Computer-generated holograms for real-time image display and sensor applications

Presenting visual information holographically would have a number of significant advantages over conventional video projection techniques, not least extremely high efficiency and the potential for miniaturisation. However, until now, two-dimensional projection using binary phase computer-generated holograms has been affected by critical limitations imposed both by the computational complexity of the hologram-generated algorithms required, and by the poor quality of images produced by the binary holograms they generate. To address these twin deficiencies, a novel technique and methodology for hologram generation – optimised to a new psychometrically determined perceptual measure of image quality – is presented. Such an approach is demonstrated to be realistic in commercially available hardware, thus bringing a practical real-time holographic video implementation within reach. A further application of this technology outside the field of information display is demonstrated by a new class of sensors which combine high-quality image formation, with the efficiency of phase modulation and the flexibility of CGH technology, to form a precision measurement device which provides visual feedback without the use of electronics.EThOS - Electronic Theses Online ServiceGBUnited Kingdo