Abstract: An apparatus and method for forming stabilized thermal images of thermally active objects in an objected scene using a pyroelectric detector and which does not require chopping or rapid panning. The invention includes focusing optics for focusing thermal radiation flux from a thermally active object under investigation onto a pyroelectric detector. The output signal generated by the pyroelectric detector is decoupled of its DC offset component. The output signal is then mixed with the results of the decoupled signal passing through a gain and level control. The result is that the invention acts to track and boost the decay in the pyroelectric image when the detector is staring at a static image. The resulting image is amplified to match the input requirements of a level detector that drives a selected thermal image display. In order to adequately display the thermal center of mass, the thermal image is combined with the visual image of the thermally active object under investigation.

Abstract: A thermal writing device which changes color in response to induced temperature changes and a method for making such a device is disclosed. The thermal writing device includes a flexible substrate with low thermal mass for rapidly assimilating temperatures. Thermochromic inks which change color when subjected to temperature changes are printed upon or incorporated within this flexible substrate. The flexible substrate is disposed upon a support material having low thermal mass and poor heat conductance to facilitate rapid color transitions by the thermochromic inks with minimal expenditures of energy.

Abstract: The present invention, the Videophone, is a compact audio/video device that is capable of both sending and receiving audio and visual signals, and is designed to be compatible with standard telephone equipment. The Videophone includes a modified speakerphone, a camera, a viewing screen, and an imaging system based upon a revolving disk of film having a series of holographic apertures which divide the subject image into elements of light. The disk has two bands which are used to alternately scan and reproduce an image. The visual image is process by unique circuitry that can, for ease of manufacture, be contained on a single customized chip. The videophone has the capability to transmit a full motion picture of reasonably good quality. Moreover, audio transmission is not blocked during transmission of the video signal.

Abstract: An electro-optical technique for the efficient scanning of many different forms of transparent media. The method utilizes synchronous closed loop scanning (integrated scanning). The subject is illuminated with a predetermined light source level. The source is directed by a scanner to the transparent media. The illumination is then electro-optically processed and immediately fed back through the same scanner to the subject media. The resulting feedback creates an image signal that actively illuminates the media, providing only as much light as is required to detect the image. The signal thus created can be used to create a very high resolution reproduction of the subject image. The image can be reproduced immediately for viewing and transmission or stored as a video record. In addition, the image can be manipulated or integrated with other images for analysis, measurement, or presentation purposes.

Abstract: A scanning imaging system in which the viewing and reproduction functions are integrated into a single scanning head. The scanning system is economical in terms of cost and function, and is useful in many applications such as modem, photocopier and even photographic technologies.

Abstract: A circuit for processing the electrical signals from a phototransistor viewing objects through a scanning aperture. The circuit reduces the apparent size of the viewing aperture for increased resolution in a scanning system.