Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention provide methods, apparatuses, systems, computing devices, computing entities, and/or the like for monitoring and/or controlling processing parameters for an industrial process. In various embodiments, a method is provided that comprises: receiving media of a processing region of an industrial process that comprises an object, wherein the media comprises media elements, and each media element comprises a field of view of the object; identifying a set of pixels found in the area of interest; and for each media element: extracting an attribute value from each pixel found in the media element; constructing an attribute profile comprising the attribute value for each pixel; mapping the attribute profile to a mapped profile that comprises at least one property value that correlates to at least one attribute value; and providing the mapped profile to a control system to use in controlling processing parameters of the industrial process.

Abstract: A measurement system includes: a storage configured to store design information including at least a dimension and a designed position of each of building components at a construction site; a component identifier configured to identify at least one of the building components constructed at the construction site as an identified building component, based on the designed position stored in the storage; a scanner configured to measure a distance and/or angle from the identified building component identified by the component identifier; a point cloud data generator configured to generate three-dimensional point cloud data, based on a result of the distance and/or angle measured by the scanner; and an actually measured position calculator configured to calculate an actually measured position of the identified building component, based on the three-dimensional point cloud data.

Abstract: A device for measuring a reflectivity of an object at the seabottom, includes a spectral probe, a first white board, a second white board, a distance meter, and a shaft; the first white board and the second white board respectively have a known reflectivity; the first white board and the second white board are connected to the shaft, wherein the first white board and the second white board are spaced along an axial direction of the shaft and staggered from each other along a radial direction of the shaft; the spectral probe is configured to collect spectral data of the first white board, the second white board and the object at the seabottom; the distance meter is configured to collect distance data between the spectral probe and the object at the seabottom.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a mobile terminal including a lighting device and a method for controlling the same. A mobile terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a lighting device; a camera; and a controller configured to capture a 3D image by means of the camera, wherein the lighting device includes a pattern light source configured to emit light having a predetermined pattern; and a surface light source configured to emit uniform light, and wherein the controller controls the lighting device so that the pattern light source and the surface light source alternately emit light.

Abstract: A system for backscatter-based cooperative communication in a wireless-powered heterogeneous network includes a low-power access point, a hybrid access point, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. The low-power access point transmits an unmodulated carrier. The hybrid access point is in communication with a primary device using a signal. Internet of Things (IoT) devices harvest energy of the unmodulated carrier and the signal, and each of the IoT devices sequentially transmits information to the hybrid access point through a bistatic backscatter communication-based cooperation mode or non-cooperation mode using the harvested energy.

Abstract: In swept source Raman (SSR) spectroscopy, a swept laser beam illuminates a sample, which inelastically scatters some of the incident light. This inelastically scattered light is shifted in wavelength by an amount called the Raman shift. The Raman-shifted light can be measured with a fixed spectrally selective filter and a detector. The Raman spectrum can be obtained by sweeping the wavelength of the excitation source and, therefore, the Raman shift. The resolution of the Raman spectrum is determined by the filter bandwidth and the frequency resolution of the swept source. An SSR spectrometer can be smaller, more sensitive, and less expensive than a conventional Raman spectrometer because it uses a tunable laser and a fixed filter instead of free-space propagation for spectral separation. Its sensitivity depends on the size of the collection optics. And it can use a nonlinearly swept laser beam thanks to a wavemeter that measures the beam's absolute wavelength during Raman spectrum acquisition.

Abstract: A system for the collection of visual and related data on marine and other underwater habitats and fauna, in particular and without limitation for benthic habitats over significant spatial scales. The system can include elements such as a digital or video camera to receive visual images, various sensors to sense other related data and waterproof housings to protect various elements of the device. A sensor may for example be a global positioning system. The device can also include elements to control the device and to record, transfer & process the data.

