Long-range depth profiling based on time-correlated single-photon counting
Abstract
Single-photon detection technologies are of high relevance to light detection and ranging
(LiDAR) applications for the range resolution and surface profiling of distant target
objects. Modern single-photon detectors offer high quantum efficiencies and small timing
jitters in the order of tens of ps, allowing for the rapid acquisition of high-resolution
time-of-flight information with eye-safe illumination powers.
In time-correlated single-photon counting (TCSPC), every detection event is treated as an
independent measurement of time. The build-up of photon statistics over many measurement
cycles allows for time-of-flight measurements with a precision that can be superior
to the system’s single-shot timing uncertainty.
This Thesis presents work on a scanning, long-range depth profiler based on TCSPC. Its
design is discussed and a comprehensive set of performance metrics is evaluated, serving
as the base for a theoretical performance model. Beside measurements at an illumination
wavelength of 842 nm, the operation of the system at 1.56 m is also described.
A special focus is made on the implementation and evaluation of different single-photon
detection modules, including a novel, resonant-cavity-enhanced single-photon avalanche
diode. A new data acquisition mode for TCSPC applications was developed to facilitate
performance evaluation. Depth uncertainties of 250 m were achieved with the system
at 320 m stand-off distance, and a pattern matching scheme was implemented to acquire
unambiguous photon-counting depth images at a record-breaking target distance of 4.4
km while maintaining eye-safe illumination levels. Advanced return analysis algorithms
were used to demonstrate the automatic resolution of multiple target surfaces.