Interferometric range finding using grating external-cavity semiconductor lasers

Yongjun Wu; Dacheng Li

doi:10.1117/12.211866

14 June 1995 Interferometric range finding using grating external-cavity semiconductor lasers

Yongjun Wu, Dacheng Li

Proceedings Volume 2544, Interferometry VII: Techniques and Analysis; (1995) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.211866
Event: SPIE's 1995 International Symposium on Optical Science, Engineering, and Instrumentation, 1995, San Diego, CA, United States

Abstract

The interferometric range finding device with a grating external-cavity semiconductor laser is presented. By modulating the frequency of the laser with a triangular injection current, an optical beat is formed from a Michelson intererometer with unbalanced arms. The frequency of the beat is proportional to the difference between the two interferometer arms. The range finding is complemented by measuring the beat frequency. The spectral linewidth of the laser is greatly narrowed, i.e., the coherence length of the laser is greatly extended, by external optical feedback from the grating. So the measurable range is obviously extended and the effects of the laser phase noise on the ranging accuracy may be reduced distinctly. The experimental results show that the measurable range of the device is as long as 15 meters. The configuration of the device is described. Some experimental results and analysis are presented. The advantages of the ranging device are portable and quick-measuring.

Citation Download Citation

Yongjun Wu and Dacheng Li "Interferometric range finding using grating external-cavity semiconductor lasers", Proc. SPIE 2544, Interferometry VII: Techniques and Analysis, (14 June 1995); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.211866

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