Matrix laser IR-visible image converter

A new type of a focal matrix IR-visible image converter is proposed. The pixel IR detectors of the matrix are tunable microcavities of VCSEL (vertical-cavity surface emitting laser) semiconductor microstructures. The image conversion is performed due to the displacements of highly reflecting cavity mirrors caused by thermoelastic stresses in their microsuspensions appearing upon absorption of IR radiation. Analysis of the possibilities of the converter shows that its sensitivity is 10^-3-10^-2 K and the time response is 10^-4-10^-3 s. These characteristics determine the practical application of the converter.