Camera Technology for Fire Fighting and Rescue
Camera Technology for Firefighting: A New Perspective
In the demanding field of firefighting, adverse conditions like thick smoke can severely hinder rescue operations. To address these challenges, new advancements in camera technology are providing critical support. A camera that can see through smoke offers a significant advantage, helping firefighters overcome some of the most complex obstacles they face during emergency situations.
The Limitations of Conventional Cameras
Cameras operating within the visible spectral range are unable to penetrate smoke effectively. This is because wavelengths between 400-700 nanometers (nm) are absorbed by smoke particles rather than being reflected back to the camera sensor. However, short-wave infrared (SWIR) wavelengths can pass through smoke, making it possible to see clearly in environments obscured by smoke particles.
A Breakthrough in Imaging Technology: Emberion’s SWIR Cameras
Emberion, a leading developer of infrared cameras, has designed a camera that leverages nanostructured materials to capture images from the visible range of 400nm all the way up to the extended SWIR range of 2000nm. This capability allows the camera to provide clear visibility even in conditions where traditional cameras fail.
The Role of VIS-SWIR and SWIR Lenses
Kowa’s HC-VIS-SW lens series is a perfect match for Emberion’s advanced wide spectral sensors. These lenses are specifically designed to cover both the visible and SWIR spectra, showing minimal chromatic aberration and virtually no focus shift from 400nm to 2000nm. The lens range includes six focal lengths, from 8mm to 50mm, ensuring there is a solution for various application requirements. For long-distance imaging, Kowa also offers a selection of long-range zoom lenses optimized for the SWIR spectrum.
SWIR Cameras for Challenging Outdoor Conditions
Outdoor imaging can be particularly challenging when dealing with adverse weather conditions such as smoke, haze, or fog. SWIR imaging technology can address these issues effectively, enabling clear visibility in environments where other cameras would struggle. During testing, the Emberion VS20 camera paired with a Kowa VIS-SWIR lens captured clearer images through smoke compared to those taken with a standard CMOS camera, such as those found in smartphones.
The VS20 camera can capture wavelengths ranging from 400nm to 2000nm. For smoke penetration, the visible spectrum (400nm-700nm) needs to be filtered out, leaving only the SWIR wavelengths to pass through. This is achieved by using a 1000nm band-pass filter placed in front of the Kowa lens, which effectively blocks visible light and enhances the camera’s ability to see through smoke. The comparison images from the tests highlight the clear difference between a CMOS camera and the Emberion VS20 camera, showing the latter’s ability to image through dense smoke produced by a campfire.
In another experiment, chemical or party smoke was generated to further demonstrate the capabilities of the SWIR camera. The SWIR images clearly revealed objects and details obscured by the chemical smoke, proving that this technology can see through conditions that are impossible to navigate with the naked eye.
The Advantages of SWIR Technology for Fire Safety
The ability to see through smoke or other harsh conditions offers significant benefits for surveillance and fire safety applications. It enables early detection and accurate assessment of hazardous situations, helping fire safety professionals locate trapped individuals or assess the scene through glass windows. SWIR cameras can be adapted for a variety of uses, including handheld units or as compact, detachable body-worn devices, providing firefighters with flexibility during rescue operations.
Pioneering a Safer Future
SWIR technology is revolutionizing the way we approach fire safety and emergency response, enabling new possibilities for surveillance and search-and-rescue operations. The collaborative efforts of Emberion and Kowa are paving the way for more effective solutions that enhance the safety and efficiency of firefighting professionals.
For more information on Emberion’s cutting-edge imaging solutions, visit their website.
This publication is a collaboration between Emberion and Kowa.
Author: Dr. Samiul Haque, Senior Product Manager, Emberion