Abstract: The system and method relate to detection of objects that are submerged, or partially submerged (e.g. floating), relative to a water surface. One aspect of the invention emits LIDAR fan-beam pulses and analyzes return-pulse portions to determine water-surface orientations and derive submerged-object images corrected for refractive distortion. Another defines simulated images of submerged objects as seen through waves in a water surface, prepares an algorithm for applying a three-dimensional image of the water surface in refractive correction of LIDAR imaging through waves—and also models application of the algorithm to the images, and finally specifies the LIDAR-system optics. Yet another emits nearly horizontal pulses to illuminate small exposed objects at tens of kilometers, detects reflected portions and images successive such portions with a streak-tube subsystem. Still others make special provisions for airborne objects.

Abstract: A technique includes obtaining data indicative of images of a marine seismic source event, which are acquired by underwater cameras and processing the data to determine an attribute (a seismic bubble volume or motion, as non-limiting examples) that is associated with the seismic source event.

Abstract: A method of reducing data transfer while increasing image information over an 802.15.4 network includes obtaining an image with a sensor, modulating a representation of the image using a first 802.15.4 modem, sending the representation of the image to a coordinator, demodulating the representation of the image using a second 802.15.4 modem, and digitally enhancing at least one of the representation of the image and the image. A system for communication over an 802.15.4 network includes a sensor for obtaining data, the size of the data being at least an order of magnitude greater than the size of an 802.15.4 packet, a first 802.15.4 modem coupled to the sensor, a buffer for temporarily storing the data to allow transmission of portions of the data; the buffer being coupled to the sensor, a coordinator coupled to the sensor, the coordinator being capable of communicating with a computer, and a second 802.15.4 modem coupled to the coordinator.

Abstract: A fixed-position buoy for observing and monitoring the surface of a predetermined area of water, including a flotation device; an imaging device operable for obtaining images of the surface of the predetermined area of water; memory for storing the images of the surface of the predetermined area of water; one or more communications devices operable for transmitting a signal representing the images of the surface of the predetermined area of water to a remote location; and a tether and a mooring attached to the flotation device, the tether and the mooring operable for securing the flotation device.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a high-sensitivity inspection method and apparatus adapted for the fine-structuring of patterns, wherein defect inspection sensitivity is improved using the following technologies: detection optical system is improved in resolution by filling the clearance between an objective lens 30 and a sample 1, with a liquid, and increasing effective NA (Numerical Aperture); and when a transparent interlayer-insulating film is formed on the surface of the sample, amplitude splitting at the interface between the liquid and the insulating film is suppressed for reduction in the unevenness of optical images in brightness due to interference of thin-film, by immersing the clearance between the objective lens and the sample, with a liquid of a refractive index close to that of the transparent film.

Abstract: A buoy system for observing and monitoring the surface of a large predetermined area of water including a flotation device; a waterproof imaging device attached to the exterior of the flotation device, the imaging device operable for obtaining continuous real-time images of the surface of the predetermined area of water; a waterproof computer partially or wholly disposed within the flotation device, the computer operable for storing the continuous real-time images of the surface of the predetermined area of water; and one or more communication devices partially or wholly disposed within the flotation device, the one or more communications devices operable for transmitting a signal representing the continuous real-time images of the surface of the predetermined area of water to an operator at a remote location.

Abstract: A camera having a barrier according to the present invention includes a barrier unit in a space between a front main body and a front metal cover serving as an exterior member. Rotation of a barrier driving motor is transmitted to a rotary shaft member passing through the front main body, thereby allowing opening/closing actions of the lens barrier between a protection position for a photographing lens and a lens-barrier retracted position. The front main body is sealed waterproof by an O-ring provided to the outer circumferential surface of the rotary shaft member. With the lens barrel of the camera, rotation of a rotary moving frame is effectively transmitted to a cam frame through a cam follower fit to a linear-action groove, using a circumferential groove and the linear-action groove of a bayonet mechanism.

