Vector discrimination apparatus

A vector discrimination apparatus for performing discrimination of a vector consisting of a plurality of vector components corresponding to features of predetermined information, comprising:

• a display in which a plurality of displaying areas are respectively assigned in correspondence with said plurality of vector components on a screen, said display respectively displaying predetermined plurality of line-like or spot-like optical patterns at positions proportional to the rated value of each of said vector components in said plurality of displaying areas;
• various types of reference masks in which a plurality of areas are respectively assigned in one-to-one correspondence with said plurality of displaying areas of said display, each of said various types of reference masks having a plurality of line-like or spot-like reference patterns respectively being formed by a gray scale in correspondence with said plurality of optical patterns in said plurality of displaying areas such that said plurality of reference patterns are matched with said predetermined plurality of optical patterns;
• multiplier means for optically multiplying the predetermined optical patterns displayed on said display and for forming a plurality of pattern images each having a substantially identical shape in the vicinities of said various types of reference masks;
• and
• light detecting means for detecting beams guided respectively through said various types of reference masks by matching the pattern image with the reference pattern.