This work investigates the feasibility of developing a LADAR simulator that can reliably predict automatic target identification ranges based on target aspect angle, level of obscuration, and extent of camouflage, concealment, and deception present in the scene. We will construct high fidelity target models under well-documented conditions to serve as target truth models; modify an existing 3-D imaging LADAR simulator to be suitable for eyesafe laser wavelengths; produce simulated 3-D LADAR images suitable for evaluation of identification ranges; and acquire truth eyesafe LADAR images against which the simulated images can be compared.
Benefits: An application of interest to law enforcement agencies would be a technique for spotting a specific vehicle in heavy traffic using airborne LADAR imagery and matching to models derived from multiple passive images. Typical commercial problems would be monitoring of structures (e.g., bridges, buildings, etc.) for structural weaknesses or degradation, again automatically deriving a LADAR model from multiple passive sources. LADAR will also have considerable use in robotic systems that will be involved in manufacturing, mining, maintenance and repair in severe environments, handling of toxic and explosive materials, and transportation. In all of the future applications, the imaging 3-D LADAR will be required to not only identify the object of interest, but have a precision knowledge of its dimensionality, how it is oriented, where it is located, and the placement and orientation of internal features. The validated 3-D LADAR identification model derived from multiple passive sources will be extensible to all these cases and greatly increase the utility of the sensor, allowing for reliable prediction of performance in a wide variety of commercial environments
