Low-contrast thermal resolution test targets : a new approach

A new type of thermal resolution test target optimized to minimize the effects of lateral thermal gradients at low thermal contrast is described. This target consists of thin-film inconel heater strips over an etched silica substrate bonded to an aluminum heat sink. A simple, finite-difference model is used to study how variations in target construction and materials affect the generated thermal resolution test pattern. The construction, testing, and use of this type of target to extend the lower end of the contrast range of a conventional target are described.