Abstract: A LiDAR apparatus comprising a laser source for emitting laser pulses. An SiPM detector is provided for detecting reflected photons. Optics and an aperture stop is provide. The aperture stop is provided intermediate the SiPM detector and the optics for limiting an angle of view of the SiPM detector.

Abstract: Imaging control methods and apparatuses are provided related to the field of imaging. A method comprises: in response to that an imaging apparatus is ready for reading data of a line of pixels, acquiring light source information of at least one glare source corresponding to the line of pixels, the at least one glare source being at least one of at least one light source of the imaging apparatus, causing a glare of the line of pixels when being in an ON state; and turning off at least one light source in an ON state in the at least one glare source according to the light source information. The influence of glare can be reduced, thereby improving the image quality.

Abstract: A system for covert sensing. A broadband light source is split into two portions, a first portion of which illuminates a target, and a second portion of which is frequency shifted, e.g., by an acousto-optic frequency shifter. Light reflected from the target is combined with the frequency shifted light, detected, and demodulated with an in-phase and quadrature demodulator. The outputs of the demodulator are filtered and the arc tangent of the ratio is calculated.

Abstract: A method of analyzing a sample receiving a particle of interest, including: defining a reference point located on a first interface of the sample, or at a known distance from the sample, along the optical axis of the optical system; acquiring a reference image transmission of the sample, the object plane of the optical system being located at a known distance from the reference point along an axis parallel to the optical axis of the optical system, and the particle of interest being located outside of the object plane; using the reference image, digitally constructing a series of reconstructed images, each associated with a predetermined offset of the object plane along the optical axis of the optical system; and using the series of reconstructed images, determining the distance along an axis parallel to the optical axis of the optical system, between the particle of interest and the reference point.

Abstract: A method, system, and computer program product provide the ability to dynamically generate a three-dimensional (3D) scene. A red green blue (RGB) image (in RGB color space) of the 3D scene is acquired. The RGB image is converted from RGB color space to a luminance (Y) and chrominance (UV) image in YUV color space (hat includes Y information and UV information). Reflectance information of the 3D scene is acquired from a laser scanner. Based on a blending function, the luminance information is blended with the reflectance information resulting in a blended YUV image. The blended YUV image is converted from YUV color space into RGB color space resulting in a blended RGB image that is output.

Abstract: A system and method include scanning a light detection and ranging (LIDAR) device through a range of orientations corresponding to a scanning zone while emitting light pulses from the LIDAR device. The method also includes receiving returning light pulses corresponding to the light pulses emitted from the LIDAR device and determining initial point cloud data based on time delays between emitting the light pulses and receiving the corresponding returning light pulses and the orientations of the LIDAR device. The initial point cloud data has an initial angular resolution. The method includes identifying, based on the initial point cloud data, a reflective feature in the scanning zone and determining an enhancement region and an enhanced angular resolution for a subsequent scan to provide a higher spatial resolution in at least a portion of subsequent point cloud data from the subsequent scan corresponding to the reflective feature.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method and image pick-up system for obtaining clear images through the rain, snow or fog. The method includes a DSP processing module controls a laser pulse generating module output laser pulse signals with a default pulse width, and shut the laser pulse generating module down when a first default time arrives; when the laser pulse signals is being output, the DSP processing module controls an electronic shutter of an image pick-up device open after delaying for a second default time, and close the electronic shutter when a third default time arrives; wherein, the third default time is a lasting period of the default pulse width of the laser pulse signals; then, an FPGA module processes the images captured by the image pick-up device, and outputs clearer images, or makes the capturing distance farther but obtains clear images.

Abstract: A light sensing device having background suppression includes: a light transmitter, a light receiver, an evaluation unit for determining the spacing between the light sensing device and an object in a detection zone of the light sensing device, and a setting element for setting a sensing depth within which an object should be detected. A critical spacing region is defined between a set sensing depth and a background in dependence on the set sensing depth. A signal output outputs a signal if an object is detected within the set sensing depth and a display unit displays whether an object is present within the sensing depth. The set sensing depth can be displayed in relation to a maximum sensing depth of the light sensing device in a first display region and a second display region indicates if an object is located in the critical spacing region.

