Encoding 3D correlation in an optical processor

Three-dimensional correlation of color images can be optically implemented by encoding three-dimensional functions in two-dimensional signals. We consider the following two techniques, to interlace the different channels of the color image, or to put them side by side. Both encoding techniques permit to obtain the 3D correlation but they have different characteristics when implemented in an optical correlator. We study the different characteristics concerning encoding and crosstalk effects. Experimental results comparing the two techniques are given.