WO2010058194A1 - Générateur de scène cible - Google Patents

Générateur de scène cible Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2010058194A1
WO2010058194A1 PCT/GB2009/051501 GB2009051501W WO2010058194A1 WO 2010058194 A1 WO2010058194 A1 WO 2010058194A1 GB 2009051501 W GB2009051501 W GB 2009051501W WO 2010058194 A1 WO2010058194 A1 WO 2010058194A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
light
generator
pulse
optical
target
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB2009/051501
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Martyn Robert Jennings
Lee Douglas Miller
Original Assignee
Mbda Uk Limited
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from GB0821198A external-priority patent/GB0821198D0/en
Priority claimed from EP08253785A external-priority patent/EP2199823A1/fr
Application filed by Mbda Uk Limited filed Critical Mbda Uk Limited
Priority to CA2744208A priority Critical patent/CA2744208C/fr
Priority to US12/670,301 priority patent/US8330088B2/en
Priority to AU2009316986A priority patent/AU2009316986B2/en
Priority to EP09752457.3A priority patent/EP2366119B1/fr
Priority to ES09752457.3T priority patent/ES2563169T3/es
Publication of WO2010058194A1 publication Critical patent/WO2010058194A1/fr

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F41—WEAPONS
    • F41G—WEAPON SIGHTS; AIMING
    • F41G7/00—Direction control systems for self-propelled missiles
    • F41G7/001—Devices or systems for testing or checking
    • F41G7/002—Devices or systems for testing or checking target simulators
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
    • G01S17/00—Systems using the reflection or reradiation of electromagnetic waves other than radio waves, e.g. lidar systems
    • G01S17/74—Systems using reradiation of electromagnetic waves other than radio waves, e.g. IFF, i.e. identification of friend or foe
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
    • G01S7/00—Details of systems according to groups G01S13/00, G01S15/00, G01S17/00
    • G01S7/48—Details of systems according to groups G01S13/00, G01S15/00, G01S17/00 of systems according to group G01S17/00
    • G01S7/497—Means for monitoring or calibrating

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a target scene generator, for use in testing pulsed laser sensing apparatus that may be incorporated into flying objects such as missiles.
  • missiles It is common to incorporate seekers into missiles, for guiding the missile onto a target.
  • a new missile When a new missile is being developed it must be tested to ensure that the design is robust and that it behaves the way it is expected to. Tests are carried out at all stages of development on the components and subsystems, but a test is needed for the complete, assembled missile, in order to check that the sub-systems work together as intended, and that the missile is capable of doing the job it is required to do.
  • the missile sub-systems can be tested simultaneously in a representative environment by firing the missile against a test target at a missile firing range. This is an essential part of any new missile development programme, although it is very expensive and time consuming. A way of significantly reducing the number of missile firings required is to use validated representative performance models.
  • HWIL Hardware In The Loop
  • Guided missiles contain a seeker for autonomous target tracking and interception.
  • the seeker contains a detector that responds to electromagnetic radiation, either RF, optical or infrared, that is emitted or scattered by the target.
  • Target radiation detected by the seeker is used to determine target bearing and motion, and thus to determine the necessary guidance commands to direct the missile's motion. If the guidance is correct the missile controller will use the seeker information to steer the missile on a trajectory that will intercept the target.
  • HWIL testing simulates this process in a controlled manner in the following way.
  • the front of the missile containing the seeker i.e. real hardware, is mounted in a cradle that is able to rotate about all three axes.
  • a representative image of a target at a particular range is then projected to the missile seeker to simulate a real target, by means of a target scene generator.
  • the target scene generator is also mounted so that it can be rotated in azimuth and elevation, relative to the seeker, to simulate target motion.
  • the missile seeker responds to the simulated movement and bearing of the target image and sends data to a missile controller, which then determines appropriate guidance signals to send to other missile sub-systems, such as the actuators for the fins.
  • the overall aerodynamic and kinetic response of the missile to these guidance signals is then modelled, to determine the angular motion to be imposed on the 3-axis cradle, and the effect on the image of the target due to the modelled aerodynamic kinetic response of the missile. Any required changes to the simulated position and motion of the target image are input to the scene generator, which then projects a modified image to the seeker, and then the cycle is repeated.
