Reconfigurable photonic superstructure and applications

Abstract

This paper discloses a reconfigurable photonic superstructure and its applications. The invention relates to a hierarchical photonic structure in which vertically aligned functional nanoscale anchoring elements serve as nanoscale anchoring elements, field enhancement elements, and anisotropic inducing elements for a liquid crystal (LC) medium, while a metasurface-configured dielectric or hybrid nanostructure provides spatially encoded electromagnetic phase and amplitude control. The disclosed system enables electrically, optically, thermally, or mechanically reconfigurable wavefront manipulation, adaptive beam control, tunable spectral filtering, programmable holography, and photonic computing. Applications include aerospace adaptive optics, reconfigurable communication systems, sensing and imaging platforms, and quantum photonic information processing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the technical field of photonic systems, and in particular to a reconfigurable photonic superstructure and its applications. Background Technology

[0002] Metasurfaces and metamaterials have become powerful platforms for wavefront manipulation, enabling the control of light propagation, phase, polarization, and amplitude in unprecedented ways using subwavelength structured media. However, most metasurfaces are passive and lack real-time tunability, limiting their application in adaptive communication, sensing, and computing systems.

[0003] Liquid crystals (LCs) possess electrically controllable birefringence and anisotropy, making them an ideal choice for reconfigurable photonic devices. However, traditional liquid crystal devices suffer from problems such as weak anchoring stability, slow response time, limited spatial resolution, and poor integration with nanoscale photonic structures.

[0004] Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanorods possess unique electrical, optical, and piezoelectric properties, making them suitable for use as nanoscale anchoring elements and field enhancement structures for liquid crystal orientation. Existing ZnO nanorod fabrication methods primarily focus on material synthesis and sensing applications, without addressing their integration with metasurface structures to achieve programmable photonic functionality.

[0005] Therefore, a scalable, robust, and multifunctional platform is needed to integrate ZnO nanorods with liquid crystals and metastructures to enable dynamically reconfigurable photonic systems suitable for aerospace, telecommunications, and quantum technologies. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a reconfigurable photonic superstructure and its application, which aims to solve the technical problem that the metasurface in the prior art is passive and lacks real-time adjustability.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, in a first aspect, the present invention proposes a reconfigurable photonic superstructure, comprising:

[0008] (a) Substrate;

[0009] (b) Functional nanoscale anchoring elements disposed on the substrate form a nanoscale anchoring layer;

[0010] (c) A liquid crystal medium coupled to the functional nanoscale anchoring element;

[0011] (d) Metasurface containing a subwavelength superatomic array for modulating electromagnetic waves;

[0012] (e) A control mechanism for dynamically changing the orientation of the liquid crystal medium, wherein the functional nanoscale anchoring element and the liquid crystal medium together define the refractive index distribution of the anchoring code, which can change the phase, amplitude, polarization or propagation direction of the incident electromagnetic radiation.

[0013] Preferably, the aspect ratio of the functional nanoscale anchoring element is 5 to 200; the liquid crystal medium comprises a nematic phase, a smectic phase, a cholesteric phase, a blue phase, a polymer-stabilized phase, or a ferroelectric phase liquid crystal; the metasurface comprises dielectric, plasma, semiconductor, or hybrid superatomic components; and the control mechanism comprises electrical stimulation, optical stimulation, thermal stimulation, mechanical stimulation, or magnetic stimulation.

[0014] Preferably, the refractive index distribution of the anchoring code is spatially programmable, and the superstructure operates in optical, infrared, terahertz, microwave, or radio frequency bands; the functional nanoscale anchoring element enhances the anchoring energy and shortens the liquid crystal switching time; the superstructure is configured for wavefront shaping, beam deflection, focusing, holography, polarization control, or spectral filtering; the superstructure is configured for photonic computing or neuromorphic processing; the superstructure is integrated with optical waveguides, optical fibers, or photonic integrated circuits; and the superstructure exhibits a topological anchoring state.

[0015] Preferably, the superstructure is integrated into an aerospace optical system, which is selected from adaptive optics systems, beam control modules, satellite communication systems, lidar systems, and radiation-resistant photonic devices.

[0016] Alternatively, the superstructure may be integrated into a telecommunications system, wherein the superstructure is configured as a reconfigurable smart surface, phased array, tunable antenna, optical modulator, or switching structure;

[0017] Alternatively, the superstructure may be integrated into a quantum photonic circuit, the superstructure being configured to control the quantum state of light, and the superstructure may be integrated with a quantum emitter, a single-photon source, or a photonic qubit.

[0018] Preferably, the superstructure is integrated into a wavefront computing system, which includes a nanoscale anchoring layer, a liquid crystal medium, and a metasurface, wherein information is processed by spatial modulation of the electromagnetic wavefront, the computing state is encoded in the phase, amplitude, polarization, or topological properties of the electromagnetic field, and a functional nanoscale anchoring element provides anchor-based stored state.

[0019] Alternatively, the superstructure is integrated into a photonic memory device and a photonic logic device, wherein the anchored state corresponds to a stable photonic phase state, and the logic operation is achieved through controlled liquid crystal redirection and metasurface phase modulation;

[0020] Alternatively, the superstructure is integrated into a quantum state control platform, the superstructure being used to modulate quantum optical states, the quantum optical states being encoded in a topological anchoring configuration.

[0021] Preferably, the superstructure is integrated into an adaptive metasurface, which is anchored to the distribution and evolves in response to the environment or operational feedback. The adaptive nature is achieved through electrical control, optical control, thermal control, or algorithmic control.

[0022] Alternatively, the superstructure is integrated into a photonic artificial intelligence system, where the spatial anchoring pattern represents the computational weights in the neural network, and learning is achieved by dynamically changing the orientation and anchoring state of the liquid crystal.

[0023] Alternatively, the superstructure may be configured to operate under conditions of radiation, vacuum, high temperature, high pressure, or mechanical shock.

[0024] Alternatively, the superstructure may be integrated into satellite, aerospace, defense, or deep space systems.

[0025] Preferably, the superstructure is integrated into a programmable photonic platform, comprising a nanoscale anchoring layer, a reconfigurable anisotropic medium, and a metasurface, wherein the electromagnetic response is determined by the coupling dynamics of the anchoring layer and the metasurface; the superstructure performs simulation calculations through spatial modulation of an effective refractive index distribution; the anchored state represents computational parameters or synaptic weights; the system is configured for optical neural networks or neuromorphic processing; the anchoring distribution is dynamically updated in response to environmental feedback; the superstructure exhibits an adaptive or self-optimizing electromagnetic response; the topological anchored state encodes discrete photonic phase states; the superstructure supports topology-protected photonic modes; the superstructure is configured for spaceborne, airborne, or defense-related photonic systems; the superstructure can operate under extreme environmental conditions, including radiation, vacuum, or high acceleration; control mechanisms include electrical stimulation, optical stimulation, thermal stimulation, mechanical stimulation, acoustic stimulation, or magnetic stimulation.

