3D Ladar Imaging Using Laser Pulse Voxel Association
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging systems, such as radar and LADAR systems, struggle to provide high-resolution three-dimensional images due to impractically long scan times and inability to associate range information with two-dimensional images, making them unsuitable for rapid object detection and geo-location.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional imaging system that uses a laser illuminator and an imaging sensor to emit and detect laser pulses, associating the range dimension with the image frames to form a three-dimensional image, allowing for rapid sampling and accurate object identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If radar or LADAR systems are used to provide three-dimensional images, then range information can be obtained, but the image resolution is insufficient for accurate object or feature identification
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two-dimensional high-resolution imaging data with one-dimensional range information to create three-dimensional imagery. This dimensional integration allows the system to achieve both high spatial resolution for object identification and accurate range measurement for geo-location, resolving the contradiction between image resolution and range information retention.
2Productivity
If small diverging lasers are used in LADAR systems, then three-dimensional imaging is possible, but scan times become impractically long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical scanning approach of traditional LADAR systems with a direct two-dimensional array imaging method. Instead of mechanically scanning small diverging lasers across the field of view, the system uses a two-dimensional array of detectors to simultaneously capture imaging data across the entire field, dramatically reducing scan times while maintaining or improving image resolution.
3Measurement precision
If high resolution imaging sensors are used to provide two dimensional images, then object and feature detection resolution is sufficient, but range information is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two-dimensional imaging sensor data with range measurement capabilities into a unified three-dimensional imaging system. By combining the high-resolution spatial information from imaging sensors with range data from LADAR or radar, the system produces three-dimensional images that simultaneously provide both detailed object/feature detection capability and accurate range information for geo-location.
4Loss of time
If existing image detectors are used, then two dimensional images can be captured, but sampling times are too long for rapid detection applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs pulsed laser illumination in periodic sequences, where each pulse illuminates the target and the two-dimensional array detector captures the reflected light. This periodic pulsed operation enables rapid sequential sampling of the scene, dramatically reducing the time required to capture complete three-dimensional image data while maintaining image quality through the use of high-intensity pulsed illumination and synchronized detection.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the generation of high-resolution three-dimensional images with reduced sampling times, facilitating rapid detection and accurate object identification and geo-location, suitable for various applications including airborne and ground-based platforms.
Implementation Method 1
a laser illuminator is adapted to emit at least one laser pulse to be reflected from at least one plane of the object and detected by the focal plane array
Implementation Method 2
emit at least one laser pulse to be reflected from at least one plane of the object
Implementation Method 3
associate a range dimension of the plane with the image frame to facilitate formation of a three-dimensional image of the object
Data Source
AI summary
Various techniques are provided for forming three-dimensional images. For example, in one embodiment, a system for three-dimensional imaging of an object includes an imaging sensor that provides a focal plane array and a sensor controller. The system also includes a laser illuminator coupled to the sensor controller. The laser illuminator is adapted to emit at least one laser pulse to be reflected from at least one plane of the object and detected by the focal plane array as at least one two-dimensional image frame of light intensities. The sensor controller is adapted to associate a range dimension of the plane with the image frame to facilitate formation of a three-dimensional image of the object. Related methods are also contemplated.