  • This arrangement is referred to as closed-loop testing, as the consequences of the signals from the missile controller are fed into the target scene generator, which changes the image seen by the seeker and thus the input to the controller, which affects the target scene again, and so on, without operator intervention. Testing is also performed in real-time. The simulated target image grows larger as time progresses, representing the missile's flight towards the target. If the missile is operating correctly the cyclical process allows the complete target engagement to be tested from launch to the point where the missile fuze would be expected to operate. The sub-systems not normally tested by this process are the fuze, the warhead, and the motors.
  • the target scene generator is a key component of HWIL testing.
  • HWIL systems for testing missiles with optical or infrared seekers typically only test "passive" seekers i.e. where the seeker passively views the radiation emitted by the scene, and does not provide its own radiation to illuminate or floodlight the scene.
  • active seekers contain their own radiation sources to provide scene illumination, and respond only to the wavelengths of those generated sources.
  • Such active seekers based on laser radar include at least one laser source, and detect only laser wavelengths in a selected narrow-band so that the effect of ambient background noise radiation is reduced.
  • the laser source may be carried by a missile or may be a semi-active laser (SAL). In this latter case, the laser emitter may carried by an aircraft or ground personnel and used to illuminate a target for detection by the sensor of the missile.
  • SAL semi-active laser
  • Equipment for HWIL testing of ladar seekers is known to be in development, although such test equipment is typically based on a target scene generated by an array of independent, actively controlled light sources.
  • the invention provides a target scene generator for generating a target scene, for use in testing pulsed laser sensing apparatus for incorporation in a flying object, the generator comprising an array of pixel elements, detector means for detecting operation of a pulsed laser, light source means for generating at least one pulse of light representing a returned laser pulse, and a reconfigurable optical waveguide network selectively coupling said light source means to said pixel elements, and a controller means being operative to selectively reconfigure said waveguide network, whereby to present to selected pixel elements said one pulse of light and said controller means being operative so that said one pulse of light is provided with selected time delay characteristics such that light emitted from said pixels represent the returned optical signals from a target illuminated by said apparatus.
  • the invention provides a method of generating a target scene for testing pulsed laser sensing apparatus that is to be incorporated in a flying object, the method comprising: detecting operation of a pulsed ladar and providing, in response to said detecting, at least one pulse of light representing a returned laser pulse, providing an array of pixel elements and providing a reconfigurable optical waveguide network selectively coupling said at least one pulse of light to selected ones of said pixel elements for emission therefrom, and providing said one pulse with selected time delay characteristics such that light emitted from said pixels represents the returned optical signals from a target illuminated by said apparatus.
  • the sensing apparatus that may be tested by the present invention may be active pulsed laser sensing apparatus in which a laser emitter and receiver are carried by the same flying object.
  • the apparatus may be semi- active (SAL) in which a laser emitter is separate from the flying object which carries the receiver.
  • the emitter may be located on the ground or on another flying object, such as an aircraft.
  • SAL semi- active
  • the present invention provides a practical solution to the problem of testing pulsed ladar sensors forming an active or SAL seeker for incorporation in a missile, or other flying objects.
  • the reconfigurable optical waveguide network may comprise a plurality of optical waveguides for directing light emitted from the light source means to any one or more of the plurality of pixel elements in the pixel array and at least one switching element for selectively directing light emitted from said light source means along any one or more of the optical waveguides in accordance with a target image to be generated.
  • the pixel elements may be formed by respective ends or optical elements at the respective ends of the optical waveguides such that light emitted from the light source means can be directed along the waveguides to the pixel elements for forming a target image.
  • the light source means may comprise a single laser source and the optical waveguide network can be reconfigured for directing light emitted from said laser source to any one or more of the pixel elements in the pixel array.
  • the optical waveguide network may be composed wholly or mainly of optical fibres, which may easily be configured in complex networks. However, selected parts of the network may be formed of other types of optical waveguide, for example light propagation paths formed on substrates.
  • target scene generator including only one laser source and only one photodetector and a relatively inexpensive and compact waveguide network.
  • each pixel element may be formed by ends of optical fibres (or other waveguide) arranged in a matrix.
  • each pixel element may include a light transmissive element such as a lens, positioned at the end of a waveguide.
  • ladar there are various types of ladar, such as spot-scanned, line-scanned or staring.
  • spot-scanning a laser spot is transmitted to scan a target scene (field of view) in a raster scan pattern in order to build up an image.
