Infrared-to-visible Imaging Patents (Class 250/330)
  • Publication number: 20130048855
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a camera, computer program, and method for determining and displaying temperature rates of change for objects within the camera's field of view. More specifically, the embodiments provide for the continuous, real-time temperature measurement and display of a plurality of objects within the camera's field of view, and further for the real-time processing and display of the temperature rates of change for said objects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: CUSTOM SCENE TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    Inventor: Gabriel G. Abreo
  • Patent number: 8384783
    Abstract: An IR camera includes a thermal radiation capturing arrangement for capturing thermal radiation of an imaged view in response to input control unit(s) receiving user inputs from a user of the IR camera; a processing unit arranged to process the thermal radiation data in order for the thermal radiation data to be displayed by an IR camera display as thermal images; and an IR camera display arranged to display thermal images to a user of the IR camera. The processing unit is further arranged to determine at least one temperature reference value representing the temperature of the surrounding environment of the imaged view; and calculate at least one output power value indicative of an amount of energy dissipated in a part of the imaged view by using the temperature value of the thermal radiation data corresponding to said part of the imaged view and the at least one determined temperature reference value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Flir Systems AB
    Inventors: Katrin Strandemar, Henrik Jönsson, Torbjörn Hamrelius, Gunnar Palm
  • Patent number: 8379134
    Abstract: Object detection and selection for use in a device having digital camera functionality is described. The mechanism detects the occurrence of a gesture by a pointing member in an image frame captured by an IR image sensor. The gesture is then recognized and an object pointed to is detected. The object detected is then selected as a result of the gesture recognition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Research In Motion Limited
    Inventor: Brett Foster
  • Patent number: 8379091
    Abstract: The invention relates to an infrared camera comprising an optical zoom, characterized in that it comprises: —a matrix detector (5) comprising a cooled screen, a matrix able to detect infrared radiation; —a module (123) for modifying the focal length of the camera, the modifying module being able to vary the focal length of the camera so as to ensure the optical zoom function of the camera; and —an imager module (L4) able to ensure, for all the values of focal length of the camera: on the one hand the focusing of the infrared radiation on the matrix of the detector, and on the other hand the conjugation of the pupil of the camera on the cooled screen of the detector. The invention also relates to a method of observing a scene with the camera according to the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Sagem Defense Securite
    Inventors: Sylvie Colentier, Frédéric Duval
  • Patent number: 8373758
    Abstract: Techniques for analyzing performance of solar panels and/or cells are provided. In one aspect, a method for analyzing an infrared thermal image taken using an infrared camera is provided. The method includes the following steps. The infrared thermal image is converted to temperature data. Individual elements are isolated in the infrared thermal image. The temperature data for each isolated element is tabulated. A performance status of each isolated element is determined based on the tabulated temperature data. The individual elements can include solar panels and/or solar cells. In another aspect, an infrared diagnostic system is provided. The infrared diagnostic system includes an infrared camera which can be remotely positioned relative to one or more elements to be imaged; and a computer configured to receive thermal images from the infrared camera, via a communication link, and analyze the thermal images.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Supratik Guha, Yves C. Martin, Robert L. Sandstrom, Theodore Gerard van Kessel
  • Patent number: 8374438
    Abstract: An imaging device and system include integration of an imaging camera (visible-light or near-infrared) with a thermal infrared sensor, capturing a baseline image from this camera simultaneously with acquisition of baseline thermal infrared data, which may correspond to a known good condition or part, automatic generation of an edge version of the baseline image for use as an alignment template, and on subsequent thermal infrared inspections, superposition of the alignment template on a live video image from the visible camera, so as to facilitate highly repeatable alignment of the thermal infrared sensor to an object being inspected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Redshift Systems Corporation
    Inventor: Matthias Wagner
  • Patent number: 8373757
