Reconfigurable All-Solid-State Lidar System

To address the U.S. Army need for a compact, low-cost, solid-state Lidar system, in Phase II, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to further advance the development of the new Reconfigurable All-Solid-State Lidar (RASS) system proven feasible in Phase I. The RASS system is based on innovative use of electro-optical crystals for high-speed nonmechanical beam steering combined with a 1550 nm laser with emission invisible to night-vision googles, thus providing real-time beam configuration for improved autonomous capabilities. The innovations, along with the novel optical design, enable a wide field of view greater than 120 degrees horizontally and 10 degrees vertically. A unique laser configuration provides a range of 100 meters and a range accuracy better than 2 centimeters. Based on the solid results in Phase I, POC, in Phase II, plans to refine the design and build a RASS system for testing in a relevant laboratory environment or on a military ground vehicle system. At the end of Phase II, POC will deliver at least three units for government feasibility and integration testing. Based on the assembly and testing of the Phase II prototype, POC will develop plans for future development and commercialization of RASS technology in Phase III.