Multi-sensor and differential absorption LIDAR data fusion

摘要

A method of acquiring data uses multiple sensors in an aircraft. The method includes the steps of: (a) turning ON a DIAL sensor to detect a target of interest during a first flight pass over a region of interest (ROI), wherein the target of interest is a gas or oil pipeline leak; (b) detecting the target of interest using the DIAL sensor; and (c) storing location of the detected target in a look up table (LUT). The method also includes the steps of: (d) during a second flight pass over the ROI, triggering another sensor to turn ON at or about the location stored in the LUT; and (e) confirming presence of the target of interest using both ON-sensors. If necessary, a third flight pass over the ROI is conducted and yet another sensor is triggered to turn ON at or about the location stored in the LUT. Presence of the target of interest is confirmed using all three ON-sensors.