Workbench for the computer simulation of underwater gated viewing systems

In this paper we introduce a software tool for image based computer simulation of an underwater gated viewing system. This development is helpful as a tool for the discussion of a possible engagement of a gated viewing camera for underwater imagery. We show the modular structure of implemented input parameter sets for camera, laser and environment description and application examples of the software tool. The whole simulation includes the scene illumination through a laser pulse with its energy pulse form and length as well as the propagation of the light through the open water taking into account complex optical properties of the environment. The scene is modeled as a geometric shape with diverse reflective areas and optical surface properties submerged in the open water. The software is based on a camera model including image degradation due to diffraction, lens transmission, detector efficiency and image enhancement by digital signal processing. We will show simulation results on some example configurations. Finally we will discuss the limits of our method and give an outlook to future development.