Abstract: Techniques for improving overhead image bathymetry include obtaining depth information from image data based on one or more of the spectral domain, the angular domain (e.g., stereo or photogrammetry), the temporal domain (e.g., monitoring the movement of waves in a body of water), or any other suitable domain, together with a priori information about the area of interest. These different pieces of depth information from the various different domains are combined together using any combination of Optimal Estimation and Continuity Constraints to improve the accuracy of the results.

Abstract: A system and method can provide an enhanced or other sensed image on a display. The system and method can sense an environment using an enhanced vision sensor or other sensor and provide an enhanced vision image or other image in response to data from the enhanced vision sensor. The enhanced vision or other vision system adjusts the sensing operation when an aircraft light is on to reduce back scatter effects.

Abstract: System for detecting objects protruding from the surface of a body of water in a marine environment under low illumination conditions, the system comprising a gated light source, generating light pulses toward the body of water illuminating substantially an entire field of view, a gated camera, sensitive at least to wavelengths of the light generated by the gated light source, the gated camera receiving light reflected from at least one object, within the field of view, protruding from the surface of the body of water and acquiring a gated image of the reflected light, and a processor coupled with the gated light source and with the gated camera, the processor gating the gated camera to be set ‘OFF’ for at least the duration of time it takes the gated light source to produce a light pulse in its substantial entirety in addition to the time it takes the end of the light pulse to complete traversing a determined distance from the system and back to the gated camera, the processor further setting, for each pulse

Abstract: A geodetic marking system for marking a known target point, having an automotive, unmanned, remotely controllable air vehicle and having a geodetic position determination arrangement for determining the external actual position of the air vehicle. The air vehicle also has a marking unit for marking the target point, and the marking system has a control unit such that the air vehicle can be positioned relative to the target point position on the basis of the external actual position, which can be determined continuously. The control unit is also configured in such a manner that it is possible to control the marking unit for marking the target point taking into account the actual position, the desired position and a defined marking direction from the marking unit to the target point, with the result that the target point can be marked with geodetic accuracy in the defined marking direction.

Abstract: A firearms pulverizer system is disclosed which comprises a pulverizer unit having an inlet chute, a cutting chamber, and an outlet, a first image capturing device positioned above the inlet chute for capturing an image of an identification number associated with a firearm, and a second image capturing device positioned above the cutting chamber for recording destruction of the firearm inserted into the cutting chamber.

Abstract: A vehicle including a scanning imaging system includes a vehicle body having an outer surface, a propulsion source, and an optical window secured to the outer surface of the vehicle positioned on an optical axis for transmitting electromagnetic radiation received from a portion of an area of interest to the scanning imaging system. The scanning imaging system includes a first achromatic prism pair having prisms with different materials that have different refractive properties, and a second achromatic prism pair having prisms with different materials that have different refractive properties, both positioned on the optical axis. A camera fixed in location is optically coupled to form images from the electromagnetic radiation after being bent by the achromatic prism pairs. A motor including a controller independently rotates the first and second achromatic prism pairs about the optical axis for scanning within the area of interest.

Abstract: A system for illuminating and recording an image of an operative field during a medical procedure is presented. The system includes a first light source assembly, a second light source assembly, and a controller. The first and second light source assemblies include a light source operable to illuminate the operative field, a camera operable to record the image of the operative field, and a sensor operable to detect motion from the light source assemblies. The controller is in communication with the first and second light source assemblies. The controller is configured to send operational commands to the light source assemblies based on feedback from the sensors. One of the operational commands is a recording command. The controller is configured to send the recording command to either the camera in the first or second light source assembly.

