Patent ID: 6583416
Filing Date: 2003-06-24
Classification: G01J,H04N

Abstract:
An infrared imager array including a monolithic semiconductor integrated circuit substrate for providing an image signal of a scene, comprising:a first plurality of infrared sensors arranged in rows and columns each one of the plurality of infrared sensors having a deflectable microelectromechanical infrared radiation responsive element, for providing a proportionate electrical signal in response to infrared radiation of the scene incident thereto; a second plurality of blind infrared sensors positioned along at least one side perimeter of the rows and columns, each one of the second plurality of infrared sensors having a deflectable micro-electromechanical infrared radiation responsive element, the infrared radiation responsive elements of the second plurality of blind infrared sensors being shielded from infrared radiation of the scene for providing a proportionate electrical signal in response to infrared radiation incident thereto, wherein a temperature gradient generated along the at least one side perimeter is sensed and converted to electrical signals by the second plurality of blind infrared sensors.