Single-pixel imaging using caustic patterns

Abstract

Single-pixel imaging uses a time-varying transmission mask placed in the illumination to achieve imaging without the use of detector arrays. While most research in this field uses sophisticated masks implemented using spatial light modulators, such methods are not available at all lengthscales and wavelengths of illumination. Here we show that alternatively a sequence of projected caustic intensity patterns can be used as the basis for the single-pixel imaging of objects. Caustics can be formed using slowly varying random phase masks, such as for example the surface of a swimming pool, which potentially makes using caustics an option at a range of lengthscales and wavelengths.