Multiplexing capabilities of the binary phase-only filter

Theoretical studies of the multiplexing capabilities of binary phase-only filters (BPOF) for use in optical correlator systems are presented. We show that the BPOF has an inherent capability for simultaneously recognizing an object and an inverted version of the object. More complex multiplexing capabilities are examined including (1) use of a BPOF made from eight rotated versions of a letter to recognize any of the rotated input letters, (2) use of a BPOF made using the fifty-two letters of the alphabet (upper and lower case) to recognize any one letter, and (3) use of a BPOF made from a complex sentence to pick out a desired word. Finally, we present additional information on the generation of the BPOF using a MacIntosh computer system.