    Abstract: Various techniques are provided to perform flat field correction for infrared cameras. In one example, a method of calibrating an infrared camera includes calibrating a focal plane array (FPA) of the infrared camera to an external scene to determine a set of flat field correction values associated with a first optical path from the external scene to the FPA. The method also includes calibrating the FPA to a shutter of the infrared camera to determine a set of flat field correction values associated with a second optical path from the shutter to the FPA. The method also includes using the flat field correction values associated with the first and second optical paths to calculate a set of supplemental flat field correction values to apply to thermal image data obtained with the infrared camera. The method also includes storing the supplemental flat field correction values.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Flir Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Vu L. Nguyen
  • Patent number: 8368021
    Abstract: In a temperature measuring device (1) an IR-radiation detector (2) and a reference element (3) are provided, connected to a surface (6) of an object (7) in a heat-conducting fashion, with a first area (4) with high emissivity and a second area (5) with high reflectivity formed at the reference element (3), and the IR-radiation detector (2) is equipped for a separate detection of IR-radiation (9, 10, 11) from the first and second areas (4, 5) and a surface area (12) of the object (7). A computer (13) in the IR-radiation detector (2) is equipped to deduct a temperature measurement for the object (7), corrected for emissions and reflections from the detected IR-radiations (9, 10, 11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Testo AG
    Inventors: Martin Stratmann, Sabine Hinkel, Daniel Auer, Patrick Zahn, Andreas Messerschmid
  • Patent number: 8362429
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Albert Ballard Andrews, Wei-Chuan Shih, Matthew Clayton, Oliver C. Mullins
  • Patent number: 8357898
    Abstract: A thermal imaging camera is provided with at least two different sensitivities for alternating reading and with has a device for linking at least two more and less sensitive images read consecutively. The recording and displaying of thermal images makes it possible to combine images with two different dynamic ranges in a common thermal image, wherein the noise and drift of the pixel signals as well as the amount of storage needed for buffering and processing are reduced at the same time. An image buffering unit is designed as a common accumulator (8) for both more sensitive and less sensitive original images (B) and makes available a common output image (A).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Dräger Safety AG & Co. KGaA
    Inventors: Frank Weisbach, Ingo Kaneblei, Markus Wansing
  • Patent number: 8355536
    Abstract: A passive electro-optical tracker uses a two-band IR intensity ratio to discriminate high-speed projectiles and obtain a speed estimate from their temperature, as well as determining the trajectory back to the source of fire. In an omnidirectional system a hemispheric imager with an MWIR spectrum splitter forms two CCD images of the environment. Three methods are given to determine the azimuth and range of a projectile, one for clear atmospheric conditions and two for nonhomogeneous atmospheric conditions. The first approach uses the relative intensity of the image of the projectile on the pixels of a CCD camera to determine the azimuthal angle of trajectory with respect to the ground, and its range. The second calculates this angle using a different algorithm. The third uses a least squares optimization over multiple frames based on a triangle representation of the smeared image to yield a real-time trajectory estimate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Light Prescriptions Innovators LLC
    Inventors: Ilya Agurok, Waqidi Falicoff, Roberto Alvarez
  • Patent number: 8354639
    Abstract: The invention relates to an IR camera for capturing thermal images of an imaged view, the IR camera comprising an IR camera display arranged to display the captured thermal images to a user of the IR camera according to a view parameter setting. The IR camera is characterized in that it further comprises a display control unit arranged to automatically adjust the view parameter setting in the IR camera display based on a temperature reference area in the captured thermal images, wherein the temperature reference area is obtained using an indication means when a manual indication is performed by the user of the IR camera. The invention further relates to a method for adjusting view parameter settings in an IR camera and a computer program product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: FLIR Systems AB
    Inventors: Henrik Jönsson, Erland George-Svahn
  • Publication number: 20130001421
    Abstract: Disclosed are a method and an apparatus for analyzing a sample using terahertz waves. The method of analyzing a sample using terahertz waves includes: generating terahertz waves; simultaneously radiating two or more electromagnetic waves with different radiation angles, using the terahertz waves with a transmitting antenna; receiving the two or more electromagnetic waves transmitting the sample with a receiving antenna; and acquiring an analysis image of the sample by processing the received two or more electromagnetic waves In accordance with the present invention, it is possible to reduce the time taken to acquire an analysis image of a sample by simultaneously radiating terahertz waves with different radiation angels from one antenna.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2012
