Toward UAV based compact thermal infrared hyperspectral imaging solution for real-time gas detection identification and quantification (Conference Presentation)

The integration of thermal infrared (TIR) hyperspectral systems into Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) platforms is expected to open doors toward a wide variety of demanding thermal imaging applications ranging from academics and research to industry. Currently, the UAV remote sensing technology in TIR region is still in its infancy and the main expectations are the reduction of both, sensor sizes and cost while maintaining their performances at a high level. In this communication, we report on Telops newly designed compact, light and robust TIR hyperspectral module of less than 10 kg with about 50W of power consumption. The new module can be integrated into a complete stand-alone imager with applications such as 360˚ Hyperspectral Surveillance. Integration in complete, highly flexible UAV based, infrared hyperspectral imaging solutions, such as airborne real-time gas detection, identification and quantification is also possible. The need for a reliable and cost-efficient gas detection system is of prime importance especially when security threatening situations like gas leaks and emissions occur. The knowledge of the precise localization of the leaks, identification of the chemical nature of the gases involved and quantification of the gas flux emanating from the leaks are the crucial inputs needed for the incident response team to take actions based on relevant information. In this regard, UAVs based TIR remote sensing technology offers many benefits over traditional gas detection systems as it allows safely monitoring and imaging of large areas. The sensor can fly several hundreds of meters above the scene, avoiding the need to access restricted and potentially dangerous zones in the installations. Beside the newly designed compact and light TIR hyperspectral module, Telops have also developed solutions for gas detection and identification along with some tools for the quantification of gas flow rates emanating for leak source. These solutions were recently demonstrated during a flight campaign up to 4600 feet above the ground for detection and identification of ethylene, methanol and acetone gas release experiment. The Fourier transform technology used in our hyperspectral imaging systems on an airborne platform allows recording of airborne hyperspectral data using mapping and targeting modes. These two acquisition modes were used for gas detection and real time quantitative airborne chemical images of the three gas clouds were obtained paving the path toward a viable solution for gas leak surveys and environmental monitoring.