[0026] To achieve the above objectives, in a second aspect, the present invention proposes a hierarchical photonic material comprising a functional nanoscale anchoring element, an anchoring layer, a liquid crystal layer, and a metasurface layer, wherein the metasurface layer is arranged to generate a programmable electromagnetic response; the liquid crystal layer is coupled to the functional nanoscale anchoring element, and the liquid crystal layer and the functional nanoscale anchoring element together form the anchoring layer; the metasurface layer contains a subwavelength metaatomic array for modulating electromagnetic waves.

[0027] To achieve the above objectives, in a third aspect, the present invention proposes a method for controlling an electromagnetic wavefront, comprising: growing a functional nanoscale anchoring element on a substrate; introducing a liquid crystal medium in contact with the functional nanoscale anchoring element; forming a metasurface structure for imparting a spatially varying electromagnetic response; and applying an external stimulus to reorient the liquid crystal medium, thereby dynamically modulating the effective optical or electromagnetic response of the metasurface; wherein the functional nanoscale anchoring element is grown using a solution method, a vapor phase method, or a hybrid growth technique; the metasurface is manufactured using a photolithography method, a self-assembly method, a nanoimprinting method, or an additive manufacturing technique; and the liquid crystal medium is introduced via a capillary filling method, a spin coating method, or a polymer stabilization method.

[0028] To achieve the above objectives, in a fourth aspect, the present invention proposes to apply the reconfigurable photonic metastructure of the first aspect to aerospace optical systems, telecommunications systems, quantum photonic circuits, wavefront computing systems, photonic storage devices, photonic logic devices, quantum state control platforms, adaptive metasurfaces, photonic artificial intelligence systems, and programmable photonic platforms.

[0029] Compared with existing technologies, the beneficial effects of the reconfigurable photonic superstructure and its applications provided by this invention are as follows:

[0030] 1. Based on a coupled multiphysics framework, functional nanoscale anchoring elements serve as nanoscale anchoring and field enhancement elements, altering the elastic, electrostatic, and optical free energy patterns of liquid crystal (LC) media.

[0031] 2. This invention can also form topologically anchored states, in which the liquid crystal pointing vector field exhibits a spatially quantized winding number determined by the nanorod distribution and metasurface geometry. These states provide robust photonic phase states suitable for information encoding and quantum photonics applications.

[0032] The features and advantages of the present invention will be described in detail through embodiments and in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a liquid crystal integrated functional nanoscale anchoring element superstructure.

[0034] Figure 2 shows a top view of the arrangement of functional nanoscale anchoring elements and metasurface metaatoms.

[0035] Figure 3 shows the alignment of liquid crystal anchors caused by functional nanoscale anchoring elements.

[0036] Figure 4 illustrates the electrically controlled reorientation of the liquid crystal medium.

[0037] Figure 5 shows the wavefront modulation of the metasurface under different liquid crystal states.

[0038] Figure 6 illustrates the integrated device architecture of the adaptive communication system.

[0039] Figure 7 illustrates an aerospace optical system employing the disclosed superstructure.

[0040] Figure 8 shows a quantum photonic circuit containing the disclosed architecture.

[0041] Figure 9 illustrates the layered ADMP framework, in which the coupling between functional nanoscale anchoring elements, liquid crystals, and metasurfaces is performed.

[0042] Figure 10 illustrates the nanoscale anchoring topology caused by vertically arranged functional nanoscale anchoring elements and the resulting liquid crystal pointing vector field.

[0043] Figure 11 shows the phase stability and perturbation of the metasurface under an external electric field and nanorod distribution.

[0044] Figure 12 illustrates wavefront-based computation achieved through spatially programmable anchor states.

[0045] Figure 13 illustrates system-level implementations in aerospace, telecommunications, and quantum photonics architectures.

[0046] Figure 14 It is a phase modulation curve.

[0047] Figure 15 Beam deflection angle - voltage relationship diagram.

[0048] Figure 16 Characterizes resonant tuning in the communication band and liquid crystal birefringence modulation.

[0049] Figure 17 The electric field distribution diagram can reflect the local field enhancement and metasurface coupling effect near the nanorods.

[0050] Figure 18 Phase distribution maps can demonstrate spatial phase gradients, programmable wavefront generation, and manipulation.

[0051] Figure 19 The performance of zinc oxide-liquid crystal superstructure compared with existing conventional liquid crystals, microelectromechanical system metasurfaces, and phase change materials.

[0052] Figure 20 Adaptive beamforming system for satellite communications.

[0053] Figure 21 A schematic diagram of the photonic structure, fabrication, and packaging. Detailed Implementation

[0054] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. However, it should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known structures and technologies are omitted in the following description to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the concept of the invention.

[0055] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another element, it can be directly on or indirectly on the other element. When an element is referred to as being "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to or indirectly connected to the other element.

[0056] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship commonly used when the product of this invention is in use. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc., are used only to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified. "Several" means one or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0057] In the description of this invention, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "set," "install," "connect," and "link" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0058] This invention provides a reconfigurable photonic superstructure, comprising:

[0059] 1. Substrate;

[0060] 2. Vertically arranged functional nanoscale anchoring elements, configured to induce controllable liquid crystal anchoring and anisotropic ordering; preferably nanorods, to suppress defect nucleation and reduce rotational viscosity.

[0061] 3. Liquid crystal media interacting with functional nanoscale anchoring elements;

[0062] 4. A metasurface layer comprising a subwavelength metaatomic array configured to impart spatially varying electromagnetic phase and amplitude responses; and

[0063] 5. Dynamic modulation control mechanism for liquid crystal alignment and metasurface layer response.

[0064] In one embodiment, a functional nanoscale anchoring element (preferably zinc oxide) serves as both a nanoscale anchoring and local field modulation element to stabilize and accelerate the reorientation of the liquid crystal under external stimuli. In another embodiment, a metasurface layer provides deterministic wavefront shaping, while the LC-ZnO hybrid medium enables real-time reconfigurability.

[0065] Wavefront shaping involves modulation efficiency and phase modulation depth. The expected performance (liquid crystal + zinc oxide nanorod anchored metasurface) is as follows: phase range 0-2π radians, linear range 0-6 volts, saturation range ~8-10 volts, and stability drift <0.03π / h. The underlying mechanisms (consistent with ADMP theory) include: the anchored refractive index tensor, metasurface resonant amplification effect, and enhanced birefringence of the liquid crystal.

[0066] The insertion loss is 0.6–1.2 dB in the communication band (1550 nm), 1.5–3 dB in the terahertz band (THz), and 1–2 dB in the visible light band. The main influencing factors are zinc oxide scattering loss, liquid crystal absorption loss, and electrode transmittance.

[0067] The polarization conversion efficiency is 80-92% for linear polarization to orthogonal linear polarization, 70-85% for linear polarization to circular polarization, and >60% adjustable for dynamic control range.

