TERRAIN MAPPING LADAR SYSTEM

A lightweight, low volume, high performance LADAR sensor incorporating 3-D focal plane arrays is adapted specifically for terrain mapping. The present invention generates, at high speed, 3-D topographical, water surface, floating object, bathymetric, biological gas cloud, poison gas cloud, or smoke stack emission mapping data. The 3-D focal planes are used in a variety of physical configurations which provide advantages over prior art terrain mapping LADAR sensors. 1. A terrain mapping ladar system with a field of view and a wavelength of operation comprising;a ladar sensor mounted to a ladar platform, said ladar sensor mounted within a radome which is attached to said ladar platform, said radome with at least one transparent surface capable of transmitting light at said wavelength of operation, a pulsed laser light output and diffusing optic for illuminating a scene in the field of view of said ladar sensor;', 'a two dimensional array of light sensitive detectors positioned at a focal point of a light collecting and focusing lens, said light sensitive detectors adapted to produce an electrical pulse from a reflected portion of the pulsed laser light output;', 'a unit cell electrical circuit connected to each light sensitive detector output adapted to amplify and detect said electrical pulse, said unit cell electrical circuit with a detected pulse output signaling the time of arrival of said electrical pulse;', 'a timing circuit connected to each detected pulse output, and said timing circuit further connected to a reference signal indicating the start time of the pulsed laser light output, and said timing circuit producing an elapsed time signal indicating the time delay between the start time of the pulsed laser light output and the time of arrival of said electrical pulse indicated by said detected pulse output; and', 'a detector bias circuit connected to at least one voltage distribution grid of said detector array., 'wherein said ladar sensor includes2. The ...

Modular LADAR sensor

A lightweight, low volume, inexpensive LADAR sensor incorporating 3-D focal plane arrays is adapted specifically for modular manufacture and rapid field configurability and provisioning. The present invention generates, at high speed, 3-D image maps and object data at short to medium ranges. The techniques and structures described may be used to extend the range of long range systems as well, though the focus is on compact, short to medium range ladar sensors suitable for use in multi-sensor television production systems and 3-D graphics capture and moviemaking. 3-D focal plane arrays are used in a variety of physical configurations to provide useful new capabilities.

3-DIMENSIONAL HYBRID CAMERA AND PRODUCTION SYSTEM

A hybrid three dimensional imaging camera comprises a 2-D video camera utilizing a focal plane array visible light detector and a 3-D flash laser radar utilizing an infrared focal plane array detector. The device is capable of capturing a complete 3-D scene from a single point of view. A production system combining multiple hybrid 3-D cameras around a subject provides 3-D solid models of an object or scene in the common field of view. 1. A hybrid three dimensional camera system comprising:a flash laser radar, a two dimensional visible light camera, an image processor, and a system controller; a pulsed infrared laser transmitter transmitting an output laser light pulse upon command from the system controller;', 'a diffuser interposed between said pulsed infrared laser transmitter and a field of illumination, and said diffuser adapted to produce an illumination pattern of pulsed laser light;', 'a pixilated infrared optical receiver comprised of an array of infrared optical detector elements positioned at a focal plane of an infrared light transmissive lens and having an image output providing range data for detector elements of said array of infrared optical detector elements receiving a portion of the pulsed laser light that has been reflected from the field of illumination;, 'said flash laser radar comprised of;'}said two dimensional visible light camera incorporating an array of visible light optical detectors positioned at a focal plane of a visible light transmissive lens and having a two dimensional image output;said image processor adapted to merge the output of said two dimensional visible light camera with the image output of said infrared optical receiver to produce a three dimensional visible picture electrical output;said system controller adapted to initiate the pulsing of said pulsed infrared laser transmitter and to control the operation of said two dimensional visible light camera, the timing of the output of said infrared optical receiver and the ...

MODULAR LADAR SENSOR

A lightweight, inexpensive LADAR sensor incorporating 3-D focal plane arrays is adapted specifically for modular manufacture and rapid field configurability and provisioning. The sensor generates, at high speed, 3-D image maps and object data at short to medium ranges. The techniques and structures described may be used to extend the range of long range systems as well, though the focus is on compact, short to medium range ladar sensors suitable for use in multi-sensor television production systems and 3-D graphics capture and moviemaking. 3-D focal plane arrays are used in a variety of physical configurations to provide useful new capabilities.

Ladar sensor for landing, docking and approach

A system for landing or docking a mobile platform is enabled by a flash LADAR sensor having an adaptive controller with Automatic Gain Control (AGC). Range gating in the LADAR sensor penetrates through diffuse reflectors. The LADAR sensor adapted for landing/approach comprises a system controller, pulsed laser transmitter, transmit optics, receive optics, a focal plane array of detectors, a readout integrated circuit, camera support electronics and image processor, an image analysis and bias calculation processor, and a detector array bias control circuit. The system is capable of developing a complete 3-D scene from a single point of view.

