Detector/Amplifier/Mixer Array for a Low Cost Imaging Ladar

Current production ladar system and components involve coherent optical system using pulse waveform. "bile demonstrating impressive accuracy and resolution, the system are coupler, difficult to manufacture, and thereby erpensive. An alternative approach is being investigated for short range system which uses an FM/CW waveform for ranging with incoherent light detection. This approach should produce a number of advantages in performance and cost. The use of incoherent light detection can be implemented with system components which are less complex and costly, and which would be more rugged, reliable, and robust. The main thrust of the proposed effort is to develop a preliminary design for a low cost, robust and rugged, imaging laser radar (ladar) detector/amplifier/mixer chain for a 1 x N array sufficient to form high range resolution range gates. Amelex is familiar with the existing work in the FM/CW ladar area, and has teamed with Lockheed Martin/Vought System (previously Loral Vought System) which has several ladar systems in production. Additionally, they have prototypes and new components which are at the leading edge in all areas of ladar technology. Phase I will investigate the feasibility of using new and emerging technology for low cost FM/CW waveform imaging ladar applications. Phase II will fabricate a proof-of -principle 1xN ladar array demonstration system. The proposed detector/amplifier/mixer array can be used in any commercial application of laser radar where high resolution 3-fl imaging is desirable or required. Such applications include collision avoidance system for automobiles and other vehicles or smart highway applications such as vehicle classification for autonomously determining fares and tolls. It has significant potential in the areas of robotics, mapping and surveying, and the control of industrial processes