  • line scanning the laser beam forms a line which traverses the target scene.
  • staring ladar the entire target scene is simultaneously illuminated. For instance, if a ladar under test is a staring ladar, a target scene generator is adapted to receive a single burst of light from the ladar and transmit a simulated return from a target accordingly.
  • a Ladar may be coaxial or biaxial.
  • the transmitter and receiver optical paths share the same aperture and the same optical axis.
  • the transmitter and receiver optical paths are physically separated.
  • the target scene generators as described herein with reference to the drawings may be adapted to work with one or more of these different types of ladar.
  • the flexibility of the target scene generator described herein also allows simulation of any one or more of various types of target.
  • the target scene generator is required to be adaptable in the way light is received and transmitted.
  • received light from the ladar under test it is necessary to ensure that light emitted by a ladar that is incident on the pixel array is detected by transmission through the fibre network.
  • detection may take place remote from the pixel array.
  • the target scene generator may respond to a triggering of the pulsed ladar, rather than the actual emission of light, if emission is not to take place e.g. for safety reasons.
  • said detector means comprises a single photodetector, or a small number of photodetectors
  • said light source means comprise a single laser source or a bank of a small number of lasers, where the number of lasers or detectors is less than the number of pixel elements.
  • the light source means may comprise a mirror or retroreflector.
  • the elements of the generator array should be individually controllable, to be able to generate a random scene of target types, although only one pixel projector element needs to be illuminated at a time to be able to simulate a spot-scanned Ladar (assuming that the transmitter beam divergence is not larger than the angle subtended by the projector element). Nevertheless, the number of variants of network path required will be enormous, even for a single target type and a single engagement geometry.
  • the generator pixel elements should be reconfigurable within the timescales associated with actual target or platform motion.
  • the optical switch is a MEMS device such as an array of micro mirrors, each mirror selectively directing input light to selected outputs.
  • Such a target scene generator may provide light for emission by a selected number of pixels, either simultaneously or in sequence, depending on whether the ladar sensor under test is staring, line-scanned or spot-scanned.
  • Time delays representing range may be generated principally by electronically adjusting tinning of light pulses from said light means of the target image generator, although time delays can also be generated within the waveguide network by appropriate selection of output path and associated time delay.
  • selective routing may take place in the network to provide light emitted from more than one pixel, such that different pixels emit light with different time delays to represent either return signals from different parts of an object that are at slightly different ranges, or return signals from different targets at different ranges. That is, the different delays introduced by the network represent variations in signal time delay within a scene. Delays may be incorporated into the network by selected lengths of optical fibre; alternatively other time delay devices may be provided.
  • the amplitude or intensity of the output pulse may be modified and the shape of an output pulse may be modified as by lengthening the pulse, and changing its shape.
  • Target depth here refers to the extent of a surface along the line of sight that is illuminated by the incident laser pulse, so that a target surface that is normal to the line of sight will have zero depth, and a target surface that is inclined at an angle to the line of sight will have finite depth.
  • Attenuator devices may be provided for modifying pulse amplitude.
  • Combinations of delay paths may be provided for modifying pulse shape.
  • a preferred form of the present invention provides the following features:
  • This simulated target information is to be in the form of optical pulses of the correct width and at the correct positions in the field of view.
  • optical pulses may be expected from more than one point in the field of view from the same transmitted pulse, either from an extended target or from multiple targets. In this case there is the correct relative time delay between the pulses.
  • the pulses may be emitted from the generator simultaneously or in sequence, corresponding to a scanned input from a ladar under test.
  • Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a target scene generator for testing a ladar
  • Figure 2 shows an example optical waveguide network of the target scene generator shown in Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 3 shows an example in which the optical waveguide network in Figure 2 can be put into operation.
  • a target scene generator 8 which comprises an array 10 of pixel elements 11. There are 8x8 pixel elements as shown, although more or less pixel elements may be used.
  • a reconfigurable network of optical waveguides 14 selectively couples a light source 18 to the pixel elements so that light emitting from the light source can be projected at a selected pixel element or elements.
  • the light source is typically a source of laser radiation, hereinafter referred to as a laser.
  • Network 14 is coupled by a light splitter, or circulator 16 to the laser light source 18 and a photodetector 20.
  • Detector 20 receives light transmitted from a transmitter of a ladar 24 under test and transmits electrical signals to an electronic controller 22 according to the light received.
