Real-time generation of underwater de-backscattering videos using the arrayed orthogonal polarization light source and active polarization imaging

Abstract

Underwater active polarization imaging applications require mechanical rotate the analyzer to obtain orthogonal polarization state images, resulting in the inability to output the video in real time. The real-time generation of underwater de-backscattering videos using the arrayed orthogonal polarization light source and active polarization imaging method is proposed. First, the method replaces the orthogonal polarization switching position from the camera to the light source side, demonstrating that it does not affect the de-backscattering performance. Then, the arrayed orthogonal polarization light source is designed, consisting of two groups of LED lamp beads with orthogonal polarization states arranged in a staggered manner, outputting orthogonal polarization states light at different moments. The mechanical structure for polarization state switching is eliminated from the hardware, realizing an all-solid-state structure. Third, the synchronization device is designed to control the camera and the light source, realizing the acquisition of orthogonal polarization state images. Finally, the pipelined active polarization imaging method achieves real-time video output. Experimental results show the method can output the de-backscattering video in real time. The de-backscattering performance is close to the mechanical active polarization imaging, and the deviation degrees are less than 7%. The method has the advantages of easy implementation, high real-time performance, unaffected frame rate of the output video, and unlimited camera sensors.