Abstract: The present invention provides a video system for use in extreme sports videography, particularly skydiving. The video system includes a remote video head disposed on the headgear of a user in communication with a video camcorder disposed in a body pouch selectably attachable to the body of the user or an item being worn by the user. A wireless system transmits a video signal between the remote video head and the video camcorder.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a downhole fish-imaging system. The fish-imaging system includes, a fish-imaging device positionable downhole near the fish, and a processor. The fish-imaging device has at least one shape changeable portion with a plurality of sensors therein for monitoring the shape of the at least one shape changeable portion, a shape of the at least one shape changeable portion is influenced by a shape of the fish. The processor is in operable communication with the fish-imaging device and is coupled to a wired pipe for transmitting data therealong from the sensors.

Abstract: A sound collection environment deciding device for deciding whether the sound was collected in air or in water by utilizing an audio signal of collected sound is provided. Methods of Utilizing the audio signal of collected sound include, for instance, utilizing a difference of frequency characteristics between in-air and in-water of the audio signal of collected sound, utilizing a difference of propagation characteristics between in-air and in-water of the audio signal of collected sound, or the like.

Abstract: A propulsion system is provided for an underwater vehicle such as a Remote Operated Vehicle (ROV). Two propellers are independently driven by motors, while the orientation of the propellers is simultaneously controlled by a third motor. A means is provided for reprogramming the control electronics that can be disabled when the vehicle is underwater. The control electronics also provides that all signals including video are transmitted to a base station without requiring coaxial cable.

Abstract: A top shell attaches to a bottom of a hull of a boat. A bottom shell attaches to the top shell with a waterproof camera housed between the shells. A cable runs from the camera to a monitoring screen in the pilot area.

Abstract: An underwater digital camera includes an image capturing unit, an underwater conditions sensing unit, a memory, and a processor. The image capturing unit is used for capturing images. The underwater condition sensing unit is used for sensing underwater conditions. The processor is used for writing the underwater conditions into the memory together with an image currently captured by image capturing unit while underwater.

Abstract: A video capture assembly is provided with a video recording device disposed inside a protective case. A device interface inside the case is coupled to a video input connector that protrudes outside said case. An image sensor is coupled via a flexible cable to the video input connector.

Abstract: An optical image capturing device which is configured to carry out underwater photographing, and comprises a selecting section configured to select a plurality of photographing modes including an underwater photographing mode, an imaging member to obtain an object image, and an adjusting section to adjust white balance of an image obtained by the imaging member, is disclosed. The adjusting section adjusts the white balance to enhance a blue component when the underwater photographing mode is selected. Thus, as the white balance is adjusted by the adjusting section to enhance a blue component when the underwater photographing mode is selected, a bluish image apparently photographed in water can be obtained.

Abstract: An apparatus to obtain images of a target by an underwater video camera in a waterproof container wherein the target is illuminated by a laser beam. The shutter of the video camera is kept closed until a laser pulse has covered the distance to the target and nearly back to reduce the effect of reflection of the laser pulse by particles in the water. A holographic beam shaper in the path of the laser beam before a diverging lens is used to provide a 4 by 3 aspect ratio the same as the camera to illuminate the target.

Abstract: A method, system and apparatus for viewing and imaging an underwater structure from a submersible platform, navigating along the structure and constructing a map of the structure in the forms of a photo-mosaic and a 3-D structural map. The system can include a submersible platform, at least two cameras coupled to the submersible platform, and stereovision matching logic programmed to simulate a frontal view of a target underwater structure from a fixed distance based upon an oblique view of the target underwater structure obtained by the cameras from a variable distance. The cameras can be forward or side mounted to the submersible platform and can include optical cameras, acoustical cameras or both. Preferably, the submersible platform can be a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), or an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV). Finally, the system further can include absolute positioning sensors.