  • Controller 22 provides electrical control signals to laser light source 18 for activating the array of pixel elements 10 for projecting a simulated target image to the ladar 24 under test.
  • the array 10 can project simulated return signals from one or more targets within the ladar's field of view, the output of the array providing the input to a ladar receiver under test.
  • the ladar may contain a receiver with a single- element photodetector, for which its transmitter laser would be scanned if generating an image, or it might contain a staring receiver, with an array of parallel imaging detector channels.
  • the array 10 is capable of generating output pulses matching the pulsewidth of the transmitter, which may be of the order of nanoseconds.
  • the target scene generator 8 can be adapted to provide variation in the pulse widths and pulse shapes that are projected, both to accommodate different types of transmitters and to allow simulation of pulse-stretching effects such as due to target depth.
  • the timing of the projected pulses is controllable to simulate target range and range changes.
  • the range would be controlled to a resolution comparable to ladar receiver digitisation circuits, which may be a fraction of a nanosecond, although a lower resolution corresponding to the transmitter pulse length may be adequate.
  • the pixel elements 11 of array 10 are individually controllable by reconfiguration of the waveguide network to connect any one or more pixels with the light source. In this way, the array is able to generate any one of multiple different possible scenes, although only one pixel element 11 may need to be illuminated at a time to be able to simulate a spot-scanned ladar (if the transmitter beam divergence is not larger than the angle subtended by the projector element).
  • the pixel elements are reconfigurable within the timescales associated with actual target motion.
  • the target scene generator is capable of testing ladar of a co-axial type with a shared transmitter/receiver line of sight or bi-axial with separate channels for transmit and receive.
  • the return signals from the projector array may be triggered by the trigger signal applied to the transmitter of the ladar. Since coaxial Ladar may be tested the projector should be able to cope with input signals as well.
  • the array 10 comprises the ends of an array of optical fibres 12.
  • the optical fibre ends may incorporate lens elements such as collimating lens elements (not shown).
  • the other ends of the optical fibres are connected to the waveguide network 14 which in this example comprises a switchable fibre network (note that not all the fibre links are shown).
  • the network 14 contains optical switches that can reconfigure the internal light paths to determine which pixel elements of the generator array are illuminated.
  • the path of light through the network can be reconfigured as required to control the delay between emission of light from light source 18 and illumination of respective pixel elements. Suitable switching can for example be achieved in a compact form using 3-D MEMS optical switches using movable micromirrors. Details of such suitable multi-channel devices can be found at www.calient.net, and www.glimmerglass.com.
  • a switching arrangement for example a MEMS system, may be adopted comprising a plurality of moveable elements, or micro-mirrors, for directing light from the light source from one part of the waveguide network to another part of the waveguide network so that the network of waveguides can be reconfigured for directing light from a light source to any one or more of a plurality of pixels in the pixel array.
  • a first switchable element may be operated to direct light from the light source to propagate internally along a selected one of a plurality of optical fibres. Subsequently, light from the first selected optical fibre may be coupled into a second selected optical fibre by operation of a second switchable element.
  • the end of a final selected optical fibre may constitute a pixel in the pixel array.
  • the reconfigurable arrangement allows light from just a single light source to be directed to any of the pixel elements by selective switching of the switchable elements in accordance with a required target image to be displayed to a ladar.
  • a MEMS device acts as a projector for projecting light from multiple light sources in free space to a display screen for displaying an image.
  • Glimmerglass provides optical switch networks of 190 inputs and outputs and Calient provides switch networks of 320 inputs and outputs. These devices are switchable in timescales of the order of 10ms, allowing a 100Hz update rate on reconfiguring the switch network.
  • the volume associated with the switch network is in the region of 40 litres for a 320 input/output device, although such a network is connected to the target scene generator by a flexible optical fibre array 12, as shown in Figure 1.
  • the output fibre array of pixel elements itself is small and light and could potentially be used in a dynamic testing environment.
  • optical switch technologies for example solid state devices such as thermo-optic switches
  • solid state devices such as thermo-optic switches
  • Controller 22 holds an electronic representation of the target to be imaged, and controls the switchable fibre network 14 to simulate reflections of an input light pulse from a target, the reflections comprising output pulses from laser 18 transmitted through network 14 and array 10.
