Quantum-enhanced sensing technologies aim to use novel effects stemming from quantum physics
to benefit sensing applications. Such technologies can allow for sensing in regimes for which
conventional devices cannot, or they can demonstrate improved performance compared to these
conventional devices. We present a quantum-enhanced LIDAR protocol that is practical for
real-life use and has an operator-friendly approach to detector data processing and inference
of target object presence or absence. The overarching objective of this thesis is to describe
such a protocol. Our protocol is based on a quantum illumination system with click detectors
(Geiger-mode single-photon avalanche photo-diodes), which uses time-correlated coincidence
click-counting. We developed a theoretical framework that processes detector data into a metric
intrinsically linked to the likelihood of the absence or presence of a target. This approach
allows for complicated multi-channel detector data to condense into an intuitive single value.
Furthermore, the theoretical framework also has a level of self-calibration inbuilt. We also
characterise the functionality of our protocol in operator-friendly terms such as time-required
for confident detection. Our results reinforce the advantage of quantum states, when compared
to classical light in certain environmental and technological conditions, particularly when we
desire covertness. These advantages persist even when operating at room temperature with
off-the-shelf components, a crucial requirement for the practical roll-out of quantum-enhanced
technologies. Additionally, we have demonstrated robustness to jamming, for both fast and slow
dynamic jamming. Lastly, the theory provides the formalism to include any of the other non-classical correlations of our source; this feature improves the jamming-resilience of the protocol
due to noise exclusion and a relative increase of heralding gain. Due to its user-operability
and experimental-demonstration with off-the-shelf components, our protocol could hasten the
adoption of quantum-enhanced sensing technology.
| Date of Award | 12 Aug 2024 |
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| Original language | English |
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| Awarding Institution | - University Of Strathclyde
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| Sponsors | University of Strathclyde |
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| Supervisor | John Jeffers (Supervisor) & Jonathan Pritchard (Supervisor) |
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