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute
    Inventors: Seong-Min PYO, Wang-Joo LEE, Jae-Ick CHOI
  • Patent number: 8339457
    Abstract: An imaging device for real-time display of image data on a local display and on a remote display is disclosed. In some embodiments, the imaging device can include an imaging engine, a memory device for storing image data, and a processor for receiving the image data from the imaging engine, storing the image data in the memory device, retrieving the image data from the memory device, and transmitting the image data to both a local display and remote display so that the image data can be viewed on both the remote display and local display simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Fluke Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas Heinke
  • Publication number: 20120318979
    Abstract: An infra-red sensor comprising an infra-red lens, an infra-red detector and a processing and control circuit connected to the detector and arranged to provide an output infrared image signal, a heat extraction device for dissipating excess heat from the sensor, and a passive thermal distribution system comprising at least one first heat pipe linking the processing and control circuit board thermally to the heat extraction device, and at least one second heat pipe linking the lens thermally to the processing and control circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2012
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Applicant: Thales Holdings UK Plc
    Inventor: Stephen PALLISTER
  • Patent number: 8334513
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods are provided for enhancing inspections using cameras through in-field displays and performance calculations. A field transportable apparatus typically includes a camera and programmable device having memory and logic. Generally the apparatus includes an interactive user interface suitable for displaying images and prompting response and accepting input from the camera operator in the field during an inspection. An operator may designate at least one thing of interest on a displayed infrared image; and the programmable device may uses an understood aspect of the object in the intended function to determine a performance characteristic of the object. An output display may be used to report the performance characteristic to the operator in the field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: CSI Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond Earl Garvey, III, Robert Darrell Skeirik
  • Patent number: 8335606
    Abstract: Analysis of a vehicle is performed using multi-dimensional infrared image data acquired for the vehicle. A component of the vehicle can be identified within the infrared image data, and the infrared image data for the component can be analyzed to determine whether any condition(s) are present on the vehicle. One or more actions can be initiated in response to a determination that a particular condition is present. Additionally, visible image data can be used to supplement the infrared image data. Still further, infrared image data for similar components imaged concurrently with the component can be used to identify whether any condition(s) are present on the vehicle. Unlike prior art approaches in the rail industry, the analysis can be performed on rail vehicles within a classification yard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: International Electronic Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Zahid F. Mian, Jeremy C. Mullaney, Nicholas Glasser
  • Publication number: 20120305770
    Abstract: An article of apparel such as a necktie, hat, cap, eyeglasses, or a pendant, that has battery-powered infrared (IR) light emitter(s) such as IR-emitting LEDs, in a pattern so that the light emitted when the IR emitters are energized is not visible to the naked eye, yet displays a message that can be electronically seen by an IR detecting and display device, such as a digital camera and smart phone. The arrangement of the IR emitters can form a pattern of a text character, a sign, a mark, an image, or other message, the selection of which can be controlled by a microprocessor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2012
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Inventor: Eduardo MINERA
  • Patent number: 8324575
    Abstract: A liquid-tight sealed assembly comprises a housing for a night vision device and a transmissive window, wherein the transmissive window permits a signal to pass-through the transmissive window for programming or controlling the night vision device within the housing. A night vision imaging sensor assembly comprises an electronic module disposed within a housing of a night vision device, a control assembly disposed externally of the housing, and a control interface of the housing interposed between the electronic module and the control assembly. The control assembly and the electronic module are configured to transmit and receive signals. The control interface permits a signal to pass-through the housing while preventing environmental leakage into the housing. The transmissive window permits signals, such as infra-red, capacitive, or magnetic signals, to pass-through. The assembly minimizes environmental leakage paths into the housing, thereby preventing damage from environmental contaminants such as moisture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Exelis, Inc.
