Depth-enhanced integral imaging by use of optical path control

The image depth of integral imaging is enhanced by doubling the number of central depth planes by use of optical path control. To accomplish this, the optical path lengths are changed by controlling whether reflections occur behind the lens array. We propose three schemes that use mirrors, a combination of beam splitters and polarizers, and polarization beam splitters, respectively. In experiments we implement the systems that are completely electronically controllable, are compact, and provide two central depth planes with 50.4-mm separation. (C) 2004 Optical Society of America.