Multi-channel optical correlation system

Abstract

A multi-channel optical correlation system employs a light source to illuminate a mask having a plurality of linearly disposed channels, each of which has recorded information defined by variations in opacity along its linear length. The light source is modulated as a function of an unknown input signal. A multiple element charge coupled device having its elements arrayed in linearly disposed groups along axes parallel to the linearly disposed channels of the illuminated mask is positioned to receive the light energy transmitted by the illuminated mask for developing a charge within each such element commensurate with the photo energy received at its discrete position. A source of clock signals is periodically applied to the charge coupled device for cumulatively shifting the charges developed by each of the linearly disposed groups of discrete elements and a suitable means responsive to the resultant cumulative charge outputs of such groups indicates the group having maximum amplitude of cumulative charge thereby identifying the unknown input signal with the recorded information contained on the particular channel associated with that group.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.