Review of the development of laser active imaging system with direct ranging

Laser active imaging system has been used in many fields due to its high precision of angular, range and velocity, so laser active imaging system with direct ranging are researched deeply. According to the operational mode, principle and systemic parameter of many laser active imaging systems from several overseas research institutes are introduced. The advantages and shortcomings of those operational modes are summarized and compared. Analyzing result shows that long operational range could be gained with single or small FPA combining optical-mechanical scanning. But the repeated- frequency of laser would be high and post data-processing is complicated with this method. The volume and power dissipation is also considerable. Compact laser active imaging system could be achieved easily with flash sensor and related repeated-frequency of laser is low. Although operational range is limited, it could be enhanced by using electronical steering method. In actural system, several factors, such as volume, weight and power dissipation of system, peak power and repeated frequency of laser, type of sensor and post data-processing capability, should be taken into account comprehensively to reach a comprise.