[0068] Response time (liquid crystal switching speed under nanorod anchoring): Zinc oxide nanorod anchoring can reduce rotational viscosity and suppress defect nucleation. The conversion process includes rise time, relaxation time, and fast ferroelectric liquid crystal, where the rise time is 80–250 microseconds, the relaxation time is 150–400 microseconds, and the fast ferroelectric liquid crystal is 5–50 microseconds.

[0069] Based on ADMP theory / scaling relationship of anchoring reinforcement torque: The role of zinc oxide nanorods is to inhibit defect nucleation and reduce rotational viscosity.

[0070] Zinc oxide exhibits stability. Operating temperature range: 20–60℃; phase drift: < 0.05π within ±10℃; orientation memory: 98%. Zinc oxide also demonstrates reliability over long-term operation, with a phase retention rate >95% after more than 10 switching cycles and 1000 hours. Zinc oxide exhibits high radiation resistance and minimal drift due to mechanical vibration. Zinc oxide nanorods possess excellent mechanical stability, and topological anchoring reduces defect mobility.

[0071] The disclosed system can achieve functions including but not limited to beam control, tunable focusing, adaptive polarization control, spectral filtering, holographic projection, and photonic logic operations.

[0072] Experimental observational evidence for topologically anchored states. Required observations include: observing winding defects, director vortex stability (using polarimetric microscopy), spatial phase delay imaging, spatial anchoring gradients (using a liquid crystal polarimetric photoelastic instrument), long-range director order, orientational order evolution (grazing-incidence wide-angle X-ray scattering / grazing-incidence small-angle X-ray scattering), zinc surface bonding evolution, zinc-liquid crystal interface electronic changes (time-resolved X-ray absorption fine structure), and anisotropic topological characteristics (Muller matrix polarization measurements).

[0073] For detailed experimental data charts, please refer to Figure 14 The phase modulation curve illustrates the nonlinear rotation of the liquid crystal and the metasurface phase amplification effect. (See also...) Figure 15 Beam deflection angle-voltage relationship diagram, tunable wavefront control, and anchored stable drive characteristics. See also... Figure 16 Characterizing resonant tuning in the communication band and liquid crystal birefringence modulation. The above charts all reflect the characteristics of metasurface resonant tuning, liquid crystal birefringence modulation, and anchored coded phase mapping.

[0074] Simulation results (FDTD type), see [link / reference] Figure 17 The electric field distribution diagram can demonstrate the localized field enhancement and metasurface coupling effect near the nanorods, reflecting the field localization and metasurface-liquid crystal coupling enhancement characteristics near the zinc oxide anchoring unit. (See also...) Figure 18 Phase distribution diagrams can reflect spatial phase gradients, programmable wavefront generation, and control.

[0075] Theoretical Framework: Nano-anchored-metasurface coupled photonics

[0076] 1. Physical model of ZnO nanorod-liquid crystal coupling

[0077] This invention is based on a coupled multiphysics framework, in which a functional nanoscale anchoring element serves as a nanoscale anchoring and field enhancement element, thereby altering the elastic, electrostatic, and optical free energy patterns of the liquid crystal (LC) medium.

[0078] The effective free energy density F_eff of the liquid crystal zinc oxide system can be expressed as: F_eff = F_elastic + F_anchoring + F_electrostatic + F_optical + F_metasurface, where F_elastic represents the Frank-Oseen elastic free energy of the liquid crystal; F_anchoring represents the anchoring free energy induced by functional nanoscale anchoring elements; F_electrostatic represents the electric field coupling free energy; F_optical represents the free energy of light-matter interaction; and F_metasurface represents the spatially varied phase modulation free energy induced by elementary atoms.

[0079] Functional nanoscale anchoring elements introduce spatially non-uniform anchoring potentials and local electric field enhancements, thereby forming a programmable anisotropic energy landscape that controls the orientation of the liquid crystal director.

[0080] 2. Anchored Coding Metasurface Concept

[0081] Unlike traditional metasurfaces where phase modulation is determined solely by geometric superatomic parameters, this invention introduces the concept of anchored coded metasurfaces. In this paradigm, an array of functional nanoscale anchoring elements encodes spatial information into the anchoring boundary conditions of the liquid crystal medium, thereby dynamically reconstructing the metasurface phase distribution by controlling the reorientation of the liquid crystal. Consequently, the effective refractive index distribution neff(x, y, z, t) of the hybrid system varies with time and is externally addressable, enabling real-time programmable wavefront computation.

[0082] 3. Metasurface phase stability and topologically anchored states

[0083] Functional nanoanchoring elements stabilize liquid crystal alignment by suppressing defect nucleation and pinning topological dislocation lines. This enhances the phase stability of the metasurface response under external perturbations, including temperature fluctuations, mechanical vibrations, and electromagnetic interference.

[0084] This invention can also form topologically anchored states, in which the liquid crystal pointing vector field exhibits a spatially quantized winding number determined by the nanorod distribution and metasurface geometry. These states provide robust photonic phase states suitable for information encoding and quantum photonics applications.

[0085] 4. Electromagnetic-elastic coupling dynamics

[0086] The dynamic response of the system is controlled by coupled Maxwell's equations and Erikson-Leslie's equations. Functional nanoscale anchoring elements shorten the liquid crystal switching time by altering the effective viscosity and anchoring energy, while metasurface resonance enhances the sensitivity to minute refractive index changes.

[0087] The resulting system features ultra-low power consumption, high speed, and spatial multiplexing photonic modulation characteristics.

[0088] Structural Building

[0089] The disclosed superstructure includes a multilayer structure, comprising a substrate, an array of functional nanoscale anchoring elements, a liquid crystal layer, a metasurface layer, and an electrode / control layer.

[0090] a. matrix

[0091] The substrate may include glass, silicon, sapphire, polymer or other dielectric or semiconductor materials.

[0092] b. ZnO nanorod anchoring layer

[0093] Functional nano-anchoring elements are vertically aligned and distributed with controllable density, aspect ratio, and spatial arrangement. Nanorods, acting as nano-anchoring elements, can modulate surface energy and induce anisotropic alignment of liquid crystal molecules.

[0094] Preparation method of zinc oxide

[0095] c. Liquid crystal layer

[0096] Liquid crystal media can include nematic, smectic, cholesteric, blue, polymer-stabilized, or ferroelectric liquid crystals. Liquid crystal orientation is influenced by functional nanoscale anchoring elements and external stimuli (including electric fields, light fields, temperature gradients, and mechanical stress).

[0097] d. Metasurface layer

[0098] This metasurface layer is composed of dielectric, plasma, or hybrid superatoms arranged in a spatially encoded manner. Each superatom is designed to impart a predetermined phase and amplitude response to incident electromagnetic waves.

[0099] e. Control and addressing mechanisms

[0100] The control mechanisms include transparent electrodes, microelectrode arrays, optical pumping, thermal control, and mechanical actuation.

