A Novel Laser Target Simulator with High Precision and High Attenuation Rate

Abstract

In order to simulate the target echo laser signal, we designed a novel laser target simulator with high precision and high attenuation rate used for sensitivity test, function test or tracking mode test of laser receiving equipment, such as Lidar and Laser Range Finder. Regarding the laser receiving equipment on the motion platform, the model of target echo power was established based on the characteristics of laser atmospheric transmissions in the application environment. The simulation shows the model is consistent with the test data. Additionally, the MEMS ESVOA (Micro-Electro Mechanical Systems Electro-Static Variable Optical Attenuator) device was used in the overall solution of the laser target simulator to realize the target echo signal simulation with miniaturization, high attenuation rate and high precision. Finally, a laser target simulator test system was built and its high rate of attenuation, high precision and stability of laser power tested. The test results show that the change rate of target echo signal energy is more than 7 × 104 dB/s, the power simulation accuracy is better than 0.1 dB and the laser pulse power stability is better than 0.61%.

Keywords

• high precision
• laser range finder
• laser target simulator (LTS)
• MEMS ESVOA