Intensity information extraction in Geiger mode detector array based three-dimensional imaging applications

Fei Wang

doi:10.1117/12.2032761

19 September 2013 Intensity information extraction in Geiger mode detector array based three-dimensional imaging applications

Fei Wang

Author Affiliations +

Proceedings Volume 8905, International Symposium on Photoelectronic Detection and Imaging 2013: Laser Sensing and Imaging and Applications; 89050I (2013) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2032761
Event: ISPDI 2013 - Fifth International Symposium on Photoelectronic Detection and Imaging, 2013, Beijing, China

Abstract

Geiger-mode detectors have single photon sensitivity and picoseconds timing resolution, which make it a good candidate for low light level ranging applications, especially in the case of flash three dimensional imaging applications where the received laser power is extremely limited. Another advantage of Geiger-mode APD is their capability of large output current which can drive CMOS timing circuit directly, which means that larger format focal plane arrays can be easily fabricated using the mature CMOS technology. However Geiger-mode detector based FPAs can only measure the range information of a scene but not the reflectivity. Reflectivity is a major characteristic which can help target classification and identification. According to Poisson statistic nature, detection probability is tightly connected to the incident number of photon. Employing this relation, a signal intensity estimation method based on probability inversion is proposed. Instead of measuring intensity directly, several detections are conducted, then the detection probability is obtained and the intensity is estimated using this method. The relation between the estimator’s accuracy, measuring range and number of detections are discussed based on statistical theory. Finally Monte-Carlo simulation is conducted to verify the correctness of this theory. Using 100 times of detection, signal intensity equal to 4.6 photons per detection can be measured using this method. With slight modification of measuring strategy, intensity information can be obtained using current Geiger-mode detector based FPAs, which can enrich the information acquired and broaden the application field of current technology.

Citation Download Citation

Fei Wang "Intensity information extraction in Geiger mode detector array based three-dimensional imaging applications", Proc. SPIE 8905, International Symposium on Photoelectronic Detection and Imaging 2013: Laser Sensing and Imaging and Applications, 89050I (19 September 2013); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2032761

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