Laser-based distance measurement using picosecond resolution time-correlated single-photon counting

Abstract

In this paper, we report results obtained with a time-of-flight ranging/scanning system based on time-correlated single-photon counting. This system uses a pulsed picosecond diode laser and detects the scattered signal from a non-cooperative target surface using a semiconductor single-photon detector. A demonstration system has been constructed and used to examine the depth resolution obtainable as a function of the integrated number of photon returns. The depth resolution has been examined for integrated photon returns varying by five orders of magnitude, both by obtaining experimental measurements and by computer simulation. Depth resolutions of approximately 3 mm were obtained for only ten returned photons. The effect of the background signal, originating either from temporally uncorrelated light signals or from detector noise, has also been examined.

Ranging and Three-Dimensional Imaging Using Time-Correlated Single-Photon Counting and Point-by-Point Acquisition

“…This instrumental response is based on the characteristics of the SPAD detector, and was presented originally in [14]. The parameter B represents the background photoncount level.…”

Design and Performance of an InGaAs–InP Single-Photon Avalanche Diode Detector

“…INGLE-PHOTON counting and single-photon timing have become increasingly important in a number of applications such as time-resolved photoluminescence [1], optical time-domain reflectometry (OTDR) [2] and time-offlight laser ranging [3] and imaging. More recently they have been employed in quantum key distribution [4] and noninvasive testing of VLSI circuits [5].…”

Low-Noise High-Accuracy TOF Laser Range Finder

“…In a TOF laser range finder system, the round-trip time of a short powerful laser pulse is measured from which the distance is determined [12][13][14][15] . By reducing the pulse width of the signal, the output power of the laser could be increased to several MW, and the signal to noise ratio could also be increased considerably.…”