Application of Passive Thermal Infrared Imaging to Study Ice and Snow Accretion on Automobiles in Cold Regions

Abstract

The resultant effect of ice and snow accretion on automobiles in cold regions may induce performance losses by provoking mechanical system failures and structural damages. Different methods for ice/snow detection and measurement have been used by researchers, ranging from simple monitoring techniques to advanced complex ones. Thermal infrared image processing based techniques can be a promising way for ice and snow detection on different surface of automobiles in cold regions, but have not extensively been studied so far. This paper presents a preliminary study about application of thermal infrared image processing based techniques for ice and snow detection on various automobiles in cold regions. Preliminary field measurements have been carried out by researchers of Narvik University College in northern part of Norway during winter 2012-2013, where results have shown a potential in this technique. Better knowledge of vehicle performance in icy conditions will help the designers to improve safe driving conditions.