Improved imaging quality of cluster LiDAR by optimizing laser energy distribution using an effective optical approach

The cluster LiDAR has been developed and applied for its superiority of high SNR, high resolution and long range. The laser energy distribution of optical antenna is the key component to improve the imaging quality of cluster LiDAR. Thus an effective optical approach is crucial for the design and optimization of the optical antenna. However, traditional approaches can hardly satisfy the requirement for cluster LiDAR technique. In this paper, an effective optical approach is proposed to optimize the imaging quality of cluster LiDAR. Double convex cone lenses and a cylindrical lens are mainly used to optimize the Gaussian laser energy distribution in the transmitting optical antenna. Then each APD can receive the same laser intensity from the targets. To verify the superiority of this method, mathematical model is established to analyze it in detail and an imaging experiment is conducted. The results indicate that the effective optical approach can increase the detectable area by about 30%. It is also worth mentioning that a special platform cylindrical lens is used to increase the energy utilization efficiency. The energy density is increased by 6 times than the original system, and the reflected laser intensity is greatly enhanced. Combining the above, the imaging quality of the cluster LiDAR is significantly improved.