  • the controller controls emission of light from the light source 18.
  • the controller 22 is programmed prior to testing according to the type of ladar under test.
  • spot-scanning ladar a laser spot is transmitted to scan a target scene in a raster scan pattern.
  • the controller 22 reconfigures the network 14 so that the array 10 projects a returned optical signal in response to each laser spot transmitted from the ladar.
  • the output signal from the target scene generator is generated by the laser source 18.
  • the laser light source may comprise a single fibre-coupled source which can be any suitable fast-pulse emitter appropriate to the ladar under test, such as a microchip laser.
  • the light source 18 may comprise different lasers for emitting light at different wavelengths and with different pulse shapes, appropriate to the ladar under test, as long as the wavelengths emitted are within the pass-band of the fibre and can be coupled into it.
  • the light source 18 may comprise more than one laser for emitting light simultaneously within the target scene generator with both laser signals coupled together before being injected into the switchable network 14. This would allow both CW and pulsed projector emissions to be generated, for example, as might be required for simulating the effects of a directed energy weapon dazzle counter measure to the ladar.
  • an array of a large numbers of lasers is used for generating an image.
  • the large number of lasers illuminate a ladar under test and are in many senses equivalent to the pixel array of the illustrated embodiment.
  • the present arrangement comprises a reconfigurable network having an array of passive optical waveguides which can guide light from a single laser source to any one or more of the plurality of pixels in the pixel array.
  • more than one laser source may be provided for generating a plurality of different target images, as the present arrangement may provide just a single laser light source it can readily be replaced by or combined with one or more laser sources having different characteristics (e.g. wavelengths, power levels or pulse characteristics) in order to simulate different testing environments and different ladars.
  • more than one laser source is used for injecting light into the waveguide network, it is injected at a single location of the network and controlled to propagate along selected waveguides for illuminating the pixel elements required for generating a desired target image.
  • the known system would require replace of many lasers at great time and expense.
  • a plurality of laser sources is fibre-coupled to respective detector elements of a ladar under test.
  • This known arrangement does not generate a target image but instead provides an input to selected detector elements in order to simulate returned laser signals from a target.
  • the time taken to set up this known system is prohibitive and it can not readily be used to test multiple ladars one after another.
  • the light source 18 may comprise a mirror or retro reflector in order to recreate unusual pulse shapes. This may be of use, for example, for ladars containing a Doppler measurement element where the transmitter pulse shape may not be simple and may contain both short-pulse and long-pulse components.
  • a mirror may be used to reflect the transmitter pulse shape, combined with a suitable variable and programmable in-line optical delay to simulate target range. In this case, the in-line delay is preferably variable from zero to the equivalent maximum engagement range being simulated.
  • the generator In order to simulate target range, a delay is required between the target scene generator receiving light from the ladar and transmitting returned light to the ladar. A longer delay equates to a longer range between the ladar and the target.
  • the generator In a reflective type target scene generator, the generator typically comprises a light path which provides a time delay equivalent to the sum of the range from the ladar to the generator and from the generator to the ladar.
  • the use of light source 18 in the illustrated target scene generator means that the switchable fibre network is not required to comprise delay paths corresponding to the target range, as this delay can be introduced by controlling the trigger timing applied to the light source (i.e. the light source emits light at a determined time delay after receiving light from the ladar in order to simulate the time taken for light to travel from and to the ladar under test).
  • the detector 20 is a high band-width photodetector matched to the laser emitter 18, using either a fused fibre coupler or fibre circulator 16 to join the paths. This detector triggers the controller to respond to laser pulses input to the projector from the ladar transmitter under test, if using a co-axial system. An additional separate photodetector can be used to monitor the output of the transmitter from a bi-axial ladar (not shown). Flexibility and reconfigurability of the target scene generator 8 is implemented by the switchable fibre network 14 controlled by controller 22.
  • the network 14 may comprise switchable optical fibres arranged in patch-panels with 64 inputs and outputs controlled by controller 22. Such network devices are commercially available with opto-mechanical switching and capable of broadcasting one input signal to any of N outputs.
  • a pixel element array 10 is shown with 8x8 pixel elements, an array with a greater number of pixel elements could be realised.
  • Such an array may comprise combinations of the pixel array shown, either cascaded with single laser source, or in parallel with multiple laser sources.
  • a model of the scan pattern utilised by the ladar transmitter is included in the controller 22.
