Computer simulation of hybrid cross-correlators

A computer model for simulating hybrid optical/digital cross correlators for pattern recognition is developed to investigate accuracy and limitations of a hybrid cross correlator compared to an ideal digital cross-correlator. The hybrid system is based on matrix-addressed LCD displays and CCD camera chips as interface devices. Both joint-transform and frequency-plane correlators can be simulated, and different physical distortion effects from the optical components and from the interface devices can be included. The evaluation of the hybrid system is carried out in the correlation plane, which is the output of the system.