Abstract: A detection system and method are disclosed for detecting a foreign object on a surface, such as an airport runway or a racetrack. The detection system includes a plurality of detectors mounted on the vehicle and capable of receiving light reflected from the object on the surface, and producing data that indicates the presence of said object as said vehicle moves along the surface; and a computer electrically coupled to each of the plurality of detectors, said computer being capable of processing said data and generating an alarm to alert an operator of said vehicle to a presence of said object. In low light conditions, the system may further include a plurality of light sources mounted on a vehicle and capable of illuminating at least one monitored area of the surface with light.

Abstract: A detection system and method are disclosed for detecting a foreign object on a surface, such as an airport runway or a racetrack. The detection system includes a plurality of detectors mounted on the vehicle and capable of receiving light reflected from the object on the surface, and producing data that indicates the presence of said object as said vehicle moves along the surface; and a computer electrically coupled to each of the plurality of detectors, said computer being capable of processing said data and generating an alarm to alert an operator of said vehicle to a presence of said object. In low light conditions, the system may further include a plurality of light sources mounted on a vehicle and capable of illuminating at least one monitored area of the surface with light.