Monte Carlo method for the analysis of laser safety for a high-powered lidar system under different atmospheric conditions

摘要: A major concern of high-powered atmospheric lidar systems is eye safety. Atmospheric lidars are often run unattended in adverse weather conditions where scattering redirects laser energy from the main beam. These naturally varying “soft targets” (such as fog and precipitation) not accounted for American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standards but, through multiple events, can potentially create viewing conditions. This paper introduces a Monte Carlo method that uses phase functions snow applies analysis to map density within volume around primary Careful attention given accurately describing forward portion function it scatters significant amount beam energy. compared ANSI standard hazard zone calculations determine what effect has on size zone. For direct viewing, estimates about 3% defined Nominal Ocular Hazard Distance (NOHD) clear air but approximately 56% smaller than NOHD optical increases 33% blowing snow. indirect exposure, gives worst approximation Zone (NHZ), error by 93%; approaches results, 30% error, whereas shows 70% error. Finally, enhancement mechanisms considered which relate definition layer interest increase scattered observed 4%. In all cases, calculated NHZ larger zones include inextricably linked type ignored calculations.