Scientists in the UK have used a new type of lidar to get clear 3D images beneath the ocean

British researchers have demonstrated a prototype laser system with quantum detector technology that can take sharp 3D images underwater. Its high sensitivity allows it to capture detailed information even in extremely low light conditions underwater, according to the report.

Aurora Maccarone, a member of the research team from Heriot-Watt University in the UK, said the technology could be used for a wide range of applications, such as examining underwater equipment, such as underwater structures for underwater wind power cables and turbines. Underwater radar can also be used to monitor or detect underwater archaeological sites, as well as for security and defense applications.

(Photo credit: Heriot-Watt University)

Creating 3D images under seawater is a challenging task because any part of the water scatters light and distorts the image. However, with the help of single photon detector, high light permeability can still be achieved under low light conditions.

Researchers at Heriot-Watt University and the University of Edinburgh in the UK performed the experiment using a single-board spectrometer system in a large water tank. They also implemented new hardware and software development to enable real-time reconstruction of 3D images obtained by the system.

They designed a laser system that illuminates a target scene with a green pulsed laser source, and the light reflected from the pulses is detected by a set of single spectrometers. The University of Edinburgh has made fundamental progress in designing and manufacturing arrays of elemental ultraviolet diode detectors, allowing them to build compact robotic imaging systems based on quantum detection techniques.

After optimizing the optical arrangement on the lab's optical bench, the researchers connected the laser system to a GPU, during which time the number of image processing methods for imaging in three sizes was realized, thus enabling real-time processing of the data. Once the system was working properly, they moved it into a tank four metres long, three metres wide and two metres deep. As the water system sinks, researchers are assigned to a control panel that makes the water even murkier. In three scenarios with different turbidity levels, they obtained different 3D images taken from three metres away.

The aim of this work is to enable quantum detection technology to be used for underwater applications, allowing it to capture fantastic stereoscopic images in very low light conditions. It will affect the use of offshore cables and energy facilities, and can also be monitored without human operators, thus reducing pollution. Alternatively, it can be used in a wider range of scenes, creating things like fog, smoke or other blurred vision in a free space.

The researchers plan to further reduce the size of the system so that it can be integrated into instruments such as underwater vehicles. Through a network of Quantum technology centres and innovations in the UK, the researchers are working with industry to enable the technology to be used for a wide range of underwater applications.

From: ofweek