Incoherent lidar generally provides a superior avionics solution–compared to coherent laser radar–when size, weight, power consumption and cost are a paramount concern. |
For
active sensing solutions Ophir primarily uses incoherent
lidar. When size, weight, cost and insensitivity to harsh environments matter, incoherent
lidar is the best solution.
Unlike coherent laser radar, Ophir’s incoherent laser radar does
not require laser wavefront coherence from the sensor, through the turbulent
atmosphere, and back to the sensor.
For ground-based applications incoherent lidar can be used successfully
to “look
through” temperature and humidity gradients and turbulent environments
where coherent systems may fail.
Benefits of Ophir’s incoherent lidar
FEATURES |
BENEFITS |
| No data dropouts in turbulent atmospheric layers |
Better data retrieval |
| Operates well in regions of high humidity and temperature variability
(including marine environments) |
Operational in all environments |
| Fabry-Perot etalons are not needed |
Efficient operation in high-vibration and high-thermal gradient environment |
| No moving parts or cavity stabilization optics or electronics needed |
Affordable production and maintenance costs |
| Optical routing can be done in fiber |
Simplifies optical system design and reduces manufacturing and installation cost |
| Rugged packaging and attainable military standard qualification |
Less maintenance required for performance in harsh environments |
| Low weight and volume, and a multi-watt level output |
Small weight and volume required on vehicle |
| No moving parts |
Reliable; less chance of parts wearing |
| 
