CAMERA-STYLE LIDAR SYSTEM AND METHOD

摘要

An apparatus aspect of the disclosure includes a lidar transmitter emitting laser beams, and scan mirrors (or assemblies) angularly adjustable to deflect the beams in orthogonal directions. In one aspect, afocal optics magnify deflection, a transmitter aperture transmits the beam, and a lidar receiver doesn't share the transmitter aperture. In another aspect, auxiliary optics calibrate the deflection. A method aspect of the disclosure includes noticing and responding to a remote source, using a local laser, adjustable scan mirror or assembly, afocal deflection magnifier, transmission aperture and separate receiver. Method steps described include operating the receiver to notice and determine the location of the remote source, and controlling the transmitter to direct laser light back toward that location.

主权项

1. A method for noticing for and responding to a remote light source, said method utilizing a transmitter which includes a local radiation source that produces a laser beam, a scan mirror or scan-mirror assembly angularly adjustable to deflect the beam in at least two orthogonal directions, and an afocal optical unit for magnifying the beam deflection, said transmitter having an aperture for transmitting the beam; and a radiation receiver that does not share the transmitter aperture, and an additional receiver, said method comprising the steps of:
operating the first-mentioned receiver to notice and determine a location of the remote source; controlling the transmitter to direct the laser beam back toward the determined location; and activating the additional receiver to collect and interpret reflected radiation of the back-directed laser beam, received from the location; wherein the first-mentioned receiver and the additional receiver are sensitive in respective different wavelength bands, namely: a first spectral waveband encompassing emissions of expected remote sources including but not necessarily limited to said remote light source; and a second spectral waveband encompassing said laser beam.