Abstract: A handheld, portable device is used to facilitate inspection of vehicles, by generating an electronic vehicle inspection record that can be used by fleet operators to provide evidence of complying with required vehicle inspections. When the vehicle inspection record is generated, route identification data is added to the inspection record. The route identification data defines which of a plurality of predefined routes the vehicle has serviced, or will service, during a time period proximate the inspection of the vehicle. Fleet operators can thus use archived inspection records as evidence of compliance with inspection requirements, and to document what route a vehicle serviced at a particular time.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for detecting an oil spill by using a satellite image, an apparatus for detecting an oil spill by using a satellite image, the apparatus including: a satellite image reception unit configured to receive a satellite image of a predicted oil spill area; a satellite image correction unit configured to correct the satellite image by compensating for the influences of the atmosphere and waves; a spectral angle mapper image generation unit configured to generate a spectral angle mapper image; a spectral vector distance image generation unit configured to generate a spectral vector distance image; and an oil spill area detection unit configured to derive the range of the oil spill area by combining the spectral angle mapper image and the spectral vector distance image together.

Abstract: A computer calculates a change amount of a total number of electrons from an observation start time in the ionosphere between an observation station and a satellite based on observation data of a signal received from the satellite by the observation station on the ground. The computer estimates the change amount of the total number of electrons to be calculated next based on the time change of the change amount of the total number of electrons from the observation start time in the ionosphere and calculates a difference (estimation error) between the estimated change amount of the total number of electrons and the actually calculated change amount of the total number of electrons. The computer calculates a correlation value between the estimation error calculated for each observation station and the estimation error calculated for a predetermined number of the observation stations in the vicinity of each observation station.

Abstract: A computer calculates a change amount of a total number of electrons from an observation start time in the ionosphere between an observation station and a satellite based on observation data of a signal received from the satellite by the observation station on the ground. The computer estimates the change amount of the total number of electrons to be calculated next based on the time change of the change amount of the total number of electrons from the observation start time in the ionosphere and calculates a difference (estimation error) between the estimated change amount of the total number of electrons and the actually calculated change amount of the total number of electrons. The computer calculates a correlation value between the estimation error calculated for each observation station and the estimation error calculated for a predetermined number of the observation stations in the vicinity of each observation station.

Abstract: A system and method for providing awareness in a hospitality environment are presented. In one embodiment, a vertical and horizontal array of set-top boxes is provided and each set-top box includes an identification corresponding to the room in which the set-top box is placed. Each set-top box includes an infrared receiver that receives an infrared signal from a proximate wireless-enabled programmable device and responsive thereto, transmits a data packet including set-top box identification and a proximate wireless-enabled programmable device identification. A server determines the location of the proximate wireless-enabled programmable device based on the data packet.

Abstract: Aircraft system and method detecting and present information relating to adverse airborne phenomena along an aircraft flight route. An imaging unit that includes an IR detector and a tunable spectral filter acquires IR images of the external environment, by acquiring wideband IR images when operating in a first mode and narrowband IR images respective of difference IR spectral bands when operating in a second mode. A data analysis unit detects and determines characteristics of adverse airborne phenomena in the environment based on at least the spectral signatures of environmental features in the acquired narrowband IR images. A display unit dynamically displays a visual representation of the detected adverse airborne phenomenon and its determined characteristics, overlaid onto a view of the external environment displayed to an operator of the aircraft.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a low-orbit satellite-borne image-spectrum associated detection method and payload. The method includes: (1) detecting and tracking moving targets and dynamic phenomena based on a pixel offset compensation method; and (2) performing multi-dimensional characteristic analysis on infrared spectra of the moving targets and the dynamic phenomena, to identify the moving targets and the dynamic phenomena. The payload includes a two-dimensional servo turntable, an infrared reflector, a multispectral infrared optical system, an infrared imaging unit, a broadband infrared spectrum measuring unit, a data processing unit and a control unit.