[0101] 5. Operating Principles

[0102] The operating principle of this invention is based on the coupling between liquid crystal orientation, the anchoring effect of functional nanoscale anchoring elements, and the electromagnetic response of metasurface.

[0103] Functional nanoscale anchoring elements can enhance anchoring energy, reduce defect formation, and accelerate the switching dynamics of liquid crystals. This metasurface can convert local variations in the effective refractive index of the liquid crystal medium into spatially varying phase modulation, thereby achieving dynamic wavefront control.

[0104] See Figure 19The core driving factors behind the performance advantages of zinc oxide-liquid crystal superstructures over existing traditional liquid crystals, microelectromechanical system (MEMS) metasurfaces, and phase change materials are the energy potential field anchored by nanorods, the ADMP coupling physical mechanism, metasurface resonant amplification, anchored topological control, and elastic energy potential field stabilization. Traditional liquid crystals have a response time of 5-20 milliseconds, a phase modulation range of 1-1.5π, moderate stability, and moderate power consumption. MEMS metasurfaces have a response time in the microsecond range, a phase modulation range of 2π, suffer from mechanical fatigue, and have high power consumption. Phase change materials have a response time in the nanosecond range, a phase modulation range of π, a limited number of cycles, and high power consumption. In contrast, zinc oxide-liquid crystal superstructures have a response time of 80-250 microseconds, a phase modulation range of 2π, topological stability, and low power consumption.

[0105] 6. Manufacturing method

[0106] A typical manufacturing method includes:

[0107] i. Deposit a seed layer on the substrate;

[0108] ii. Growing vertically aligned functional nanoscale anchoring elements using solution methods, vapor phase methods, or hybrid methods;

[0109] iii. Fabricate metasurface structure patterns using photolithography or self-assembly methods;

[0110] iv. Deposit electrode layer;

[0111] v. Introducing a liquid crystal medium; and

[0112] vi. To package devices.

[0113] Among them, the growth methods of zinc oxide nanorods include low-temperature hydrothermal solution method and chemical vapor deposition (CVD).

[0114] The advantages of the low-temperature hydrothermal solution method lie in its compatibility with liquid crystal substrates, wafer-level scalability, and high precision in the vertical alignment of nanorods. The process flow is as follows: first, substrate cleaning is performed, including ultrasonic cleaning and plasma treatment of ITO / quartz / sapphire substrates; then, a zinc oxide seed layer is deposited, prepared as a 20–50 nm seed layer by magnetron sputtering or sol-gel spin coating; finally, hydrothermal growth is performed, with the substrate placed in a precursor solution for isothermal growth. The reaction equation is as follows: .

[0115] The experimental reaction conditions were as follows: growth temperature 80-95℃, growth time 2-6 hours, zinc precursor zinc nitrate hexahydrate with a concentration of 25-75 mmol, hexamethylenetetramine concentration of 25-75 mmol, solution pH 6-7, and stirring method of gentle stirring / static.

[0116] Chemical vapor deposition (CVD) is used for the fabrication of ultra-uniform, supersurface integrated zinc oxide nanorods requiring high crystallinity. The process parameters are: furnace temperature 450–600℃, carrier gas argon / oxygen, growth pressure 10–100 Torr, growth time 30–90 minutes, and precursor zinc powder / diethylzinc.

[0117] The aspect ratio is adjusted using different control parameters. Hexamethylenetetramine concentration is used to control the nanorod diameter, growth time to control the nanorod length, seed density to control the nanorod spacing, growth temperature to control the growth rate, and additives (polyethyleneimine) to suppress lateral growth. Typical structural results: diameter 20–80 nm, length 300 nm–3 μm, aspect ratio 10–50.

[0118] The method for achieving vertical alignment involves first preparing a seed layer oriented along the c-axis; then selecting a lattice-matched substrate such as sapphire; next, selectively using an electric field for assisted growth; and finally, nanoimprinting patterning of the seed layer. The resulting effect is vertically aligned nanorods with a tilt angle ≤ ±5°.

[0119] Superatoms can be constructed using rectangular nanorods, elliptical cylinders, H-type resonators, open-loop resonators, or dielectric nanorods. Typical parameters for communication bands are width 100–300 nm, length 200–600 nm, height 200–800 nm, and period 400–900 nm. Terahertz band period: 20–100 μm. Materials include dielectric superatoms (titanium dioxide, silicon nitride, amorphous silicon, gallium nitride), plasmonic superatoms (gold, silver, aluminum), and hybrid structures (titanium dioxide + gold cap layer, silicon + graphene layer).

[0120] It can be achieved through different arrangement methods. Periodic arrangement achieves beam deflection, quasi-periodic arrangement achieves broadband control, gradient metasurface arrangement achieves wavefront shaping, and non-periodic arrangement achieves holographic imaging / artificial intelligence photonics.

[0121] In liquid crystal materials and interface engineering, nematic liquid crystals (E7 (Merck), MLC-2037, BL006, and custom communication band liquid crystal mixtures) are preferred. The dominant phase is the nematic phase.

[0122] The fast switching can be achieved using the ferroelectric phase; the ultrafast implementation uses the blue phase. Optical properties include birefringence Δn, dielectric anisotropy, viscosity γ, and clearing point temperature of 0.18–0.28, +10 to +15, 0.08–0.12 Pa·s, and 60–80 °C, respectively. The response times for the nematic, ferroelectric, and blue phases are 80–250 μs, 5–50 μs, and <100 μs, respectively.

[0123] The zinc oxide-liquid crystal interface treatment methods include silane coupling agent modification, polymer alignment film coating, and surface chemical engineering. Commonly used silane coupling agents for modification are APTES, OTS, and DMOAP; the process flow is: zinc oxide surface oxygen plasma treatment → 1–2% coupling agent solution silanization → 100℃ curing. This allows for tunable anchoring energy and control of hydrophobic / hydrophilic properties. Polymer alignment film coating commonly uses polyimide (PI-2555), and vertically oriented polyimide can enhance liquid crystal alignment stability. Surface chemical engineering techniques include ultraviolet ozone treatment, self-assembled monolayer modification, and zinc oxide surface hydroxyl group modulation, which can optimize interface anchoring properties and suppress defect nucleation.

[0124] The achieved anchoring modes include strong vertical anchoring, hybrid flat-vertical anchoring, and topological anchoring field formation. Zinc oxide nanorods are vertically grown via hydrothermal or vapor-phase methods, with aspect ratio controlled by precursor concentration and growth time. Dielectric / plasmomeric superatoms are periodically fabricated above / below the nanorod layers at subwavelength intervals. Nematic liquid crystals (birefringence ≈ 0.2) achieve interfacial bonding through silane-functionalized zinc oxide surfaces, forming a stable topological anchoring structure and enabling programmable photonic modulation.

