Researchers call it the ‘Holy Grail’ for physicists and engineers.
Researchers showcase the universal metasurface antenna
A group of researchers, led by Professor Chan Chi-hou from the City University of Hong Kong, created a special antenna that can control all five important aspects of electromagnetic waves using computer software.
The antenna, which they have named ‘microwave universal metasurface antenna,’ is capable of dynamically, simultaneously, independently, and precisely manipulating all the essential properties of electromagnetic waves through software control.
“A universal component capable of manipulating all the fundamental wave properties is the Holy Grail for physicists and engineers,” said Professor Chan.
This is a big development in the 6G wireless communication systems. The antenna’s unique capabilities in controlling and securing signals make it valuable for a wide range of applications where both sensing, gathering information, communication, and transmitting data play important roles.
The antenna adjusts how strong the waves are, their timing, frequency, direction, and even the way they vibrate, all at the same time. It’s the first time anyone has made an antenna that can do all these things simultaneously, marking a significant breakthrough in this field.
The antenna is special because it can be used in advanced information systems, like the ones we might have in the future. It’s great for handling a lot of data and keeping that data very safe. It can also transfer power wirelessly, meaning it can charge devices without physical connections.
One cool thing about this antenna is that it can control the direction of its signals, adding an extra layer of privacy and security. This makes it a good choice for communication systems where we want to ensure nobody can eavesdrop or secretly listen in on our conversations.
These technologies greatly extend the applications of the UMA in augmented reality, holography, integrated sensing and communications for 6G, quantum optics, and quantum information science.
“We hope that the universal metasurface antenna can work as a simplified information transmitter with low cost, high integration and low power consumption,” said Professor Wu Gengbo, the paper’s first author.
Although demonstrated in the microwave band, the UMA’s concept can be expanded to terahertz frequencies using specific technologies, enabling applications in augmented reality, holography, integrated sensing and communications for 6G, quantum optics, and quantum information science, noted the researchers in their study.
The study was published in Nature Communications.
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Sejal Sharma Sejal is a Delhi-based journalist, currently dedicated to reporting on technology and culture. She is particularly enthusiastic about covering artificial intelligence, the semiconductor industry and helping people understand the powers and pitfalls of technology. Outside of work, she likes to play badminton and spend time with her dogs. Feel free to email her for pitches or feedback on her work.
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