By Josh Perry, Editor [email protected]
A recent article posted by Automotive Testing Technology International, and written by Taimen Taylor from FLIR, explained that thermal imaging can be used in a wide range of automotive testing processes from battery and electronics design to vehicle thermal management to tests of the engine, tires, and brakes.
Thermal imaging can be an important tool for automotive testing applications. (Advanced Thermal Solutions, Inc.)
Taylor argues that FLIR’s thermal imaging systems, such as its FLIR ONE for smartphones, are a good starting point for engineers interested in using the technology for automotive applications. Thermal imaging gives a visual thermal profile of the components being tested, unlike testing with thermocouple or other standard techniques.
He added, “Thermal imaging is completely non-contact. This eliminates the need to mount sensors and run wires, which reduces testing times, saves money, and helps products reach the market faster.”
For more precise temperature mapping, liquid crystal thermography (LCT) can also be used in automotive applications, particularly in testing electronics or batteries. Using liquid crystals will give definitive temperature readings and allow engineers to clearly visualize hot spots.
In both cases, whether using infrared or liquid crystals, thermal imaging will give automotive engineers and important understanding of the thermal management challenges that their design may have long before it goes into production.
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