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Infrared cameras might make night driving safer

New cameras can detect people and objects long before the naked eye

A German research firm has come up with a new kind of infrared camera that it claims can make driving at night safer.

According to Fraunhofer IMS, thermal radiation sensors in the new camera can detect people and objects long before they become visible to the driver.

The sensor, known as the Infrared Focal Plane Array (IRFPA), can be incorporated into automatic braking systems or special in-car displays that will alert motorists to objects or people looming in the dark.

Here comes the science bit: unlike most existing sensors for long wave infrared spectrum – the wavelength at which objects at body temperature are visible – the new camera doesn’t need to be cooled down to drastically low temperatures (around minus 193 degrees Celsius).

Its special long wave infrared range detector, called a microbolometer, works at room temperature and is suitable for everyday use.

An array of microbolometers produces digital signals directly – sidestepping an intermediate process of analogue conversion – and provides a two-dimensional image.

Scientists say the first tests of the IRFPA have been successful and they hope eventually to make the technology available on the European market.
 

Lifelong lover of most things cycling-related, from Moulton Mini adventures in the 70s to London bike messengering in the 80s, commuting in the 90s, mountain biking in the noughties and road cycling throughout. Editor of Simpson Magazine (www.simpsonmagazine.cc). 

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DaveP | 14 years ago
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Didn't some car manufacturer once run tests of UV front lights to give drivers better visibility of white road markings etc?? Prob Volvo or Saab.... Yet more reason for drivers to stop paying attention behind the wheel.  14

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handlebarcam | 14 years ago
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Or people could just drive sensibly, at slower speeds than in daylight, so that ordinary headlights (not full beam as many drivers seem to think should be left on until they close to within 10 meters of an oncoming road user) will be sufficient. And pedestrians and cyclists could wear something other than all black clothing. But then those things involve common sense, restraint, and cannot be productised and marketed.

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