MODULAR LADAR SENSOR

A lightweight, low volume, inexpensive LADAR sensor incorporating 3-D focal plane arrays is adapted specifically for modular manufacture and rapid field configurability and provisioning. The present invention generates, at high speed, 3-D image maps and object data at short to medium ranges. The techniques and structures described may be used to extend the range of long range systems as well, though the focus is on compact, short to medium range ladar sensors suitable for use in multi-sensor television production systems and 3-D graphics capture and moviemaking. 3-D focal plane arrays are used in a variety of physical configurations to provide useful new capabilities. 1. A wheeled vehicle having an electronic enclosure attached thereto , and a ladar sensor module with a field of view and having a first electrical connector and contained within a housing , and said housing having a retention feature , and the electronic enclosure further having a mechanical mount adapted to receive the retention feature of said housing , and the electronic enclosure also having a second electrical connector adapted to mate with said first electrical connector , and said ladar sensor module further comprising:a laser transmitter with modulated laser light output and a diffusing optic for illuminating a scene in the field of view of the ladar sensor module;a zero range reference circuit having a zero range reference output adapted to signal the initiation of the modulated laser light output;a clock driver circuit having a clock output, and having a temperature stabilized frequency reference;a two dimensional array of light sensitive detectors positioned at a focal plane of a light collecting and focusing system, each of said light sensitive detectors having an output producing an electrical response signal from a reflected portion of said modulated laser light output; an input connected to one of said light sensitive detector outputs,', 'an electrical response signal demodulator,', 'a ...

3-dimensional hybrid camera and production system

A three-dimensional imaging system includes a ladar sensor with a first field of view adapted to produce a three-dimensional image. The system also includes a visible light camera with a second field of view overlapping the first field of view and adapted to produce a two-dimensional image output. At least one digital processor is connected to the ladar sensor and the visible light camera and adapted to merge the three-dimensional image output with the two-dimensional image output into a three-dimensional point cloud output.

Automatic range corrected flash ladar camera

A three dimensional imaging camera comprises a system controller, pulsed laser transmitter, receiving optics, an infrared focal plane array light detector, and an image processor. The described invention is capable of developing a complete 3-D scene from a single point of view. The 3-D imaging camera utilizes a pulsed laser transmitter capable of illuminating an entire scene with a single high power flash of light. The 3-D imaging camera employs a system controller to trigger a pulse of high intensity light from the pulsed laser transmitter, and counts the time from the start of the transmitter light pulse. The light reflected from the illuminated scene impinges on a receiving optics and is detected by a focal plane array optical detector. An image processor applies image enhancing algorithms to improve the image quality and develop object data for subjects in the field of view of the flash ladar imaging camera.

Automatic range corrected flash ladar camera

A three dimensional imaging camera comprises a system controller, pulsed laser transmitter, receiving optics, an infrared focal plane array light detector, and an image processor. The described invention is capable of developing a complete 3-D scene from a single point of view. The 3-D imaging camera utilizes a pulsed laser transmitter capable of illuminating an entire scene with a single high power flash of light. The 3-D imaging camera employs a system controller to trigger a pulse of high intensity light from the pulsed laser transmitter, and counts the time from the start of the transmitter light pulse. The light reflected from the illuminated scene impinges on a receiving optics and is detected by a focal plane array optical detector. An image processor applies image enhancing algorithms to improve the image quality and develop object data for subjects in the field of view of the flash ladar imaging camera.

Personal LADAR sensor

A lightweight, low volume, inexpensive LADAR sensor incorporating 3-D focal plane arrays is adapted specifically for personal electronic appliances. The present invention generates, at high speed, 3-D image maps and object data at short to medium ranges. The techniques and structures described may be used to extend the range of long range systems as well, though the focus is on compact, short to medium range ladar sensors suitable for use in personal electronic devices. 3-D focal plane arrays are used in a variety of physical configurations to provide useful new capabilities to a variety of personal electronic appliances.

Personal LADAR sensor

A dual mode ladar system includes a laser transmitter having a wavelength of operation and a modulator connected thereto to impose a modulation thereon. The modulator is configured to impose amplitude modulation and/or frequency modulation. Diffusing optics illuminate a field of view and an array of light sensitive detectors each produce an electrical response signal from a reflected portion of the laser light output.