Abstract: A wearable, non-visible identification device that provides reliable, tamper proof, friendly-force identification and intruder detection. The device is integrated as a part of the wearer's uniform and includes a user input surface for periodic entry of a unit- or user-defined pass code. A timeout capability prevents the device and its identification signal from being used if the pass code is not entered within the specified time period. The preferred embodiment uses non-visible optical identification signals for 1-way identification using standard tactical equipment, making the device useful in the field during operations or at temporary security control points away from established bases. Alternative embodiments use radio-frequency, visible and reflective identification signals. All embodiments use identification signaling methods which are effective at safe stand-off distances to minimize the threat to security personnel.

Abstract: A method for detecting spectral characteristics of multi-band moving objects. The method includes: 1) dividing a full field of view into several subfields of view, and scanning and extracting suspected objects in each subfield one by one; 2) correlating interrelated suspected objects in adjacent subfields via coordinates to determine objects of interest that exist in the full field of view; 3) calculating the speeds of the objects of interest; 4) calculating average speed of all of the objects of interest and classifying the objects of interest according to their average speed; 5) compensating and rectifying the objective spectrum obtained from calculation; and 6) matching the compensated and rectified objective spectrum with a spectrum fingerprint database whereby realizing recognition of the multi-band moving objects.

Abstract: A method of sensing motion in a predetermined area is provided. The method may include using a digital output motion sensor to produce a digital output signal indicative of the presence of motion in the predetermined area. The method may further include transmitting the digital output signal along a signal path independent of analog amplification and filtering. The method may also include using a microprocessor coupled to the signal path to receive the digital output signal and to process the digital output signal.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for proximity detection include a passive proximity detecting device for detecting humans within a detection area and controlling a controlled device. A sensor includes a plurality of pixels arranged in a substantially contiguous array. Each pixel is configured to detect infrared radiation emitted by an object in a predetermined temperature range within the detection area. In response to detecting the object a detection signal is generated having a signal level proportional to the infrared radiation emitted by said object received by the sensor. A processor in communication with the sensor is configured to receive said detection signal, to derive an object distance and a second object parameter using, a signal level of the detection signal.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of performing photothermal chemical nanoidentification of a sample includes positioning a tip of a probe at a region of interest of the sample, with the tip-sample separation being less than about 10 nm. Then, IR electromagnetic energy having a selected frequency, ?, is directed towards the tip. Using PFT mode AFM operation, absorption of the energy at the region of interest is identified. Calorimetry may also be performed with the photothermal PFT system.

Abstract: Apparatus and a method for intercepting a rocket body during boost phase. A sensor is arranged to detect thermal emission in a range that is characteristic of a firing rocket body. The image detected by the sensor is applied to an analog-to-digital converter for digitization and application to a computer that includes a routine for separating the modulated photon energy of the detected image from the substantially unmodulated photon energy that characterizes rocket body emissions. The unmodulated photon energy, signature of the rocket body, may be utilized by a fire control system for tracking, targeting and aiming munitions at the firing rocket body.

Abstract: A system for proximity detection includes a first sensor and a second sensor each including a sensor housing and a pixel array each configured to detect infrared radiation emitted in a predetermined temperature range, and generate a detection signal. A processor in communication with the first and second sensor is configured to receive detection signals to derive parameters of the detected object including object distance from the sensors, size, position relative to the sensors, object speed, and direction of motion.

Abstract: A small sensor surface designed to control a smart phone or Mobile Internet Device (MID). The sensor surface may be mounted on the side of the proposed device in a position where a user's thumb or finger naturally falls when holding the device in his/her hand. The sensor surface is simultaneously convex and concave, providing both visual and physical cues for the use of the sensor surface. The sensor may include capacitive sensing, optical sensing and pressure sensing capabilities to interpret thumb gestures into device control.

