Assessment of Lidar Point Cloud Simulation Using Phenomenological Range-Reflectivity Limits for Feature Validation

We present an assessment of simulated lidar point clouds based on different phenomenological range-reflectivity models. In sensor model development, the validation of individual model features is favorable. For lidar sensors, range limits depend on surface reflectivities. Two phenomenological feature models are derived from the lidar range equation, for clear and adverse weather conditions. The underlying parameters are the maximum ranges for best environment conditions, based on sensor datasheets, and a maximum range measurement for attenuation conditions. Furthermore, an assessment of different feature models is needed, similar to unit tests. Therefore, resulting point clouds are compared with respect to the total number of corresponding points and the number of points with no correspondences for pair-wise cloud comparison. Applications are presented using a point cloud lidar model. Results of the point cloud comparison are demonstrated for a single scene or time step and an entire scenario of 40 time steps. When a reference point cloud is provided by the sensor manufacturer, feature validation becomes possible.