Sample interview questions: How would you approach designing a laser system for lidar applications?
Sample answer:
When designing a laser system for lidar applications, there are several key factors to consider. Firstly, it is crucial to determine the specific requirements of the lidar application, such as the desired range, resolution, and accuracy. This will help in selecting the appropriate laser parameters.
Next, the choice of laser source is essential. For lidar applications, solid-state lasers are commonly used due to their high efficiency, compactness, and reliability. Different solid-state laser technologies, such as diode-pumped solid-state (DPSS) lasers or fiber lasers, can be considered based on the specific application requirements.
The wavelength of the laser is another critical parameter. It should be carefully selected to optimize the lidar system’s performance. For example, if the application involves atmospheric sensing, wavelengths in the near-infrared (NIR) region are often preferred due to their lower absorption by atmospheric gases. On the other hand, if the lidar system is used for underwater applications, longer wavelengths in the green or blue spectrum might be more suitable due to better penetration through water.
To achieve the required range resolution, pulse duration and pulse energy need to be considered. Shorter pulse durations allow for better range resolution, but they often require higher pulse energies. This trade-off should be carefully evaluated to ensure the lidar system meets the desired performance metrics.
Furthermore, the laser beam quality is crucial for lidar applications. A high-quality laser beam ensures accurate and precise measurements. Techniques such as beam shaping, beam cleanup, and adaptive optics can be employed to improve the beam q… Read full answer