Abstract
A phase-only joint transform correlator (JTC) is used to realize cellular neural networks (CNNs). The operation of summing cross-correlations of bipolar data in CNNs can be realized in parallel by phase-encoding bipolar data. Compared to other optical systems for implementing CNNs, the proposed method offers the advantages of easier implementation and robustness in terms of system alignment, and requires neither electronic precalculation nor data rearrangement. Simulation results of the proposed optical CNNs for edge detection are provided.