Microcomputer-based programmable optical signal processor

A microcomputer-based real-time programmable optical signal processing system utilizing a magneto-optic spatial light modulator (MOSLM) and a liquid crystal light valve (LCLV) is described. This system can perform a myriad of complicated optical operations, such as image correlation, image subtraction, and matrix multiplication. Its important asserts are its programmability and the capability of real-time addressing. These are important for telerobotic vision in space automation applications. Design specifications and suggestions for practical implementation of the system are discussed. Some preliminary experimental demonstrations are conducted to demonstrate applications of the proposed system to image correlation for optical pattern recognition, image subtraction for lC chip inspection, and matrix multiplication for optical computing.