OPTICS LAB - ECEN 5606 Kelvin

Fourier optics is a powerful tool for the coherent manipulation of optical fields, for the spatial frequency analysis of images, and for the construction of real time correlators. One property that makes optics an exciting tool for frequency analysis is that, in free-space propogation of light, one can see the effects of lenses and filters on a light beam as the beam propogates through the system to the far field. In this experiment you will set up a system of lenses that allow the display and modification of the Fourier spectrum of two-dimensional objects. One can then use a variety of filters from simple opaque objects to computer generated holograms that will selectively block certain spatial frequencies of the original object. These devices can be used either to modify the characteristics of the object or to perform various computations to extract information out of the object. By using complex transparencies in the Fourier plane, implemented in a dynamic organic holographic material, you will be able to build matched spatial filter correlators for object recognition and location.