Theoretical detection model of SiPM-based photon-counting lidars and performance analysis under different...

Area of Science:

• Photonics and Remote Sensing
• Optical Engineering
• Detector Physics

Background:

• Photon-counting lidar offers superior performance in weak-signal conditions.
• Silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs) are cost-effective photon detectors with advantages like wide dynamic range.
• Existing models inadequately describe SiPM pulse pile-up effects, impacting lidar performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a theoretical detection model for SiPM-based photon-counting lidar that accounts for pulse pile-up.
• To analyze range walk error (RWE) and ranging uncertainty in SiPM lidars.
• To optimize discrimination thresholds for improved lidar system design and data application.

Main Methods:

• Proposed a theoretical detection model for SiPM photon-counting lidar.
• Employed Monte Carlo simulations to model RWE and ranging uncertainty.
• Built and experimentally validated a photon-counting SiPM lidar system.

Main Results:

• The theoretical detection model showed excellent agreement with experimental data (R-square of 0.98).
• Modeled range walk errors closely matched experimental results (R-square of 0.92, RMSE of 2.7 cm).
• Optimized discrimination thresholds were identified for geometry and radiation considerations.

Conclusions:

• The developed model accurately predicts SiPM lidar performance, including pulse pile-up effects.
• The findings provide crucial insights for designing and applying SiPM-based photon-counting lidar systems.
• This research significantly contributes to the advancement of future spaceborne photon-counting lidar technology.