Modeling and experiments with a subsea laser radar system

Morten Lund Bjarnar; John O. Klepsvik; Jan Erik Nilsen

doi:10.1117/12.48886

1 December 1991 Modeling and experiments with a subsea laser radar system

Morten Lund Bjarnar, John O. Klepsvik, Jan Erik Nilsen

Proceedings Volume 1537, Underwater Imaging, Photography, and Visibility; (1991) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.48886
Event: San Diego, '91, 1991, San Diego, CA, United States

Abstract

Subsea laser radar has a potential for accurate 3-D imaging in water. A prototype system has been developed at Seatex A/S in Norway as a prestudy for the design of an underwater laser radar scanning system. Parallel to the experimental studies, a numerical radiometric model has been developed as an aid in the system design. This model simulates a raster scanning laser radar system for in-water use. Thus this parametric model allows for analysis and predictions of the performance of such a sensor system. Experiments have been conducted to test a prototype laser radar system. The experimental system tested uses a Q-switched, frequency doubled, Nd:YAG solid state laser operating at a wavelength of 532 nm, which is close to optimal for use in water due to the small light attenuation around this wavelength in seawater. The laser has an energy output of 6 (mu) J per pulse 1 kHz pulse repetition frequency (PRF) and the receiver aperture is approximately 17 cm². The laser radar prototype was mounted onto an accurate pan and tilt unit in order to test the 3-D imaging capabilities. The ultimate goal of the development is to provide an optical 3-D imaging tool for distances comparable to high frequency sonars with a range capability of approximately 30 - 50 m. The results from these experiments are presented. The present implementation of the scanning laser radar model is described and some outputs from the simulation are shown.

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Morten Lund Bjarnar, John O. Klepsvik, and Jan Erik Nilsen "Modeling and experiments with a subsea laser radar system", Proc. SPIE 1537, Underwater Imaging, Photography, and Visibility, (1 December 1991); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.48886

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