Near video-rate linear Stokes imaging with single-pixel detectors

Abstract

In this work we demonstrate a polarization sensitive computational imaging system based on a digital micro-mirror device (DMD) and several single-pixel photodetectors. By taking advantage of computational imaging techniques, the light measured by each single-pixel detector can reconstruct a 2D image for a specific linear polarization state. Using the rapid frame-rate of the DMD to continuously project a series of spatially orthogonal illumination patterns, near video-rate reconstructions can be achieved. In addition we extend this approach to provide full-colour images through a process of sequential colour selection (RGB). Taking the difference between photodetector signals from orthogonal linear polarization states, we obtain images corresponding to the linear Stokes parameters. We apply this rapid polarization sensitive imaging system to inert and biological material. Since the spatial information in the images reconstructed by this approach are determined by the projection system, rather than the detectors, the approach provides perfect pixel registration between the various polarization selective images and associated Stokes parameters. Furthermore, the use of single-pixel detectors and the large operational bandwidth afforded by DMDʼs means that the approach can readily be extended for imaging at wavelengths where detector arrays are unavailable or limited.