Design architectures for optically multiplexed imaging

Optically multiplexed imaging is the process by which multiple images are overlaid on a single image surface. Uniquely encoding the discrete images allows scene reconstruction from multiplexed images via post processing. We describe a class of optical systems that can achieve high density image multiplexing through a novel division of aperture technique. Fundamental design considerations and performance attributes for this sensor architecture are discussed. A number of spatial and temporal encoding methods are presented including point spread function engineering, amplitude modulation, and image shifting. Results from a prototype five-channel sensor are presented using three different encoding methods in sparse-scene star tracking demonstration. A six-channel optically multiplexed prototype sensor is used to reconstruct imagery from information rich dense scenes through dynamic image shifting.