Hokkaido University Research Profiles

Japanese
Information and Communication

Optical Complex Amplitude Measurement Technology

Enabling the detection of spatial phase information of light: Technology for seeing the invisible

This technology enables precise detection of optical phase distribution in a single measurement without spatial completion error by using two sensors and a polarizing optical element, and is expected to have a wide range of applications such as 3D image measurement, 3D tomography, digital phase conjugation, 3D optical memory, and spatial mode optical communication.

Content of research

In holographic diversity interferometry, multiple image sensors are arranged in combination with a polarizing optical element to enable precise detection of optical phase distribution in a single measurement without spatial completion error. We have developed an interferometric optical system using two image sensors and have greatly improved the measurement algorithm to achieve highly accurate phase measurement and enable 3D information processing using the measured phase distribution data. This technology can be applied directly to the acquisition of 3D optical information, optical tomography by digital phase conjugation, and 3D optical memory. In this research, we have also succeeded in developing a reference light-free phase detection system that filters the signal light spatially filtered and re-interacts with the signal light. This is expected to find applications in next-generation ultrahigh-speed optical communication systems using spatial modes and in the field of remote sensing.

  • ◆ Configuration of the holographic diversity interferometer

  • ◆ Example of phase measurement (optical element with a ring-shaped structure)

  • ◆ Example of measurement of the complex amplitude imaginary part (spatial mode emitted from fiber)

Potential for social implementation

  • ・3D Image Measurement
  • ・3D tomography
  • ・Digital phase conjugation
  • ・3D optical memory/hologram
  • ・Spatial mode optical communication

Appealing points to industry and local governments

The measurement and control of optical complex amplitudes will accelerate the integration of optical information processing and digital signal processing, contributing not only to speeding-up and lower power consumption of IT systems, but also to the creation of new technologies in a wide range of fields such as medical measurements and product design.

Intellectual property related to this research

PCT/JP2013/005774 「光位相測定方法、光位相測定装置および光通信装置」
(日本:特許第6202499号 米国:特許第9,459,155号)  
PCT/JP2011/005841 「ホログラフィックメモリ再生装置およびホログラフィックメモリの再生方法、復調装置および復調方法、ならびに観測装置および観測方法」
(日本:特許第5862896号 米国:特許第.8,817,585号 欧州:11834044.7 中国:特許第ZL201180050717.1号 韓国:特許第10-1785761号)
PCT/JP2010/068158 「光通信システムおよび光通信システムの動作方法」
(日本:特許第5713405号 米国:特許第.8,649,680号 欧州:10826539.8)
2022/5/27Released