Incorporating an uncooled thermal imaging detector alongside a high resolution visible camera the IR236 imaging system from Armstrong Optical Ltd is playing a part in the detection of swine fever sufferers at several major international airports across the globe.
The Chinese authorities installed the system at Beijing International Airport before the Olympic Games last year to aid in the screening of the many visitors entering the country through this major travel hub.
The system is the Northampton-based firm says suited for placement where flowing crowds of people are present including airport arrivals, shopping arcades, sporting events, hotels, railway stations. By analysing the temperature profiles of any person in the field of view the IR236 is able to automatically detect anyone with a temperature higher than normal. The "hottest" region in the field of view is automatically highlighted, and can be set to alarm when the object temperature goes
beyond a predefined value , warning the remotely placed security staff of an unusual event. Images from the built-in high resolution visible camera aid in the easy identification and tracking of the fever sufferer allowing their interception.
The IR236 can operate in a fully automated, remote, fashion and, being a passive imaging system, allows its use without causing alarm or stress to those being scanned. The operator of the system can be sited well away from the inspection area or even be placed in a sealed environment, ensuring the safety of the operator.
The lens systems on both the thermal and visible imagers are optimised to identify and track at a range of up to 100m meaning that possible fever sufferers can be identified early and removed from crowded regions.
Whilst originally developed for the fight against the SARS visus, it is now hoped that the IR236 can help in the early identification of Swine Fever sufferers and aid security authorities to prevent its spread.
According to Ian Johnstone, Sales and Marketing Director of Armstrong Optical: "……the IR236 has, over many years, enabled immigration and security authorities across the globe to detect possible disease carriers. The advent of Swine Fever has once again brought to light mankinds vulnerability to disease transmission in our globalised society……."
