Thermal Imaging & Image Stabilization

This month we would like to feature a neat Thermal Imaging clip, created to test both the SR-50 thermal imager, and the RHP-IS image stabilizer in a highway driving application. The SR-50 was mounted on a dash board of a large SUV. While mounted, the output from the SR-50 was put through the RHP-IS, allowing us to view the original shaky video input, as well as the stabilized video output from the RHP-IS.

We tested the Image Stabilizer in High and Low modes while driving, and the result was as expected. The Image Stabilizer performed great when set to handle High vibrations, and kept a clear and crisp thermal image. While in Low vibration mode, we noticed much more vibration in our output. The thermal imager handled the vibration well, but wasn't nearly as clear as the first test in High mode. Even though Low vibration mode didn't perform as well, we are happy to know the RHP-IS's myriad of options, including vibration settings.

Thermal & Stabilization Applications

Thermal Imaging cameras are often mounted on poles, industrial parks, or any other place where the camera might battle vibration problems. Poles will present a wind issue, and sometimes harsh weather will sway the pole, causing some unwanted shaky video. Indoor mounted Thermal Imaging cameras may be subject to machinery vibration, and other problems leaving you with unstable video.

The RHP-IS performed greatly in its simple driving application. As it was mounted in a large SUV, these vehicles are often bumpy because of strong suspension, bumps, or dips in the road ahead. We recommend taking a look at this Image Stabilizer, as it has many more options than simply High and Low modes.

Components Used:

RHP-IS: You can find the RHP-IS at RHP International
(http://rock2000.com/products/rhp/rhp_imagestabilizer.php)

SR-50: You can also find the SR-50 here on ThermalVideo.com
(http://thermalvideo.com/thermal-imaging-systems/flir_srseries.htm)