Self-derived reference beam holography using a dove prism

Abstract

A method and associated system for providing interference patterns generated from light, including visible, ultraviolet and infrared, carrying desired information comprises the steps of and associated apparatus for modulating a light beam emanating from a suitable source, in accordance with the desired data or information or signal, splitting the modulated light beam into a pair of component beams, both thereby derived from the modulated beam, reflecting the resultant split beams towards each other so as to interfere optically. Advantageously, beam splitting and reflection may be effected by an essentially integrated, transparent element. Also advantageously, a recording of such interference is made by a positioning photosensitive medium at the point or in the plane of interference. Alternatively, an interference recording or filter may be positioned at the point or plane of optical interference, a blocking element positioned behind the splitting and reflecting element for blocking transmission of one of the split beams, and sensing apparatus positioned behind the recording on the line of transmission of the blocked beam to detect the re-occurrence of a signal corresponding to that contained on the recording.