Abstract: A display system configured for multi-touch input is provided. The display system comprises a display surface, a local light source to illuminate the display surface with infrared light, and an image-producing display panel. The image-producing display panel comprises a plurality of image sensor pixels positioned within a sensor layer of the image-producing display panel. The image-producing display panel further comprises an angularly-selective layer positioned between the display surface and the sensor layer, wherein the angularly-selective layer is configured to transmit light having a first range of incidence angles with the surface normal of the angularly-selective layer to a first sensor pixel of sensor layer, and to reflect light having a second range of incidence angles from a second sensor pixel of the sensor layer, where the second range is greater than the first range of incidence angles with respect to a surface normal of the sensor layer.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for a passive range finding proximity detector include a sensor element configured to detect infrared radiation emitted by objects within a detection area. The sensor is configured to detect the temperature, relative size, relative distance, speed or direction of movement of an object from the sensor. The sensor is configured to set parameters for a controlled object based upon the detected size, temperature and/or proximity, speed or direction of an object in relation to one or more size thresholds, temperature thresholds, and/or proximity, speed or direction thresholds.

Abstract: Disclosed is an image capturing device having an irradiation unit, an image capturing unit, and a color representation setting unit. The irradiation unit irradiates a subject with infrared rays having different wavelength intensity distributions, the image capturing unit captures images of the subject by the respective infrared rays having different wavelength distributions which are reflected by the subject, and forms image information indicating the respective images, and the color representation setting unit sets color representation information for representing the respective images, which are indicated by the formed image information, by different plain colors.

Abstract: Flame detectors and methods of detecting flames are described herein. One device includes an optical element configured to process mid wave infra-red light and long wave infra-red light emitted from an area, and a bolometer configured to detect a flame in the area based on the mid wave infra-red light and long wave infra-red light processed by the optical element.

Abstract: Disclosed is an image capturing device provided with an irradiation unit, an image capturing unit, and a color representation setting unit. The irradiation unit irradiates a subject with infrared rays having different wavelength intensity distributions, the image capturing unit captures images of the subject by the respective infrared rays being reflected by the subject and forming image information indicating the respective images, and the color representation setting unit sets color representation information for representing the respective images, which are indicated by the formed image information, by different plain colors.

Abstract: A system to detect occupants is provided. The system may rotate the field of views of multiple sensors in order to scan an area. The system may scan the area multiple times. The system may determine the number of occupants in the area based on a comparison of a scan of the area with a scan of the area when the area is determined to be unoccupied. The system may determine the number of occupants in the area based on a maximum number of occupants detected by any of the sensors. The system may also determine a location of an object or an occupant from scans of the area obtained from multiple sensors.

Abstract: A shield for use with a detector includes a first opening adjacent the detector, a second opening opposite the first opening along an optical axis intersecting the detector, and a field of view defined by the detector and the second opening. A shield body includes alternating curved profile regions and linear profile regions coaxially aligned along the optical axis. The curved profile regions have respective curved interior surfaces concave facing toward the second opening, and the linear profile regions have respective interior surfaces facing toward the first opening. In this way, specular reflections associated with stray light may be greatly reduced.

Abstract: Presently disclosed are concepts, systems, and techniques directed to augmenting a radar with a plurality of electro-optical (E/O) sensors. The E/O sensors operate in two or more IR bands and have variable range of sensitivities. The outputs from the E/O sensors are correlated to determine and confirm a launch or firing event of a missile, mortar, or similar projectile weapon. From this correlation, time and location of launch/firing may be determined and the radar system alerted to the new threat.

Abstract: In a method for determining the distance of an object flying through the atmosphere and emitting radiation energy, the spectral intensity distribution of the radiation emitted by the object in a predefined wavelength range is detected. An intensity distribution spectrum of the object is measured in the region of an absorption structure of the atmosphere, and a point having an extremal gradient on a flank of an intensity rise or fall, caused by the atmospheric absorption structure, in the measured intensity distribution spectrum is determined. The path length traveled by the radiation through the atmosphere, and therefore also the distance between the detector and the object, are determined by comparison with known transmission data for the atmosphere.

Abstract: A chip-scale infrared emitter package comprises an emitter chip and an enclosure. The emitter chip includes: a base having a central cavity; a membrane having a peripheral end, the peripheral end being isolated from a periphery of the central cavity by a loop-shaped gap; an electric resistor formed on the membrane; at least one slim supporting beam extending from the peripheral end of the membrane through the loop-shaped gap to the base; and a reflective material coated on the membrane. The enclosure has a can housing and a transparent window plate. The window plate cooperates with the can housing to define an enclosed vacuum chamber. The emitter chip is mounted in the enclosed vacuum chamber. The enclosed vacuum chamber has a pressure less than 0.01 torr.