    Inventors: William Eric Garris, Raymond Jeng
  • Publication number: 20120297969
    Abstract: The technology can include a retractable rotary turret system. The system includes a base comprising two support arms. The system further includes a turret platform that is a truncated sphere having a substantially flat side and a substantially spherical side. The turret platform includes a turret support ring rotary coupled to the two support arms and a turret device isolatively coupled to the turret support ring. The turret platform is rotatable along a first dimension for deployment of the spherical side and is rotatable along the first dimension for deployment of the flat side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2011
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicant: RAYTHEON COMPANY
    Inventors: William B. King, John D. Isker, Chaunchy F. Mckearn, Eric J. Griffin
  • Publication number: 20120298866
    Abstract: A snowmobile is disclosed, the snowmobile comprising a terrain visualization device. The device comprises a mounting structure fixed to the snowmobile, and a light emitting unit attached to the mounting structure. The light emitting unit is configured to project a predetermined contrast pattern onto terrain in front of the snowmobile in use. A method for driving a snowmobile across terrain is also disclosed, the method comprising projecting a predetermined contrast pattern onto the terrain using a light emitting unit while driving the snowmobile across the terrain, so that the topography of the terrain can be determined from distortion of the contrast pattern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Inventor: Julian Stevens
  • Patent number: 8309925
    Abstract: A method comprising polarizing and coupling an electromagnetic beam to a first-order transverse electric (TE1) mode with respect to a parallel plate waveguide (PPWG) integrated resonator comprising two plates and a cavity, sending the electromagnetic beam into the PPWG integrated resonator to excite the cavity by the TE1 mode and cause a resonance response, and obtaining wave amplitude data that comprises a resonant frequency, and obtaining the refractive index of fluids filling the cavity via the shift in resonant frequency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: William Marsh Rice University
    Inventors: Rajind Mendis, Daniel M. Mittleman
  • Patent number: 8309899
    Abstract: Image acquisition systems utilizing a pixilated transducer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Science Research Laboratory, Inc.
    Inventors: Shrenik Deliwala, Allen M. Flusberg
  • Patent number: 8304727
    Abstract: An image sensor is capable of judging proximity to a subject. The image sensor judges the distance to the subject using a change in output voltage value by the presence or absence of a specific band of wavelengths of infrared (IR) measured by optical sensors such as proximity pixels. Thereby, the image sensor enables an ordinary image sensor to easily realize a proximity function, and makes it possible to minimize damage to a quality of image when the image is picked up in a night photography mode or in a proximity photography mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Siliconfile Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Byoung-Su Lee, Young-Ho Seo
  • Patent number: 8304728
    Abstract: Embodiments of the subject invention relate to a method and apparatus for infrared (IR) detection. Organic layers can be utilized to produce a phototransistor for the detection of IR radiation. The wavelength range of the IR detector can be modified by incorporating materials sensitive to photons of different wavelengths. Quantum dots of materials sensitive to photons of different wavelengths than the host organic material of the absorbing layer of the phototransistor can be incorporated into the absorbing layer so as to enhance the absorption of photons having wavelengths associated with the material of the quantum dots. A photoconductor structure can be used instead of a phototransistor. The photoconductor can incorporate PbSe or PbS quantum dots. The photoconductor can incorporate organic materials and part of an OLED structure. A detected IR image can be displayed to a user. Organic materials can be used to create an organic light-emitting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: University of Florida Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventor: Franky So
  • Publication number: 20120273680
    Abstract: A method of visually detecting a leak of a chemical emanating from a component includes aiming a passive infrared camera system towards the component; filtering an infrared image with an optical bandpass filter, the infrared image being that of the leak; after the infrared image passes through the lens and optical bandpass filter, receiving the filtered infrared image with an infrared sensor device; electronically processing the filtered infrared image received by the infrared sensor device to provide a visible image representing the filtered infrared image; and visually identifying the leak based on the visible image. The passive infrared camera system includes: a lens; a refrigerated portion including the infrared sensor device and the optical bandpass filter (located along an optical path between the lens and the infrared sensor device). At least part of a pass band for the optical bandpass filter is within an absorption band for the chemical.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2012
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicant: LEAK SURVEYS, INC.
