Researchers create multifunctional ‘holographic’ metasurface

Researchers at the Beijing Institute of Technology have developed a quasicrystal metasurface to create ‘holographic’ displays while simultaneously creating diffraction patterns.
 

Quasicrystal arrangements create physically unique diffraction patterns thanks to a non-periodic arrangement; traditional metasurfaces are conventionally arranged in a periodic pattern such as a square or hexagonal structure.

The new approach created by the researchers combines the global arrangement of metasurfaces with the local responses of meta-atoms, opening the door for new developments for multifunctional meta-devices.

The hologram is encoded into the local response of the meta-atoms, creating a ‘holographic’ image which is reconstructed at a pre-defined distance. The local response of meta-atoms and their arrangement can be modulated to transmit light, achieving dual functionality, altering the placement of nanostructures while appending additional phase modulation which can lead to different phenomena compared to traditional diffraction patterns.

As a result, ‘holographic’ images can be displayed both in the far-field and near-field.

 

Source: Inavate