Abstract: A process for the non-destructive determination of the quality of a weld seam, the process steps comprising: providing a first and a second component; connecting the first and second components by a weld seam produced by a welding operation; and measuring a surface temperature of the weld seam and surface temperatures of areas of the first and second components adjacent to the weld seam that were heated by the welding operation. A system for carrying out the process for the non-destructive determination of the quality of a weld seam, the system comprising: a measuring device, an analyzing unit, and a welding device.

Abstract: A method for detecting spectral characteristics of multi-band moving objects. The method includes: 1) dividing a full field of view into several subfields of view, and scanning and extracting suspected objects in each subfield one by one; 2) correlating interrelated suspected objects in adjacent subfields via coordinates to determine objects of interest that exist in the full field of view; 3) calculating the speeds of the objects of interest; 4) calculating average speed of all of the objects of interest and classifying the objects of interest according to their average speed; 5) compensating and rectifying the objective spectrum obtained from calculation; and 6) matching the compensated and rectified objective spectrum with a spectrum fingerprint database whereby realizing recognition of the multi-band moving objects.

Abstract: A method of sensing motion in a predetermined area is provided. The method may include using a digital output motion sensor to produce a digital output signal indicative of the presence of motion in the predetermined area. The method may further include transmitting the digital output signal along a signal path independent of analog amplification and filtering. The method may also include using a microprocessor coupled to the signal path to receive the digital output signal and to process the digital output signal.

Abstract: A method and system for detection and identification of concealed materials, is provided, wherein a dark image and two or more NIR sample images are taken at two or more key wavelengths or bands of wavelengths corresponding to peaks and/or valleys in the NIR spectra of known materials, and differential wavelength imaging processes are used to produce a differential wavelength image based on therein. The differential wavelength image is then analyzed/processed so as to detect any materials concealed on the target of interest, such as a human or piece of baggage, by calculation of pixel intensity values in the image and identification of distinctive pixel values. Then, via various methods, the distinctive pixel values of the detected materials are compared to a data set of known wavelengths related to known materials, such as explosives and other contraband. Correspondence thereof results in an accurate identification of the concealed material(s).

Abstract: Disclosed is a net radiometer that measures the net difference between incoming solar and outgoing terrestrial radiant flux energy in the combined short-wave and long-wave far infrared spectral range. In accordance with principles of the invention, a balanced net radiometer can be constructed where each thermal absorber is formed from two separate pieces joined together to form a single thermal mass. Within each thermal absorber, each piece is coated with a separate surface coating of different spectral sensitivity. By constructing an absorber from two separate pieces, it is possible to apply spectral coatings with different curing characteristics, to thermal absorber that acts as a single thermal mass. The pieces within each thermal absorber are sized in a proportion that thermally balances the absorber's thermal sensitivity between short-wave and long-wave far infrared radiant energy.

Abstract: A fire alarm consists of a housing in which sensors, a radiation source, and an optical window are disposed. A reflector protection basket or ring is disposed above the optical window. The basket or ring is suitable for protecting the optical window against mechanical influences, allows UV and IR radiation to pass through to a sufficient degree, and reflects UV and IR radiation from the housing interior, on its inside. Monitoring of the contamination of the window, function monitoring of the sensors and of the signal processing electronics, as well as easy replaceability of the components in the fire alarm are provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for detecting the presence of hydrocarbons near an unmanned offshore oil platform. The method steps include monitoring reflected atmospheric and thermal radiation, detecting the presence of hydrocarbons, and generating an alert based on the presence of hydrocarbons.

Abstract: A method of sensing motion in a predetermined area is provided. The method may include using a digital output motion sensor to produce a digital output signal indicative of the presence of motion in the predetermined area. The method may further include transmitting the digital output signal along a signal path independent of analog amplification and filtering. The method may also include using a microprocessor coupled to the signal path to receive the digital output signal and to process the digital output signal.

Abstract: In accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention, a portable inspection system is disclosed to capture inspection data, such as for example an infrared image, sound information, and/or electrical measurement information. The inspection data may be securely recorded (e.g., with an encryption algorithm) along with associated information, which may include for example date, time, system settings, operator identification, and location.

