Planar Modulator for Terahertz Wave Control

Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for controlling terahertz waves are complex and costly, limiting their efficient propagation and application in high-frequency data transmission and other fields due to the need for intricate mirrors and lenses that are difficult to produce and control electronically.

Innovation Solution

A digital holography method using a planar modulator with a matrix of individually controlled active planar elements, allowing for precise amplitude and phase modulation of terahertz waves by bending effects, enabling efficient control of wave fronts and propagation through transmission or reflection geometry.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional mirrors and lenses are used to control terahertz waves, then the propagation can be influenced, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol of terahertz wave propagationVSAvoidcomplexity of mirrors and lenses

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the control function into multiple discrete planar elements arranged in a matrix. Each element can be independently controlled to modify the terahertz wave propagation, replacing the need for complex monolithic mirrors and lenses with a segmented, electronically controllable structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces mechanical optical components (mirrors and lenses) with an electronically controlled planar modulator. The modulator uses electronic switching to change the state of individual planar elements, enabling dynamic control without mechanical movement, thus reducing device complexity and improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If traditional mirrors and lenses are used to control terahertz waves, then the propagation can be influenced, but the manufacturing expense increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol of terahertz wave propagationVSAvoidmanufacturing cost of mirrors and lenses

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the control function into multiple discrete planar elements arranged in a matrix. Each element can be independently controlled to modify the terahertz wave propagation, replacing the need for complex monolithic mirrors and lenses with a segmented, electronically controllable structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces mechanical optical components (mirrors and lenses) with an electronically controlled planar modulator. The modulator uses electronic switching to change the state of individual planar elements, enabling dynamic control without mechanical movement, thus reducing device complexity and improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If electronically controllable mirrors and lenses are produced, then terahertz wave control is achieved, but the production difficulty increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectronic control of terahertz wavesVSAvoidproduction difficulty of controllable components

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the control function into multiple discrete planar elements arranged in a matrix. Each element can be independently controlled to modify the terahertz wave propagation, replacing the need for complex monolithic mirrors and lenses with a segmented, electronically controllable structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces mechanical optical components (mirrors and lenses) with an electronically controlled planar modulator. The modulator uses electronic switching to change the state of individual planar elements, enabling dynamic control without mechanical movement, thus reducing device complexity and improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach allows for simple, economical control of terahertz waves, enabling new applications in high-bandwidth wireless communications and object scanning, with the ability to produce desired wave fronts and directions, enhancing transmission efficiency and flexibility.

Implementation Method 1

The planar elements are individually controlled using a central control unit such that each planar element assumes a respective one of at least two states in accordance with the control so as to influence the radiation

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectBending effects: Refraction

Implementation Method 2

enabling efficient control of wave fronts and propagation through transmission or reflection geometry

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS8744271B2Method for controlling terahertz electromagnetic carrier waves

Publication Date: 2014.06.03 DEUTSCHE TELEKOM AG

AI summary

A method for influencing electromagnetic radiation in a frequency range between 0.1 and 10 terahertz includes providing a planar modulator having a matrix of at least 10×10 individual, active planar elements. Each planar element has a diameter between 5 μm and 100 μm. The planar elements are individually controlled using a central control unit such that each planar element assumes a respective one of at least two states in accordance with the control so as to influence the radiation.