Abstract: A unique imaging device operating in the far infrared is provided by utilng fiber optic techniques. The system is used to improve the performance of photoconductive and thermoresistive type retinas.

Abstract: A contour plotter for testing the response of an infrared detector comprig a small, cathode-ray tube with a hidden electron gun for generating a flying-hot-spot raster, a refracting, optical lens for focussing a reduced image of this raster on the detector under test, an oscilloscope, a two-dimensional sweep generator for sweeping the oscilloscope and the small, cathode ray tube in synchronism, and an electronic amplifier for applying the output of the detector to the Z-axis of the oscilloscope so that the intensity of the oscilloscope scanning beam is varied in accordance with the detector output response.In one embodiment, the small, cathode-ray tube uses an infrared phosphor screen to produce a small source of radiation. In a second embodiment, the cathode-ray tube uses a thin membrane screen formed by a thin film dielectric substrate with a refractory metal film deposited on it for producing a flying hot spot.

Abstract: Careful and accurate indication of regeneration temperatures of catalysts associated with the refining of hydrocarbons such as occurring in catalyst-aided hydrocracking and catalyst-aided reforming processes--in real time--occurs by monitoring--from an overflying aircraft--the infrared energy, say in a frequency range greater than 300 .times. 10.sup.9 but not more than 10.sup.15 Hertz, emitted from a plurality of distributed metallic studs mounted as by welding to the exterior surface of the sidewall of a vessel undergoing catalytic regeneration. The dynamic temperature variation of such energy rays readily indicates regeneration temperatures of the catalyst interior of the vessel. The studs extend through the insulation of the vessel but do not penetrate its interior. Where the regeneration process is cyclically occurring, not only is there a marked decrease in the time required for regeneration, but there is also better statistical certainty that full regeneration of the catalyst has occurred.

Abstract: Careful and accurate indication of regeneration temperatures of catalysts associated with the refining of hydrocarbons such as occur in catalyst-aided hydrocracking and catalyst-aided reforming processes--in real time--occurs by monitoring the infrared energy, say in a frequency range greater than 300 .times. 10.sup.9, but not more than 10.sup.15 Hz, emitted from a plurality of distributed metallic studs mounted as by welding to the exterior surface of the sidewall of a vessel undergoing catalytic regeneration. The dynamic temperature variation of such energy rays readily indicate regeneration temperatures of the catalyst interior of the vessel. The studs extend through the insulation of the vessel, but do not penetrate its interior. Where the regeneration process is cyclically occurring, not only is there a marked decrease in the time required for regeneration, but there is also better statistical certainty that full regeneration of the catalyst has occurred.