Image contrast model of non-line-of-sight imaging based on laser range-gated imaging

Laser range-gated imaging systems can obtain images of targets hidden around the corner, with an intermediary reflective surface with certain specular reflection characteristics. This imaging mode is called non-line-of-sight imaging. This paper describes a simulation of the target signal illuminance and disturbance radiation on the photosensitive surface of a non-line-of-sight imaging system based on modeling of an intermediary reflective surface. Meanwhile, an image contrast model of a non-line-of-sight imaging system is constructed. Simulation of the image contrast for a laser range-gated imaging system as a non-line-of-sight imaging equipment was carried out by analyzing the effects of varying the target signal illuminance and intermediary reflective surface reflection. Our simulation results show that the reflection characteristics of the intermediary reflective surface have a significant effect on the non-line-of-sight imaging. Although ordinary active laser imaging can realize non-line-of-sight imaging for an intermediary reflective surface with significant specular reflection characteristics, a laser range-gated imaging system is indispensable for non-line-of-sight imaging with commonly used intermediary reflective surfaces without significant specular reflection characteristics. The image contrast model of non-line-of-sight imaging constructed in this paper provides insights into the theoretical analysis and system design, as well as practical application of non-line-of-sight imaging. (C) 2014 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers (SPIE)