    Inventor: David W. Furry
  • Patent number: 8289372
    Abstract: The invention is achieved by using a method for displaying a thermal image in an infrared (IR) thermal camera, comprising the steps of registering an outdoor temperature value, registering an indoor temperature value, calculating an isotherm level by using the registered temperature values and a temperature color alarm level, imaging a surface area to create an image of the temperature distribution in at least a part of the surface area, comparing the surface area temperature in at least one image point of the thermal image to the isotherm level, adjusting the color of the at least one image point in dependence of the relation between the surface area temperature in said at least one image point and the isotherm level and displaying the colored thermal image. The invention allows you to determine immediately, on-site, if a building is well insulated or not. It presents an easily interpreted and understandable thermal image which instantly draws a users attention to an identified critical area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Flir Systems AB
    Inventors: Torbjörn Hamrelius, Mats Ahlström
  • Publication number: 20120256088
    Abstract: A system for use in identifying a user includes a portable emitter transported with the user. The emitter includes a quantum cascade laser configured to emit a thermal beam identifying a location of the user in response to a command, the thermal beam having a wavelength between approximately 2 ?m and approximately 30 ?m.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2012
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Inventors: Daniel Joseph BALONEK, Christopher A. Gagliano, Susan Houde-Walter
  • Patent number: 8283617
    Abstract: A display device is applied to a light sensing system. The display device includes a display module and a pattern layer. The pattern layer is made of optical material and formatted on the display module. The pattern layer includes patterned optical material and gaps without optical material. The pattern layer selectively reflects or absorbs invisible light with specific wavelength emitted from the display module, such that a light sensor cannot sense the invisible light reflected or absorbed by the optical material or just can sense a little invisible light through the optical material. However, the invisible light can be emitted out of the gaps without the optical material, such that the light sensor can selectively sense the invisible light. Based on the light sensing result, the light sensor can recognize the corresponding pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignees: Silitek Electronic (Guangzhou) Co., Ltd., Lite-On Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Meng-Hsin Kuo, Chia-Hsi Tsai
  • Publication number: 20120241613
    Abstract: One embodiment provides an infrared imaging device, including: a substrate; connection wiring portions arranged in matrix form on the substrate; a first infrared detecting portion configured to convert intensity of absorbed infrared radiation into a first signal; and a second infrared detecting portion configured to convert intensity of absorbed infrared radiation into a second signal, the second infrared detecting portion being larger in thermal conductance than the first infrared detecting portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2012
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA
    Inventors: Koichi ISHII, Kazuhiro SUZUKI, Hiroto HONDA, Hideyuki FUNAKI, Risako UENO, Honam KWON
  • Patent number: 8269169
    Abstract: A polarimetric sensor includes a substrate and a plurality of aligned nanotube film patches arranged on the substrate. Each of the plurality of aligned nanotube film patches is oriented on the substrate to sense a different orientational component of electromagnetic radiation. For each of the plurality of aligned nanotube film patches, at least two contacts are arranged in electrical communication with the respective aligned nanotube film patch. The at least two electrodes are configured to conduct to an external circuit an electric signal generated in the respective aligned nanotube film patch when exposed to a respective orientational component of electromagnetic radiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Steven W. Sinton, Carey L. Cates
  • Publication number: 20120223229
    Abstract: An apparatus visualizing internal information of an object includes a detection unit of terahertz wave, a generating unit of a time waveform of the terahertz wave, a modulation unit, an adjustment unit, and an addition unit. The modulation unit sequentially performs spatial modulation on a propagation distance for each pixel of a terahertz wave corresponding to a pixel in a horizontal direction by using a plurality of modulation patterns, and emits a plurality of terahertz waves. Based on a time amount converted from the change of the propagation distances corresponding to the modulation patterns, the adjustment unit adjusts a position on a time axis of the time waveforms of a plurality of terahertz waves and calculates a new plurality of time waveforms. The addition unit adds a new time waveform for each pixel. The apparatus can suppress reduction in signal intensity of a terahertz wave while maintaining detection sensitivity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2012
