Compact Geiger Mode 3D LIDAR and Range Finder

A concept is developed, and feasibility is demonstrated for a compact, high-resolution, high-frame-rate lidar system capable of performing laser ranging to tactical targets at ranges beyond 10 km, then switching to 3D lidar mode and generating 3D point clouds in real time to support target identification at ranges within 10 km.  The low Size, Weight, and Power (SWAP) format is comparable to that of single-mode laser range finders lacking lidar capability to allow for retrofitting and suitability for deployment in an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) or another compact platform. To meet challenging SWAP and range requirements, the design incorporates several innovative features including a single-photon-sensitive detector array, an associated hybrid scanning method that greatly eases speed and control precision requirements on the optical scanning hardware, an innovative optical design that folds a long focal length into a very compact package, and a method for accelerating lidar data processing so that it can be performed on board in real time on a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA). A Concept of Operations (CONOPS) is developed and systems engineering processes are used to generate system and subsystem requirements, from which a lidar system architecture is derived and key design parameters are identified.  Laser transmitter architectures in the eye-safe 1.55-micron wavelength region are investigated to identify the most suitable laser technology to support both 3D lidar and ranging modes while meeting challenging size, weight, and power constraints.  A preliminary mechanical, optical, electronics, and packaging design concept for a flight unit is presented. 3D lidar and range finder performance is predicted and analyzed across a range of mission scenarios and target conditions using radiometric calculations and simulations. A program plan for a follow-on SBIR Phase 2 project is presented, in which a system prototype is developed and used for field demonstrations to test performance against relevant metrics and key specifications.