Modular components for an optical array logic system.

On the basis of modularization of an optical parallel array logic system (OPALS), a new concept of an optical digital computer is considered. The OPALS is a parallel digital optical computing system using optical array logic capable of executing parallel neighborhood logical operations, or cellular logic. Modularizing functional elements in the OPALS, stability, reliability, and flexibility of the system can be improved. Performance of the modularized OPALS is estimated.