Abstract: Dive computers in accordance with embodiments of the invention are disclosed that store information concerning a dive site. The stored information can be accessed during the dive to provide information concerning such things as points of interest and/or hazards. One embodiment of the invention includes a processor, memory connected to the processor, a pressure transducer connected to the processor and configured to measure depth, and a display connected to the processor. In addition, the memory contains factual information concerning a dive site, and the processor is configured to display at least a portion of the stored factual information concerning the dive site via the display.

Abstract: The multispectral imaging system provides detection of low contrast objects on or below the surface of a body of water through the elimination of most of the surface reflected light clutter components from multispectral images. The images are processed by taking the weighted difference of two or more spectral components and applying a demeaning or whitening filter to the result. The images can then be frame averaged where the appropriate corrections for motion, magnification, rotation, and translation have been applied. The resultant imagery can then be displayed to an operator or transmitted to a remote location.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a sealing system and method. More particularly, the invention encompasses a method and a system for a camera enclosure sealing. The invention meets or exceeds the IP67 International Standard. The inventive camera enclosure sealing system provides an enclosure which is dust-proof and water-proof.

Abstract: An underwater housing for containing a monitoring device includes a tubular housing body having a front end formed with an inward flange. The inward flange has a rear side surface formed with an annular groove defined by a groove-defining wall. A transparent plate is disposed fixedly within the housing body, and is located behind and adjacent to the inward flange. An annular water seal is disposed within the annular groove and in contact with the inward flange and an outer peripheral portion of the front side surface of the transparent plate so as to establish a watertight seal between the transparent plate and the housing body. An annular cover is disposed fixedly and fittingly within the inward flange, and has a rear end in contact with the front side surface of the transparent plate and in proximity to the water seal for covering the water seal.

Abstract: An exterior vehicle camera is disclosed for monitoring an operating area of a vehicle comprising a camera housing with a camera module having a camera electronics, and camera optics carried within the housing. A recording opening is formed in the camera housing facing toward a recording direction. A transparent recording window covers the recording opening, and is disposed adjacent a recording end of the camera optics. The camera housing and the recording window are formed from plastic materials having sufficiently identical thermal characteristics so that formation of condensation is reduced within the housing at the recording window.

Abstract: An electronic image pickup apparatus includes a zoom lens system which is a taking optical system, an electronic image pickup element which is disposed at an image side of the taking optical system (zoom lens system), and which converts an image formed by the taking optical system (zoom lens system) to an electric signal, and an image restoring section which restores electrically a photographed image according to a difference in occurrence of an aberration by the taking optical system (zoom lens system) in an air environment photography and in a underwater environment photography.

Abstract: A waterproof housing for storing a camera with a lens barrel includes, a cylindrical lens barrel storage section for storing the lens barrel portion with a through hole communicating the outside and inside of the waterproof housing; and a rotatable cylindrical operation ring supported on an outer periphery of the cylindrical lens barrel storage section and provided to enclose an outer periphery of a rotary ring on the stored lens barrel for rotating the same. The waterproof housing also includes a transmitting member in the hole on an outer wall of the cylindrical lens barrel storage section connected to the rotary ring for directly transmitting rotation of the operation ring thereto, and a waterproof member between the outside of the cylindrical lens barrel storage section and an inner periphery of the operation ring for waterproof between the interior and the exterior of the cylindrical lens barrel storage section.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a remote 3-D imaging system which uses a novel illumination source to establish the relationship of the image features to the system, which is displayed by virtue of calculations. In addition to static surfaces, moving surfaces may be studied and corrections due to turbidity and platform position are also easily compensated for. The instant system may also contain a plurality of sensing systems based on light, including traditional reflective or elastic scattering and novel fluorescent or non-elastic scattering still and video imaging systems, including time-gated systems.

Abstract: An underwater housing includes a housing body for containing an electronic device, a seal cap for sealing a rear end opening of the housing body, and a spacer member for dividing a space between the housing body and the seal cap into a cable chamber and an accommodating chamber. The seal cap includes an annular front cap element connected fixedly and sealingly to the housing body, and a rear cap element disposed fixedly and fittingly within the rear end of the front cap element. The rear cap element has a hole permitting an electrical cable to sealingly extend therethrough. The spacer member includes a spacer body disposed sealingly in said seal cap, and a plurality of conductive terminals extending sealingly through the spacer body and interconnecting electrically the electronic device and the electrical cable.

