Advancements in short-wave (SWIR) light detection and ranging (LiDAR) technology: Flash and scanning LiDAR systems

Date of Award

5-5-2024

Degree Name

M.S. in Electro-Optics

Department

Department of Electro-Optics and Photonics

Advisor/Chair

Paul McManamon

Abstract

Light Detection And Ranging (LiDAR) technology continues to gain significance across various industries, including autonomous vehicles, surveying, mapping, and defense. The demand for precise 3D spatial data necessitates active sensing methods. Flash imaging and scanning LiDAR are two ways of achieving direct-detection LiDAR. Flash imaging LiDAR captures the entire scene instantaneously by emitting a single pulse and measuring the return. Scanning LiDAR, on the other hand, operates by directing a focused laser pulse in a controlled pattern, typically through mechanically steered mirrors, and measures the reflected signals at each point. Due to the losses in the optical system and light propagation in the atmosphere, the received light is at a much lower intensity than the emitted. This calls for the demand of sensitive detectors that are able to convert the returned light into a measurable electrical signal. Traditionally, low-light sensing has been achieved using linear mode or Geiger mode avalanche photodiodes (APDs). While linear mode APDs offer amplification akin to low-noise amplifiers, their gain values are often limited, and higher gain variants like those in HgCdTe are costly. Geiger mode APDs, despite their increased sensitivity, operate as switches with a notable dead time. In contrast, the discrete amplification photon detector (DAPD) offers a promising alternative by aiming to achieve single-photon detection without the drawbacks associated with APDs. This study gives comparison between flash and scanning LiDAR systems then focuses on the performance of the DAPD, evaluating the viability of the DAPD for LiDAR applications. As detector technology advances, it not only enhances LiDAR system performance but also broadens its applicability across diverse domains. This research contributes to advancing LiDAR technology, unlocking its potential for even broader adoption and innovation.

Keywords

Light Detection and Ranging, LiDAR, LiDAR System, Direct detection LiDAR, Flash LiDAR, Scanning LiDAR, Avalanche Photodiode, Discrete Amplification Photon Detector, DAPD, Short-wave Infrared, SWIR

Rights Statement

Copyright 2024, author

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