Abstract: Apparatus for mapping an object includes an illumination assembly (30, 50), which includes a single transparency (36) containing a fixed pattern (60, 70, 80) of spots. A light source (34, 52) transilluminates the single transparency with optical radiation so as to project the pattern onto the object (28). An image capture assembly (32) captures an image of the pattern that is projected onto the object using the single transparency. A processor (24) processes the image captured by the image capture assembly so as to reconstruct a three-dimensional (3D) map of the object.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for imaging in scattering media such as fog, water and biological tissues. Normally, such images suffer from poor visibility due to backscattering and signal attenuation. At least two images are taken of the scene using active widefield polarized illumination, with different states of a camera-mounted polarizer. The degree of polarization of backscatter is estimated in every point of the scene, leading to an estimation of the backscatter in every point of the scene. A portion or all of the value of backscatter can be deducted in each point of the scene resulting in an enhanced image with improved contrast and brightness range across the field of view.

Abstract: An interactive display in which alternating illuminators are used to reduce or cancel specular reflections. The interactive display includes multiple illuminators and at least one camera placed behind one or more display layers. The interactive display uses a phase management mechanism that controls alternation of phases of the interactive display. When in the first phase, the first illuminator is controlled to dominate over the second illuminator. When in the second phase, the second illuminator is controlled to dominate over the first illuminator. A consolidated image is then formulated using a combination of the first and second images. The consolidated image has reduced or eliminated specular reflections as compared to the first and second images alone.

Abstract: A LIDAR system that includes a streak image sensor having multiple sensor elements for receiving optical return signals from portions of a spatial region within their respective instantaneous fields of view is operated by periodically sampling and storing electrical signals generated by the sensor elements respectively, and initiating the periodic sampling of the electrical signals of each sensor individually and independently by reference to a feature of that sensor's electrical signal that represents a boundary between materials with different optical properties.

Abstract: The present invention is in the field of Content protection, most particularly in cinema venues where camcorder acquisition followed by immediate illegal distribution creates important revenue losses for content owners. It is known that anti-camcorder systems using a color modulation can be circumvented by using low shutter speed in the camcorder. Today, the shutter speed is determined automatically by the camcorder as a function of the filmed video source. In automatic configurations, shutter speed self-adapts to either motion, or flicker detection, both of which taking into account brightness variations only. The proposed invention proposes a dual color/brightness modulation to defeat automatic shutter speed adjustment. For example, a color modulation at 50/60 Hz is carried out and a brightness modulation at a higher frequency 100/120 Hz is added to force the camcorder to work at a high shutter speed.

Abstract: A method and system for performing three-dimensional holographic microscopy of an optically trapped one dimensional structure. The method and system use an inverted optical microscope, a laser source which generates a trapping laser beam wherein the laser beam is focused by an objective lens into a plurality of optical traps. The method and system also use a collimated laser at an imaging wavelength to illuminate the structure created by the optical traps. Imaging light scattered by the optically tapped structure forms normalized intensity holograms that are imaged by a video camera and analyzed by optical formalisms to determine light field to reconstruct 3-D images for analysis and evaluation.

Abstract: A method is provided for the generation an image in a turbid medium. After illuminating locations along a each of three adjacent lines using beam(s) of light, a camera is activated to generate three separate images. The second line is between the first and third lines. In terms of amplitude associated therewith, a portion of each of the first image and third image are subtracted from the entirety of the second image to generate a resulting image.

Abstract: A differential imaging system is particularly efficacious for detecting objects in high dispersion or light-scattering mediums, such as seawater. Such a device especially useful in mine detection. A single burst of illumination is used as the light sensitive portion of the system is gated so as to collect at least two images of reflected light from the same burst of illumination. The first image is modified and subtracted from the second image to remove the common noise, and to further enhance the image of the object to be detected.

