The world of thermal imaging is slowly evolving. This year, FLIR ONE released the world’s very first thermal imaging iPhone case at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) and a University of Arizona led international team has recently transformed waste sulfur into cheap, lightweight, plastic lens for thermal imaging; these are just a few examples of how thermal imaging is making it’s way into the consumer’s hands…
FLIR ONE
The FLIR ONE is a personal thermal imaging case for iPhone 5 & 5s. It has the ability to detect and visualize heat, including minute differences in temperature with a scene range of 32 to 212 degrees F and an operating temperature range of 32 to 113 degrees F. Available in grey, white or gold and can be used on a full charge for about two hours. Users can download the FLIR ONE MX app that allows user to capture video and images, there are also color pallets and a temperature read. Users are also able to share their captured video and images on social channels.
$349 Flirone.com
University of Arizona led international team new breakthrough
Waste sulfur from refining fossil fuels can finally be put in good use! University of Arizona discovered a new chemical process that transformed sulfur in to a cheap, lightweight, high optical focusing power plastic lens. The new plastic lens can be used for anything that involves heat detection and infrared light such as night-vision googles, surveillance systems and even sulfur-lithium batteries.
Currently, the materials used in producing these devices are expensive. This breakthrough in the new plastic can produce more high-quality, lightweight, easily molded and inexpensive gadgets. Another use for thermal imaging is smart building technology that uses carbon dioxide detectors to adjust heating and cooling levels based on the number of occupants. This breakthrough has speed up and simplified the process of making lenses. We can expect great things to happen in the coming year.
Read more about the UA breakthrough here.