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Applicant: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Takeaki Itsuji
  • Publication number: 20120223230
    Abstract: A method is provided for producing an article which is transparent to infrared radiation. The method includes the steps of (a) disposing a population of nanoparticles on a substrate, wherein the population of spherical nanoparticles has a population variance of less than 10% in at least one parameter selected from the group consisting of diameter and maximum dimension; (b) subjecting the nanoparticles to spark plasma sintering, thereby producing a sintered product; and (c) removing the sintered product from the substrate as a self-supporting mass.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2012
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Inventors: Duraiswamy Ravichandran, Devan Balachari
  • Patent number: 8253105
    Abstract: A thermal imaging system to facilitate analysis of thermal images comprises a portable thermal imager having a communication interface for transfer of data. The imager also has an on-board memory in which image data for corresponding thermal images is stored. A remote computer is operative to communicate with the thermal imager via the communication interface for download of the image data. The computer runs software operative to superimpose at least one marker at a selected location on a thermal image, the marker being saved on the image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Fluke Corporation
    Inventors: Stefan Warnke, James T. Pickett
  • Publication number: 20120211655
    Abstract: Provided is an optical arrangement of the infrared camera comprising a lens unit in which a lens is supported by a frame body, an infrared detector module in which an infrared detector for detecting amount of an infrared ray transmitted through the lens as a heat and converting the infrared rays to an image signal is sealed in a housing having a window portion, and a shutter provided between the lens and the infrared detector module. A detector surface of the infrared detector, the window portion, the shutter, and the lens are arranged such that an inclination angle of a virtual straight line which connects each corner portion of the detector surface, the window portion and a maximum aperture of the shutter, and edge portion of an effective lens area of a lens closest to the shutter against to an optical axis is 25° to 35°, is adopted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2012
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Applicant: TAMRON CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Atsushi Koide
  • Publication number: 20120205540
    Abstract: A method is provided for producing an article which is transparent to infrared radiation. The method includes the steps of (a) disposing a plurality of nanoparticles on a substrate, wherein said nanoparticles comprise a metal sulfide or a metal selenide; (b) subjecting the nanoparticles to spark plasma sintering, thereby producing a sintered product; and (c) removing the sintered product from the substrate as a self-supporting mass.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2012
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Inventors: Duraiswamy Ravichandran, Devan Balachari
  • Patent number: 8244424
    Abstract: The invention relates to a database and a method of generating a database containing topographical information on obstacles distributed over a geographic area subdivided into cells. The method includes reading topographical data obtained from heterogeneous sources. Topographical data are generated which relate to pointlike obstacles from the information collected from the topographical data. Topographical data are generated which relate to linear obstacles from the information collected from the topographical data. The obstacle database is created. Each cell contains a link to the obstacles whose coordinates in the geographic area covered by the cell are recorded with an uncertainty value. In particular, the invention applies to the generation of a database on board an aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Thales
    Inventors: Michel Subelet, Sylvain Fontaine
  • Patent number: 8242444
    Abstract: An optical device for viewing an image is provided. The optical device includes two optical channels, each optical channel including an image detector assembly and a complimentary objective lens assembly spaced by a respective distance from the image detector assembly. A focus mechanism is either directly or indirectly coupled to both image detector assemblies. The focus mechanism includes two threaded segments having an unequal thread pitch. Each image detector assembly includes a mating threaded segment that is threadedly coupled to a respective threaded segment of the focus mechanism such that rotation of the focus mechanism causes translation of both image detector assemblies at unequal rates by virtue of the unequal thread pitch of the threaded segments of the focus mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Exelis, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles D. Willey
  • Patent number: 8242445
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: FLIR Sysems, Inc.
