Abstract: An optical system comprises two arrays of optical devices and means for making individual optical connections each of which involves the passage of light between a specific device of an array and a specific device of the other array, said means comprising at least one phase grating plate in which there are formed a series of volume phase gratings, all the phase gratings being of the reflecting type, and the arrangement being such that said individual connections are respectively made via different phase gratings in at least one phase grating plate.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for imaging objects utilizing acoustic waves wherein an acoustic beam or beams are generated at one or more frequencies and are focused into proximity with the object to generate output acoustic energy at a different frequency or frequencies resultant from nonlinear interactions with the resultant production, after detection and conversion to electric output signals, of high resolution, enhanced images.

Abstract: A microscope for scanning an object with light and acoustic waves and producing both acoustic and optical images thereof. The microscope includes optical and acoustic lenses that focus both the light and acoustic waves on substantially the same point on the object. In one portion of the microscope the acoustic waves and light propagate coextensively through the same medium. The apparatus generates a simultaneous presentation of both acoustic and optical images formed by the microscope.