Thermal Imaging Systems for Measuring Temperature Distribution

Radiation thermometers collect radiant power from a spot on a target surface and provide an indication of temperature based on the radiant power from that spot. In many applications it is necessary to know the temperature distribution along a line or over an area on the surface of the target in order to solve the problem. First, a brief historical review of various scanning schemes will be given, particularly concerning those which have been adopted for use in commercially available scanning and imaging instruments. A classification of these instruments will follow, based on scanning approach and the class of applications suitable for each category. Applications of these instruments then will be discussed with brief case histories leading to the solution of several scientific and industrial problems, and comments will be made regarding other possible related applications. Finally, the most recent developments in available instrumentation will be discussed, particularly the interfacing of thermal imaging systems with computers and the resultant development of dedicated software for detailed thermal image analysis.