Abstract: A wearable, waterproof or water-resistant digital camera. The camera may be combined with a sport or athletic device such as swimming or diving mask or goggles. The frame for the goggles may also provide a waterproof housing that has internal compartments for camera-related elements or components. One or more compartments may be openable to afford user access as for changing a battery or memory card. One or more compartments may be permanently sealed, which minimizes risk of the water leaking in. “Access” to the permanently sealed compartment can then be achieved by use of a separate, external control or operating unit such a one using wireless technology. In one presently preferred form, the frame may have sides that are located adjacent to the temples of the user, which lowers and redistributes the weight of the device.

Abstract: A waterproof type electronic device is composed of a disc lid 13 capable of opening and closing an opening portion (17) of a camera apparatus body (2), a buckle (12) capable of detachably fastening the disc lid (13) to the camera apparatus body (2) and a sealing member (24) provided on at least one of the buckle (12) and the camera apparatus body (2) to hermetically seal the buckle 12 and the camera apparatus body (2). When the disc lid (13) is fastened to the camera apparatus body (2) by the buckle (12), the camera apparatus body (2) is hermetically sealed at least at its part of the portion covered with the buckle (12). In this kind of related-art waterproof type electronic device, operation buttons are not formed so as to have waterproof structures and water and water component can therefore enter this waterproof type electronic device relatively easily.

Abstract: A video fishing rod with underwater observation gear as fishing equipment, allowing surveillance of the bait and fish around it, and includes a video monitor attachable to the fishing pole, miniature submersible video camera attached close to the end of the fishing line for transmitting video images up to the monitor via the same fishing line without the use of a video cable.

Abstract: Extensible inspection and operation arm that allows viewing the state of surfaces of elements located in areas of difficult access, even underwater, which in turn is also able to perform certain corrective actions on them such as cleaning, painting or minor repairs. The invention is constituted by an upper manoeuvring arm (1) that includes a screen (3) for viewing the images captured by a camera (4) installed in the lower actuation arm (2), which also incorporates an object holder (11) to which are coupled various auxiliary devices such as brushes, paintbrushes or the like. Both arms (1, 2) are hinged to each other and are telescopically extensible, allowing the camera (4) and the object holder (11) to reach points of difficult access.

Abstract: An improved means for magnetically operating push buttons and other controls on cameras in underwater housings is disclosed. The magnetic force of repulsion is employed to transmit motion through the case wall without electrical connection to the camera or sliding or twisting or flexible seals.

Abstract: A shallow water submersible splash housing which is capable of sealing and protecting a camera from an underwater or harsh environment for filming is disclosed. The shallow water submersible splash housing includes an elastomeric transparent enclosure having front and rear ends, a front port assembly closing the front end of the enclosure for supporting the camera and a window provided in the front port assembly. A back plate assembly closes the rear end of the enclosure. The front port assembly may further be provided with iris rods to facilitate mounting of the camera in the enclosure and interior air flow nozzles to maintain positive air pressure in the enclosure as well as prevent fogging of the window in the front port assembly.

Abstract: A system includes a plurality of cameras and a waterproof housing. The plurality of cameras include a first camera including a first operating member, a second camera including a second operating member which is superposed to the position of the first operating member in the waterproof housing upon storing the second camera in the waterproof housing. The waterproof housing can store whichever one of the first camera and the second camera. The waterproof housing includes a third operating member and a fourth operating member. The third operating member operates the first operating member upon storing the first camera in the waterproof housing, and the fourth operating member operates the second operating member upon storing the second camera.

Abstract: A housing apparatus for receiving an image pickup device provided with a light projecting portion for projecting light is provided. The housing apparatus includes a receiving portion for receiving a diffusion plate for diffusing light from the light projecting portion. The receiving portion discloses a housing apparatus, such as a water-proof case, to which the diffusion plate is detachably attachable.

