This paper presents work performed at the National Research Council of Canada in infrared range imaging, i.e., from 1.5 micrometers to 1.8 micrometers . This region of the spectrum is chosen for eye-safety reasons. Basic concepts explaining the triangulation principle used in NRC prototypes are presented. The requirements for laser source and optics are described in some detail. Laser spot position detection is reviewed in the context of infrared range imaging with actual design examples and detailed calculations of signal-to-noise ratios. These calculations are useful in the early stage of a design. Experimental results show range images taken with the first prototype built at the Institute for Information Technology. A discussion on current developments concentrates on another prototype range camera intended for space applications. The current version of that prototype operates at 0.82 micrometers and can perform tasks in tracking mode at a refresh rate of 130 Hz (60 targets per second) or in imaging mode at a data rate of 18,000 registered 3-D and intensity points per second. The useful range is about 0.5 m to 10 m. For distances greater than 10 m, a time-of-flight unit along with a pulsed-laser source operating at 1.54 micrometers are included. The change of operating wavelength provides a system that is eye-safe and increases the signal to background light rejection for space applications.

Date Published: 17 October 1994
PDF: 18 pages
Proc. SPIE 2269, Infrared Technology XX, (17 October 1994); doi: 10.1117/12.188638

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 2269:
Infrared Technology XX
Bjorn F. Andresen, Editor(s)