    Inventors: Tom Scanlon, James T. Woolaway, Robert P. Madding
  • Publication number: 20120193534
    Abstract: A method of assembling and hermetically sealing a package including a side wall mounted on a substrate, with the space thus defined accommodating a component that operates in a controlled atmosphere, the space being closed off by a hermetic sealing cover mounted on said side wall. This method involves depositing a metallic connector element, also referred to as a brazing preform, on the upper face of the side wall; depositing the upper cover on, and in contact with, the brazing preform; subjecting the assembly thus obtained to the desired environment in terms of the kind of gas and operating pressure of the component; increasing the temperature to a value that is at least in excess of the melting temperature of the material that constitutes the brazing preform; then lowering said temperature in order to cause solidification of said brazing material and, consequently, sealing of the cover on the side wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2011
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Applicant: ULIS
    Inventors: Frédéric PERRATONE, Didier Simon
  • Patent number: 8223206
    Abstract: Various techniques are provided for identifying filters used with infrared cameras. A plurality of filters may be installed in a filter wheel of an infrared camera. Identifiers associated with the filters may be read by the infrared camera to identify the various types of filters currently installed in the filter wheel. The installed filters can be selected by the camera or a user for use in particular applications as desired. For example, filters may be selected based on associations between the filters, filter identifiers, and targets stored in a table or other record maintained by the infrared camera. Settings of the infrared camera may be adjusted in response to filter selections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: FLIR Systems, inc.
    Inventors: Brian Cromwell, Calvin Banks
  • Patent number: 8217375
    Abstract: In an integrated gimbal and High-Powered Multiband Laser (HPMBL) for use in an infrared countermeasure apparatus in a pod mounted on an aircraft, the improvement comprises an optical bench that connects the optical path between side-by-side mounted gimbal and high power laser; and a kinematic mounting system that prevents optical bench bending.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: BAE Systems Information and Electronic Systems Integration Inc.
    Inventors: Heather L. Keegan, Robert C. Guyer, William T. Fielder, Donald K. Smith
  • Publication number: 20120168624
    Abstract: A measurement system including a reference resistive sensor traversed by a reference current, with a reference arm having a reference resistance and being traversed by the reference current in order to produce a reference voltage between its ends, at least one measurement resistive sensor traversed by a measurement current that depends on a measurement taken by the measurement resistive sensor, a measurement mirror arm traversed by a current, and a device for measuring the difference between the measurement current and the current traversing the measurement mirror arm. The resistance of the measurement mirror arm of each measurement resistive sensor is equal to the reference resistance and the measurement system further includes a device for applying, to each measurement mirror arm, the reference voltage. The device for applying the reference voltage being designed to be isolated to a current of the measurement mirror arm when the reference voltage is applied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2011
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Applicant: COMMISSARIAT A L'ENERGIE ATOMIQUE ET AUX ENE ALT
    Inventors: Bertrand DUPONT, Michael TCHAGASPANIAN
  • Patent number: 8212210
    Abstract: A camera arranged to generate an IR image and a visible light image is proposed, said camera comprising a thermal imaging part for registering IR radiation from a first field of view, a visible light imaging part for registering visible light from a second field of view at least partially overlapping with the first field of view, and a processing device for processing the information related to the registered IR radiation and the registered visible light information. The processing device is arranged to identify any moving objects that are detectable by the thermal imaging part and not by the visible light imaging part, and presenting said moving objects, if any, in such a way that they will be easily recognizable by an operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Flir Systems AB
    Inventor: Martin Hargel
  • Patent number: 8212211
