Phase-space representation of partially coherent imaging systems using the Cohen class distribution

Area of Science:

• Optics and optical imaging
• Coherent imaging systems
• Image formation theory

Background:

• Partially coherent illumination is crucial for many imaging systems, but modeling it can be complex.
• Existing models may not efficiently handle large illumination apertures.
• Understanding image formation under partial coherence is key to system design.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a new phase-space representation for analyzing imaging systems with large illumination apertures.
• To create a computationally efficient method for calculating images formed by partially coherent illumination.
• To validate the representation using standard optical test objects.

Main Methods:

• Developed a phase-space representation based on the transmission cross-coefficient model.
• Ensured the representation belongs to the general Cohen class of distributions.
• Implemented an efficient algorithm for image calculation using the new representation.

Main Results:

• The phase-space imager effectively captures the bilinear nature of image formation in partially coherent systems.
• The method utilizes a reduced number of dimensions for computational efficiency.
• Computed images of a double slit and a 2D sinusoidal spoke demonstrate the model's accuracy.

Conclusions:

• The developed phase-space imager offers a powerful and efficient tool for the analysis and design of partially coherent imaging systems.
• This representation simplifies the complex nature of image formation with large apertures.
• The findings facilitate the development of advanced optical imaging technologies.