LADAR SENSOR FOR LANDING, DOCKING AND APPROACH

A system for landing or docking a mobile platform is enabled by a flash LADAR sensor having an adaptive controller with Automatic Gain Control (AGC). Range gating in the LADAR sensor penetrates through diffuse reflectors. The LADAR sensor adapted for landing/approach comprises a system controller, pulsed laser transmitter, transmit optics, receive optics, a focal plane array of detectors, a readout integrated circuit, camera support electronics and image processor, an image analysis and bias calculation processor, and a detector array bias control circuit. The system is capable of developing a complete 3-D scene from a single point of view. 1. A ladar sensor configured to mount on a vehicle comprising:a pulsed laser transmitter defining an optical axis and configured to produce a pulsed laser light output beam in response to an initiation command;a digital controller adapted to produce the initiation command and transmit the initiation command to said pulsed laser transmitter;transmit optics adapted to illuminate a field of view of said ladar sensor;receive optics sighted along the optical axis and adapted to collect and condition an optical signal consisting of pulsed laser light reflected from the field of view;at least one optical detector disposed to intercept said collected and conditioned optical signal from said receive optics, said detector configured to convert said optical signal into an electrical signal and transmit the electrical signal through an electrical output;a detector bias voltage control circuit adapted to supply a bias voltage to said detector;at least one unit cell electrical circuit disposed on a readout integrated circuit, said unit cell electrical circuit having an input connected to an electrical output of said detector, said unit cell electrical circuit having an amplifier connected to amplify said electrical output signal, and said unit cell electrical circuit providing a pixel output;at least one unit cell timing circuit, and said unit ...

LADAR SENSOR FOR LANDING, DOCKING AND APPROACH

A system for landing or docking a mobile platform is enabled by a flash LADAR sensor having an adaptive controller with Automatic Gain Control (AGC). Range gating in the LADAR sensor penetrates through diffuse reflectors. The LADAR sensor adapted for landing/approach comprises a system controller, pulsed laser transmitter, transmit optics, receive optics, a focal plane array of detectors, a readout integrated circuit, camera support electronics and image processor, an image analysis and bias calculation processor, and a detector array bias control circuit. The system is capable of developing a complete 3 -D scene from a single point of view.

Terrain mapping LADAR system

A lightweight, low volume, high performance LADAR sensor incorporating 3-D focal plane arrays is adapted specifically for terrain mapping. The present invention generates, at high speed, 3-D topographical, water surface, floating object, bathymetric, biological gas cloud, poison gas cloud, or smoke stack emission mapping data. The 3-D focal planes are used in a variety of physical configurations which provide advantages over prior art terrain mapping LADAR sensors.

Automatic range corrected flash ladar camera

A three dimensional imaging camera comprises a system controller, pulsed laser transmitter, receiving optics, an infrared focal plane array light detector, and an image processor. The described invention is capable of developing a complete 3-D scene from a single point of view. The 3-D imaging camera utilizes a pulsed laser transmitter capable of illuminating an entire scene with a single high power flash of light. The 3-D imaging camera employs a system controller to trigger a pulse of high intensity light from the pulsed laser transmitter, and counts the time from the start of the transmitter light pulse. The light reflected from the illuminated scene impinges on a receiving optics and is detected by a focal plane array optical detector. An image processor applies image enhancing algorithms to improve the image quality and develop object data for subjects in the field of view of the flash ladar imaging camera.

LADAR sensor for landing, docking and approach

A system for landing or docking a mobile platform is enabled by a flash LADAR sensor having an adaptive controller with Automatic Gain Control (AGC). Range gating in the LADAR sensor penetrates through diffuse reflectors. The LADAR sensor adapted for landing/approach comprises a system controller, pulsed laser transmitter, transmit optics, receive optics, a focal plane array of detectors, a readout integrated circuit, camera support electronics and image processor, an image analysis and bias calculation processor, and a detector array bias control circuit. The system is capable of developing a complete 3-D scene from a single point of view.

Ladar sensor for landing, docking and approach

A system for landing or docking a mobile platform is enabled by a flash LADAR sensor having an adaptive controller with Automatic Gain Control (AGC). Range gating in the LADAR sensor penetrates through diffuse reflectors. The LADAR sensor adapted for landing/approach comprises a system controller, pulsed laser transmitter, transmit optics, receive optics, a focal plane array of detectors, a readout integrated circuit, camera support electronics and image processor, an image analysis and bias calculation processor, and a detector array bias control circuit. The system is capable of developing a complete 3-D scene from a single point of view.

Modular LADAR sensor

A mobile ladar platform having a ladar sensor, a positioning system, and a digital processor adapted to perform analysis of a scene in a field of view. The ladar sensor includes a ladar transmitter, a zero range reference circuit, a two-dimensional array of light sensitive detectors positioned at a focal plane of a light collecting and focusing system, and a readout integrated circuit with a plurality of unit cell electrical circuits. The ladar sensor also includes a detector bias circuit and a communications port.