Abstract: An image lidar includes a laser for generating light beam pulses in a line scan to illuminate an area surrounding a target. A controller selects pulse width and pulse rate of the light beam pulses emitted by the laser. A photomultiplier tube detects energy from the light beam pulses scattered by the target and generates a series of pixels defined by the light beam pulses and the line scan. A display generates an image from the pixels that is representative of the target.

Abstract: In some aspects of the invention, a LIDAR subsystem or other means at an elevated position emit thin fan-beam light pulses at a shallow angle, and detect reflected portions of the pulses at a like angle; a streak-tube subsystem or other means image successive reflected portions to detect objects, for example near a water craft if the elevated position is on such a craft (e.g., a mast or high bridge). In some aspects, the imaging means perform the imaging in a way that tightly localizes reflection from a water surface near the objects, to facilitate detecting the objects despite proximity to the surface. Some preferred embodiments apply a correction for energy reduction, or depth errors, near lateral ends of the fan beam; a lenslet array is preferred for applying the correction. Preferably the shallow angle is in a range of approximately one to fifteen degrees, more preferably approximately two to ten degrees, ideally roughly five degrees.

Abstract: A system and method for viewing objects at a fire scene allows fire fighters to view objects, including persons, in a smoke and fire filled environment. The present invention utilizes two different techniques to discriminate reflections from an object from scattered reflections from smoke and fire. In one embodiment of the invention, the coherent nature of laser light is employed to pick out objects. Another embodiment of the invention utilizes a time-gated approach to select reflections from objects which are located a specific distance from the laser transmitter.

Abstract: The field portion (40) of a workpiece (14) that an electro-optical system (28) can image is deflected by a field-of-view deflector (38) and an array of light sources (42, 44) illuminates the workpiece. As the field of view (40) moves about the workpiece surface, individual sources (42, 44) in the light-source array are so turned on and off that all sources that could be imaged into the field of view by specular reflection are turned off. In this way, proper dark-field illumination is maintained.

Abstract: An image of a scene partially obscured by atmospheric backscattered light is enhanced by taking account of variations in the mean backscattered flux component resulting from variations in the distance between the point from, which the image is captured and points in the terrain contributing to the scene. A series of images of the scene is captured, and an averaged image is produced in which each pixel has a brightness which is an average of the brightness of those portions of the captured images that represent the same region of the scene as that pixel. A model is defined to represent the relationship between the brightness of a pixel of the averaged image and the distance between the point of view from which the image represents and the point in the scene represented by that pixel of the image. An estimate of the contribution of atmospheric backscattered light to the brightness of each pixel of the image is computed from the model.

Abstract: A system for enhancing underwater visibility is described that uses left and right alternately chopped laser illumination, filtered wide baseline stereo imaging and specular reflectors for deblurring the images. Two stereo images are compared to determine the pattern of backscattered light and the resultant backscatter pattern is subtracted from the images. Inverse point spread filtering based on the fusion of the specular reflector pattern is next performed to further improve the images, and stereoscopic is display for enhanced visibility in turbid and murky mediums. The invention has broad application for underwater exploration and search and recovery operations, and is especially useful for detection and removal of underwater mine hazards.

Abstract: The present invention is a distance measuring device having a low power laser for use outdoors. The distance measuring device of the invention includes a laser emitting means that emits a pulsed laser beam to an object to be measured and an image reader that takes in irradiations images and stop period images of the object synchronously with an irradiation and stop period of the laser beam. A processing device then subtracts the stop image pixel values from the emission image pixel values to produce differential images. A minimum value image of the differential images is processed and binarized using a binary threshold to produce binary data from which a position where the laser beam is received is found. A calculation apparatus then determines a distance between the laser beam receiving position and the object based on the position where the laser beam is received.

