vIRalert 2: Human Body Temperature Measurement System

In a world where global travel means infections can pass through populations fast, the ability to screen people for fever is a key tool in reducing the risk of disease spread. 

The vIRalert 2 fixed temperature monitoring system provides remote measurement of human body temperature (typically the face) to an accuracy of within 0.5°C / 0.9°F enabling the detection of the small changes in temperature induced by a fever. 

Most economical thermal imagers can only achieve accuracy to within 2°C / 3.6°F which is not adequate to detect a fever however by calibrating an imager in real time against a precise blackbody calibration source the vIRalert 2 system can provide accurate and reliable skin temperature measurement for the screening of personnel at point of entry to areas like airports, train stations, key operational facilities and factories and other places where infectious diseases can easily spread.

Using simple and intuitive software, this point-of-entry system provides automatic on-screen and audible alarms to alert the operator so that early action can be taken to protect the premises against the risk of spreading the infection.

KEY BENEFITS

• Instant non-intrusive measurement using infrared thermal imaging technology with market-lead temperature measurement accuracy.
• Monitors for high temperature without slowing down the flow of people.
• Fixed remote measurement removes the risk of infection transmission to operators.
• Complete On-line System Solution works out of the box and is simple to operate.
• Quick and easy to install and re-locate as required with standard camera fitting for flexible mounting options.
• Automatic alert function reduces potential for human error and immediately alerts the operator if trigger point reached.

KEY APPLICATIONS

• Transport and Travel - Airports, Railway Stations, Subways, Underground Rail Systems, Large Public Buildings
• Education - Schools, Colleges, Universities, Municipal Libraries
• Business - Manufacturing Facilities, Warehouses, Offices, Government Buildings

SPECIFICATION & DESIGN

• Thermal Imaging Camera - Continuously measuring 30 to 45°C / 86 to 113°F, with a 39 x 31° field of view and 80 x 64 resolution gives 5,210 temperature data points per frame, at a rate of 9 Hz.
• Blackbody Heat Source - Providing a trusted reference temperature value calibrated at 38 °C / 100.4 °F for the thermal imaging camera with a large plate for viewing at longer distances.
• Connecting Cables - Ethernet and Power between camera and laptop (4m / 13ft).
• Flexible Mountings - Camera supplied with wall mounting bracket and standard 1/4-20 UNC thread for use with alternative mounting options. Wall mounting lugs on calibration source enable easy fitting with wall hooks.
• Screening Software - Continuous or still image showing normal temperature in black and white with abnormally high temperatures in red. On screen and audio alarm triggered if potential fever detected. Supply of Windows 10 Laptop for running software is optional.
• Calibration - Each system is calibrated using standards that are traceable to our ISO17025 accredited lab in the UK.
• Made in the United Kingdom

A typical detection distance of 1 metre,  provides a field of view of 70 x 55 cm so that checks can be made without any contact with the operator.

Made in the UK, the vIRalert 2 is AMETEK Land’s accurate thermal imaging system for human body temperature measurement.

Disclaimer: Human skin temperature is affected by a wide number of environmental and physiological factors. Elevated facial skin temperature may signify a raised body core temperature; correspondingly, an elevated core temperature may not be accompanied by a raised facial skin temperature. vIRalert systems are accurate scientific systems that must be operated strictly in accordance with the manufacturer’s operating manual. vIRalert systems are not intended, nor designed, to diagnose or detect medical conditions including, but not limited to, viruses or other illnesses. AMETEK Land thermal imaging products should only be used to detect variations of surface temperature. If elevated skin temperature is detected, the finding should be confirmed by other means, for example, an approved medical thermometer. The absence of an elevated skin temperature does not exclude a fever.

Can I use the thermal imaging camera without the blackbody source?
We do not state the accuracy of the camera without a reference value in frame. The blackbody reference temperature is an essential requirement for accurate temperature values.

What temperature is the calibration source set to? Can I adjust it?
The calibration source is pre-set to 38 degrees Celsius (100.4 degrees Fahrenheit) and cannot be changed.