Abstract: An infrared imaging camera (4) acquires a plurality of frames (94) of infrared radiation from a patient (P) positioned in a field-of-view (92) of the camera (4). Each frame (94) is acquired during a corresponding frame sample interval and each frame (94) corresponds to the infrared radiation acquired from an array of optical elements (90) in the field-of-view (92) during its frame sample interval. Plural rates of change are determined from infrared radiation received from the array of optical elements (90), with each rate of change corresponding to a change of infrared radiation received from the same optical element (90) in at least two frames (94). Each rate of change is mapped to a color or a shade of gray and the color or shade of gray of each rate of change is mapped to a position in an image corresponding to the position of the corresponding optical element (90) in the field-of-view (92).

Abstract: In one embodiment, a system includes a multi-spectral pyrometry system configured to receive a broad wavelength band radiation signal from a turbine component, to split the broad wavelength band radiation signal into multiple narrow wavelength band radiation signals, to determine emissivity of the turbine component based on the narrow wavelength band radiation signals, and to detect spall on a surface of the turbine component based on the emissivity.

Abstract: A method and device for evaluating a solar cell each of which makes it possible to easily evaluate a defect of a solar cell especially in such a manner that an internal cause defect and an external cause defect are distinguished from each other. The device includes: electric current passing means for passing, in a forward direction, an electric current through a solar cell element constituting the solar cell; light emission detecting means for detecting, out of light emitted from the solar cell element due to the electric current passed by the electric current passing means, light in a first range of wavelengths from 800 nm to 1300 nm and light in a second range of wavelengths from 1400 nm to 1800 nm; and judging means for distinguishing between an internal cause defect and an external cause defect.

Abstract: A system for detecting defects in a combustion duct of a combustion system of a combustion turbine engine while the combustion turbine engine operates, wherein the combustion duct comprises a hot side, which is exposed to combustion gases and, opposing the hot side, a cold side. In one embodiment, the system comprises: a photodetector aimed at the cold side of the combustion duct, the photodetector being configured to detect a visible change to the cold side of the combustion duct.

Abstract: The disclosed earthquake vapor theory, statistically significant in practice, overcomes two difficulties: the dependency on cold weather to pinpoint an earthquake epicenter and the time window not being short enough for evacuation. Finding a vapor nozzle based on boiling temperature can solve the former. Isolating the nozzle to find the next peak of daily maximum after vapor eruption can solve the latter by narrowing the time window to 1-2 days. The embodiments may also be utilized to prevent mysterious air and sea accidents.

Abstract: Provided are a multi-frequency millimeter-wave very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) receiving system and a method of designing a quasi optical circuit for the multi-frequency millimeter-wave VLBI receiving system. The multi-frequency millimeter-wave VLBI receiving system includes a plurality of low pass filters, offset ellipsoidal mirrors, and flat mirrors for dividing a cosmic radio wave signal incident through the troposphere. A beam propagated from a celestial point is introduced into a receiver room via a 45-degree flat mirror and is divided into a plurality of beams by using a plurality of low pass filters having different bandwidths and mirrors, and the divided beams are transmitted to corresponding quasi-optical receivers having different bandwidths via a plurality of mirrors. Therefore, radio astronomic observations can be simultaneously performed in 22 GHz, 43 GHz, 86 GHz, and 129 GHz bands, and phase variations of electromagnetic waves in the bands can be compensated for.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a method and apparatus for attaching a close proximity filter to an FPA (focal plane array) and more particularly, to a method and apparatus that allows improved spectral discrimination of a mid-wave infra red (MWIR) detector by applying an improved multi-color filter to a focal plane array (FPA), while employing existing production equipment and techniques to reduce cost and improve production yield.

