Nonlinear Real-Time Optical Signal Processing.
Abstract
The results of a four year research program in nonlinear real-time optical signal processing are described. The goal of the program was to extend fast parallel nonlinear operations to optical processing systems with large time-bandwidth and space-bandwidth products. Real-time homomorphic and logarithmic filtering by halfonte nonlinear processing has been achieved. A detailed analysis of degradation due to the finite gamma and other non-ideal effects of the recording medium has been completed along with an extensive study of techniques for precompensating these effects. Further improvements in experimental work await a liquid crystal light valve (LCLV) or other real-time spatial light modulator with a sharper threshold and better uniformity and repeatability. A direct nonlinear technique of real-time parallel A/D conversion of an incoherent optical image has been developed. A detailed theoretical analysis and modeling of liquid crystal devices and associated photoconductors was completed, providing an excellent fit to experimental data obtained on several devices provided by Hughes Research Laboratories. These results have been used to make a flexible multiple light valve system (MLVS) in which the form of the nonlinearity can be varied.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 30, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA105186
Entities
People
- A. A. Sawchuk
- A. R. Tanguay Jr
- T. C. Strand
Organizations
- University of Southern California