How accurate is vIRalert 2?
VIRalert 2 has ± 0.5°C measurement accuracy aimed at an object with a temperature that is known and stable, such as a Blackbody Source. Unlike some economical industrial thermal cameras, vIRalert 2 was developed and calibrated for precise skin temperature values and maximizes accuracy by referencing the Blackbody Source with a known temperature value. Note: Human skin temperature is affected by a wide number of environmental and physiological factors. Elevated facial skin temperature may signify a raised body core temperature; correspondingly, an elevated core temperature may not be accompanied by a raised facial skin temperature. vIRalert systems are accurate systems that must be operated strictly in accordance with the manufacturer’s operating manual.

Can I purchase a calibration source separately?
Yes, please submit an enquiry via the website and a member of our team will make contact.

Are the Regions of Interest adjustable?
Yes, they are configurable to set an ROI around the calibration source and where the subjects are directed to stand or sit. Instructions are available in the user guide.

Does vIRalert 2 have audible alarms? 
Yes. VIRalert 2 has an audible alarm when thresholds are exceeded.     

Can I scan groups of people passing through the point of entry?
Each subject must be stopped for a short time so that they can stand, or sit, still and directly face the camera in order for an accurate temperature value to be taken.

Can the system be used for self-screening?
Yes, if the laptop or PC monitor is placed within the view of the subject, the subject can determine their own temperature reading without an operator being present.

Does the vIRalert system require calibration?
vIRalert 2 systems are manufactured to precise internal standards which include accuracy checks. They are inherently stable with time. However, in line with any local quality assurance procedures, it is highly recommended that they have their calibration checked every 12 months by an appropriately trained person. This ensures that the instrument operates with accuracy and reliability, contact AMETEK Land for more information.

Can the vIRalert 2 system be used through a window, e.g. a car windshield?
No, the thermal imaging camera operates in the 8-14 micron range and will not see through types of glass.

Can vIRalert 2 screen more than one person at a time? 
No, the system is designed for a single person. 

Can multiple systems be used with one computer? 
VIRalert 2 supports one system per computer. 

How much time does each scan take per person? 
Measurement time is 1-3 seconds. 

How long does vIRalert 2 take to setup? 
The general setup time is between 5 to 10 minutes before readings can be taken. 

What is the setup configuration? 
The recommended detection distance is 1 metre. The Blackbody Source should be placed 1m from the Camera, then the subject must stand next to the Blackbody Source looking at the Camera, and both the subject and the Blackbody Source must be in the Camera frame at the same time.  Failure to follow these distance guidelines may result in less accurate skin temperature readings.

Can additional inputs/outputs be used with the system?
The following outputs are available from vIRalert:

The Watchdog Timer is a signal which is transmitted at a user-defined interval to check that the system is functioning correctly. The loss of the Watchdog Timer could indicate a problem with the system.
The Warning signal is active whenever the warning temperature threshold is triggered within vIRalert.
The Alarm signal is active whenever the alarm temperature threshold is triggered within vIRalert.
The MaxTemp signal sends the maximum temperature value registered within the detection area. This is the same temperature as that displayed at the top of the screen in vIRalert.

The I/O modules supported by vIRalert are listed below:

MOXA ioLogik E1214 - 6 relay outputs
MOXA ioLogik E1241 - 4 analogue outputs (0 to 10 V or 4 to 20 mA via software configuration)
EL4014 - 4 Analogue Outputs (0 to 20 mA or 4 to 20 mA via software configuration)
EL2624 - 4 Relay Outputs A total of 16 modules, comprising any combination of the above modules can be added.

For more information on the MOXA ioLogik modules, please refer to MOXA’s user documentation.

What is required to operate vIRalert 2 in addition to what is included in the box? 
A PC, laptop, or tablet running Windows 10 is required. Additionally, you will need a way to mount the Blackbody Source and the Camera. There are a variety of suitable options available that range from using standard camera tripods to more permanent wall mounting installation options.

How do I download vIRalert 2 Software? 
VIRalert 2 software can be downloaded from the vIRalert 2 product page.

What is included in my software license? 
The vIRalert 2 software is free and unlicensed. It can be downloaded from the vIRalert 2 product page.

Can I order a traceable calibration certification?
Yes, our standard calibration charges apply. Please contact your AMETEK Land representative for a quotation or submit an enquiry through the website.

Can the system be used over Wi-Fi or mobile app? 
No, the system comes with a split communication and power cable. 

Can I order a commissioning engineer?
This should not generally be required; the system is designed to work out the box and setup should be possible by any unskilled operator very quickly using the documentation and videos. Our customer support is currently available through existing channels, phone, and website. We have a webchat facility online.

