Underwater Acousto-Optical Imaging System

Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop an innovative high Resolution Acousto-optic Imaging Sensor (RAIS) device based on limitations of existing technologies for underwater imaging. The compactly packaged RAIS device comprises an AOLCD, ultrasound generator, acoustic lens, and CCD camera. The acoustic ultrasound transducers produce ultrasonic waves. The acoustic waves propagating through the liquid crystal produce compression and shear deformations. The elastic deformations result in a destabilizing torque, and because of the low viscosity of the liquid crystal material the torque propagates into its bulk and causes molecular reorientation -- and hence birefringence. Since the optical structural transofrmation can be detected by optical methods. Integration of this concept with ultrasonic probing techniques yields a unique imaging method that produces a fast, accurate image allowing for in-depth imaging of hard-to-reach areas. The basic device is hand held, and can be modified for use outside of subsurface and surface craft.