MODULAR LADAR SENSOR

A lightweight, low volume, inexpensive LADAR sensor incorporating 3-D focal plane arrays is adapted specifically for modular manufacture and rapid field configurability and provisioning. The present invention generates, at high speed, 3-D image maps and object data at short to medium ranges. The techniques and structures described may be used to extend the range of long range systems as well, though the focus is on compact, short to medium range ladar sensors suitable for use in multi-sensor television production systems and 3-D graphics capture and moviemaking. 3-D focal plane arrays are used in a variety of physical configurations to provide useful new capabilities. 1. A modular ladar sensor comprising:a receiver module within a housing, said housing having a quick connect optical receiver coupling, said housing further having a laser transmitter electrical connector and a laser transmitter mechanical mount for rapidly mounting a laser transmitter module;a lens assembly with a quick connect optical plug coupling which mates with said optical receiver coupling;a laser transmitter module with an electrical connector adapted to engage and mate with said laser transmitter electrical connector, and with complementary mechanical mounting and fastening features which mate with said laser transmitter mechanical mount, said laser transmitter with a modulated laser light output and a diffusing optic for illuminating a scene in the field of view of said modular ladar sensor;a two dimensional array of light sensitive detectors positioned at a focal plane of said lens assembly, each of said light sensitive detectors with an output producing an electrical response signal from a reflected portion of said modulated laser light output; 'and,', 'a readout integrated circuit with a plurality of unit cell electrical circuits, each of said unit cell electrical circuits having an input connected to one of said light sensitive detector outputs, each unit cell electrical circuit having ...

Personal LADAR sensor

A lightweight, low volume, inexpensive LADAR sensor incorporating 3-D focal plane arrays is adapted specifically for personal electronic appliances. The present invention generates, at high speed, 3-D image maps and object data at short to medium ranges. The techniques and structures described may be used to extend the range of long range systems as well, though the focus is on compact, short to medium range ladar sensors suitable for use in personal electronic devices. 3-D focal plane arrays are used in a variety of physical configurations to provide useful new capabilities to a variety of personal electronic appliances.

AUTOMATIC RANGE CORRECTED FLASH LADAR CAMERA

A three dimensional imaging camera comprises a system controller, pulsed laser transmitter, receiving optics, an infrared focal plane array light detector, and an image processor. The described invention is capable of developing a complete 3-D scene from a single point of view. The 3-D imaging camera utilizes a pulsed laser transmitter capable of illuminating an entire scene with a single high power flash of light. The 3-D imaging camera employs a system controller to trigger a pulse of high intensity light from the pulsed laser transmitter, and counts the time from the start of the transmitter light pulse. The light reflected from the illuminated scene impinges on a receiving optics and is detected by a focal plane array optical detector. An image processor applies image enhancing algorithms to improve the image quality and develop object data for subjects in the field of view of the flash ladar imaging camera. 1. A flash laser radar having a field of view , the flash laser radar comprising:a pulsed laser transmitter having an optical axis and a pulsed laser light output, and a diffusing optic adapted to illuminate a scene in the field of view with a pattern of light intensity;a master start signal generator, generating a master start signal indicating the start of a laser transmitter illuminating pulse;receive optics boresighted along the optical axis, the receive optics adapted to collect and condition an incident optical signal of pulsed laser light reflected from the scene in the field of view;an optical receiver with a light detecting focal plane array having a plurality of light detecting pixels, the light detecting focal plane array disposed to intercept said collected and conditioned incident optical signal from the receive optics; andwherein each individual pixel in the light detecting focal plane array receives a pixellated portion of the incident optical signal of pulsed laser light reflected from the scene in the field of view; andeach individual pixel ...

PERSONAL LADAR SENSOR

A ladar sensor assembly includes a semiconductor laser and a diffusing optic for illuminating a field of view utilizing modulated laser light from the semiconductor laser. A lens is configured to receive the modulated laser light reflected off at least one object. An array of light sensitive detectors are configured to receive the modulated laser light received by the lens. The assembly further includes at least one piezoelectric actuator operatively connected to the lens for dynamically positioning a focal plane of the received modulated laser light on the array of light sensitive detectors. 1. A ladar sensor assembly comprising:a semiconductor laser configured to produce a modulated laser light;a diffusing optic for illuminating a field of view utilizing the modulated laser light from said semiconductor laser;a lens configured to receive the modulated laser light reflected off at least one object in the field of view;an array of light sensitive detectors configured to receive the modulated laser light received by said lens, each of said light sensitive detectors with an output producing an electrical response signal from the reflected modulated laser light output;a readout integrated circuit with a plurality of unit cell electrical circuits, each of said unit cell electrical circuits having an input connected to one of said light sensitive detector outputs, each said unit cell electrical circuit having an electrical response signal demodulator with a demodulator output;a radome housing said array of light sensitive detectors and including at least one transparent surface adapted to receive light at the wavelength; andat least one piezoelectric actuator operatively connected to said lens for dynamically positioning a focal plane of the received modulated laser light on said array of light sensitive detectors.2. The assembly as set forth in wherein said lens is further defined as a microfluidic lens defining a periphery and having a compression region at said ...