Is vIRalert 2 an FDA 510(k) cleared device? 
No. The vIRalert 2 system is not intended for use as a medical device and does not require FDA 510(k) compliance when used to detect temperatures prior to entry into a facility. We are careful not to market the system as a replacement for any medical diagnosis or treatment.

What is the system frame rate (Hz)? 
<9Hz 

Is there an SDK available for vIRalert 2?  
There is no SDK for vIRalert 2. Developers are not permitted to modify the performance of the program. 

Is the system US HIPPA compliant?
No camera is specifically compliant or not, the burden is on the health provider to use Personal Health Information (PHI) responsibly. Our system does not provide high resolution facial images, and does not record data, and as a point of access system, is designed to be in public areas, where there are no restrictions.

Does the system emit any harmful radiation?
No, the system only measures infrared energy emitted from surfaces, it does not emit any radiation itself.

Can the system be used outdoors?
We recommend the vIRalert 2 for indoor use only.

Are there any specific considerations for the installation?
Please ensure that: the calibration source is not mounted next to a radiator, the camera sees the person as the hottest object, not the background through the open door, make sure there are no radiators, heaters or other heat source e.g. hot power supplies or hot monitors in the FOV, the calibration source is not obstructed at any time. 

Do ambient temperature swings affect the temperature readings?
The 38 degrees Celsius (100.4 degrees Fahrenheit) calibration source is temperature controlled and permanently located within the field-of-view of the imager, so we always know the imager is showing the correct temperature. Skin temperatures are essentially compared to the reference temperature. Human skin temperatures fluctuate depending on ambient conditions, so alarm thresholds are determined locally.1 

1 http://www.healthyheating.com/Definitions/facts_about_skin.htm#.xnsptygzzey Dr. K.R. Koehler College Physics for Students of Biology and Chemistry, University of Cincinnati.

Will we need to get an export licence?
The vIRalert 2 is not subject to export licence requirements.

Can vIRalert 2 be used to detect an illness, fever, virus or infection? 
vIRalert 2 systems are not medical devices. It is not intended, nor designed, to diagnose or detect medical conditions including, but not limited to, viruses or other illnesses. AMETEK Land thermal imaging products should only be used to detect variations of surface temperature. If elevated skin temperature is detected, the finding should be confirmed by other means, for example, an approved medical thermometer. The absence of an elevated skin temperature does not exclude a fever.

Can the system replace a medical thermometer?
No, medical thermometers are used by trained professionals for core temperature diagnostics. vIRalert 2 does not do this. VIRalert 2 measures the skin temperature of an individual and alerts the user when the subject's skin temperature exceeds the user-selected threshold. VIRalert 2 can be used for screening and allows the operator to maintain a safe distance from the subject.  VIRalert 2 does not take the place of a medical thermometer for measurement of a person’s body temperature to diagnose fever. 

What affects skin temperature differences? 
Multiple variables can affect skin temperatures recently including exposure to sun and exercise. VIRalert 2 detects the hottest area of the face for temperature measurement which will have a strong general correlation to body temperature.

Why doesn’t the vIRalert 2 system display the same body temperature as my thermometer? 
VIRalert 2 is not a medical thermometer and it does not measure body temperature.  VIRalert 2 displays your skin temperature at the warmest point detected on the face.  Human skin temperature is affected by a wide number of environmental and physiological factors. The system is intended as a point of entry screening tool, not for diagnostic purposes.

Do I need any special training to use vIRalert 2? 
No, the software is simple to set up and easy to use. 

What should I do if someone has a temperature above the threshold I set? 
The actions after the temperature measurement should be decided by the user.

Do I need the Blackbody Source in the frame? 
Yes, this is required. The Blackbody Source enables vIRalert 2 to produce higher accuracy than a standard thermal imaging Camera. VIRalert 2 will not operate unless the Blackbody Source is detected in the Camera frame. 

Does the Blackbody Source work with any other power sources? 
No, please use the power supply provided by AMETEK Land in order to maintain the best performance of the system. 

Will a nearby heating and air condition vent affect the system? 
Environments such as warm and cold conditions may affect temperature values. For best performance, we recommend installing this system inside a temperature-controlled environment.  You should also avoid leaving the Blackbody Source in direct sunlight or near heat sources.