Efficient and simple shutterless algorithm for uncooled thermal image sensors: methodology and image results

This paper presents a shutterless non-uniformity correction (NUC) method for thermal imaging systems, eliminating the need for a mechanical shutter. Leveraging a temperature-based correction model, our approach models sensor output variations with a quadratic function, effectively compensating for temperature-induced changes without shutter-related noise, wear, or failure. An experimental setup featuring an uncooled detector, blackbody, environmental chamber, signal processing board, and lens validates the method via computer-simulated signal acquisition and processing. Performance is quantified using the residual fixed pattern noise (RFPN) metric and mean square error (MSE), with results indicating that the shutterless approach achieves uniformity comparable to conventional shutter-based correction under stable temperature conditions. This simple, robust solution is particularly suited for handheld and military thermal imaging applications requiring silent, compact, and continuous operation.