Image processing via ultrasonics - Status and promise

Acousto-electric devices for electronic imaging of light are discussed. These devices are more versatile than line scan imaging devices in current use. They have the capability of presenting the image information in a variety of modes. The image can be read out in the conventional line scan mode. It can be read out in the form of the Fourier, Hadamard, or other transform. One can take the transform along one direction of the image and line scan in the other direction, or perform other combinations of image processing functions. This is accomplished by applying the appropriate electrical input signals to the device. Since the electrical output signal of these devices can be detected in a synchronous mode, substantial noise reduction is possible