Infrared Imaging Variable Sensitivity for Accurate Temperature Measurement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Infrared imaging systems face challenges in maintaining optimal sensitivity and image quality due to variations in ambient and scene temperatures, leading to limited dynamic range and radiometric performance.
Innovation Solution
The system adjusts sensitivity settings and radiometry correction maps based on ambient and scene temperatures, allowing continuous adjustment of image capture parameters such as integration time to optimize sensitivity and maintain radiometric performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the infrared imager uses a fixed sensitivity setting, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to inability to adapt to varying temperature conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic sensitivity adjustment by continuously modifying the sensitivity setting based on real-time temperature measurements from the scene and ambient environment. The logic device dynamically determines optimal sensitivity values that adapt to changing thermal conditions, allowing the system to maintain high measurement precision across varying temperatures without requiring multiple fixed sensitivity modes or complex manual adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback control by measuring actual scene temperature and ambient temperature, comparing these values against predetermined thresholds, and automatically adjusting the sensitivity setting accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables the system to maintain optimal sensitivity without requiring complex user intervention or pre-programming for various temperature scenarios.
2Measurement precision
If the system adjusts sensitivity continuously to maintain optimal performance, then the measurement precision improves, but the use of energy increases due to additional processing and repeated imaging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic sensitivity adjustment by evaluating temperature conditions at specific intervals rather than continuously. The logic device determines when sensitivity changes are necessary based on whether temperature thresholds are crossed, allowing the system to maintain precision while minimizing unnecessary processing cycles and energy consumption during stable thermal conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the sensitivity parameter selectively based on detected temperature conditions rather than maintaining constant adjustment. By only modifying the sensitivity setting when temperature thresholds are breached or scene characteristics change, the system achieves adequate measurement precision while significantly reducing the energy consumption associated with continuous parameter optimization and repeated imaging operations.
3Measurement precision
If the integration time is extended to improve sensitivity, then the measurement precision improves, but the duration of action increases leading to slower frame rates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts integration time based on real-time temperature conditions and sensitivity settings. When high measurement precision is required for specific temperature ranges, the system extends integration time accordingly. Conversely, when temperature conditions are stable or the required precision level is lower, the system reduces integration time to maintain faster frame rates, thus resolving the contradiction between precision and speed through adaptive timing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system selectively changes the integration time parameter based on detected scene and ambient temperatures. By modulating this parameter in response to temperature threshold violations or changing thermal environments, the system achieves adequate measurement precision only when necessary, thereby preventing excessive duration of action and maintaining acceptable frame rates for most operational scenarios.
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 enhances image quality by ensuring high sensitivity and accurate temperature measurements across varying temperature conditions, while preventing saturation and improving gas detection and visualization.
Implementation Method 1
an infrared imager configured to capture a first infrared image of a scene
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques are provided for variable sensitivity in infrared imaging. In one example, an infrared imaging system includes an infrared imager and a logic device. The infrared imager is configured to capture a first infrared image of a scene using a sensitivity setting. The logic device is configured to determine a temperature associated with the scene based on a second infrared image of the scene. The logic device is further configured to determine the sensitivity setting based on an ambient temperature associated with the infrared imager and the temperature associated with the scene. Related devices and methods are also provided.