Lidar with streak-tube imaging, including hazard detection in marine applications; related optics
US7688348B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 27, 2004 |
| Grant date | Mar 30, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 2, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01S17/89
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The system and method relate to detection of objects that are submerged, or partially submerged (e.g. floating), relative to a water surface. One aspect of the invention emits LIDAR fan-beam pulses and analyzes return-pulse portions to determine water-surface orientations and derive submerged-object images corrected for refractive distortion. Another defines simulated images of submerged objects as seen through waves in a water surface, prepares an algorithm for applying a three-dimensional image of the water surface in refractive correction of LIDAR imaging through waves—and also models application of the algorithm to the images, and finally specifies the LIDAR-system optics. Yet another emits nearly horizontal pulses to illuminate small exposed objects at tens of kilometers, detects reflected portions and images successive such portions with a streak-tube subsystem. Still others make special provisions for airborne objects.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.