Abstract: A submarine floating periscope comprising: (a) a floating base; (b) a scanning unit for scanning and acquiring images, and; (c) cables between the submarine and the periscope for maintaining the periscope in the vicinity of the submarine, and for enabling communication between the periscope and the submarine. The scanning unit comprises: (i) a transparent dome; (b) a two-degrees of freedom gimbals system in a hollow portion below the dome. The gimbals system includes a mechanism for changing the orientation of a plate within the hollow portion by applying rotation about two perpendicular axes; (c) a light sensing element, for sensing light coming from outside the dome thereby forming images, the sensing unit being positioned on said plate, preferably in its center; and (d) a modem for transferring images data and other data between the periscope and the submarine.

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: A video observation system, useful for location of fish and other plant and animal life underwater, comprises a solid state imager having substantial sensitivity to infrared radiation; video signal generating means for generating a video signal corresponding to the image formed on the solid state imager; mounting means for mounting the solid state imager on a submersible portion of a watercraft; and a video display device arranged to display a visible image corresponding to the image formed on the solid state imager.

Abstract: A hermetically sealed digital electronic camera that is designed to operate both on land and underwater to great depths, and method of making same. The present invention is a camera which is hermetically sealed by being totally encapsulated, preferably by being cast in plastic, with no seals, holes, joints, penetrating pins, wires or other objects. Wireless means are used for communicating information, electrical power and control signals. The invention is impervious to atmospheric contamination and absolutely incapable of leaking under water to great depths and pressures. In an alternate embodiment camera optics are not encapsulated but are immersed in water when the encapsulated digital camera is placed in water.

Abstract: A buoy system for observing and monitoring the surface of a large predetermined area of water including a flotation device; a waterproof imaging device attached to the exterior of the flotation device, the imaging device operable for obtaining continuous real-time images of the surface of the predetermined area of water; a waterproof computer partially or wholly disposed within the flotation device, the computer operable for storing the continuous real-time images of the surface of the predetermined area of water; and one or more communications devices partially or wholly disposed within the flotation device, the one or more communications devices operable for transmitting a signal representing the continuous real-time images of the surface of the predetermined area of water to an operator at a remote location.

Abstract: A method and system for an inexpensive wireless imaging are provided which allows a user to take hands-free video or still-picture images. An imaging system includes a mask adapted to be worn by a user having a viewing area covered by a faceplate, an imaging subsystem which is mounted on the mask and adjacent to the faceplate, and an image storage system which is positioned outside the mask in close proximity to the user. The imaging subsystem is adapted to capture images positioned in front of the faceplate. The image storage system is operatively connected to the imaging subsystem by wireless communication and is capable of storing the images and instantly replaying the images for viewing by the user.

Abstract: An underwater image area is illuminated with light generating elastic scattering from manmade objects and naturally-occurring features, and fluorescence from naturally-occurring features. Local standard deviation (LSD) images are formed using the elastic scattered and fluorescent light. Elements of each LSD image are compared to threshold criteria to generate: i) first binary images having first image state portions indicating manmade objects and naturally-occurring features, and ii) second image state portions indicating background. The first binary images are logically combined generating a composite image mask. Statistical threshold criteria for each fluorescence-based image is generated using only portions identified by portions of the composite image mask indicating of background. Elements of each fluorescence-based image are compared to statistical threshold criteria to generate second binary images.

Abstract: Apparatus for remotely controlling the positioner of a camera head. At least one hydraulically-actuated positioner for rotating the camera head with respect to an axis is fixed to the camera head and to a camera support device, such as a camera boom. The positioner includes an output shaft whose angular displacement is responsive to fluid flows transmitted through a pair of associated hydraulic lines. A valve is associated with each positioner and controls the flow of fluid within the pair of positioner hydraulic lines. A control unit receives and processes inputs provided by a camera operator (observing the camera's field-of-view on a monitor) and outputs generated by the system so that the necessary adjustments may be controlled by the valves to assume smooth camera movements in either an aquatic environment or otherwise.

