The camera we normally use takes pictures of visible colors, but a near-infrared camera takes pictures of differences in materials rather than colors.
We experimented with a near-infrared camera by taking pictures of things around us to see what kind of inspections we could perform.
We used a near-infrared camera from Aval Data Corporation for this experiment.
detergent
color camera
This image was taken with a popular color camera.
monochrome camera
When photographed in black and white, the liquid inside is barely visible.
Near Infrared Camera
When photographed with a near-infrared camera, the print shows through to the liquid inside. This could be used to inspect for foreign material contamination, etc.
Salt & Sugar
color camera
This image was taken with a popular color camera.
monochrome camera
When photographed in black and white, it is almost impossible to distinguish salt from sugar.
Near Infrared Camera
When photographed with a near-infrared camera, only the sugar appears black.
Plastic Packaging
color camera
This image was taken with a popular color camera.
monochrome camera
This image was taken with a monochrome camera.
Near Infrared Camera
Using a near-infrared camera, we were able to find the frogs that had been hiding!