Three-dimensional optical correlator using a sub-image array

Abstract
A three-dimensional optical correlator using a lens array is proposed and demonstrated. The proposed method captures three-dimensional objects using the lens array and transforms them into sub-images. Through successive two-dimensional correlations between the sub-images, a three-dimensional optical correlation is accomplished. As a result, the proposed method is capable of detecting out-of-plane rotations of three-dimensional objects as well as three-dimensional shifts.