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Holographic microscopy has emerged as a tool for in situ imaging of microscopic organisms and other particles in the marine environment. It is appealing due to the relatively large undisturbed sampling volume and simplified optical configuration compared to other imaging systems.
Researchers at Florida Atlantic University have developed a novel in situ, submersible holographic imaging system for particle and plankton characterization. The system consists of a computer controlled, high-resolution digital camera and nanosecond pulsed laser. It can be operated in a lens-less configuration or with a microscope objective and is capable of viewing particles ranging from 10 μm - 3.5 cm in size. Sample volume can be varied from ~1 - 100 mL depending on the configuration.
FAU is seeking partners to advance this technology into the marketplace through licensing or development partnerships.
The early stages of the fish life cycle are critical for survival into the reproductive stage. Without appropriate larval densities and live feed densities, the survival of the fish are at risk. Larval enumeration and growth monitoring systems allow aquaculture producers to both optimize hatchery space and to maintain proper densities of live feed organisms. Current methods of enumeration and growth monitoring are manual methods requiring significant resources and suffer from inaccuracy.
Researchers at FAU have developed a cost-effective tool for reliable larval enumeration and continuous growth monitoring in a non-intrusive manner. The system is comprised of an image capture front end which utilizes a light field rendering camera and strobe light. The image is then processed using a proprietary algorithm to enhance the image and then analyzed. This technology could potentially reduce feed costs, improve survivability, and lower production costs of aquaculture.
FAU is seeking partners to advance this technology into the marketplace through licensing or development partnerships.
Advances in underwater imaging technologies and techniques have focused on improving the ability to identify and detect dangerous items such as explosive ordnance devices on ocean floors. These devices have the ability to cause damage to both seafaring vessels as well as humans. Therefore, they are the focus of ongoing efforts by both governments and private enterprises. However, the presence of natural and other non-lethal man-made objects in the vicinity of explosive ordnance devices have increased the use of advanced underwater imaging techniques. The U.S. Navy has started equipping underwater unmanned vehicles with the capability of identifying and extracting or neutralizing these devices.
Researchers at FAU have developed a compact device that is able to perform active imaging of underwater objects. The whole system can fit into a soda can-sized container, which allows it to easily mount on different types of undersea vehicles. Additionally, this invention overcomes contrast loss and blurring and exponential attenuation of light. The invention can also be used in assisting divers during deep diving exercises, inspections of the underside of sea vessels, and underwater robotic operations.
The methodology used in this invention consists of generating a sequence of coded illumination patterns coupled with a continuous wave laser to light up the target. A high dynamic range commercially-available camera records the sequence of images of the spatially, light modulated target. This technique helps to reduce backscattering effects on the images while allowing for enhanced image filtering during the recovery process. Included in the post-processing steps is the application of a total variation noise reduction filter. This helps to achieve the highest degree of image contrast enhancement while simultaneously capturing details of low reflectance objects of interest. The greatest benefit gained by this invention is its ability to provide advanced underwater imaging and processing capability in a very compact form-factor.
FAU is seeking partners to advance this technology into the marketplace through licensing or development partnerships.