Abstract: Method and system for optical detection of nano-objects in a refracting medium. A nano-object (n_oi) and the refractive medium are illuminated (A) with a periodically amplitude modulated coherent electromagnetic heating wave (HB(?)), to generate a specified temperature and refractive index profile in the vicinity of the nano-object, and with a coherent electromagnetic probe wave (PB) to generate an emerging probe wave (EPB(?)) having at least one intensity component amplitude modulated by a beat at the modulation frequency of the coherent heating wave. The intensity component amplitude modulated by a beat is detected (C) in the emerging wave (EPB(?)), to distinguish and represent this nano-object in the refractive medium. The invention is useful in the detection of nano-objects in an industrial, physiological or intracellular medium.

Abstract: In accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention, a portable inspection system is disclosed to capture inspection data, such as for example an infrared image, sound information, and/or electrical measurement information. The inspection data may be securely recorded (e.g., with an encryption algorithm) along with associated information, which may include for example date, time, system settings, operator identification, and location.

Abstract: A detector assembly for imaging a scene over a predetermined temperature range and a predetermined wavelength range including a central wavelength includes an imaging-sensor array, a plurality of focusing elements and a plurality of optical filtering elements. The imaging-sensor array includes a plurality of detector-array sections and the focusing elements are arranged with respect to the detector array such that each focusing element is capable of focusing upon a corresponding one of the detector-array sections an image of the scene correlating to the image of the scene that each of the other focusing elements is capable of focusing upon the detector-array section corresponding thereto. Each focusing element and the detector-array section corresponding thereto defines an associated optical path.

Abstract: A first band pass filter selects and transmits light having an infrared wavelength specific to flame. A first infrared-ray receiving element receives the light from the first band pass filter. A second band pass filter selects and transmits light having an infrared wavelength which is not the infrared wavelength specific to flame. A second infrared-ray receiving element receives the light from the second band pass filter. A first output of the first infrared-ray receiving element is compared with a second output of the second infrared-ray receiving element to detect the flame.

Abstract: A test source that combines infrared energy and visible light to produce a uniform output of energy in the visible and infrared spectra is disclosed. The test source includes an infrared energy source and a visible light source. The infrared energy source has a white coating thereon. The visible light source emits visible light onto the infrared light source, which generates a combination of infrared energy and visible light outwardly into the surrounding atmosphere.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to the field of motion detection sensors, and in particular to a system and method for adjusting the position of a printed circuit board relative to a focusing element. The invention includes a housing having a front opening and an interior cavity. A focusing element is located within the front opening and the detector is coupled to a printed circuit board located within the interior cavity. A cover is coupled to the printed circuit board and disposed within the interior cavity. A cam is operatively coupled with the cover and the printed circuit board for adjusting the position of the printed circuit board such that the detector's position is adjusted relative to the focusing element.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for evaluating the performance of a solar cell which comprises a silicon semiconductor as the main component. This method comprises a current introduction step for introducing a direct current into a solar cell element constituting the solar cell in the forward direction, and an emission sensing step for sensing emission characteristics of the light emitted from the solar cell element due to the current introduction step. By this method, the photoelectric conversion performance of a solar cell can be simply and accurately evaluated without requiring large-sized equipment.

Abstract: An image pickup apparatus for outputting an image corresponding to a situation of a subject to an outside, including: a far-infrared camera for detecting an electromagnetic wave in a far-infrared radiation region; a visible-light camera for detecting a visible light, the visible-light camera including a luminance determining portion for determining the situation depending on a luminance of the detected visible light, and a lightness determining portion for determining the situation depending on lightness of the detected visible light; and a switching-over portion for switching an image captured by the far-infrared camera, and an image captured by the visible-light camera over to each other in accordance with the determination made by the luminance determining portion and the determination made by the lightness determining portion.

Abstract: A passive infra-red detector including at least three sub-detectors, each sub-detector being operative to receive infra-red radiation from a corresponding one of at least three sub fields-of-view, each sub field-of-view being exclusively defined by an optical element which does not define any other sub field of view, the sub fields-of-view being angled with respect to each other, adjacent ones of the sub fields-of-view being separated by a gap of no more than 30 degrees and at least one of the sub fields-of-view having at least one of the following characteristics: extending over no more then 45 degrees in azimuth; and including not more than three azimuthally distributed detection zones, and signal processing circuitry, operative to receive output signals from the sub detectors and to provide a motion detection output.