Range extended SP-iToF LiDAR with time-gated and spatially fused imaging

Area of Science:

• Optoelectronics
• Sensor Technology
• 3D Imaging

Background:

• Indirect time-of-flight (iToF) LiDAR systems offer advantages like solid-state design and cost-effectiveness.
• Extending the operational range of iToF LiDAR without sacrificing range precision remains a key challenge.
• Current iToF LiDAR limitations hinder widespread adoption in applications requiring long-distance sensing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel method for extending the operational range of iToF LiDAR systems.
• To improve range precision in iToF LiDAR without compromising performance.
• To enable high-resolution 3D imaging at extended distances.

Main Methods:

• Implementing a pre-set delay between light pulse emission and sensor transfer gates to increase operational range.
• Utilizing spatial overlap fusion techniques to enhance range precision.
• Developing a pulsed current driver for the light source with adjustable peak power for varying range demands.

Main Results:

• The proposed iToF LiDAR method demonstrates improved range error and precision compared to conventional approaches under identical signal-to-noise ratios (SNR).
• Experimental validation shows centimeter-level precision in 3D imaging.
• The system successfully achieved 3D imaging at distances up to 120 meters.

Conclusions:

• The novel iToF LiDAR method effectively extends operational range and enhances range precision.
• The developed system provides centimeter-level accuracy for 3D imaging at long distances.
• This advancement facilitates broader applications of iToF LiDAR technology in various fields.