Optics detection using a dual channel approach

Detection of optical assemblies is important in revealing threats arising from snipers or other weapons guided by optical means. Several approaches can be imagined using flood illumination or scanning laser techniques. One challenging problem in optics detection applications in urban environments, particular if an autonomous approach is chosen, is to reduce the false alarm rate. In this work a dual channel approach for optics detection using a narrow scanning rectangular laser beam is described. One channel is used for locating targets in the vertical direction while a second channel simultaneously determines the distance to the targets. An experimental system consisting of two channels operating at 0.8 micrometer wavelength was used to study the characteristics of different targets such as road signs, optical reflexes, rifle sights, optical references and backgrounds at different ranges and in different environments. Schemes for refining the target discrimination, reducing the false alarm rate and improving the performance are discussed using experimental results. A dual channel approach is suggested to improve capabilities in optics detection using a scanning rectangular laser beam.