Acoustic Pressure Gradient Imager For Divers

The contractor has patented technology for a unique process that directly converts a two-dimensional acoustic disturbance, such as a wave front, into an intensity-mapped visible image in real-time without electronic circuitry; that is, it is a direct pressure gradient imager. The imager relies on the piezo-dichroic properties of a continuous layer of a dichroic material thin film that serves as both the sensor and the display. The image can be viewed directly or remotely by using a CCD camera. Pressure waves established by an acoustic transducer and reflected by the target, as well as the background bottom, can be converted into a visible image for target identification by a diver using the hand held device. The phenomenon used allows sensitivity levels of 10 -14 W sec/cm. In Phase I the contractor will investigate the engineering specifications applicable to the design of a small, hand held, real-time, acoustic imager for conditions of limited optical visibility. A brassboard model will be produced for the later prototype versions anticipated in Phase II. This concept of a fully acoustic imager for use as a remote mine locator would allow the viewing of mines submerged in low or zero visibility water.