Non-contact radiometric techniques represent an attractive solution to the DARPA temperature measurement problem because they offer totally noninvasive measurement technique with excellent temporal and spatial resolution. However, conventional radiometric techniques suffer from persistent temperature measurement errors. The proposed new radiometric techniques are capable of solving the two primary measurement problems in radiation thermometry, unknown material emissivity and reflected background radiation . These innovative new techniques therefore provide the foundation for a noninvasive temperature measurement and control system of unprecedented accuracy and reliability for high temperature (1000 - 1500 degrees centigrade) manufacturing processes. The proposed techniques are broadly applicable and not limited to any particular class of materials, manufacturing processes, or environments. The Phase I research stresses laboratory demonstration of the proposed non-contact radiometric measurement techniques for conditions and materials which simulate relevant high temperature manufacturing processes, coupled with simultaneous direct temperature measurements. The Phase I research also includes identification and evaluation of Phase II sensor design options, plus drafting of one or more preliminary phase 11 sensor designs. The proposed research effort will benefit from our directly related experience in infrared radiometry, non-contact temperature measurements, and DOD contracting.