[0125] See Figure 21 A schematic diagram of the photonic structure, fabrication, and packaging. The vertical structure of the photonic architecture, from top to bottom, consists of a substrate, a lower electrode, a metasurface layer, a zinc oxide nanorod anchoring layer, a liquid crystal layer, an upper transparent electrode, and encapsulation glass. The substrate is made of quartz / glass / sapphire, with a thickness of 0.5–1 mm, providing mechanical support and optical transparency. The lower electrode is made of ITO / gold mesh, with a thickness of 20–80 nm, for electric field injection. The metasurface layer is made of titanium dioxide / silicon / gold nanoresonators, with a thickness of 200–800 nm, for phase modulation. The zinc oxide nanorod anchoring layer is made of vertically oriented zinc oxide, with a thickness of 300 nm–3 μm, to form a topological anchoring field. The liquid crystal layer is made of nematic liquid crystal, with a thickness of 3–10 μm, serving as a dynamic refractive index medium. The upper transparent electrode is made of ITO, with a thickness of 20–50 nm, for voltage regulation. The encapsulating glass material is borosilicate glass with a thickness of 0.1–0.2 mm for sealing.

[0126] The fabrication process is as follows: Seed layer deposition: zinc oxide seed layer with a thickness of 20–50 nm is prepared by magnetron sputtering; Nanorod growth: vertically oriented zinc oxide nanorods are grown by hydrothermal / vapor phase method; Metasurface patterning: superatomic structure is prepared by electron beam lithography / deep ultraviolet lithography, followed by deposition of dielectric / plasma materials and subsequent lift-off; Electrode fabrication: ITO electrodes are deposited by magnetron sputtering and patterned to form a pixel array; Liquid crystal cell assembly: spacer beads are placed and bonded to the upper and lower substrates to form a liquid crystal cavity; Liquid crystal injection: liquid crystal is injected using capillary filling method; Encapsulation: ultraviolet epoxy resin edge sealing, vacuum encapsulation + nitrogen backfilling.

[0127] The device packaging structure is a double-layer glass sealing structure, consisting of, from the outside to the inside, a protective glass, an ultraviolet epoxy resin sealing layer (20–40 micrometers), spacer beads (3–10 micrometers), a liquid crystal cavity, a functional layer, and a substrate; reserved electrode pins serve as voltage control interfaces, and the packaging edges are treated with waterproofing and anti-oxidation to ensure the long-term operational stability of the device.

[0128] Specific applications

[0129] i. Aerospace systems

[0130] Adaptive optics elements, beam control modules, tunable filters, and radiation-resistant photonic systems.

[0131] ii. Telecommunications systems

[0132] Reconfigurable smart surfaces, tunable antennas, optical switches, modulators, and beamforming devices.

[0133] iii. Quantum computing and photonics

[0134] Tunable quantum emitters, programmable photonic circuits, and adaptive quantum optics interfaces.

[0135] 1. Aerospace Adaptive Metasurface Optics

[0136] In one embodiment, the metastructure is configured as an adaptive optics element for aerospace systems. The coupling of functional nanoscale anchoring elements with the liquid crystal provides enhanced phase stability under vibration, temperature variations, and radiation exposure. This metasurface layer enables real-time beam shaping and aberration correction for satellite imaging and free-space optical communications.

[0137] See Figure 20The adaptive beamforming system for satellite communication comprises the following core modules: a zinc oxide nanorod anchoring layer (600 nm), a titanium dioxide dielectric metasurface (300 nm), a nematic liquid crystal (E7, 5 μm thick), an ITO pixel electrode array (50 μm pixel pitch), an FPGA control and drive module, a photodiode array wavefront detection module, and a packaging and protection module. Auxiliary modules include a temperature control unit, a power management unit, and a signal processing unit.

[0138] Workflow

[0139] 1) Incident signal: A 1550 nm communication band beam is incident on the zinc oxide-liquid crystal superstructure device;

[0140] 2) Wavefront detection: The photodiode array collects the wavefront information of the light beam and transmits it to the signal processing unit;

[0141] 3) Control Calculation: The FPGA calculates the required phase distribution based on the wavefront information and generates electrode drive signals;

[0142] 4) Pointer reconstruction: Apply a driving voltage of 0–6 volts and 1 kHz to the pixel electrode to regulate the orientation of liquid crystal molecules;

[0143] 5) Beam control: The orientation of the liquid crystal changes the effective refractive index of the metasurface, thereby achieving directional deflection and shaping of the beam;

[0144] 6) Feedback calibration: Real-time detection of the emitted beam and fine-tuning of the electrode voltage through a PID algorithm to ensure beam accuracy.

[0145] The beam deflection range is ±35°, the phase modulation range is 0–2π, the response time is 120 microseconds, the insertion loss is 1.1 dB, the polarization conversion efficiency is 88%, the stable switching cycle count is >10 times, the operating temperature range is 20–60℃, and the threshold voltage is 1.1 V.

[0146] The overall architecture is divided into a signal input layer, a detection layer, a control layer, an execution layer, and a signal output layer. Each layer works together through hardware interfaces and software protocols to achieve adaptive beam control. The device layer is a vertically stacked structure, consisting of a substrate, a lower electrode, a zinc oxide nanorod layer, a metasurface layer, a liquid crystal layer, a upper electrode, and a packaging layer from bottom to top.

[0147] 2. Reconfigurable Telecom Metasurface

[0148] In another embodiment, the metastructure is configured as a reconfigurable smart surface for wireless communication. LC reorientation alters the effective impedance and phase response of the metasurface, thereby enabling dynamic beamforming, spatial multiplexing, and adaptive channel optimization in 5G / 6G systems.

[0149] 3. Photonic computing and neuromorphic architecture

[0150] In another embodiment, the superstructure serves as a simulated photonic computing platform. Spatially programmable anchored states encode computational weights, while liquid crystal dynamics provide nonlinearity and memory effects similar to synaptic plasticity.

[0151] 4. Quantum photonic superstructures

[0152] In another embodiment, the metastructure is integrated with a quantum emitter or a nonlinear optical material. Functional nanoscale anchoring elements stabilize the liquid crystal-mediated photonic states, thereby enabling tunable coupling between the quantum emitter and the metasurface resonance.

[0153] 5. Multi-scale superstructure architecture

[0154] In another embodiment, the superstructure incorporates multi-scale features, including nanorods, superatoms, and microelectrode arrays, enabling hierarchical control of electromagnetic waves across multiple spatial and temporal scales.

[0155] Liquid crystal-zinc oxide-metasurface photonics theory

[0156] 1. Multi-scale coupled physical model

[0157] The invention disclosed in this invention is governed by multiscale coupling between nanoscale anchoring physics, mesoscopic liquid crystal elasticity, and subwavelength metasurface electrodynamics.

[0158] At the nanoscale, functional nanoanchoring elements generate spatially heterogeneous anchoring fields and localized electromagnetic enhancements. At the mesoscale, liquid crystal pointing vectors respond to elastic, electrostatic, and optical forces. At the photonic scale, metasurface resonances transform local refractive index perturbations into deterministic wavefront modulation.

