Multi-Array Spherical LIDAR System for Drone Detection

The detection of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) represents a necessity to protect critical areas and infrastructures against potential attacks performed by these UAVs. Different detection solutions have been proposed in the literature. They include conventional radars, radio frequency signal detection, acoustic detection, as well as light detection and ranging (Lidar). Using cameras, the latter technology is new and promising, yet controversial for its feasibility and cost effectiveness. In this paper, we propose a multi-array Lidar system that is capable of detecting potential UAVs using visible light communication. The system is composed of laser sources and laser concentrators. These transmitting/receiving elements are arranged through arrays along a spherical form including a photodiode at its centre. The reflected optical energy reaching the concentrators is transmitted to this central photodiode. The work assesses the feasibility and effectiveness of the solution through an in-depth examination of the design parameters. This includes the sensors' characteristics, the elements positioning and interspace, as well as the dimensions of the monitored cylinder.