Cryogenic Cooling Options For Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR)

Stuart B. Horn

doi:10.1117/12.959339

3 November 1980 Cryogenic Cooling Options For Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR)

Stuart B. Horn

Proceedings Volume 0245, Cryogenically Cooled Sensor Technology; (1980) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.959339
Event: 24th Annual Technical Symposium, 1980, San Diego, United States

Abstract

Three cooling methods are now being used by the Army for cooling Night Vision devices. Closed cycle mechanical coolers are being used in applications that can tolerate the weight and power associated with this mode. Three closed cycle coolers are now being used on Army systems. The TE cooler is being used on handheld systems. This option has the quietest mode, since there are no moving parts. This method lends itself to the lowest weight, cost, and size option, but is limited to temperatures around 200K. The J.T. cooler option is being used for 80K operation. This method offers the lowest weight and quietest method for cooling to 80K, but has severe logistic problems. An analysis of these cooling methods will be presented. In addition to the problems of designing and maintaining cryogenic coolers, the interface between cooler and dewar is critical. Several interface methods will be discussed and the results of a new method that will greatly reduce vibrations into the focal plane by mechanical coolers, will also be presented.

Citation Download Citation

Stuart B. Horn "Cryogenic Cooling Options For Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR)", Proc. SPIE 0245, Cryogenically Cooled Sensor Technology, (3 November 1980); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.959339

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