Research progress of quantum LiDAR with ranging and velocity measurement

Abstract

Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) has emerged as a pivotal sensor across diverse domains such as autonomous driving, mapping, and remote sensing, owing to its exceptional orientation capabilities and high resolution. The detection mechanism of LiDAR is fundamentally categorized into non-coherent detection and coherent detection. Non-coherent detection employs the direct detection method, which involves measuring changes in the intensity of the reflected light signal to achieve detection. Pulse LiDAR, which determines the target range through pulsed time-of-flight measurements, falls within this classification. On the other hand, coherent detection employs heterodyne detection techniques and achieves detection by measuring the frequency or phase difference between the echo signal and the local oscillator signal. This approach is utilized in frequency modulation continuous wave (FMCW) LiDAR and Doppler speed LiDAR. LiDAR systems employing coherent detection methods can attain heightened sensitivity while operating at lower transmission power levels. However, due to the limitations posed by quantum noise, conventional LiDAR systems have encountered challenges in terms of detection sensitivity and resolution, prompting the need for advancement. In recent times, spurred by the emergence of quantum metrology, a quantum version of LiDAR has been conceptualized, promising superior precision and resolution. Leveraging the enhanced signal-to-noise ratio made possible by quantum advancements, quantum LiDAR demonstrates the potential to extend detection ranges, elevate detection accuracy, bolster anti-jamming capabilities, and enhance anti-stealth performance beyond that of classical LiDAR, all while operating at equivalent transmission signal power levels. As an emerging technology, quantum LiDAR is currently in its exploratory phase, and several challenges must be confronted prior to its practical implementation. These challenges encompass a restricted array of methods for the effective generation of quantum light sources, the vulnerability of quantum states to environmental factors, resulting in their deterioration, the constrained techniques for modulating quantum light sources, and the critical necessity to augment detector sensitivity. Furthermore, present quantum LiDAR efforts primarily concentrate on imaging and ranging capabilities, with limited research dedicated to simultaneous velocity measurement and ranging. Hence, forthcoming investigations into quantum LiDAR will center around optimizing quantum light source efficiency, exploring high-dimensional modulation techniques, and advancing high-sensitivity detectors. These efforts aim to enhance system stability and enable miniaturization, ultimately leading to superior target detection performance. This review centers on the evaluation of ranging and velocity measurement performance within quantum LiDAR systems. Following a concise introduction to two renowned categories of classical LiDAR—namely, pulse LiDAR and FMCW LiDAR, the paper delves into the progress made in quantum pulsed LiDAR and quantum interferometric LiDAR. In particular, this review highlights the advancements in quantum FMCW LiDAR, a system proposed for achieving simultaneous range and velocity measurements with quantum enhancement. By conducting a thorough assessment of the current accomplishments in quantum LiDAR research, the study seeks to attain a more profound comprehension of prevailing research focal points and obstacles, thus offering invaluable insights to steer its prospective advancement.