Phase object visualization at Bragg acousto-optic interaction

Abstract

A method of phase object visualization based on selective properties of acousto-optic diffraction is described. It is shown that in the optimal case the distribution of light intensity in the visualized image is proportional to the phase gradient in the acousto-optic interaction plane. The resolution and the contract of the visualized image are determined primarily by the divergence angle of the acoustic beam. Some experimental results as well as examples of computer simulation are presented for illustration of potentialities of the method.