Realization of all-optical higher-order spatial differentiators based on cascaded operations

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates all-optical second-order spatial differentiators by cascading first-order units, enabling advanced image edge detection and paving the way for compact optical analog computing networks.

Contribution

It introduces a novel cascaded approach to realize higher-order all-optical spatial differentiation for the first time.

Findings

Successful implementation of second-order differentiators

Effective edge detection for amplitude and phase objects

Potential for compact multifunctional optical computing devices

Abstract

Cascaded operations play an important role in traditional electronic computing systems for the realization of advanced strategies. Here, we introduce the idea of cascaded operations into all-optical spatial analog computing. The single function of the firstorder operation is difficult to meet the requirements of practical applications in image recognition. The all-optical second-order spatial differentiators are implemented by cascading two first-order differential operation units, and the image edge detection of amplitude and phase objects are demonstrated. Our scheme provides a possible pathway towards the development of compact multifunctional differentiators and advanced optical analog computing networks.