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   Forward Looking Infrared Technology a Night Vision Enhancement System

 
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Forward Looking Infrared Technology

Forward Looking Infrared Technology or commonly referred to as (FLIR) is a night vision enhancement system with many potential applications in law enforcement agencies. FLIR imagers offer vision enhancement superior to that available through conventional night vision systems. Originally developed for military operations, FLIR thermal infrared cameras have a wide variety of applications for law enforcement, fire fighting, governmental and commercial/ industrial operations. Recent technological enhancements have made FLIR more accessible (and affordable) as a tool to support street-level law enforcement operations.

FLIR infrared IR cameras were originally developed by the United States Navy to assist in the identification and targeting of opposition forces. FLIR units measure the amount of infrared energy emitted by various objects and life forms. In other words, it allows the user to "see" the amount of heat (or thermal energy) an object emits. Infrared energy is normally invisible to the human eye, but FLIR cameras are able to detect and interpret emissions and provide the user with an image, even in complete darkness. Like conventional night vision enhancement systems, FLIR thermal imaging does not provide a perfect picture of what is in its field of view. What it does provide is an image with sufficient clarity to allow users to distinguish between cars, trees, and people.

Conventional night vision systems improve the user’s ability to "see" objects by enhancing visible light. These systems only work if there is at least a minimal amount of available light and if there is nothing obscuring visibility (such as dust, haze, fog, or smoke). FLIR IR cameras are still highly effective under conditions of low-visibility or complete darkness. By providing an image of the infrared energy being emitted by objects, the system can still "see" in complete darkness or obscured visibility. While the effectiveness of the system may be diminished when viewing distant objects under obscured conditions, FLIR infrared cameras still provide better visibility than other night vision enhancement systems. Because it measures thermal energy, FLIR infrared cameras can be used to conduct surveillance without relying on search lights or special lighting, improving the user’s ability to remain undetected.

The military advantages of these early systems were significant. Naval vessels could still detect and target enemy ships, even on the darkest nights or under foggy conditions. As one might imagine, these early systems were large, heavy, and expensive. During the past decades, however, FLIR thermography cameras have been adapted for use aboard all types of aircraft, naval vessels, and ground vehicles; in recent years some manufacturers have even developed handheld units. Technological advances have significantly lowered the size, weight, and cost of FLIR sights. These new systems may offer reliable service without requiring extensive or costly upkeep.

Handheld FLIR scopes weight less than five pounds and may be within the price range of many law enforcement agencies.

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