Programmable Cylindrical LIDAR System Using Tunable Lenses
Abstract
Abstract We propose to investigate an innovative LIDAR geometry capable of continuous 360 degree coverage in a compact, reconfigurable and inexpensive package that will be integrable on air, sea, and ground platforms. Conventional LIDAR systems use a traditional telescope geometry for the receiver. While this ensures a large aperture and maximal light collection efficiency, the telescope design is large and unwieldy, and also has a limited viewing angle. Thus, in order to scan a full 360 degrees, a LIDAR based on this traditional geometry must be mechanically scanned to cover the full area. In the time required for rotation, objects of interest could be lost. Additionally, mechanical beam steering mechanisms require frequent maintenance and repair in harsh environments. The proposed research represents a transformative leap forward over existing traditional LIDAR systems. Sources and detectors will be integrated together on a macroscopic cylinder, and combined with nonmechanical steering and spot size control. Electrically tunable liquid lenses, using the electrowetting effect, will be used to configure the source spot size for dynamic range selection. Steering will be accomplished in two different methods: (1) with wavelength tuning of the source lasers using injection current followed by a diffraction grating or hologram, (2) using electrowetting prisms. The receiver will consist of a large Fresnel lens placed above the detector array to enable maximal receive aperture, by focusing light at different positions to different individual or groups of detectors. Our concept enables a dynamic, reconfigurable LIDAR capable of 360 degree coverage. The research has the potential to improve optical systems critical to Navy operations: range finding, topographical mapping and aerosol detection and identification. The team combines expertise in lasers and optics devices, micro-electrical mechanical systems and optical system design, and is well-qualified to execute the proposed research.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Aug 12, 2016
- Source ID
- N000141512739
Entities
People
- Juliet T. Gopinath
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- Regents of the University of Colorado
- United States Navy