Product category:
Optical sensors and vision systems
News Release from: Flir Systems | Subject: ThermaCAM E2 camera and ThermoVision A20
Edited by the Processingtalk Editorial
Team on 28 April 2003
FLIR opens up the market for infrared
thermography
The ability to monitor and assess prototype performance and production processes using thermography is not new, but the cost and complexity of the technology has proved prohibitive to many OEMs
In recent years infrared camera design and specification have progressed significantly A typical example is FLIR Systems ThermaCAM E2 camera
This article was originally published on Processingtalk on 28 Apr 2003 at 8.00am (UK)
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Infrared thermography offers distinct benefits in fixed-mounted applications within design and production engineering: it is able to 'see' thermal patterns and use it in real time to alarm or control
Fixed thermal imaging for monitoring process plant
The new FLIR Systems A20 Series cameras enable fixed mounted thermal imaging to be used for general process automation applications, monitoring machinery and process lines for any developing hotspots
This, the world's smallest infrared thermal imager, has made thermography an affordable tool for all maintenance engineers.
And with the introduction of its new ThermoVision A20-series, FLIR Systems is now extending the boundaries of the technology for manufacturers too.
The ThermoVision A20-series offers an affordable solution for fixed mounted infrared, measurement and imaging applications for R and D and process control applications.
Further reading
ICW switches to 'uncooled' technology for imaging
A long-established user of FLIR Systems ThermaCAM thermal imaging cameras, ICW has recently upgraded from cooled to uncooled technology: the latest generation of key equipment has brought benefits
Infra-red camera breaks the market price barrier
With the introduction of the new ThermaCAM E25 infrared camera, FLIR Systems is breaking open the market for infrared thermography: it is priced as low as GBP6950 including software
Midwave Infrared camera is sensitive
The new ThermaCAM Merlin is a high performing mid-wave Infrared camera, but also sets a new standard in flexibility and performance
Packaged in a compact unit weighing less than 800 grams, the ThermoVision A20 is rugged, shock-resistant and suitable for discrete mounting on an automated production line or test bench.
Its size makes it ideal for applications where space is at a premium.
These attributes are complemented by an unprecedented choice of connectivity options.
Two models complete the series.
The ThermoVision A20-M is for industrial and automated machine vision applications requiring accurate, non-contact temperature measurement.
The ThermoVision A20-V is designed for imaging applications and is the ideal choice for surveillance and safety applications.
Both are operate within the temperature range of -20C to 900C.
They differ in that whilst the V model 'sees' changes as small as 0.12C, the M version allows the user to measure those differences.
They both produce crisp high quality infrared images of 160 x 120 pixels at video rates of 50/60 Hz.
This enables fast-moving and low temperature targets to be viewed with an exceptional image clarity, unmatched by less sensitive cameras.
Fully configured and straightforward input/output functionality allows the ThermoVision A20 cameras to be integrated quickly and easily into any control system or set-up as a stand-alone configuration.
The operator can fully programme and define alarms.
For example, if the temperature within one area in the field of view rises above or falls below a pre-defined value, an alarm will sound.
Both cameras feature a choice of connectivity options.
For fast image and data transfer of real-time, fully radiometric 16-bit images at 50/60Hz frame rate, the user can choose an IEEE-1394 FireWire digital output.
For network and/or multiple camera installations, Ethernet connectivity is available.
Each ThermoVision A20 can be equipped with its own unique URL allowing it to be addressed independently via its Ethernet connection.
This allows for the control of all menu functions of the camera and provides instant access to A20 thermal images for any authorised user with a web browser.
Images are streamed in semi-real time.
High-quality thermal images can also be viewed on a PC or monitor.
The camera can be fully controlled either from the PC or with the integrated keyboard.
Conveniently sited at the top of the camera, the keyboard is ideal for situations where the camera and PC are remote from one another or during the set-up and initialisation of the system; just a few buttons control all camera features.
The A20 output can be used to control any application eliminating the need for complex and time-consuming programming.
Multiple options exist to reduce dramatically, the time taken to program a custom solution.
A Software Developers Kit (SDK) for Visual Basic and C++ programming is optional.
FLIR Systems also offers both analogue and digital LabView Toolkits that utilise ActiveX technology.
Feedback from existing users of infrared-thermography indicated a strong need for an affordable and user-friendly system that promises minimal downtime.
FLIR Systems, who will be making the product available for OEM and distribution sales, are certain that its specifically developed A-Series will not only meet this need but also rapidly extend the market for fixed mounted infrared camera systems. Request a free brochure from Flir Systems ...
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