Abstract: An integrated night vision device and laser range finder (10) provides night-time imaging of a scene by use of an image intensifier tube (14), as well as providing laser range finding operations. In a laser range finder mode of operation the device (10) projects a pulse of laser light into a scene being viewed, and a power supply and laser range finder circuit (50) of the device (10) temporarily utilizes the image intensifier tube (14) as a sensor to detect reflected laser light. During laser range finding, imaging is cut off for a very short time interval, and the image intensifier tube provides an electrical output signal in response to receipt of reflected laser light. A detection circuit (86, 86') associated with the image intensifier tube (10) receives the electrical output signal from the image intensifier tube (14), and includes a magnetic circuit. Oscillation in the magnetic circuit is effected by the electrical output signal of the image intensifier tube (14).

Abstract: A system is described that uses chopped laser illumination, chopped and fered wide baseline stereo imaging, specular reflectors along the path to navigated, comparison of the two stereo images collected to determine and subtract from the images the magnitude of the backscatter field, inverse point spread filtering based on the fusion of the specular reflector pattern, and stereoscopic display for the pilot to allow navigation through fog and other aerosols. In particular, aircraft pilots will be able to land their aircraft in fog and other aerosols.

Abstract: An electro-optical detection system for detecting objects embedded in a partially transmitting medium. The system includes a receiver for receiving electromagnetic radiation and a device for separating the received radiation into two separate spectral channels. A detector in each of the spectral channels for providing a signal indicative of the received radiation in each spectral channel. A signal processor, responsive to the outputs of the detectors, having a signal channel where transmission of light of the signal channel wavelength in the medium is high and having a reference channel where attenuation of light of the reference channel wavelength in the medium is high. The signal processor ensures that the reflected light at both signal and reference wavelengths are of similar intensity and geometric distribution. A subtractor provides a difference output in which the signal and reference channels are subtracted, removing the effect of reflected light.

Abstract: A range imaging device such as a distance camera is improved by incorporating an oscillator to generate a reference signal, a light source to emit a light modulated in accordance with the reference signal and to project the light onto a three-dimensional target. A condenser lens collects and condenses a secondary light reflected by the target and projects the secondary light onto a gating image intensifier, which selectively gates the secondary light in synchronism with a pair of out-of-phase gate signals generated in accordance with the reference signal. Range information contained in the secondary light is extracted by the gating process. A CCD camera receives the gated secondary light and produces a corresponding image signal which is processed to produce a range image of the target.

Abstract: A laser range camera provides both imaging and range information using laser radar techniques. A laser transmitter having a fan shaped beam that creates a column shaped beam in a far field is scanned along a single axis within a defined field of view using an acoustical optical device. A staring focal array of multiple line receivers having a long narrow field of view by using a linear array of fiber optics receives reflected energy from the scanned scene and transfers the received information to an avalanche photo diode by bundling the linear array into a circular array for interfacing with the diode. The range and intensity of each pixel within a scene is measured using a CCD measurement system which communicates with the receiver through the electrical signals. Range is determined for each pixel of the scene using the exposure characteristics of a CCD with analog type time of flight measurements.

Abstract: A method for producing distance images according to the principle of emitting a light signal and the time-delayed reception of the reflected light signal by a receiving device wherein at least two reflection images of the same distance range are taken, and the emitted light signal is intensity-modulated by a modulation frequency. When at least one of the two reflection images is taken, the sensitivity of the receiving device is modulated by the same modulation frequency and is fixed in-phase with respect to it. Subsequently, by a comparison of the light intensity values in the first and second reflection images, the reflectivity and the distance of the objects are determined.

Abstract: A frequency agile laser illuminates a scene with floods of emissions of different wavelengths. As the wavelengths, or laser color changes, certain objects will stand out with respect to their background so that detection and recognition is enhanced to permit appropriate action. This technique has application in the location of underwater objects.

