---
publication_id: "OT-2026-000001448"
title: "Leak detection using reflection-based imaging"
published_at: "2026-09-15T19:05:54.079837Z"
canonical_url: "https://opentechnical.org/p/OT-2026-000001448"
categories:
  - "robotics-automation/robot-architectures"
keywords:
  - "b25j11/00"
  - "g01m3/38"
  - "g01m3/38"
  - "g01m3/20"
  - "g01m3/38"
  - "g01m3/38"
---

# Leak detection using reflection-based imaging

## Abstract

A leak detection system includes an emitter, detector, and electronic control unit (ECU). The emitter directs electromagnetic energy having a predetermined wavelength range, e.g., infrared energy, toward a surface of a product. The product defines an enclosure chamber containing a trace gas. The detector is positioned between the emitter and the product at an offset distance from the surface. The detector detects reflected energy. The ECU receives a signal from the detector that is indicative of a spectrum of the reflected energy and identifies a detected leak in the product. This includes comparing the spectrum of the reflected energy to a predetermined spectrum of the trace gas. The trace gas has a wavelength within the predetermined wavelength range of the emitter. The ECU generates an output signal in response to the leak, with the output signal identifying a presence and location of the leak.