Modular LADAR sensor

A lightweight, inexpensive LADAR sensor incorporating 3-D focal plane arrays is adapted specifically for modular manufacture and rapid field configurability and provisioning. The sensor generates, at high speed, 3-D image maps and object data at short to medium ranges. The techniques and structures described may be used to extend the range of long range systems as well, though the focus is on compact, short to medium range ladar sensors suitable for use in multi-sensor television production systems and 3-D graphics capture and moviemaking. 3-D focal plane arrays are used in a variety of physical configurations to provide useful new capabilities.

3-dimensional hybrid camera and production system

A hybrid three dimensional imaging camera comprises a 2-D video camera utilizing a focal plane array visible light detector and a 3-D flash laser radar utilizing an infrared focal plane array detector. The device is capable of capturing a complete 3-D scene from a single point of view. A production system combining multiple hybrid 3-D cameras around a subject provides 3-D solid models of an object or scene in the common field of view.

3-DIMENSIONAL HYBRID CAMERA AND PRODUCTION SYSTEM

A hybrid three dimensional imaging camera comprises a 2-D video camera utilizing a focal plane array visible light detector and a 3-D flash laser radar utilizing an infrared focal plane array detector. The device is capable of capturing a complete 3-D scene from a single point of view. A production system combining multiple hybrid 3-D cameras around a subject provides 3-D solid models of an object or scene in the common field of view.

PERSONAL LADAR SENSOR

A lightweight, low volume, inexpensive LADAR sensor incorporating 3-D focal plane arrays is adapted specifically for personal electronic appliances. The present invention generates, at high speed, 3-D image maps and object data at short to medium ranges. The techniques and structures described may be used to extend the range of long range systems as well, though the focus is on compact, short to medium range ladar sensors suitable for use in personal electronic devices. 3-D focal plane arrays are used in a variety of physical configurations to provide useful new capabilities to a variety of personal electronic appliances. 2. The apparatus of wherein said personal electronic device is selected from the set comprising a cell phone claim 1 , a handheld personal digital assistant (PDA) claim 1 , a still camera claim 1 , a video camera claim 1 , a headgear claim 1 , a helmet claim 1 , a portable computer claim 1 , a tablet computer.3. The apparatus of wherein said personal electronic device further comprises a voice communications link.4. The apparatus of wherein said personal electronic device further comprises a visual feedback device.5. The apparatus of wherein said visual feedback device comprises a flat panel display.6. The apparatus of wherein said personal electronic device further comprises a visible light camera.7. The apparatus of wherein said semiconductor laser is a vertical cavity surface emitting laser.8. The apparatus of wherein said modulated laser light output is modulated with a waveform selected from the set of a single Gaussian pulse profile claim 1 , multiple Gaussian profile pulses claim 1 , a single flat-topped pulse profile claim 1 , multiple flat-topped pulses claim 1 , a pulsed sinewave and a chirped sinewave pulse.9. The apparatus of wherein said two dimensional array of light sensitive detectors is mounted directly to said readout integrated circuit.10. The apparatus of wherein said two dimensional array of light sensitive detectors is formed ...

MODULAR LADAR SENSOR

A lightweight, inexpensive LADAR sensor incorporating 3-D focal plane arrays is adapted specifically for modular manufacture and rapid field configurability and provisioning. The sensor generates, at high speed, 3-D image maps and object data at short to medium ranges. The techniques and structures described may be used to extend the range of long range systems as well, though the focus is on compact, short to medium range ladar sensors suitable for use in multi-sensor television production systems and 3-D graphics capture and moviemaking. 3-D focal plane arrays are used in a variety of physical configurations to provide useful new capabilities.

PERSONAL LADAR SENSOR

A lightweight, low volume, inexpensive LADAR sensor incorporating 3-D focal plane arrays is adapted specifically for personal electronic appliances. The present invention generates, at high speed, 3-D image maps and object data at short to medium ranges. The techniques and structures described may be used to extend the range of long range systems as well, though the focus is on compact, short to medium range ladar sensors suitable for use in personal electronic devices. 3-D focal plane arrays are used in a variety of physical configurations to provide useful new capabilities to a variety of personal electronic appliances. 1. An apparatus for personal scene detection comprising: a semiconductor laser with a modulated laser light output and a diffusing optic for illuminating a scene in the field of view of said personal ladar sensor,', 'a two dimensional array of light sensitive detectors positioned at a focal plane of a light collecting and focusing system, each of said light sensitive detectors with an output producing an electrical response signal from a reflected portion of said modulated laser light output,', 'a readout integrated circuit with a plurality of unit cell electrical circuits, each of said unit cell electrical circuits having an input connected to one of said light sensitive detector outputs, each said unit cell electrical circuit having an electrical response signal demodulator and a range measuring circuit connected to an output of said electrical response signal demodulator, said range measuring circuit further connected to a reference signal providing a zero range reference for the said modulated laser light output,', 'a detector bias circuit connected to at least one voltage distribution grid of said array of light sensitive detectors, and a temperature stabilized frequency reference;, 'a personal ladar sensor with a field of view and a wavelength of operation having'}said personal ladar sensor mounted inside a radome attached to a personal ...