[0159] The total free energy functional of this system can be expressed as:

[0160] F_total = F_LC + F_ZnO + F_EM + F_coupling

[0161] Where F_LC represents the elastic and dielectric energy of the liquid crystal, F_ZnO represents the anchoring and surface energy caused by the nanorods, F_EM represents the metasurface electromagnetic energy, and F_coupling represents the nonlinear interaction term between these components.

[0162] 2. Anchor-driven phase modulation mechanism

[0163] Unlike traditional tunable metasurfaces that achieve phase modulation solely through changes in bulk refractive index, this invention introduces anchor-driven phase modulation, where the nanoscale anchoring potential applied by functional nanoscale anchoring elements determines the spatial evolution of the liquid crystal pointing vector field.

[0164] Therefore, the effective refractive index neff (x, y, z, t) is jointly determined by the liquid crystal orientation and the boundary conditions induced by the nanorods. The metasurface phase modulation is the result of the combined effects of the anchored topology and electromagnetic resonance.

[0165] 3. Resonance Perturbation Theory of Liquid Crystal Integrated Metasurfaces

[0166] In one embodiment, LC-ZnO coupling perturbs the metasurface resonance, as follows:

[0167] , where w_0 is the undisturbed resonant frequency, Δe represents the change in effective dielectric constant caused by liquid crystal reorientation and ZnO anchoring, and E represents the local electromagnetic field.

[0168] This perturbation framework explains the enhanced phase sensitivity, reduced switching energy, and improved superstructure stability.

[0169] 4. Scaling Laws and Performance Limits

[0170] This invention features a scaling characteristic:

[0171] (a) Switching time τ is inversely proportional to effective anchoring energy and nanorod density; (b) Phase modulation depth is proportional to metasurface resonance quality factor and liquid crystal birefringence; (c) Energy consumption is proportional to electrode geometry and liquid crystal-zinc oxide coupling strength; (d) Disturbance robustness is proportional to topological anchoring order.

[0172] These scaling relationships enable deterministic engineering of device performance across the optical, infrared, terahertz, and microwave ranges.

[0173] 5. Topological photonic states and information encoding

[0174] Functional nanoscale anchoring elements apply boundary conditions, thereby generating topologically nontrivial liquid crystal pointing vector fields. These pointing vector fields correspond to discrete photonic phase states and can be used for information encoding, storage, and logical operations.

[0175] In one embodiment, the metasurface phase states correspond to quantized topological invariants, thereby enabling robust photonic information processing suitable for quantum and aerospace applications.

[0176] The disclosed metastructure enables wavefront-based computation, where information is encoded in the spatial phase, amplitude, polarization, and topology of the electromagnetic field. Functional nanoscale anchoring elements provide anchor-based storage, liquid crystals provide reconfigurability, and metasurfaces provide deterministic wavefront transformations.

[0177] This paradigm enables the simulation of photonic computing, neuromorphic processing, and quantum state manipulation on a single physical platform.

[0178] Anchor-Driven Superstructure Photonics (ADMP)

[0179] This invention establishes a unified theoretical framework called Anchor-Driven Superstructure Photonics (ADMP), in which nanoscale anchored topologies control mesoscale liquid crystal ordering and macroscale electromagnetic wavefront computation.

[0180] The ADMP framework is defined by hierarchical mapping:

[0181] Nanostructures (functional nanoscale anchoring elements) → Anchoring topology → Liquid crystal pointing vector field → Effective refractive index tensor → Metasurface resonance modulation → Wavefront calculation.

[0182] Within this framework, functional nanoscale anchoring elements serve as physical boundary condition encoders, liquid crystals as reconfigurable anisotropic media, and metasurfaces as deterministic wavefront processors. This coupled system constitutes a programmable photonic superstructure capable of sensing, computing, and adapting to external stimuli.

[0183] Basic postulate:

[0184] 1. The anchoring topology determines the permissible configuration space of the liquid crystal pointing vector field.

[0185] 2. The pointing vector field of the liquid crystal determines the spatial distribution of the effective optical parameters.

[0186] 3. Metasurface resonance transforms local optical parameter variations into global wavefront transformations.

[0187] 4. External stimuli dynamically reconfigure the anchoring topology and liquid crystal orientation, thereby enabling programmable photonic functionality.

[0188] See Figures 9 through 13 for the illustrated logic and examples.

[0189] 1. Effective Medium and Tensor Formalism

[0190] In one embodiment, the hybrid functional nanoscale anchoring element-liquid crystal-metasurface system is described by an effective anisotropic dielectric constant tensor ε_eff (x, y, z, t).

[0191] The effective dielectric constant is determined by the contributions of the metasurface, liquid crystal orientation, distribution of functional nanoscale anchoring elements, and the nonlinear coupling between them.

[0192] 2. Anchoring potential function

[0193] The anchoring energy density caused by functional nanoscale anchoring elements depends on the orientation of the liquid crystal director relative to the nanorod orientation. Spatial modulation of the anchoring energy enables nanoscale phase information encoding.

[0194] 3. Metasurface phase mapping

[0195] The local phase shift imparted by the superstructure is determined by the effective refractive index distribution of the LC-ZnO hybrid medium integrated with the metasurface.

[0196] 4. Stability and Topology Criteria

[0197] The phase stability of metasurfaces depends on minimizing the total free energy of the liquid crystal-zinc oxide-metasurface system. When a distribution of functional nanoscale anchoring elements applies quantized boundary conditions to the liquid crystal pointing vector field, topological anchoring states emerge, thus providing stable photonic phase states.

[0198] 5. Programmable photonic intelligence

[0199] In one embodiment, the metastructure operates as a programmable photonic system, where the spatially anchored distribution and metasurface geometry represent computational parameters. External stimuli dynamically alter these parameters, thereby enabling simulated photonic computation and neuromorphic processing.

[0200] The technology disclosed in this invention is applicable to aerospace systems, telecommunications infrastructure, optical computing hardware, quantum information processing, sensing platforms, imaging systems, and adaptive photonic devices.

[0201] In this context, "anchoring element" refers to any nanoscale or microscale structure capable of inducing, modulating, or stabilizing the orientation, order, phase, or topological structure of anisotropic media. "Functional nanoscale anchoring elements" include, but are not limited to, semiconductor nanostructures, dielectric nanostructures, plasmonic nanostructures, polymer nanostructures, two-dimensional materials, hybrid nanostructures, and combinations thereof. "Anisotropic media" include liquid crystals, liquid crystal composites, soft matter, photonic fluids, quantum fluids, and other oriented or tunable optical media. "Superstructure" refers to an artificial structure containing subwavelength characteristics for controlling electromagnetic wavefronts. "Wavefront" includes the phase, amplitude, polarization, frequency, temporal, and spatial characteristics of electromagnetic radiation. "Reconfigurable" includes modulation driven by electrical, optical, thermal, mechanical, chemical, magnetic, or quantum states.

