A complete system of a Laser Radar is described in this paper. One explains the principles of the laser and all additional devices used in this system in order to obtain a compact and eye-safe system. The principle and realization of algorithms for controlling the cruise and speed of the vehicle are described. By applying modal control, and choosing the optimal mode for reducing the speed, one derives the system equation and determines its coefficients. Finally, the paper presents simulations of the laser scanning system, the modal control system and the behavior of the system affected by different errors and disturbances. The effects of instrumental errors are defined and simulation is performed illustrating how such a control system is influenced by internal and external disturbances.

In this work we discuss a method of preparation of a highly sensitive light detector based on ZnO nanorods. A photoresistor constructed by us is based on a heterojunction between high quality ZnO nanorods and high resistivity p-type Si used as a substrate for nanorods’ deposition. ZnO nanorods are grown by a modified version of a microwave assisted hydrothermal method which allows for growth of high quality ZnO nanorods in a few minutes. The obtained photoresistor responds to a wide spectral range of light starting from near infrared (IR) to ultraviolet (UV). Properties of the detector are evaluated. We propose the use of the detector as an optical switch.