Summary:
UCLA researchers in the Department of Bioengineering have developed an ultrafast imaging technology that can capture videos of non-line-of sight objects in rapid motion without compromising resolution.
Background:
Non-line-of sight (NLOS) imaging is an important technique that enables ultrafast (picosecond exposure) cameras to visualize objects that are hidden from direct view. Widespread implementation of NLOS is limited by the requirement of a high-resolution, two-dimensional ultrafast camera that can process a long sequence of time-resolved data. Current NLOS-enabled cameras must perform scanning in spatial and/or temporal dimensions, lengthening the acquisition time to seconds and restricting the imaging to static or slowly-moving objects. Therefore, an ultrafast camera capable of imaging objects that are both rapidly moving and out of the field of focus is needed to realize the full utility of NLOS.
Innovation:
UCLA researchers in the Department of Bioengineering have developed a technology that enables video-quality, NLOS imaging by capturing the complete four-dimensional space (x, y, z, and time) in a single snapshot. The method, light field tomography (LIFT), exhibited exceptional resolution even when objects were in rapid motion as demonstrated by 3D imaging of a light pulse in a fiber optic at 0.5 trillion frames per second. Further, LIFT is adaptable through deep learning strategies which can be used to improve image quality and vastly accelerate image formation. Overall, LIFT could unravel new insights in the study of ultrafast phenomena and facilitate the broad adoption of time-resolved imaging across various disciplines.
Patent:
Ultrafast light field tomography
Potential Applications:
Advantages:
Publications:
Status of Development:
Concept demonstrated