Metaoptics (aka meta optical elements, aka meta-optics) are comprised of sub-wavelength (smaller than a wavelength) optically reactive structures on surfaces to manipulate the phase of light (bending or steering light, controlling how it passes through a surface or reflects from a surface).
Metaoptics can be used with a variety of wavelengths of light, and for wavelengths in the nanometres, a sub-wavelength feature is also on the order of nanometres (nanoscale). Metaoptics are fabricated of materials which are optically reactive at the wavelength(s) of interest. A variety of processes exist for fabricating nanoscale features, and most of these are based on planar, wafer-level processing (hence planar optics and wafer-level optics).
Metaoptics enable thinner, lighter, and more integrated optical systems than refractive (conventional) lenses. This technology is driving innovation in imaging, sensing, AR/VR, biomedical devices, and optical communications.
For centuries, optical systems have relied on refractive (conventional) lenses: curved glass or plastic lenses. These conventional lenses phase (aka bend) light through refraction, where light changes direction when moving between materials with different optical properties (Snell’s law).
Metaoptics take a different approach. Instead of shaping light through thick materials, metaoptics manipulate light directly at a flat surface using nanoscale structures. These structures can locally control the phase, amplitude, and polarisation of light. This can significantly reduce the number of optical elements in a system.
Modern optical devices often require multiple lens elements. This increases size, weight, system complexity, and manufacturing costs.
Metaoptics can combine multiple optical functions within a single ultrathin optical surface. This significantly reduces the number of optical elements required in a system.
Compared to conventional refractive optics, metaoptics can provide:
- Smaller optical systems
- Reduced weight
- Improved integration into compact devices
- Wafer-level manufacturability
- Multifunctional optical behaviour
- New optical design possibilities
These advantages are especially important for products where space, weight, and integration matter.
Designing metaoptics
To support the reliable development and manufacturing of metaoptics, PlanOpSim developed specialised design and simulation software for advanced metaoptical systems.
PlanOpSim offers metaoptics consulting and design services. PlanOpSim can:
- Perform a feasibility study of metaoptics for your application
- Create a first design and introduce you to manufacturers who can prototype your design
- NOTE: PlanOpSim does not manufacture optics, but we can introduce you to manufacturers
- Create a second/third/etc design or transition the design to you with training and design support
Playlist
2:01
5:37
