Invention:
This technology integrates photonic crystals into digital micromirror devices (DMDs). The photonic crystals are incorporated on the surface of the DMD mirror in such a way as to achieve guided mode resonance, creating resonance features that are highly sensitive to changes in the angle of incidence. This increased sensitivity to angle changes minimizes the angular adjustments needed for a DMD to function, thereby reducing mirror travel distance and allowing for faster modulation while retaining precision.
Background:
Digital micromirror devices (DMDs) consist of many microscopic mirrors which can be precisely moved and adjusted to modulate light and display rapidly changing images. They have a wide range of applications in devices including video projection, displays, and scientific instrumentation. Currently, they operate at a maximum frame rate of 10 kHz, limited by the mechanical speed at which the mirrors can be moved accurately and precisely. This technology, by reducing the required angular displacement for the mirrors, allows for faster, more efficient DMDs.
Applications:
- Optical communications
- Adaptive optics
- Holography
- Electronics and display systems
- Telecommunications
- Biomedical Engineering/Biotechnology
- Aerospace
- Automotive
- Defense
Advantages:
- Faster modulation
- More efficient
- Increased precision control
- High sensitivity
- Increased storage density
