Time-of-flight range profiling using time-correlated single-photon counting

Abstract

Optical range profiling with high resolution can be accomplished using single-photon counting time-of-flight techniques. Detection of optical surfaces with high resolution is of importance for several remote sensing applications. The use of laser pulses in the picosecond regime, single-photon detectors and acquisition electronics with high timing resolution provides the tools for improving the range accuracy. In this work a system based on time-of-flight range profiling using time-correlated single-photon counting techniques is described. The system is intended to be used for optical range profiling in field experiments. Experimental results from measurements on test targets are presented. Schemes for extraction of range information from the experimental temporal profile and results from performance modelling are briefly discussed.

Time-correlated single-photon counting range profiling and reflectance tomographic imaging

“…Using SPAD detectors and dedicated timing hardware subcentimetre resolution is obtainable, as shown in this study. The range resolution of the used TCSPC range profiling system has successively been improved compared with previously performed experiments [38][39][40]. In the following, we focus on the results obtained by the present setup providing subcentimetre range resolution.…”

Review and prospects of optical countermeasure technologies

“…Supporting technologies and methods comprise all those topics not directly related to optical beam generation, beam pointing, beam steering and propagation, or target effects. They provide additional functions and features to an OCM system: some techniques are essential to ensure proper system performance such as the detection of dim target [51] or tracking sensors [52], some methods provide new functionalities to the system using laser-based sensors [53], e. g. for time-of-flight profiling [54], laser detection and ranging [55] or detection of polarization anomalies [56]. Field trials [22,41,57], IRCM spectral signature measurements [58], or laser safety analyses for DIRCM systems [59] are further examples of supporting activities.…”

Photon counting ladar work at FOI, Sweden

“…In a paper from 2007 [19] we describe a range-profiling time of flight (TOF) system utilizing TCSPC techniques together with some preliminary measurements. Corner cube retroreflectors of various sizes were used in the tests.…”