FLIR Systems cameras help combat SARS

MAY 5--FLIR Systems Inc. (Portland, OR; www.flir.com) has received orders for more than 50 cameras for use at airports, hospitals, and other locations in Taiwan and Korea to help detect body fever, a possible precursor to severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). The cameras can accurately measure temperature and can be programmed to detect body temperature. Airline passengers and visitors to hospitals and other locations will be asked to look into the infrared camera for a few seconds, which allows the camera to record facial temperature. The ThermaCAM line of thermography cameras features accurate temperature measurement to one tenth of a degree, image storage, image analysis, and comes in a variety of configurations, from lightweight hand held systems to integrated fixed installations.

The technology is nonintrusive and measures infrared radiation, or heat, that is emitted from all objects and persons. Traditional applications for this technology include predictive and preventive maintenance, condition monitoring, research and development, and electrical and building inspection. However, the technology has growing application in fields where temperature, or heat, can assist in patient evaluation, diagnosis, and analysis. In addition to helping to contain the spread of SARS, FLIR's infrared cameras also are useful for homeland security and law-enforcement applications.