Fusion of current technologies with real-time 3D MEMS ladar for novel security and defense applications

James P. Siepmann

doi:10.1117/12.665349

19 May 2006 Fusion of current technologies with real-time 3D MEMS ladar for novel security and defense applications

James P. Siepmann

Proceedings Volume 6214, Laser Radar Technology and Applications XI; 621409 (2006) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.665349
Event: Defense and Security Symposium, 2006, Orlando (Kissimmee), Florida, United States

Abstract

Through the utilization of scanning MEMS mirrors in ladar devices, a whole new range of potential military, Homeland Security, law enforcement, and civilian applications is now possible. Currently, ladar devices are typically large (>15,000 cc), heavy (>15 kg), and expensive (>$100,000) while current MEMS ladar designs are more than a magnitude less, opening up a myriad of potential new applications. One such application with current technology is a GPS integrated MEMS ladar unit, which could be used for real-time border monitoring or the creation of virtual 3D battlefields after being dropped or propelled into hostile territory. Another current technology that can be integrated into a MEMS ladar unit is digital video that can give high resolution and true color to a picture that is then enhanced with range information in a real-time display format that is easier for the user to understand and assimilate than typical gray-scale or false color images. The problem with using 2-axis MEMS mirrors in ladar devices is that in order to have a resonance frequency capable of practical real-time scanning, they must either be quite small and/or have a low maximum tilt angle. Typically, this value has been less than (< or = to 10 mg-mm²-kHz²)-degrees. We have been able to solve this problem by using angle amplification techniques that utilize a series of MEMS mirrors and/or a specialized set of optics to achieve a broad field of view. These techniques and some of their novel applications mentioned will be explained and discussed herein.

Citation Download Citation

James P. Siepmann "Fusion of current technologies with real-time 3D MEMS ladar for novel security and defense applications", Proc. SPIE 6214, Laser Radar Technology and Applications XI, 621409 (19 May 2006); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.665349

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