Device for continuously observing objects independently from ambient light

TL;DR: In this paper, a multispectral camera consisting of at least one channel is used, one channel being only sensitive in the visible wave length range and the other channel being sensitive only in the invisible wavelength range.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for continuously observing objects independently from ambient light, in particular overhead line systems of rail vehicles, by means of at least one camera from a vehicle travelling at a high speed. According to the invention, at least one multispectral camera which comprises at least one channel is used, said channel being only sensitive (fig 1a) in the visible wave length range and at least one channel which is only sensitive (fig 1b) in the invisible wave length range. Additionally, an illumination radiates the object which is to be examined in the corresponding invisible wavelength ranges. Ideally, the wavelength ranges in question are in the infrared range of >700nm or the ultraviolet range of <400nm. The advantage of the infrared range (displayed as an IR-range) in relation to the ultraviolet range (displayed as UV-range) is transparent to glass. The invention also relates to the uses of the standard objectives and the inventive device can be integrated in a simple manner behind windscreens.