Physics Principles of the Infrared Thermography and Human Thermoregulation

Although it is easy to capture a thermal image with infrared thermography, it is necessary to have the basic knowledge about how it works and the physical laws relating to it, as well as the radiative characteristics of the different bodies, and how heat is transferred between space and bodies. This knowledge is essential to establishing a logical hypothesis, using the camera rigorously, and interpreting the thermal data correctly. The aim of this chapter is to present the basic physical principles of infrared thermography, heat transfer and human thermoregulation.