ThermaVision: Low-Cost Night Vision For The Masses

TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY OF MUNICH, GERMANY. Whereas current technologies are costly because they require micro-channel plates or need to be cooled, ThermaVision is based on the conversion of infrared light into invisible light that utilizes small and simple uncooled IR-sensors. The design makes possible the low cost production of IR-sensors, making it possible for night vision to have applications beyond current applications, such as in night vision devices in cars and in the field of security.

ThermaVision is based on a technology that employs a simple and small uncooled IR-sensor. This technology converts infrared light into visible light. Various existing CMOS-devices can benefit from this technology. The invention can also act as a cap for CMOS-devices.

The sensor’s fabrication is similar with other semiconductor processes. The structuring of the sensor actually provides high image quality and good resolution. The invention’s proposed design promotes a low cost production of the IR-sensor. In fact, the sensor displays a temperature resolution of less than 0.1°C.

A number of industries heavily depend on night vision devices, such as cars, the military and security industry can benefit from this invention. However, because ThermaVision means does not require current technologies that are complex and costly, it is possible for night vision capabilities to be made more readily available in other electronic devices.

In these modern times, the use of night vision cameras are becoming more popular in industries that did not rely on this technology. The automotive industry, for example, has embraced the great assistance of these cameras for the production of thermal imaging of humans, animals, and other risky elements on the road.

ThermaVision promises to revolutionize the manufacturing of highly effective and affordable night vision devices.