Thermal Camera Scanning Synchronization for Large-Area Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional thermal imaging systems using fixed or traversing thermal cameras struggle with low resolution, slow image capture, and mechanical/thermal stress issues, making them unsuitable for real-time monitoring of large areas and harsh environments, such as waste bunkers and paper production processes.
Innovation Solution
A method involving real-time synchronization of the camera position and thermal image, with absolute synchronization of the camera drive and signal, allowing continuous, high-resolution thermal imaging without mechanical stress, using a pivotable housing with central air cooling and routing of cables and air supply through a connecting pipe to protect against extreme temperatures and contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a fixed thermal camera is used to monitor large areas, then the monitoring coverage is improved, but the detection resolution deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the large-area monitoring task into multiple sequential small-area thermal images captured by a single thermal camera. The camera moves to different positions to capture different sections of the monitoring area, then these sections are stitched together to form a complete large-area thermal image, achieving both large coverage and high resolution.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a single fixed camera viewpoint to a multi-position scanning approach, adding the spatial dimension of camera movement. By moving the camera along a scanning path and capturing images at multiple positions, the system achieves both large-area coverage and high detection resolution that cannot be obtained from a single fixed position.
2Area of stationary object
If a conventional traversing device is used to capture multiple thermal images, then the monitoring area is improved, but the real-time detection capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements continuous scanning motion of the thermal camera along a predefined path, capturing thermal images continuously throughout the scanning process. This continuous action allows real-time detection and monitoring of thermal changes across the entire area, unlike step-by-step traversing that creates gaps in detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses synchronization between the camera position and image capture timing to ensure that thermal images are acquired at the correct moments during scanning. This feedback mechanism maintains the temporal relationship between camera position and captured images, enabling real-time reconstruction of the thermal field.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the thermal camera is exposed to high ambient temperatures, then the monitoring capability is improved, but the camera reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts the thermal camera from the harsh high-temperature environment by positioning it in a cooler location and using optical paths (lenses, mirrors) to view the hot area remotely. This separation protects the sensitive camera electronics from direct exposure to extreme temperatures while maintaining the ability to monitor the thermal process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces optical intermediaries (lenses, mirrors, beam splitters) between the thermal camera and the high-temperature monitoring area. These intermediaries transmit thermal radiation from the hot area to the camera without exposing the camera directly to the harsh environment, acting as a protective barrier.
4Temperature
If air cooling is used to protect the camera, then the camera temperature is improved, but the system complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines multiple functions into the housing structure: mechanical support for the camera, guide for the air stream, and protection for internal components. The housing integrates the air cooling channel and camera mounting, eliminating the need for separate cooling devices and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for the thermal camera, guides the cooling air stream across the camera, protects internal components, and maintains the structural integrity of the scanning system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components.
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
Enables immediate, location-accurate detection of thermal changes like fires in real-time, with reduced mechanical and thermal stress on the system, and extended service life, maintaining image quality and preventing contamination, suitable for harsh environments like waste bunkers and paper production.
Implementation Method 1
Devices for detecting thermal radiation, such as pyrometers, infrared line cameras and infrared cameras
Implementation Method 2
it is at least cooled by air, since the ambient temperature is often very high
Implementation Method 3
an air purge should ensure that external influences such as dust or production-related contamination are prevented
Data Source
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AI summary
Method for acquiring large-surface thermal images comprises carrying out real time synchronization with a camera signal from the camera signal and the real time thermal image using absolute synchronization of the camera drive. The camera (3) is moved in real time over the space to be measured corresponding to the adjusted scanning speed. The scanned individual images are accessed on a monitor to form a whole thermal image which is continuously updated. An independent claim is also included for a device for acquiring large-surface thermal images. Preferred Features: The actual position of the camera is delimited by crosspieces which separate the individual images in the whole thermal image in the image on the monitor.