The Role of Connectivity in Thermal Imaging

This paper demonstrates the role of connectivity, a concept originally developed by Newnham two decades ago, in improving image quality of infrared (IR) imaging systems by enhancing the thermal modulation transfer function (MTF). IR imaging in the medium wavelength range (7.5 to 14 m), corresponding to the thermal black body maximum near room temperature and to the atmospheric window, is desirable for a wide range of applications. Night vision, target recognition, reconnaissance, driving aids, and navigation in foggy and poor visibility weather are among the applications of this technology. 1:3 arrays fabricated from ceramic barium strontium titanate (BST) have made it possible to produce compact, low-cost, uncooled infrared cameras that are capable of delivering television quality images.