DIFFERENTIAL ABSORPTION LIDAR

摘要

A system for remotely detecting gas concentration is provided. The system includes a plurality of light sources. At least a first one of the light sources generates light having a first wavelength and a first polarization, and at least a second one of the light sources generates light having a second, different wavelength and a second polarization that is orthogonal to the first polarization. The light from the light sources is placed on a common transmission path, and is directed to a target area by a steering mirror. Light reflected from the target area is received and directed to a detector. The detector provides information regarding the time of arrival and amplitude of the received light, allowing range and gas concentration information to be obtained. In some embodiments the detector is an imaging detector, allowing three-dimensional range information to be obtained from the target area from a single light pulse.

主权项

1. A sensor system, comprising:
a first light source assembly, wherein the first light source assembly is operable to output light at a first wavelength and a first polarization; a second light source assembly, wherein the second light source assembly is operable to output light at a second wavelength and a second polarization, wherein the first wavelength is different than the second wavelength, and wherein the first polarization is orthogonal to the second polarization; a polarization combiner, wherein the light output from the first light source assembly and the light output from the second light source assembly are directed along a common path; a quarter waveplate, wherein the quarter waveplate receives the light directed along the common path, and wherein the quarter waveplate circularly polarizes the received light; and transmit optics, wherein the transmit optics receives light circularly polarized by the quarter waveplate.