[0202] The scope of this invention should not be limited to the specific embodiments described herein, but should include all variations falling within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

[0203] Fundamental photonic laws layer (anchored-driven superstructure photonics)

[0204] I. Basic Postulates

[0205] Hypothesis 1 (Anchoring Field Coupling): The optical response of an anisotropic medium integrated with a functional nanoscale anchoring element is controlled by a coupled anchoring-elastic-electromagnetic field system.

[0206] Assumption 2 (Anchoring Topology): The spatial distribution of the anchoring state constitutes a topological field, which is deterministically mapped to the electromagnetic wavefront transform.

[0207] Hypothesis 3 (metasurface-medium hybrid): The superstructure interacting with the anchored modulated anisotropic medium forms a hybrid photonic system whose effective optical properties exceed those of any single subsystem.

[0208] Hypothesis 4 (Information Encoding): Anchored states are the physical carriers of information and can represent memory, logic, and computational states in a photonic system.

[0209] II. General Energy Framework

[0210] The total free energy F of the anchored-driven superstructure system can be expressed as:

[0211] F = F_elastic + F_anchor + F_metasurface + F_field + F_information

[0212] F_elastic represents the elastic potential energy of an anisotropic medium;

[0213] F_anchor represents the anchoring energy caused by the functional nanoscale anchoring element;

[0214] F_metasurface represents the electromagnetic boundary condition applied to the superstructure;

[0215] F_field represents the interaction of external fields;

[0216] F_information represents the information-theoretic contribution associated with the anchored state distribution.

[0217] III. Anchored-Wavefront Mapping Law

[0218] The local phase modulation Φ(r,t) of the electromagnetic wavefront is determined by the anchoring topology A(r,t):

[0219] Φ(r,t) = G[A(r,t), ε(r,t), μ(r,t)]

[0220] in:

[0221] r represents spatial coordinates;

[0222] t represents time;

[0223] ε and μ represent the effective permittivity tensor and permeability tensor, respectively;

[0224] G represents a generalized functional mapping.

[0225] This relationship defines a general rule that links anchored topology with wavefront control.

[0226] IV. Scaling Law of Anchored Driven Photonics

[0227] The information capacity C of an anchor-driven metastructure is proportional to the following relationship:

[0228] C ∝ N_anchor × S_topology × ΔΦ

[0229] in:

[0230] N_anchor is the density of the functional nano-anchoring element;

[0231] S_topology is the configuration entropy of the anchored state;

[0232] ΔΦ represents the achievable phase modulation range.

[0233] V. Photonic Computation Model

[0234] The anchored states {A_i} constitute a state space similar to neural or quantum states. Transitions between anchored states correspond to computational operations. This superstructure acts as a physical processor, converting input optical signals into output wavefronts.

[0235] VI. Generalization across physical domains

[0236] Anchored-driven superstructure frames are suitable for:

[0237] Classical electromagnetic waves;

[0238] Terahertz and microwave radiation;

[0239] Quantum light field;

[0240] Hybrid photon-plasma systems;

[0241] Optomechanical and quantum matter systems.

[0242] VII. Future-oriented dominant implementation

[0243] Non-limiting embodiments include:

[0244] Anchor-driven photonic neural network.

[0245] Reconfigurable quantum metasurface.

[0246] Adaptive aerospace optical systems.

[0247] Intelligent electromagnetic skin for communication platforms.

[0248] A self-learning superstructure optimized by artificial intelligence.

[0249] Anchored driving photonics unified framework

[0250] I. Conceptual Unified Architecture

[0251] This invention is positioned as a unified photonic architecture that connects nanoscale matter, mesoscale soft matter, superstructures, electromagnetic wavefronts, and information processing. Its hierarchical mapping relationship is as follows:

[0252] Nanoscale anchoring elements → Anchoring topological fields → Liquid crystal order parameters → Metasurface mixing → Wavefront transformation → Photonic information processing

[0253] This architecture defines a new class of photonic systems in which the anchored topology serves as a universal control variable.

[0254] II. Canonical Equations

[0255] 1. Anchored Topological Field (ATF)

[0256] Let A(r,t) denote the anchoring topological field generated by the functional nanoscale anchoring element. A(r,t) describes the spatial and temporal distribution of the anchoring state in the anisotropic medium.

[0257] 2. Liquid crystal sequence parametric coupling

[0258] The liquid crystal pointing vector n(r,t) is controlled by the following formula:

[0259] n(r,t) = H[A(r,t), F_elastic, F_field]

[0260] Where H is the generalized coupling operator.

[0261] 3. Effective electromagnetic response

[0262] The effective dielectric constant tensor ε_eff(r,t) of the hybrid system is expressed as:

[0263] ε_eff(r,t) = J[n(r,t), M(r)]

[0264] Where M(r) represents the metasurface geometry and material response.

[0265] 4. Wavefront Information Tensor (WIT)

[0266] Define the wavefront information tensor W(r,t):

[0267] W(r,t) = K[ε_eff(r,t), E(r,t), B(r,t)]

[0268] Where E and B represent the electric field and magnetic field, respectively, and K is a function mapping describing the wavefront evolution.

[0269] 5. Photon State Space (PSS)

[0270] The system state is defined in the photon state space Ω:

[0271] Ω = {A_i, n_i, ε_i, Φ_i}

[0272] Where Φ_i represents the phase state. The transitions within Ω correspond to photonic computation or signal processing.

[0273] III. New Scientific Terminology

[0274] To describe the unified framework, the following terminology is introduced:

[0275] Anchored topological field (ATF): A surge field generated by nanoscale anchoring elements.

[0276] Programmable Anchored Manifold (PAM): The configuration space of the anchored state.

[0277] Wavefront Information Tensor (WIT): A tensor representation of wavefront information.

[0278] Photon state space (PSS): The state space of an anchored driving photonic system.

[0279] Anchored Driven Metastructure (ADM): A hybrid system that combines anchoring elements, anisotropic media, and metasurfaces.

[0280] IV. Unified Graphical Logic

[0281] Figure 9: Overall Architecture Diagram

[0282] Multi-scale schematics illustrate nanoscale anchoring elements embedded in anisotropic media, which are hybridized with metasurfaces to generate programmable wavefronts and information processing capabilities.

[0283] Figure 10: Visualization of anchored topological field

[0284] Spatial mapping of anchoring state and its corresponding liquid crystal pointing vector field.

[0285] Figure 11: Hybrid metasurface-liquid crystal response

[0286] Phase and amplitude modulation plots illustrate the wavefront control of anchor-driven wavefront.

[0287] Figure 12: Photonic computing demonstration

[0288] The mapping between anchored states and computed states demonstrates behavior similar to logic, memory, or neural networks.

[0289] Figure 13: Scale and Information Capacity

[0290] The graph shows the scale relationship between anchoring density, phase modulation depth, and information capacity.

[0291] V. Unified Application Area

[0292] Anchored hyperstructure frameworks can be applied to multiple fields, including but not limited to:

[0293] Ultra-high-speed reconfigurable optical communication system.

