Author(s)

E. De Baetselier, D. Deberlanger & G. De Mey

Abstract

Numerical simulation of the thermal image generator E. De Baetselier, D. Deberlanger & G. De Mey Department of Electronics and Information Systems, University of Ghent, St. Pietersnieuwstraat 41 > B9000 Gent, Belgium ABSTRACT Our research project aims the construction of a "Thermal Image Generator"(TIG). Such a tool can easily be constructed using thick film resistors, printed on a ceramic substrate. By selectively heating the resistors (hence by applying power to them) we can create a thermal pattern on the substrate (text and figures). The blind person can sense this pattern using his fingertips. A practicable realisation of the device needs thermal analysis of the device itself and of the device-finger interaction. Therefore we conceived a simulation program, solving the time-dependent thermal problem assuming a cylindrical coordinate system with radial symmetry. Using the program we were able to change the TIG prototype improving the thermal screen contrast an

Keywords