  • the emission of light from light source 18 is delayed to simulate target range.
  • the examples shown in Figures 2 and 3 can additionally simulate target depth by introducing a delay between the emission of light from the light source and the transmission of light from respective pixel elements in array 10.
  • a target which is a ground vehicle may have a depth of seven metres.
  • a switching network 14 as shown in Figures 2 and 3 may include selectable delay paths corresponding to pulse spreading due to target depth for a spot-scanned system, or variations in range across a scene, for a line-scanned or staring system, if these are greater.
  • a progressively longer delay would be required and therefore the optical paths become progressively longer.
  • the optical waveguide network 14 is capable of processing light emitted from the light source 18 and projected by array 10 for simulating multiple targets at different ranges, target depth, and variable attenuation of signals due to, for example, changes in range or target surface characteristics.
  • the target scene generator shown in part in Figures 2 and 3 has similar features to those shown in Figure 1 , some of which are omitted for brevity.
  • the light from light source 18 can be selectively coupled to the array 10 of pixel elements 11 by optical wave guide network 14.
  • the light from the light source is passed through three stages in network 14 in order to simulate different target effects or process the light as required.
  • the light source 18 may contain one or more lasers connected for transmission to Network 14, although more than one light source would be required in the presence of directed energy weapons or countermeasures.
  • Network 14 comprises a first optical switch unit 28 which transmits light to a time delay unit 30.
  • the first optical switch unit selects the path through the delay unit for the appropriate delay in accordance with a control signal received from the controller 22.
  • the different delay paths may correspond, for example, to different lengths of optical fibres.
  • the output of the time delay unit is then input via a second optical switch 32 unit to a pulse-shaping unit 34.
  • the switch unit 32 selects the appropriate path for the relevant pulse shaping. Pulse shaping techniques are described in the applicant/assignees US Patent US 7,068,424 on 'Multiple Pulse Generation, the contents of which are hereby incorporated.
  • the output of the pulse-shaping unit 34 is then input via a third optical switch unit 36 to an attenuator unit 38, for selection of the appropriate degree of attenuation.
  • the attenuation unit 38 may use, for example, programmable inline optical fibre attenuators such as those commercially available from Anritsu, Hewlett Packard and JDS Uniphase.
  • the output of the attenuator unit 38 can then be passed to the appropriate pixel elements 11 on the array 10, via a fourth optical switching unit 40 that selects the correct (x,y) co-ordinate for the appropriate pixel element 11.
  • Each of the time delay, pulse shaping and attenuation units 30, 34, 38 may comprise a specific component associated with an individual pixel element 11 in the array 10 for processing optical signals transmitted by that pixel element. Accordingly, for an array comprising NxM pixel elements 11 , NxM components would be required, so that each pixel is capable of being operated independently. Alternatively, a single such component can be associated with more than one pixel element 11 such that optical signals transmitted by more than one pixel element can be processed by shared components. The latter arrangement is preferable from a cost, size and efficiency perspective.
  • optical waveguide network 14 in operation is shown in Figure 3.
  • the light source 18 is input to a (1xM) optical switch 42 that is capable of multicast distribution of the input optical signal between up to M different output paths.
  • the M different paths represent up to M pixel elements 11 in the pixel element array 10 that are to be illuminated in each image frame.
  • M may be 1
  • the controller 22 in Figure 1 is able to reconfigure the switch network 14 within the frame interval.
  • multiple paths can be utilised, i.e. M>1 , with each path then generating the optical signals for one frame of ladar data.
  • the required update rate for the information in each frame is then reduced by a factor of (1/M). This approach is applicable to line-scanned and staring ladar sensors, as well as spot-scanned, where M may be greater than the number of elements 11 in the pixel element array 10 to be illuminated per frame.
  • the optical signal in each of the M paths is then provided to the first stage of the optical switch network 14, although only one complete path is shown in Figure 3 for clarity, the remaining paths being indicated by dotted lines.
  • the first stage of the network in Figure 3 selects the time delay on the path, relative to the other M paths, in order to simulate target depth. If a spot- scanned ladar is being tested then this stage may not be necessary.
  • a 1xN optical switch is used to select one of N output paths, each with a different time delay. The different time delays are represented in Figure 3 by different numbers of optical fibre loops 44.