MODULAR LADAR SENSOR

A lightweight, inexpensive LADAR sensor incorporating 3-D focal plane arrays is adapted specifically for modular manufacture and rapid field configurability and provisioning. The sensor generates, at high speed, 3-D image maps and object data at short to medium ranges. The techniques and structures described may be used to extend the range of long range systems as well, though the focus is on compact, short to medium range ladar sensors suitable for use in multi-sensor television production systems and 3-D graphics capture and moviemaking. 3-D focal plane arrays are used in a variety of physical configurations to provide useful new capabilities.

MODULAR LADAR SENSOR

A mobile ladar platform having a ladar sensor, a positioning system, and a digital processor adapted to perform analysis of a scene in a field of view. The ladar sensor includes a ladar transmitter, a zero range reference circuit, a two-dimensional array of light sensitive detectors positioned at a focal plane of a light collecting and focusing system, and a readout integrated circuit with a plurality of unit cell electrical circuits. The ladar sensor also includes a detector bias circuit and a communications port. 1. A mobile ladar platform having a ladar sensor , the ladar sensor with a field of view and having a first electrical connector and contained within a housing , and said mobile ladar platform further having a positioning system , and a digital processor adapted to perform analysis of a scene in the field of view , and the mobile ladar platform having a second electrical connector adapted to mate with said first electrical connector , and said positioning system having at least one control motor adapted to move said mobile ladar platform in response to a command from a digital processor , and said ladar sensor further comprising:a laser transmitter with modulated laser light output and a diffusing optic for illuminating a scene in the field of view of the ladar sensor;a zero range reference circuit having a zero range reference output adapted to signal the initiation of the modulated laser light output;a clock driver circuit having a clock output, and having a temperature stabilized frequency reference;a two dimensional array of light sensitive detectors positioned at a focal plane of a light collecting and focusing system, each of said light sensitive detectors having an output producing an electrical response signal from a reflected portion of said modulated laser light output; an input connected to one of said light sensitive detector outputs,', 'an electrical response signal demodulator,', 'a range measuring circuit connected to an output of said ...

AUTOMATIC RANGE CORRECTED FLASH LADAR CAMERA

A three dimensional imaging camera comprises a system controller, pulsed laser transmitter, receiving optics, an infrared focal plane array light detector, and an image processor. The described invention is capable of developing a complete 3-D scene from a single point of view. The 3-D imaging camera utilizes a pulsed laser transmitter capable of illuminating an entire scene with a single high power flash of light. The 3-D imaging camera employs a system controller to trigger a pulse of high intensity light from the pulsed laser transmitter, and counts the time from the start of the transmitter light pulse. The light reflected from the illuminated scene impinges on a receiving optics and is detected by a focal plane array optical detector. An image processor applies image enhancing algorithms to improve the image quality and develop object data for subjects in the field of view of the flash ladar imaging camera. 1. A flash ladar adapted for use with a vehicle , said flash ladar comprising:a pulsed laser transmitter and pulsed light output and diffusing optic adapted to illuminate a field of view,receive optics adapted to collect and condition an optical pulse comprised of pulsed light reflected from the field of view,a detector array comprised of light detecting elements, and positioned at a focal plane of said receive optics,a readout integrated circuit comprising a corresponding regular geometric array of unit cell electrical circuits,an optical sampler comprising an optical pickup positioned to intercept an optical sample of the pulsed light output, and an optical waveguide to transmit said optical sample to a reference detector and said reference detector adapted to provide a zero time reference electrical output to each unit cell of said readout integrated circuit,each unit cell electrical circuit having an amplifier, a counter, and a threshold detector, and said threshold detector adapted to produce a logic signal indicating the arrival of an electrical pulse, ...

PERSONAL LADAR SENSOR

A dual mode ladar system includes a laser transmitter having a wavelength of operation and a modulator connected thereto to impose a modulation thereon. The modulator is configured to impose amplitude modulation and/or frequency modulation. Diffusing optics illuminate a field of view and an array of light sensitive detectors each produce an electrical response signal from a reflected portion of the laser light output. 1. A ladar system comprising:a laser transmitter having a wavelength of operation and a modulator connected thereto, the laser transmitter configured to produce a laser light output having a modulation imposed thereon;diffusing optics for illuminating a field of view;an array of light sensitive detectors positioned at a focal plane of a light collecting and focusing system, each of said light sensitive detectors having an output producing an electrical response signal from a reflected portion of the laser light output; an electrical response signal demodulator, and', 'a range measuring circuit connected to an output of said electrical response signal demodulator, said range measuring circuit further connected to a reference signal providing a zero range reference for the laser light output; and, 'a readout integrated circuit with a plurality of unit cell electrical circuits, each of said unit cell electrical circuits having an input electrically connected to one of said light sensitive detector outputs, each said unit cell electrical circuits having'}a detector bias circuit connected to a voltage distribution grid of said array of light sensitive detectors;wherein said modulator is configured to impose at least one of amplitude modulation and frequency modulation; andan object tracking digital processor in communication with said readout integrated circuit and adapted to identify objects through rules-based algorithms.2. The system of wherein said modulator is configured to impose amplitude modulation and frequency modulation.3. The system of further ...

