An Underwater, Video-Based, Stereoscopic Imaging and Measurement System

The development of a PC-based stereoscopic imaging and measuring system (SIMS) that will be suitable for underwater applications is proposed. There are three main objectives for the Phase 1 work: 1) to evaluate the requirements (accuracy, range, field of view, speed, potability, etc.) For a field-worthy, video-based SIMS; 2) to modify our existing stereo measurement system to accept video input and to give immediate, on-line results, and; 3) to determine the preliminary design and feasibility of an underwater SIMS. We will extend the present system for on-line underwater measurements via a user-directed, 3-D cursor. We will study the known distortions that can be present and will apply corrections for them. Using the current procedure as a starting point, a practical calibration scheme must be developed that can provide speed, accuracy, and reliability in the field. We propose, in Phase 2, to couple the measurement system to a real- time, stereoscopic vision prototype system and to deploy such a system in the field. The Phase 1 results will provide invaluable information for formulating the optimum design for the Phase 2 system. For Phase 3, we look forward to developing a fast, accurate, robust, and cost-effective tool for stereoscopic observation, inspection, and measurement.