Infrared imaging is a fascinating and increasingly accessible technology. With its ability to detect radiation emitted from both living and inanimate objects, infrared imaging has the potential to change how we interact with and understand the world around us. Learn how infrared imaging may impact your daily life.
Different Types of Infrared Cameras
At the core of infrared imaging are three primary types of infrared cameras: Shortwave Infrared (SWIR), Mediumwave Infrared (MWIR), and Longwave Infrared (LWIR). These cameras differ in the types of light or heat they detect: SWIR cameras detect reflected light, while MWIR and LWIR cameras “see” emitted heat.
Each type of infrared camera may have practical uses in everyday life. For example, SWIR cameras can make artistic images that look like black-and-white photos, and MWIR cameras can detect toxic gas leaks. LWIR cameras are less sensitive to environmental “noise” in outdoor use and help detect electrical and plumbing flaws during home inspections. Take a look at some practical applications of infrared cameras.
Find a Pet That Likes To Hide
Got a pet with a sixth sense for when it’s time for a trip to the vet? Whether your pet is hiding in a hard-to-reach spot or simply trying to keep out of sight under the bed, an infrared camera can detect their body heat and pinpoint their exact location. This makes it much easier to locate and calm your beloved pet before a veterinary visit.
Check for Food Spoilage
Food companies use infrared imaging to measure food purity and detect spoilage. At home, these devices can tell if your milk or seafood has gone bad. Infrared cameras can pinpoint food spoilage by detecting hot spots that indicate bacterial activity.
Investigate Paranormal Activity
If you’re into ghost hunting, you may want infrared imaging in your Ghostbusting kit. By sensing changes in temperature and airflow, an infrared camera can detect anomalies that may not be visible to the naked eye. Could it be paranormal activity? Infrared cameras are popular tools for paranormal investigators looking for evidence of otherworldly beings.
Finding Heat and Water Leaks
Back in the physical world of day-to-day reality, another practical use for infrared imaging is to detect areas of inadequate home insulation and water leaks. By finding areas of heat loss or water damage, infrared imaging can pinpoint problems before they get worse, saving homeowners time and money on repairs.
See What Lives Under Your Deck
If you’ve got unwanted guests under your deck or are just interested in what your local wildlife does at night, infrared imaging can detect animal body heat and movement. You may be able to capture an image of what’s lurking beneath your porch or in your garden without ever having to step outside.
As infrared imaging devices and technology evolve, infrared imaging may have an even greater impact on your daily life. The next time you think of buying a camera or exploring the world around you, consider how infrared imaging could enhance your investigations.