Modular ladar sensor

A lightweight, inexpensive LADAR sensor incorporating 3-D focal plane arrays is adapted specifically for modular manufacture and rapid field configurability and provisioning. The sensor generates, at high speed, 3-D image maps and object data at short to medium ranges. The techniques and structures described may be used to extend the range of long range systems as well, though the focus is on compact, short to medium range ladar sensors suitable for use in multi-sensor television production systems and 3-D graphics capture and moviemaking. 3-D focal plane arrays are used in a variety of physical configurations to provide useful new capabilities.

PERSONAL LADAR SENSOR

A dual mode ladar system includes a laser transmitter having a wavelength of operation and a modulator connected thereto to impose a modulation thereon. The modulator is configured to impose amplitude modulation and/or frequency modulation. Diffusing optics illuminate a field of view and an array of light sensitive detectors each produce an electrical response signal from a reflected portion of the laser light output. 1. A dual mode ladar system comprising:a laser transmitter having a wavelength of operation and a modulator connected thereto, the laser transmitter configured to produce a laser light output having a modulation imposed thereon;diffusing optics for illuminating a field of view;an array of light sensitive detectors positioned at a focal plane of a light collecting and focusing system, each of said light sensitive detectors having an output producing an electrical response signal from a reflected portion of the laser light output; an electrical response signal demodulator, and', 'a range measuring circuit connected to an output of said electrical response signal demodulator, said range measuring circuit further connected to a reference signal providing a zero range reference for the laser light output; and, 'a readout integrated circuit with a plurality of unit cell electrical circuits, each of said unit cell electrical circuits having an input electrically connected to one of said light sensitive detector outputs, each said unit cell electrical circuits having'}a detector bias circuit connected to a voltage distribution grid of said array of light sensitive detectors;wherein said modulator is configured to impose at least one of amplitude modulation and frequency modulation.2. The apparatus of wherein said modulator is configured to impose amplitude modulation and frequency modulation.3. The apparatus of wherein said dual mode ladar system further comprises a second function selected from the set of a voice communications link claim 1 , a visual ...

LADAR SENSOR FOR LANDING, DOCKING AND APPROACH

A system for landing or docking a mobile platform is enabled by a flash LADAR sensor having an adaptive controller with Automatic Gain Control (AGC). Range gating in the LADAR sensor penetrates through diffuse reflectors. The LADAR sensor adapted for landing/approach comprises a system controller, pulsed laser transmitter, transmit optics, receive optics, a focal plane array of detectors, a readout integrated circuit, camera support electronics and image processor, an image analysis and bias calculation processor, and a detector array bias control circuit. The system is capable of developing a complete 3-D scene from a single point of view. 1. A ladar sensor mounted on a vehicle , having at least one digital controller with at least one control output , said ladar sensor further comprising;a pulsed laser transmitter having an optical axis and pulsed laser light output and producing a laser pulse,a digital controller adapted to initiate a laser pulse from said pulsed laser transmitter,transmit optics adapted to illuminate a scene in the field of view of said ladar sensor with a pattern of light intensity,a master start signal indicating the emission of a laser pulse,receive optics boresighted along said optical axis, adapted to collect and condition an optical signal consisting of pulsed laser light reflected from said scene in the field of view,a detector array comprised of a plurality of light detecting pixels, said detector array disposed to intercept said collected and conditioned optical signal from said receive optics, and each of said light detecting pixels in said detector array intercepting a pixellated portion of said optical signal, and each light detecting pixel with an electrical output producing an electrical output signal,a detector array bias voltage control circuit adapted to supply a bias voltage to said detector array,a plurality of unit cell electrical circuits disposed on a readout integrated circuit, and each unit cell electrical circuit with an ...

Modular ladar sensor

A lightweight, low volume, inexpensive LADAR sensor incorporating 3-D focal plane arrays is adapted specifically for modular manufacture and rapid field configurability and provisioning. The present invention generates, at high speed, 3-D image maps and object data at short to medium ranges. The techniques and structures described may be used to extend the range of long range systems as well, though the focus is on compact, short to medium range ladar sensors suitable for use in multi-sensor television production systems and 3-D graphics capture and moviemaking. 3-D focal plane arrays are used in a variety of physical configurations to provide useful new capabilities.

