High range resolution active imaging system using a high speed shutter and a light pulse having a sharp edge

摘要

An active imaging system for viewing targets with a high degree of range resolution of approximately one foot. The imaging system utilizes a laser pulse which passes through an electro-optical pulse slicer which creates a sharp leading edge and/or a sharp falling edge on the laser pulse. The laser pulse travels to the target under observation, illuminates and reflects off of the target and returns to a camera. A target is viewed only during the time all or a portion of the returning laser pulse overlaps the time the camera shutter gate is open. The imaging system is particularly suited for determining depth information about a target by varying the time relationship when the returning laser pulse is received by the camera.