Infrared technology has been an integral part of many industries for decades now. It’s only when the pandemic started that consumers understood its impact on their lives. The infrared thermometers and COVID 19 temperature scanners are now used everywhere. They have emphasized the power and possibilities of technology.
What’s Infrared Radiation?
You can’t begin to understand what infrared is used for if you don’t know what it is. Infrared radiation (IR) is a type of electromagnetic radiation. Also called infrared light, it’s a specific wavelength that our human eyes can’t see. But we can feel this energy as heat.
Everything in the world puts out some level of infrared radiation. The two best examples of radiant energy sources are the sun and fire. We also emit IR. Many of the equipment we use at home and at work also have infrared light.
William Herschel discovered infrared light around 1800. Countless scientists have built on his research since then. It has evolved into the IR technology that we use today.
Top Uses of Infrared Technology Today
Infrared technology is a ubiquitous part of our lives. But since ordinary citizens don’t study the nuances of IR, most are not aware of what it is for today. Here are some uses of IR technology:
· Household Appliances
You’ll become surprised to know that the buttered toast you had for breakfast is possible because of IR. Toasters use infrared radiation to send heat to the bread. The heat laps and industrial heaters used for curing materials also depend on IR.
The incandescent bulbs we use are 90% infrared radiation and 10% visible light. TV remote controls also rely on IR. They shoot out IR energy from the LED on the control towards an IR receiver built in the television. It then converts light to electric pulses. These bursts of energy instruct a microprocessor to start a pre-programmed instruction.
· First Responders and Emergency Services
IR scanners are one of the most important tools used by firefighters and the police. They help first responders see beyond thick smoke or dark areas. It helps pinpoint threats or people they can save. It can also warn them of possible dangers, like fire or chemicals.
· Medical Applications
Infrared technology is also used to save lives. A thermal temperature scanner is very accurate. It can measure the temperature of the skin. It can display various heat levels. This can provide critical information to doctors and surgeons. It can also show elevated temperatures. These are often caused by infection, injury, or other diseases. It’s why many facilities use a body temperature sensor. They can check if someone might be a potential COVID carrier.
Some thermal cameras can also create detailed images of the human body. The process is simple and quick. It’s also non-invasive and doesn’t need physical contact. IR thermal imaging is also used to relieve pain these days. Chronic autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis can become monitored using IR technology. It will help physicians assess the inflammation and give the corresponding treatment. Doctors are also using IR to diagnose muscle injuries in athletes.
· Sensing and Detection
Infrared sensing is one of the most useful applications of IR technology. Every object puts out heat, a form of infrared radiation. This energy will become seen by sensors. Infrared cameras and night vision goggles are the technology’s best examples.
Night vision devices make it possible to see things even without visible light. This equipment changes ambient light photons into electrons. These undergo an electrical and chemical process that converts them into visible images.
Infrared technology has also made homes, facilities, and commercial establishments safer. IR thermal imaging is now a critical part of security systems. They can detect movement and intruders even in the darkest areas.
Tracking and Guidance
The military is the first industry that made extensive use of infrared technology. IR tracking is one good example of how it helped those who defended the country. Today’s missile guidance systems use IR homing. It works by using IR electronic radiation the target emits to track it. It’s why the missiles used are often called “heat seekers.” Its usual targets (planes, vehicles, and people) put off large amounts of heat.
Astronomy
IR is also a key component of many space projects. The California Institute of Technology has led the study of IR astronomy. CalTech explains it as the study of infrared from objects in the universe. Advances in IR imaging systems have made detailed observation of space possible. Homing in on the different sources of IR in space helped reveal the universe’s structure. It also helped map out the complexities of galaxies and nebulae.
Infrared technology can also find objects that do not put out visible light. This made it possible for scientists to discover asteroids, comets, and space dust. It also allowed the observation of objects hidden by gas, like new stars.
Art Restoration
Infrared technology has made it possible for artists to find a painting’s hidden layers. They can now restore it without damaging it. It has also aided historians to make new discoveries. It has helped archeologists learn more about sculptures and edifices.
Did the article give you a better insight into infrared technology? You should also read this post on how to check for COVID temperature.
Understanding Vital Technology
Health and technology go hand in hand. It’s why Well Health Works is working hard to keep your work family safe. Our company has provided the best corporate wellness programs for decades. Our years of experience will serve you well. We’ve also partnered with many insurance providers to help you save on costs. We offer COVID 19 temperature screening, biometric scans, and flu shots. You can reach us at 833-935-9355 and at info@wellhealthworks.com.
