Chinese researchers have developed a new 3D-printed device that generates specialized light beams for wireless communications. The team from Xi’an Jiaotong University created a vortex beam generator that produces twisted light beams carrying orbital angular momentum (OAM), which can transmit more data than conventional beams. The device was fabricated using selective laser melting technology with aluminum alloy.
The beam generator features an integrated gain-filtering system that divides incoming signals into eight equal parts while filtering out unwanted frequencies. This design helps minimize interference and reduces the need for additional components. The all-metal structure avoids dielectric losses, resulting in improved radiation efficiency.
Researchers 3D-printed a low-cost and efficient device that generates twisting light beams with orbital angular momentum and features integrated gain-filtering. (Image Credit: Xi’an Jiaotong University/Yuanxi Cao.)
Testing of the prototype showed promising results, with the device achieving approximately 80% mode purity. The system demonstrated strong interference suppression capabilities, exceeding 30 dB for out-of-band signals, which helps ensure clear transmission quality.
“Our OAM beam generator is particularly well suited for 5G/6G wireless communication as well as remote sensing and imaging,” said Yuanxi Cao, corresponding author of the paper. The technology could potentially improve wireless connectivity in high-density situations like music festivals or sports events, where traditional networks often struggle with capacity.
The research team is currently working to improve the device’s performance and explore additional applications, including terahertz communication. Before commercialization, the technology will need to undergo further testing and validation for real-world applications, as well as ensure compliance with relevant regulations. The full research findings were published in Optics Express.
Source: news.google.com
