Short-range azimuth measurement method based on a single-pulse laser beam expanding mechanism

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Laser Technology
• Measurement Science

Background:

• Accurate azimuth measurement is crucial for short-range target tracking.
• Existing methods for pulsed laser azimuth detection have limitations.
• A novel approach is needed for efficient short-range azimuth determination.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and validate a new azimuth measurement method for short-range targets using a single-pulse laser beam expanding mechanism.
• To establish a theoretical model for calculating azimuth angles based on echo power and optical path geometry.
• To investigate the influence of key parameters on measurement accuracy.

Main Methods:

• Development of a single-pulse laser beam expanding mechanism.
• Theoretical derivation of the echo power equation for short-range detection.
• Establishment of an azimuth angle calculation model using a four-quadrant detector and sum-difference algorithm.
• Validation through Monte Carlo simulations and laboratory static experiments.

Main Results:

• Increased laser emission power and target projection size improve azimuth measurement accuracy by narrowing distribution half-width and increasing peak value.
• An increased beam expanding reflection cone angle degrades detection accuracy, widening the distribution and lowering the peak.
• Target spot displacement from the coordinate center reduces measurement accuracy.

Conclusions:

• The proposed single-pulse laser beam expanding method offers a viable solution for short-range azimuth measurement.
• Laser power, target size, beam expansion angle, and spot position are critical factors influencing measurement precision.
• The findings provide a foundation for optimizing laser-based azimuth detection systems.