  • the first stage of the optical switch network is used to simulate multiple targets at multiple ranges during a single pulse from the ladar. That is, one or more pixel elements 11 in the array may simulate a first target at a first range (and first time delay) and one or more other pixel elements 11 in the array may simulate a second target at a second range (and second time delay). Alternatively, different pixel elements 11 in the array may simulate return signals from a single target, but from portions of the target at different ranges.
  • Pulse shaping may be required to simulate certain characteristics of a simulated target. For instance, when a target is inclined to the line of sight different portions of the target are simultaneously at different ranges from the ladar. When such a target is illuminated by a laser beam of finite extent, the pulse duration is stretched. In addition, the amplitude (peak power) of the pulse is decreased, since the pulse energy is constant.
  • the pulse shaping stage comprises an optical splitter to distribute the optical signal between different paths with different time delays, with optical switches that are opened or closed depending on whether each path is to contribute to the final pulse shape.
  • an optical switch with multicast capability could be adopted or multiple individual switches.
  • the second stage of the network comprises a 1xP splitter to be used, with P different possible portions of the pulse shape.
  • an NxP optical switch could be utilised, which would replace the 1xP optical splitter 32 and the path recombination unit 46 at the end of the first stage.
  • the output of the pulse shaping network is the sum of paths with different delays, depending on how much target depth is present, and consequently how much pulse stretching is required. If there is no pulse stretching, for example, then the signal is sent along a path with no delay, if using a multicast switch. Alternatively, only the zero delay path switch is closed, if using a splitter and individual switches.
  • a recombination unit 48 which may be a multiplexor, for input to the third stage, which comprises a optical attenuator 38, for example a programmable optical attenuator. Attenuation of the optical signals allows simulation of changes in signal amplitude due to changes in range.
  • the output of the attenuator 38 provides an input to an MxK optical switch 40, where there are M inputs and K outputs, with K corresponding to the number of pixel elements 11 in the pixel element array 10.
  • the pixel element array 10 shown in Figure 3 may be a portion of a larger pixel element array, with each portion responsive to a laser source 18 and an optical switch network 14.
  • the MxK optical switch 40 directs M optical signals with the correct relative time delay, the correct pulse shape and the correct level of attenuation to the selected (x,y) co-ordinates in the pixel element array 10, which provides illumination to the ladar under test.
  • Such components can be located remotely to the pixel element array 10, which would be the only component mounted in front of the ladar under test.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Electromagnetism (AREA)
  • Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Radar, Positioning & Navigation (AREA)
  • Remote Sensing (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Optical Radar Systems And Details Thereof (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un générateur de scène cible permettant de tester un ladar d'imagerie dans un système d'équipement en boucle, du type utilisé pour tester une tête chercheuse optique sur un missile guidé, lequel générateur comprend un réseau d'éléments pixels (10), un photodétecteur (20) pour détecter une lumière incidente provenant d'un ladar, une source laser (18) pour générer des impulsions de lumière représentant des impulsions ladar renvoyées, et un réseau de fibres optiques reconfigurable (14) comprenant un commutateur optique couplant sélectivement le laser (18) aux éléments pixels, et une unité de commande (22) qui reconfigure sélectivement le réseau de fibres optiques afin de présenter aux éléments pixels sélectionnés des impulsions de lumière avec des caractéristiques de retard temporel choisies de telle sorte que la lumière émise par les pixels représente la lumière renvoyée depuis une cible illuminée par le ladar.
