Imaging simulation for 3-D laser radar based on target model

Abstract

Laser imaging radar has the unique capability to generate 3D images of objects, which is widely used in the civilian and military fields concerning target detection and identification. The imaging simulation for 3-D laser radar is presented to help in the design of the future laser radar systems and gauge their performances. Each stage from the laser source to the 3D image generation has been modelled, including the models of the laser emitted pulse, atmospheric effects, reflection properties of the target surface, discrimination methods and the returned signal. Moreover, the three-dimensional CAD description of the target is established for imaging simulation. The simulation produces the simulated 3D images for a pulsed laser radar and allows to understand the influences of the phenomena leading to the final image under a variety of conditions. Finally, a collection of imaging simulations with one changing parameter at a time is implemented to illustrate the good possibilities of the simulation.