Modeling and simulation analysis of a non-line-of-sight infrared laser imaging system

Abstract

Non-line-of-sight (NLOS) imaging technology is to ‘see’ the target out of sight, such as an object around a corner or hidden by some shelters. However, due to constraints of device definition and computing load, NLOS system is usually expensive and requires hidden objects with special material and simple shape. Besides, imaging space of system is limited. We perform a series of simulation with 1550nm infrared laser to expand the application field and improve the performance of NLOS system. Based on math and physical properties, main experimental components are modeled and data acquisition process is completed first. Then, the ellipsoid inversion algorithm is used to reconstruct the hidden space and imaging results are obtained. Finally, multiple series of system parameters are set and their influence on imaging results is analyzed. Results demonstrate that echo signal intensity after multiple reflections provides adequate information to reconstruct the geometry of a hidden object. However, the number of laser scanning position, resolution of detector, voxel division and location of the scanning area will all have a critical influence on NLOS imaging results.