Modular ladar sensor

A lightweight, inexpensive LADAR sensor incorporating 3-D focal plane arrays is adapted specifically for modular manufacture and rapid field configurability and provisioning. The sensor generates, at high speed, 3-D image maps and object data at short to medium ranges. The techniques and structures described may be used to extend the range of long range systems as well, though the focus is on compact, short to medium range ladar sensors suitable for use in multi-sensor television production systems and 3-D graphics capture and moviemaking. 3-D focal plane arrays are used in a variety of physical configurations to provide useful new capabilities.

LADAR SENSOR FOR LANDING, DOCKING AND APPROACH

A system for landing or docking a mobile platform is enabled by a flash LADAR sensor having an adaptive controller with Automatic Gain Control (AGC). Range gating in the LADAR sensor penetrates through diffuse reflectors. The LADAR sensor adapted for landing/approach comprises a system controller, pulsed laser transmitter, transmit optics, receive optics, a focal plane array of detectors, a readout integrated circuit, camera support electronics and image processor, an image analysis and bias calculation processor, and a detector array bias control circuit. The system is capable of developing a complete 3-D scene from a single point of view.

Personal ladar sensor

A dual mode ladar system includes a laser transmitter having a wavelength of operation and a modulator connected thereto to impose a modulation thereon. The modulator is configured to impose amplitude modulation and/or frequency modulation. Diffusing optics illuminate a field of view and an array of light sensitive detectors each produce an electrical response signal from a reflected portion of the laser light output.

AUTOMATIC RANGE CORRECTED FLASH LADAR CAMERA

A three dimensional imaging camera comprises a system controller, pulsed laser transmitter, receiving optics, an infrared focal plane array light detector, and an image processor. The described invention is capable of developing a complete 3-D scene from a single point of view. The 3-D imaging camera utilizes a pulsed laser transmitter capable of illuminating an entire scene with a single high power flash of light. The 3-D imaging camera employs a system controller to trigger a pulse of high intensity light from the pulsed laser transmitter, and counts the time from the start of the transmitter light pulse. The light reflected from the illuminated scene impinges on a receiving optics and is detected by a focal plane array optical detector. An image processor applies image enhancing algorithms to improve the image quality and develop object data for subjects in the field of view of the flash ladar imaging camera. 1. A flash ladar to sense objects in the path of a vehicle , said flash ladar comprising:a pulsed laser transmitter with an optical axis and a pulsed laser output and a diffusing optic for illuminating a scene in a field of view with a pattern of light intensity,receive optics boresighted along said optical axis adapted to collect and condition an optical pulse comprised of pulsed light reflected from said scene in the field of view,an optical receiver with a light detecting focal plane array comprised of a plurality of light detecting elements, said light detecting focal plane array disposed to intercept said collected and conditioned optical pulse from said receive optics,and said light detecting focal plane array connected to a readout integrated circuit, said readout integrated circuit having a corresponding plurality of unit cell electrical circuits,and each light detecting element in said light detecting focal plane array intercepting a portion of said optical pulse, and each light detecting element of said light detecting focal plane array producing a ...

Unintended touch rejection

3-dimensional hybrid camera and production system

A hybrid three dimensional imaging camera comprises a 2-D video camera utilizing a focal plane array visible light detector and a 3-D flash laser radar utilizing an infrared focal plane array detector. The device is capable of capturing a complete 3-D scene from a single point of view. A production system combining multiple hybrid 3-D cameras around a subject provides 3-D solid models of an object or scene in the common field of view.

Digital light projector having invisible light channel

Digital light projector having invisible light channel

A digital light projector having a plurality of color channels including at least one visible color channel providing visible light and at least one invisible color channel providing invisible light. The digital light projector including a projecting device projecting light from the plurality of color channels onto an environment in the form of an array of pixels which together form a video image including a visible image and an invisible image, the video image comprising a series of frames with each frame formed by the array of pixels, wherein to form each pixel of each frame the projecting device sequentially projects a series of light pulses from light provided by each of the plurality of color channels, with light pulses from the at least one visible color channel forming the visible image and light pulses from the at least one invisible color channel forming the invisible image.

Modular LADAR sensor

LADAR sensor for landing, docking and approach

A system for landing or docking a mobile platform is enabled by a flash LADAR sensor having an adaptive controller with Automatic Gain Control (AGC). Range gating in the LADAR sensor penetrates through diffuse reflectors. The LADAR sensor adapted for landing/approach comprises a system controller, pulsed laser transmitter, transmit optics, receive optics, a focal plane array of detectors, a readout integrated circuit, camera support electronics and image processor, an image analysis and bias calculation processor, and a detector array bias control circuit. The system is capable of developing a complete 3-D scene from a single point of view.