3D thermal scanner to diagnose diseases

    Easier to use than conventional 2D scanners, 3D thermal scanner could one day help doctors detect certain cancers based on their thermal signatures.
    Although 2D thermal imaging has been in use for some time, the procedure is complicated and requires that the images be taking from the exact same position every time. In contrast, 3D thermal scanner can be freely moved around the patient to create an accurate 3D thermal map in real-time. Since cancer cells are usually higher in temperature than normal cells, the thermal mapping could help to reveal early signs of the disease while also providing a radiation-free way to monitor the disease's progress.
    The scanner could also have applications outside the medical field in industries such as manufacturing, agriculture and energy.