Lidar Simulation Model: Inputs

The Lidar Simulation Model operation is controlled by three model configuration input files: Operation, Platform/Lidar and Atmospheric. All three files are mandatory for the Lidar Simulation Model to run. The three model configuration files are either created manually or read in from existing files. All configuration files created by the user reside in the /data_files directory.

The LSM input screens will grey out all unnecessary inputs prompts. All user entries are screened against mandatory and non-mandatory units. Mandatory limits are defined as limits preset by Simpson Weather Associates that prevent the LSM from "crashing". These limits can not be changed. Non-mandatory limits are defined as limits that the user can custom set to his preference via the Model Input Limits Editor. All non- mandatory limits must be set within the mandatory limits. Not all entries will have non-mandatory limits.

The Configure Inputs Screen has a main section for each of the three LSM configuration input files: Operations, Platform/Laser and Atmosphere. The user can input, load, edit and save each of the three files from this screen.

Once the user has defined the Operation and Platform/Lidar configuration files, the user must create a laser shot coverage file by running the Shot Coverage model (SCV) or load an existing shot coverage file. Currently, the LSM only allows users to load an existing atmosphere from the inventory. It is planned have the Atmospheric Generator Model (AGM) operational from the Configure Inputs screen in 1998 to create new atmospheric fields. Graphic routines are provided so the user can view platform and shot coverage and atmospheric variables before the launch of the LSM.