Abstract: An optical computer includes a plurality of functional elements (thin-film elements) each adapted for causing an external signal to act on a two-dimensional-information incident light so as to perform information processing, and light sources for transferring the two-dimensional-information incident light between the functional elements. Each of the functional elements includes nanoparticles comprising molecules of an organic compound and associates/aggregates of these molecules. This structure makes it possible to input light beams from a plurality of functional elements to a single functional element and to output light beams from this single functional element to the plurality of functional elements.

Abstract: A full optical type optical element performs an information processing on an input signal light beam through use of only light beams including the signal light beam and an auxiliary light beam for assisting operation. The optical element includes aggregates which are dispersed within the optical element as optical functional aggregates, and which are composed of a single kind or multiple kinds of compounds including a single species of atoms or molecules. Thus, a full optical type optical element having a high resolution can be obtained through use of a thin-film element which contains nanoparticles comprising molecules of an organic compound and associates/aggregates of these molecules.

Abstract: A process for producing thin films includes a step of dissolving one or two or more thin film materials into solutions or dispersions that are sprayed respective spray nozzles provided for each component onto a substrate in a high vacuum vessel. The components are deposited on the substrate and then are heated.