How Is Thermal Imaging Used?
Military Applications
Thermal imaging and infrared cameras were originally developed for military use during the Korean War. Although the use of thermal imaging has now expanded into other fields, it is still primarily used by the United States Armed Forces. The military has developed advanced software interfaces and optic sensors that continue to advance thermal imaging technology. The most prominent applications are thermal scopes and night-vision goggles. Thermal infrared cameras are incorporated into land, air and sea vehicles, as well as hand-held devices. Thermal weapon scopes are used to acquire targets in hidden locations. Border patrol officers utilize thermal imaging devices to uncover caches of weapons, drugs, and illegal immigrants. Ground forces in the military rely heavily on night-vision goggles, scopes and thermal imaging cameras to increase situational awareness and provide a decisive advantage on the battlefield. Thermal imaging is also used by law-enforcement officers during stakeouts and surveillance. Infrared cameras and goggles help SWAT teams and police detectives pursue and capture suspects by safely providing superior intelligence.
Commercial Applications
Thermal imaging technology has expanded beyond conventional military applications. The energy audit field, for example, has created a new surge of thermal imaging opportunities in preventative maintenance. The automotive, commercial and mechanical industries are now using thermal imaging devices to perform systems diagnostics. Automotive mechanics wear thermal and ultraviolet goggles to easily locate fluid and air leaks in vehicle engines. Home repair inspectors use hand-held thermal cameras to spot gaps in the structure's insulation, survey roof damage, and pinpoint electrical malfunctions. The RAZ-IR infrared camera, for example, fits on any handyman's tool belt and provides a software package that makes energy audits both simple and precise.
Medical Applications
Thermal readings have been used in medicine for thousands of years. The Greek physician Hippocrates wrote, "In whatever part of the body excess of heat or cold is felt, the disease is there to be discovered." Although modern applications of thermal imaging are now more sophisticated, the basic principles discussed by Hippocrates in 400 B.C. remain valid. Thermogaphy is a medical science that performs diagnostics using highly detailed and sensitive infrared images. There are medical applications for thermographic cameras in breast oncology, neurology, dentistry, and chiropractic and veterinary medicine. Dynamic Infrared Blood Perfusion Imaging, or DIRI, is one of the many medical procedures that utilize thermal imaging. A DIRI camera detects changes in blood flow to tissue and organs by sensing passively emitted infrared radiation from tissues. DIRI is used as an early warning tool for breast cancer, and can measure the relative effectiveness of chemotherapy.
Tags: thermal imaging, Applications Thermal, imaging devices, imaging technology, Imaging Used
