Infrared imaging cameras are non-contact devices that detect infrared energy, or heat, convert this measure into an electronic signal, and then process this information to produce a thermal image. The amount of heat detected by an infrared camera can be accurately quantified to calculate temperature differences in addition to producing clear thermal images in low-light situations.
Infrared cameras can be used in a wide range of settings and offer end users a number of benefits, especially with recent innovations that have made infrared technology more practical and valuable than ever before.
What are Infrared Imaging Cameras Used For?
Infrared imaging cameras are instrumental in identifying and quantifying heat sources. This has a wide range of uses in the construction, agriculture, security, and surveillance industries.
For example, in monitoring large electrical infrastructure, infrared cameras help avoid catastrophe. Typically, before and electrical component fails, it begins to heat up. An infrared camera can monitor equipment for increases in temperature and alert the relevant personal when dangerous temperature thresholds are reached so that preventative maintenance can be performed, instead of retroactive replacement, which is far more expensive.
The Benefits of Infrared Imaging Cameras
First and foremost, the biggest benefit of infrared cameras is their ability to operate in low-light conditions where cameras with normal CCD or CMOS sensors would struggle. This is particularly useful for security and surveillance, as night time conditions have no impact on the amount of energy an infrared camera detects.
Further, infrared imaging cameras can have explosive return on investment (ROI), even when compared to typical machine vision systems. In the example outlined above, a company could save an enormous amount through avoided downtime, repair costs, and the costs of new equipment. These costs pale in comparison to the cost of an infrared imaging camera, creating incredible ROI.
Infrared imaging is unique in function when compared to traditional machine vision systems, but they have their own benefits in specific applications. Infrared cameras are highly adept at detecting infrared energy for imaging beyond the visible spectrum of light.
To learn more, browse our educational section on high-end surveillance with machine vision to read about similar technologies in use today.