Ultrasonic liquid crystal-based underwater acoustic imaging

David W. Gerdt; Martin C. Baruch; Charles M. Adkins

doi:10.1117/12.343873

26 March 1999 Ultrasonic liquid crystal-based underwater acoustic imaging

David W. Gerdt, Martin C. Baruch, Charles M. Adkins

Proceedings Volume 3635, Liquid Crystal Materials, Devices, and Applications VII; (1999) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.343873
Event: Electronic Imaging '99, 1999, San Jose, CA, United States

Abstract

A new approach to underwater ultrasonic imaging is described and demonstrated which directly converts a 2D acoustic pressure image formed from an acoustic lens into an intensity-mapped visual image. There are no computers nor electronic requirements, nor piezo arrays necessary. The imager relies on the acoustic coupling, which occurs between directed acoustic energy and aligned nematic liquid crystals. The aligned liquid crystal, being optically birefringent, thereby serve as a display when viewed through crossed polarizers. Pressure waves established by acoustic transducers are reflected by the target, focused by an acoustic lens system, and converted into a visible image for target identification in littoral water. Anticipated uses are for searching and identifying underwater mines which are hazardous to military and civilian ships, ferries, and fishing boats. Other uses include search and rescue and inspection of underwater hazards and structures. Acoustic images obtained using only liquid crystal and light are included.

Citation Download Citation

David W. Gerdt, Martin C. Baruch, and Charles M. Adkins "Ultrasonic liquid crystal-based underwater acoustic imaging", Proc. SPIE 3635, Liquid Crystal Materials, Devices, and Applications VII, (26 March 1999); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.343873

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available