Abstract: The invention is a camera line support device, adapted for use in an ice fishing hole. The camera line support device includes a cylindrical sleeve member having an inner surface, an outer surface, an open top end and an open bottom end. A sleeve support member is secured to the sleeve member's outer surface adjacent the open top end thereof. A protruding tab member extends from the cylindrical sleeve member, the tab member having a slot therein adapted to accept a video camera cable line therein, with the cable line extending through the cylindrical sleeve member. A stop on the cable line contacts the protruding tab member to suspend the video camera at a selected depth.

Abstract: Viewing enhancing apparatus for visibility impaired fluid, such as turbid water or a smoke-filled room, includes a fluid-permeable sidewall and a housing defining a confluence cavity having an axis extending between first and second housing ends. The housing ends are connected by the sidewall. The second housing end is open. The sidewall has a proximal end towards the first housing end and a distal end towards the second housing end. The housing defines a supply cavity surrounding the sidewall and coupleable to a source of viewing fluid, typically clear water when operating in a turbid water environment. The sidewall provides a resistance to flow of the viewing fluid therethrough, the resistance varying according to the position on the sidewall. The viewing fluid passes through the confluence cavity and exits the second housing end. This creates a chosen velocity profile for the viewing fluid exiting the second housing end.

Abstract: A device for controlling a video camera in underwater high speed photography in a first aspect includes a plurality of spaced break screen or sense coil members, a projectile for launch through the series of break screen or sense coil members, a video camera operated to video at a predetermined timing upon release of the projectile, and a source of illumination to aid in the video photography. A trigger device such as a break screen or sense coil is positioned immediately up-range of the video camera. With a time delay programmed into a Programmable Array Logic (PAL), a control circuitry receives the trigger information and creates a timed signal to control the operation of the video camera. In accordance with another aspect of this invention, the control circuitry includes discrete logic devices programmed such that gating of the video camera is controlled by the control circuitry at the time the projectile passes the lens of the camera.

Abstract: A single-canister underwater stereocamera system with a distance measurement function. In the camera system, a camera drive unit, holding two cameras on its camera base, is set in a parallel space defined between two support plates, and is operable by a motor unit, thus being movable along with the two cameras to the front or back. A lens drive unit, holding two lenses on two lens bases, is set in the parallel space to be operable by the motor unit so as to laterally move the two lenses to the left or right under the guide of a linear guide bearing. The motor unit controls the focus length of each of the two cameras and the moving distance of the two lenses at the same time. In the camera system, the actual distance of an underwater target object from the system is measured by sensing a rotated position of the encoder of the motor unit, taking advantage of the fact that the actual distance of the target object has a functional relation of 1:1 with the focus length of each of the cameras.

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: Techniques for underwater detection of fully or partially buried objects such as sea mines and underwater cables are disclosed. An acoustical camera produces three dimensional volumetric images of a target area volume of an underwater floor. One or more first images are produced of the target area volume. An acoustical transducer pulse is then directed to the target area volume so as to disturb the loose particulate or elastic matter included in the target area. One or more second images are then produced while the pulse is present in the target area volume. The images can be compared for evidence of buried objects, or to otherwise evaluate objects included in the target area. The camera can be configured with an interferometer mode so as to produce volumetric images at a real-time frame rate.

Abstract: A watertight universal housing (1) which allows video cameras, or other electronic devices, to be operated under-water. The term “universal” is intended to indicate the housing's suitability for use with a range of different video cameras or other electronic devices. The watertight universal housing has a sealable internal cavity (3) which is adapted to receive a remotely controllable electronic device (4), a programmable controller (6): and an electromagnetic signal transmitter (5) in the housing which is controlled by the programmable controller. The programmable controller is designed to receive a command to control the remotely controllable electronic device from a command providing device (8). The controller then causes the electromagnetic signal transmitter to selectively transmit electromagnetic signals corresponding to that command to the remotely controllable electronic device.