Calculation and Analysis of Key Parameters of Underwater Optical Imaging System

Area of Science:

• Optics
• Optical Engineering
• Photographic Technology

Background:

• Underwater photography requires optical windows to protect imaging devices.
• Water and window refraction significantly degrade imaging system performance.
• Traditional air-based imaging calculations are inadequate for underwater scenarios.

Purpose of the Study:

• To derive formulas for key parameters of underwater imaging systems under paraxial conditions.
• To analyze the impact of optical window shape on focal length underwater.
• To establish a theoretical foundation for advanced underwater imaging system design.

Main Methods:

• Modeling of optical windows and derivation of underwater focal length formulas.
• Development of an equivalent two-optical group model for domed windows.
• Paraxial ray tracing to calculate focal length, working distance, and depth of field.

Main Results:

• Formulas for underwater imaging system parameters were derived.
• The change rule for focal length based on various window shapes was determined.
• Zemax modeling validated the accuracy of the derived formulas.

Conclusions:

• The derived formulas offer a theoretical basis for underwater imaging system analysis.
• This research is crucial for advancing underwater optical imaging technology.
• Accurate calculations are essential for optimizing underwater photographic equipment.