PCT/GB2009/051501 2008-11-20 2009-11-10 Générateur de scène cible WO2010058194A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (5)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CA2744208A CA2744208C (fr) 2008-11-20 2009-11-10 Generateur de scene cible
US12/670,301 US8330088B2 (en) 2008-11-20 2009-11-10 Target scene generator having a reconfigurable optical waveguide network for testing pulsed laser sensing apparatus
AU2009316986A AU2009316986B2 (en) 2008-11-20 2009-11-10 Target scene generator
EP09752457.3A EP2366119B1 (fr) 2008-11-20 2009-11-10 Générateur de scène cible
ES09752457.3T ES2563169T3 (es) 2008-11-20 2009-11-10 Generador de escenarios de blancos

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB0821198.9 2008-11-20
GB0821198A GB0821198D0 (en) 2008-11-20 2008-11-20 Target scene generator
EP08253785.3 2008-11-20
EP08253785A EP2199823A1 (fr) 2008-11-20 2008-11-20 Générateur de scène cible

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2010058194A1 true WO2010058194A1 (fr) 2010-05-27

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PCT/GB2009/051501 WO2010058194A1 (fr) 2008-11-20 2009-11-10 Générateur de scène cible

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US (1) US8330088B2 (fr)
EP (1) EP2366119B1 (fr)
CA (1) CA2744208C (fr)
ES (1) ES2563169T3 (fr)
WO (1) WO2010058194A1 (fr)

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EP2680031A1 (fr) * 2012-06-29 2014-01-01 Ricoh Company, Ltd. Appareil et procédé de réglage de radar laser
CN110703394A (zh) * 2018-07-09 2020-01-17 余姚舜宇智能光学技术有限公司 一种大面积信号光能量采集系统、方法
WO2021115652A1 (fr) * 2019-12-11 2021-06-17 Ibeo Automotive Systems GmbH Dispositif et procédé de génération de données de test pour tester une détermination de distance dans une mesure optique de temps de vol
EP3926359A1 (fr) * 2020-06-17 2021-12-22 Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG Système et procédé pour tester un motif de faisceau d'un radar de véhicule

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US9268202B1 (en) 2012-06-27 2016-02-23 Exelis, Inc. Image generator and projector
GB201314483D0 (en) * 2013-08-13 2013-09-25 Dolphitech As Ultrasound testing
CN103558667B (zh) * 2013-11-19 2016-04-13 武汉光迅科技股份有限公司 一种基于自由空间传输的多播交换光开关
WO2015199735A1 (fr) 2014-06-27 2015-12-30 Hrl Laboratories, Llc Lidar de balayage et son procédé de production
KR20170138648A (ko) * 2016-06-08 2017-12-18 엘지전자 주식회사 차량용 라이다 장치 및 차량
JP7240947B2 (ja) * 2019-05-09 2023-03-16 株式会社アドバンテスト 光学試験用装置
CN110501678B (zh) * 2019-09-29 2022-03-04 北京无线电测量研究所 一种调频连续波雷达收发器
JP7209610B2 (ja) * 2019-10-15 2023-01-20 株式会社アドバンテスト 光学試験用装置および光学測定器具の試験方法
JP7252876B2 (ja) * 2019-10-16 2023-04-05 株式会社アドバンテスト 光学試験用装置
DE102020004948B4 (de) 2020-08-14 2022-07-07 Diehl Defence Gmbh & Co. Kg Testanordnung für einen Suchkopf von einem Flugkörper sowie Verfahren
CN112631145B (zh) * 2020-11-20 2022-05-17 福州大学 一种用于无人机视觉组合导航测试的半实物仿真系统
CN112577488B (zh) * 2020-11-24 2022-09-02 腾讯科技（深圳）有限公司 导航路线确定方法、装置、计算机设备和存储介质
DE102021106218A1 (de) * 2021-03-15 2022-09-15 Dspace Gmbh Testsystem für einen LiDAR-Sensor und Verfahren zum Testen eines LiDAR-Sensors
US11735099B1 (en) * 2021-03-25 2023-08-22 Dhpc Technologies, Inc. LED array display for use in creating high fidelity simulations of clutter environment

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
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EP2680031A1 (fr) * 2012-06-29 2014-01-01 Ricoh Company, Ltd. Appareil et procédé de réglage de radar laser
CN110703394A (zh) * 2018-07-09 2020-01-17 余姚舜宇智能光学技术有限公司 一种大面积信号光能量采集系统、方法
WO2021115652A1 (fr) * 2019-12-11 2021-06-17 Ibeo Automotive Systems GmbH Dispositif et procédé de génération de données de test pour tester une détermination de distance dans une mesure optique de temps de vol
EP3926359A1 (fr) * 2020-06-17 2021-12-22 Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG Système et procédé pour tester un motif de faisceau d'un radar de véhicule

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
ES2563169T3 (es) 2016-03-11
AU2009316986A1 (en) 2010-05-27
EP2366119B1 (fr) 2016-01-27
EP2366119A1 (fr) 2011-09-21
US8330088B2 (en) 2012-12-11
US20110019154A1 (en) 2011-01-27
CA2744208A1 (fr) 2010-05-27
CA2744208C (fr) 2015-05-26

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