Abstract
We present a general approach to design Talbot array illuminators. In both one-dimensional and two-dimensional cases, a general analytical form is given for the conventional Talbot array illuminators. The proposed form is valid for every fractional Talbot distance. Furthermore, we extended our approach to various topologies of the bright spots in the replay field. Several examples of particular topologies, such as the chessboard configuration, are discussed. In addition, more complex configurations are considered and a useful design technique is proposed.