Researchers develop a programmable optical device for high-speed beam steering
Even today, we don't have the technology to create realistic and dynamic holograms like that one, which was filmed more than 45 years ago.
Light control beyond the capabilities of existing technologies, which are based on liquid crystals or micromirrors, would be required for generating a freestanding 3D hologram.
An international group of researchers have been working on the problem of high-speed optical beam forming for more than four years.
They have demonstrated a wireless device that can control light, such as by focusing a beam in a specific direction or manipulating the light's intensity.
We are studying how to control light in different colors, which has been a recurring research theme for many centuries.
We use the word "complete" in an engineering sense to mean we have control of optical systems that were previously only thought possible using electrical circuits.
The researchers used a method called the “Molecular Crowding Protocol,” which has been developed by our laboratory to examine the role of water molecules during protein folding.
They specialize in nanotechnology and microelectromechanical systems and are experts in the fabrication of sensors using nanoelectromechanical systems.
We are studying how to control light in different colors, which has been a recurring research theme for many centuries.
The development of our technology is another major step towards the ultimate goal of optical control, both in space and time.
The researchers used a method called the “Molecular Crowding Protocol,” which has been developed by our laboratory to examine the role of water molecules during protein folding.
A spatial light modulator is a device that manipulates light by controlling emission properties.
Similar to an overhead projector or computer screen, an SLM transforms a passing beam of light, focusing it in one direction or replicating it to many locations for image formation.
The light wavelength is only a few hundred nanometers, so controlling light at high speeds requires an extremely dense array of controllers.
The beam-steering performance of the final device can be improved if the reflected light from each cavity is a focused beam. Panuski says that their process is an ideal optical antenna.
The researchers developed a new method for designing crystal devices that form light into a narrow beam.