Programmable axial apodizing and hyperresolving amplitude filters with a liquid-crystal spatial light modulator

Amplitude-transmitting filters for apodizing and hyperresolving applications can be easily implemented by use of a two-dimensional programmable liquid-crystal spatial light modulator operating in a transmission-only mode. Experimental results are in excellent agreement with theoretical predictions. This approach can permit the analysis of various filter designs and can allow the filters to be changed rapidly to modify the response of an optical system

Optimal filter approximation by means of a phase-only filter with quantization

Approximate filters based on a phase-only filter for reliable recognition of objects are proposed. Good light efficiency and discrimination capability close to that of the optimal filter can be obtained. Computer simulation results are presented and discussed

Tailoring the depth of focus for optical imaging systems using a Fourier transform approach

We show how to tailor the depth of focus for an optical system using pupil functions obtained from a Fourier transform approach. These complex amplitude and phase pupil functions are encoded onto a single liquid-crystal spatial light modulator. Experimental results show excellent agreement with theory and indicate the power of this approach

Plenary Paper Image formation and optical transfer function in a course of Fourier Optics

ABSTRACT A discussion on the interest of the study of diffractional image formation theory in a course of Fourier Optics is carried out We develope a general description of the partially coherent illumination case. Images of extended objects like the line and periodical structures are given for different values of the coherence parameter. The apparent transfer function is introduced as a quality criterium. For the incoherent illumination this parameter is compared with the optical transfer function