    Abstract: The invention provides a system and process in which more than only one category of information must be made available in an optically simultaneously recognizable form to a person in a portable system (17) for protecting and/or guiding persons in dangerous situations, firefighters or rescue teams in buildings. The system includes an infrared camera (12) for recording data, especially heat image data; an energy supply device, especially a battery; at least one interface (18) for transmitting data; and at least one display device (16), especially a monitor and/or a warning light, for visually displaying data. At least one exit finder (13) and/or at least one gas sensor (14) and/or at least one motion detector is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Dräger Safety AG & Co. KGaA
    Inventors: Ralf Drews, Stefan Morley
  • Patent number: 8212212
    Abstract: Provided are a thermoelectric device and a method of forming the same, a temperature sensing sensor, and a heat-source image sensor using the same. The thermoelectric device includes a first nanowire and a second nanowire, a first silicon thin film, a second silicon thin film, and a third silicon thin film. The first nanowire and a second nanowire are disposed on a substrate. The first nanowire and the second nanowire are separated from each other. The first silicon thin film is connected to one end of the first nanowire. The second silicon thin film is connected to one end of the second nanowire. The third silicon thin film is connected to the other ends of the first nanowire and the second nanowire. The first and second nanowires extend in a direction parallel to an upper surface of the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute
    Inventors: Young Sam Park, Moon Gyu Jang, Younghoon Hyun, Myungsim Jun, Sang Hoon Cheon, Taehyoung Zyung
  • Publication number: 20120161001
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a dual-band focal plane array includes a readout circuit (ROIC), and a plurality of electro-optical (EO) polymer pixels for absorbing visible and/or short wave infrared (SWIR) radiation, each of the EO polymer pixels electrically coupled to the ROIC. The detector further includes a plurality of microbolometers for detecting long wave infrared (LWIR) radiation, each microbolometer electrically coupled to the ROIC via contact legs disposed between adjacent microbolometers and between adjacent EO polymer pixels. A method of fabricating a focal plane array is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2010
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Applicant: FLIR SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventor: Richard E. Bornfreund
  • Publication number: 20120145902
    Abstract: The invention relates to scanning pulsed laser systems for optical imaging. Coherent dual scanning laser systems (CDSL) are disclosed and some applications thereof. Various alternatives for implementation are illustrated, including highly integrated configurations. In at least one embodiment a coherent dual scanning laser system (CDSL) includes two passively modelocked fiber oscillators. The oscillators are configured to operate at slightly different repetition rates, such that a difference ?fr in repetition rates is small compared to the values fr1 and fr2 of the repetition rates of the oscillators. The CDSL system also includes a non-linear frequency conversion section optically connected to each oscillator. The section includes a non-linear optical element generating a frequency converted spectral output having a spectral bandwidth and a frequency comb comprising harmonics of the oscillator repetition rates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2012
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Applicant: IMRA AMERICA, INC
    Inventors: Martin E. FERMANN, Ingmar Hartl
  • Publication number: 20120145901
    Abstract: There are provided an infrared transmission filter, which is inexpensive, is capable of being sufficiently made lighter and thinner, has no incident angle dependency, and is excellent in permselectivity for infrared light, and an imaging device, which employs such an infrared transmission filter. An infrared transmission filter 10 includes an infrared transmission base material 1 selectively transmitting light in an infrared wavelength range; and a short wavelength side infrared absorbing film 2 formed on one side of the infrared transmission base material 1 and containing a near-infrared absorbent having an optical absorption edge on a short wavelength side of a transmission wavelength band of the infrared transmission base material. An imaging device includes the infrared transmission filter 10.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2011
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Applicant: Asahi Glass Company, Limited
    Inventors: Toshimasa KAKIUCHI, Makoto Hasegawa, Masahiro Mori
  • Patent number: 8197129
    Abstract: A method for determining parameters of a component using thermography, where at least one component is heated by a hot gas, is provided. Also provided is a device for determining component parameters using thermography, including a device for heating at least one component and a temperature sensor for detecting at least one temperature value of the component, wherein the device for heating the component is a hot gas emission device for the emission of a modulated, mostly pulsed, hot gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Matthias Goldammer, Werner Heinrich