Regulated infrared source
First Claim
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1. An infrared energy source, comprising:
- a heater element which emits infrared energy when power is applied thereto;
a resistance temperature detector which is electrically isolated from but thermally coupled to said heater element so as to continuously detect the average temperature of said heater element; and
a regulator responsive to a temperature detection output of said resistance temperature detector for regulating the power applied to said heater element so as to maintain the infrared energy emitted by said heater element at a desired level.
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Abstract
An infrared source which provides a miniature, highly stable and efficient source of infrared energy for use with infrared detectors and the like. The infrared source of the invention incorporates a platinum resistance temperature detector (RTD) which is integrated with the heater element to provide a means of electronic servo control of the heater temperature. The heater element and the RTD are tightly coupled thermally to provide accurate, continuous tracking and control of the heater temperature. The infrared source design provides excellent infrared energy output with less than one watt input power to the heater.
31 Citations
11 Claims
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1. An infrared energy source, comprising:
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a heater element which emits infrared energy when power is applied thereto; a resistance temperature detector which is electrically isolated from but thermally coupled to said heater element so as to continuously detect the average temperature of said heater element; and a regulator responsive to a temperature detection output of said resistance temperature detector for regulating the power applied to said heater element so as to maintain the infrared energy emitted by said heater element at a desired level. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11)
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Specification