intermediary element. This reference body serves as a mediator between the thermal imaging camera and the test material, providing a reliable reference signal for emissivity calibration that is unaffected by the reflective walls. The camera first measures the reference body to determine emissivity characteristics, then applies this calibration to accurate measurements of the test material.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the emissivity parameter by introducing a reference body with deliberately high, known emissivity properties. This parameter change creates a contrast that allows the camera to calibrate its measurements. By measuring a known reference first and then applying the same measurement conditions to the test material, the system compensates for the generally low and variable emissivity of test materials and reflective chamber walls.
2Loss of information
If test sequences are extended to monitor test material changes over time, then measurement completeness improves, but test duration increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal imaging camera operates in continuous or periodic monitoring mode, providing real-time feedback on test material temperature and condition. This feedback loop allows the system to detect changes as they occur during the test sequence, enabling early termination when predetermined change criteria are met, thus reducing overall test duration while maintaining measurement completeness.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of discrete, periodic measurements, the system implements continuous thermal monitoring throughout the test sequence. This continuous action ensures no changes are missed while allowing the test to be terminated immediately when changes are detected, eliminating the need to complete full predetermined test durations and reducing time loss.
3Measurement precision
If temperature sensors are placed directly on test components, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases due to additional sensor installation and calibration requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal imaging camera creates an optical copy or thermal map of the entire test material and its components without physical contact. This non-contact copying approach eliminates the need to physically attach sensors to each component, reducing device complexity while maintaining the ability to measure temperatures of small components that would be difficult to instrument directly.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermal imaging camera serves multiple functions simultaneously: it monitors overall temperature distribution, detects thermal anomalies, measures component temperatures, and provides visual documentation. This single multi-functional device replaces what would otherwise require multiple individual temperature sensors, installation hardware, and calibration procedures, significantly reducing device complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables precise and continuous control of test conditions, reducing costs by avoiding unnecessary test repetitions and providing accurate, real-time monitoring of test material changes, including temperature measurements without direct sensors, thus enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of test sequences.
Implementation Method 1
With thermal imaging cameras, it is possible to create and evaluate a thermographic recording of the test material
Implementation Method 2
create and evaluate a thermographic recording of the test material
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for controlling a test chamber (25), in particular a climate chamber, wherein a test specimen (27) is arranged in a test space (26) of the test chamber and is subjected to at least one physical test condition for a test period in the test space, wherein the setting of the test condition is controlled by means of a control device (30), wherein image data sets of the test specimen are acquired by means of at least one camera during the test period, wherein the image data sets are processed by means of an evaluation device (31), wherein a change in the image data sets during the test period is determined by means of the evaluation device, wherein, in the event of a change in the image data sets, the evaluation device signals a change in the state of the test specimen to the control device, wherein the control device adjusts the test condition depending on the change in state.