| abstract |
An image converter or scene simulator converts a projected visible image to an infra-red image through the heating effect of the visible light. The visible light is absorbed by an array of absorbent cells 1' each of which is connected to a heat sink 3 by a thermally conductive post 5. The intensity distribution of the visible image is reproduced as a temperature distribution across the array of cells. Lateral heat spread is limited by reticulation of the array, giving high image resolution. Cell dimensions are typically of the order of tens of micrometres. <IMAGE> |