Abstract: An imaging system for detecting the contents of a turbid medium, such as water or air, which is at least partially transmissive of light. The system includes a light source for producing a series of discrete fan-shaped pulse beams which are substantially uniform in intensity or have been peaked at the edges of the fan to illuminate sections of the medium, a streak tube with a large photocathode for collecting the maximum amount of light from weak returns, a field-limiting slit disposed in front of the photocathode for removing multiply scattered light, a large aperture optical element for collecting and focusing the reflected portions of the pulse beam on the field-limiting slit and the photocathode, and an array of detectors. A volume display of the medium is generated by translating the transmitter and receiver normal to the longitudinal axis of the pulse beam to illuminate adjacent sections of the medium, and combining the sections to provide a volume display.

Abstract: An imaging UV/visible fluorosensing and Raman lidar system comprises an optical sensor for simultaneously measuring temporally, spatially and spectrally resolved laser backscatter from on the land, on or beneath the surface of bodies of water and in the atmosphere and utilizes "active" interrogation or "passive" interrogation for remotely and non-destructively probing the spectrally-dependent optical properties of a scene. In the "active" mode, the optical sensor of this invention comprises a transmitter (preferably a tunable solid state laser) which emits pulses of coherent light through a variable or adjustable field-of-view telescope whereupon the light pulses are then propagated towards a scene (e.g., land, sea or atmosphere). Thereafter, laser backscatter is collected by a second variable field-of-view telescope and directed to an imaging system and spectrally dispersive optical subsystem.

Abstract: A duo-frame normalization technique and system for use in range gate imag to determine a range coded image by use of two image frames. A transmitter emits a modulated energy pulse which is not gated when received by a single gated imaging camera to obtain an integrated first image frame and gated by the same camera when received as an integrated second image frame. The second integrated frame is divided by the first integrated frame to yield a range coded pixel intensity image. Three gated imagining cameras can also be used that share common imaging optics via filters and beam splitters so as to compensate for phenomenological issues that can vary the signals from one frame to another and lead to degraded range images.

Abstract: An imaging UV/visible fluorosensing and Raman lidar system comprises an optical sensor for simultaneously measuring temporally, spatially and spectrally resolved laser backscatter from on the land, on or beneath the surface of bodies of water and in the atmosphere that utilizes "active" interrogation or "passive" interrogation for remotely and non-destructively probing the spectrally-dependent optical properties of a scene. In the "active" mode, the optical sensor comprises a transmitter (preferably a tunable solid state laser) which emits pulses of coherent light through a variable or adjustable field-of-view telescope whereupon the light pulses are then propagated towards a scene (e.g., land, sea or atmosphere). Thereafter, laser backscatter is collected by a second variable field-of-view telescope and directed to an imaging system and spectrally dispersive optical subsystem.

Abstract: The present invention utilizes laser imaging, detection and ranging (LIDAR) as an optical source for an imaging system for helmeted divers who work in highly light backscattering fluid mediums. A laser emitter and detector in waterproof enclosures(s) are mounted on the divers helmet, and send signals to a topside LIDAR processing system, which processes them and sends them back down to the diver in the form of an image of the fluid environment on a viewing screen which is attached to the diver's helmet by a hinged bracket, leaving the diver's hands free for any required tasks. The LIDAR processing equipment is operated by support personnel above the surface of the water, while the imaging equipment on the diver sends and receives signals from the remote processing equipment by wires which run along the diver's hose. The system has the effect of reducing the perceived suspended particles in the fluid medium, thereby increasing identification and detection capabilities for the diver.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for imaging objects in turbid mediums, such as water, the invention using a laser pulse, a detector of the reflected laser pulse, and a shutter on the detector. The shutter is kept closed except at the expected return time of the laser pulse from the reflected object to be detected and identified at which time the shutter is opened to permit the detector to receive the reflected laser pulse. Typically, laser pulses with widths of about 100 to about 500 psecs are used. In addition, typical shutter times or gate widths of about 100 to about 500 psecs are also used. Gate widths on the order of 120 psecs are preferred. The detector or GOI camera is shielded from spurious signals, most notably, scattered laser light from the turbid medium.