Acousto-optic processing with electronic image feedback for morphological filtering

An optical morphological processor is described and demonstrated in which the structuring element is generated by means of an acousto-optic cell in the Fourier plane of a coherent optical correlator. A magneto-optic spatial light modulator is employed in the input plane. A single PC generates the drive signals for the acousto-optic cell, processes the output image, and controls the input magneto-optic spatial light modulator. Complex morphological operations of opening and closing are experimentally demonstrated by using electronic image feedback. The results of a morphological noise-removal algorithm implemented by using the optical processor are compared with computer simulations, possible sources of discrepancies are proposed, and potential remedies are discussed.