Holographic Applied Research for Plankton Image Analysis (HARPIA)

Abstract

Digital holography represents an increasingly promising approach for underwater applica- tions. Competitive technological solutions arising from novel interdisciplinary studies are progressively paving the way for digital holography as a competitive tool for the enumera- tion and identification of particles and microscopic organisms in large-volume water samples. However, a challenging problem still preventing a widespread use of digital holography in fluidic applications is the massive amount of information generated by minute-range video sequences. The main goal of the HARPIA project is to develop the first software capable of processing large holographic image datasets in near-real time. At the moment no commercial product can meet these requirements. Merging the know-how of the Oceanographic Institute, University of Sa o Paulo, on advanced optical components, with computer science solutions to be developed in the HARPIA project, we will implement integrated software solutions for the identification, measurement and enumeration of marine organisms and suspended parti- cles. Computational solutions will include autofocus routines, search learning algorithms, a robust database, and 3D velocity measurements. Tracking trajectories and automatic holo- graphic reconstruction tools will allow us to acquire unique data both in laboratory obser- vations and in natural and industrial environments. Such approach will provide information on a wide range of processes, from predator-prey interactions in dense particle suspensions to the detection of tiny organisms and particles in fast-flowing systems characterized by tur- bulent boundary layers such as in a ballast water discharge line on board commercial ships. The developed system will be architecturally modular to meet specific application demands.