[0294] Smart metasurfaces for 6G / 7G wireless systems.

[0295] Photonic neural networks and artificial intelligence hardware.

[0296] Quantum photon state control and quantum information processing.

[0297] Adaptive aerospace and spaceborne optical systems.

[0298] Safe programmable electromagnetic skin.

[0299] This invention not only claims protection for specific materials or devices, but also for:

[0300] The concept of anchored topology as a photon control variable.

[0301] The mapping relationship between anchored state and wavefront information.

[0302] Integrating anchored-driven anisotropic media with superstructures.

[0303] The anchored state is used as a carrier of computation or information.

[0304] This concept ensures the realization of future anchor-driven photonics, and all such applications, regardless of the specific materials or structures chosen, fall within the scope of protection of this invention.

Claims

1. A reconfigurable photonic superstructure, characterized in that, include: (a) Substrate; (b) Functional nanoscale anchoring elements disposed on the substrate form a nanoscale anchoring layer; (c) A liquid crystal medium coupled to the aforementioned functional nanoscale anchoring element; (d) Metasurface containing a subwavelength superatomic array for modulating electromagnetic waves; (e) A control mechanism for dynamically changing the orientation of the liquid crystal medium, wherein the functional nanoscale anchoring element and the liquid crystal medium together define the refractive index distribution of the anchoring code, which can change the phase, amplitude, polarization or propagation direction of the incident electromagnetic radiation.

2. The reconfigurable photonic superstructure as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The aspect ratio of the functional nanoscale anchoring element is 5 to 200; the liquid crystal medium comprises a nematic phase, a smectic phase, a cholesteric phase, a blue phase, a polymer-stabilized phase, or a ferroelectric phase liquid crystal; the metasurface comprises dielectric, plasma, semiconductor, or hybrid superatomic components; and the control mechanism comprises electrical stimulation, optical stimulation, thermal stimulation, mechanical stimulation, or magnetic stimulation.

3. A reconfigurable photonic superstructure as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The refractive index distribution of the anchoring code is spatially programmable; the superstructure operates in optical, infrared, terahertz, microwave, or radio frequency bands; the functional nanoscale anchoring element enhances anchoring energy and shortens liquid crystal switching time; the superstructure is configured for wavefront shaping, beam deflection, focusing, holography, polarization control, or spectral filtering; the superstructure is configured for photonic computing or neuromorphic processing; the superstructure is integrated with optical waveguides, optical fibers, or photonic integrated circuits; the superstructure exhibits a topological anchoring state.

4. A reconfigurable photonic superstructure as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The superstructure is integrated into an aerospace optical system, which is selected from adaptive optics systems, beam control modules, satellite communication systems, lidar systems, and radiation-resistant photonic devices. Alternatively, the superstructure may be integrated into a telecommunications system, wherein the superstructure is configured as a reconfigurable smart surface, phased array, tunable antenna, optical modulator, or switching structure; Alternatively, the superstructure may be integrated into a quantum photonic circuit, the superstructure being configured to control the quantum state of light, and the superstructure may be integrated with a quantum emitter, a single-photon source, or a photonic qubit.

5. A reconfigurable photonic superstructure as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The superstructure is integrated into a wavefront computing system, which includes a nanoscale anchoring layer, a liquid crystal medium, and a metasurface. Information is processed through spatial modulation of the electromagnetic wavefront, and the computing state is encoded in the phase, amplitude, polarization, or topological properties of the electromagnetic field. Functional nanoscale anchoring elements provide anchor-based stored states. Alternatively, the superstructure is integrated into a photonic memory device and a photonic logic device, wherein the anchored state corresponds to a stable photonic phase state, and the logic operation is achieved through controlled liquid crystal redirection and metasurface phase modulation; Alternatively, the superstructure is integrated into a quantum state control platform, the superstructure being used to modulate quantum optical states, the quantum optical states being encoded in a topological anchoring configuration.

6. A reconfigurable photonic superstructure as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The superstructure is integrated into an adaptive metasurface, which is anchored and evolves in response to the environment or operational feedback. The adaptation is achieved through electrical control, optical control, thermal control or algorithmic control. Alternatively, the superstructure is integrated into a photonic artificial intelligence system, where the spatial anchoring pattern represents the computational weights in the neural network, and learning is achieved by dynamically changing the orientation and anchoring state of the liquid crystal. Alternatively, the superstructure may be configured to operate under conditions of radiation, vacuum, high temperature, high pressure, or mechanical shock. Alternatively, the superstructure may be integrated into satellite, aerospace, defense, or deep space systems.

7. A reconfigurable photonic superstructure as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The superstructure, integrated into a programmable photonic platform, comprises a nanoscale anchoring layer, a reconfigurable anisotropic medium, and a metasurface. The electromagnetic response is determined by the coupling dynamics of the anchoring layer and the metasurface. The superstructure performs simulation calculations through spatial modulation of an effective refractive index distribution. Anchored states represent computational parameters or synaptic weights. The system is configured for optical neural networks or neuromorphic processing. The anchoring distribution is dynamically updated in response to environmental feedback. The superstructure exhibits an adaptive or self-optimizing electromagnetic response. Topological anchored states encode discrete photonic phase states. The superstructure supports topology-protected photonic modes. The superstructure is configured for spaceborne, airborne, or defense-related photonic systems. The superstructure can operate under extreme environmental conditions, including radiation, vacuum, or high acceleration. Control mechanisms include electrical, optical, thermal, mechanical, acoustic, or magnetic stimulation.

8. A hierarchical photonic material, characterized in that, It includes a functional nanoscale anchoring element, an anchoring layer, a liquid crystal layer, and a metasurface layer, the metasurface layer being arranged to generate a programmable electromagnetic response; the liquid crystal layer is coupled to the functional nanoscale anchoring element, the liquid crystal layer and the functional nanoscale anchoring element together forming the anchoring layer, and the metasurface layer containing a subwavelength metaatom array for modulating electromagnetic waves.

9. A method for controlling an electromagnetic wavefront, characterized in that, include: A functional nanoscale anchoring element is grown on a substrate; a liquid crystal medium is introduced into contact with the functional nanoscale anchoring element; Forming a metasurface structure to impart a spatially varying electromagnetic response; and applying an external stimulus to reorient the liquid crystal medium, thereby dynamically modulating the effective optical or electromagnetic response of the metasurface; functional nanoscale anchoring elements are grown using solution methods, vapor phase methods, or hybrid growth techniques; the metasurface is fabricated using photolithography, self-assembly, nanoimprinting, or additive manufacturing techniques; and the liquid crystal medium is introduced via capillary filling, spin coating, or polymer stabilization.

10. The reconfigurable photonic metastructure according to any one of claims 1-3 is applied in aerospace optical systems, telecommunications systems, quantum photonic circuits, wavefront computing systems, photonic storage devices, photonic logic devices, quantum state control platforms, adaptive metasurfaces, photonic artificial intelligence systems, and programmable photonic platforms.

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