Ranging performance model considering the pulse pileup effect for PMT-based photon-counting lidars.

Area of Science:

• Photonics
• Lidar Technology
• Signal Processing

Background:

• Traditional ranging performance models for photomultiplier tube (PMT)-based photon-counting lidar simplify dead time as a fixed value.
• This simplification introduces significant bias because PMT dead time is variable, influenced by the pulse pileup effect.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a more accurate ranging performance model for PMT-based photon-counting lidar systems.
• To investigate the impact of pulse pileup on lidar ranging accuracy by incorporating changeable dead time.

Main Methods:

• Developed a new empirical equation for dead time calculation based on Monte Carlo simulations.
• Derived a novel ranging performance model for PMT-based PC lidar systems using the empirical dead time equation.
• Validated the proposed model with an experimental lidar system equipped with a PMT.

Main Results:

• The receiving pulse width significantly influences lidar ranging accuracy.
• Pulse pileup effects introduce biases exceeding 5 cm when the receiving pulse width surpasses 10 ns if the conventional model is used.
• The pulse pileup effect is critical for spaceborne lidar, especially when illuminating sloping surfaces.

Conclusions:

• The conventional lidar model's assumption of fixed dead time is inadequate and leads to ranging errors.
• The proposed model, which accounts for changeable dead time, offers improved accuracy for PMT-based PC lidar systems.
• Accurate consideration of pulse pileup effects is essential for high-precision lidar applications, including spaceborne systems.