LAUSR

We have theoretically and experimentally studied resonance-induced hyperbolic metasurfaces and proved that they offer an efficient way to introduce Fano-resonance and decrease the Q-factor in our system in order to create hyperbolic isofrequency contours (IFCs) along two orthogonal directions. A metasurface with a continuous topological transition for such IFCs has been designed and experimentally implemented. In particular, two independent collimation frequencies can be found to correspond to the transition frequencies in orthogonal directions. As a consequence, we experimentally demonstrated that the metasurface can function as a position sensor by utilizing bidirectional hyperbolic surface waves, introducing a new avenue for coordinate sensing.Metasurfaces: Engineered light expands the power of touchAntenna-like planar structures known as metasurfaces may make touch-screen technology even more widespread. Devised to receive optical signals and re-emit different forms of light, metasurfaces have been targeted for applications including all-optical computers. Chinese researchers led by Weijia Wen from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and Bo Hou from Soochow University, Suzhou, have developed a technique that enhances control over metasurface-guided light. The team used simulations to design an array of asymmetric H-shaped metal antennas that introduce a new resonance feature into the metasurface device. The resonance effect causes guided light to align into straight beams similar to lasers and running on the metasurface. Based on the remarkable self-collimated beams, the team produced a working, high-resolution touch sensor with technological potentials compatible with a broad range of substrates.Textual caption summarizing the main findings of this workA metasurface with bidirectional self-collimation modes at independent frequencies has been numerically designed and experimentally demonstrated. The unique feature provides a new working principle of utilizing surface electromagnetic waves for position-sensors and thus opens a new avenue towards coordinate sensing. A position-sensing prototype device based on the metasurface has been constructed to manifest such applications.