Holograms
Optoelectronics research could bring holograms to your smartphone and closer to everyday use
Holograms: Researchers at the University of St Andrews have developed a novel optoelectronic device combining holographic metasurfaces (HMs) with organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), opening new possibilities for holographic technology in smart devices, communication, gaming, and entertainment, as reported in Light: Science & Applications.
What is a hologram?
A hologram is a three-dimensional image created by recording and reconstructing the light wavefront from an object. Unlike traditional photos, which capture only intensity, holograms preserve both amplitude and phase, allowing viewers to see depth, parallax, and multiple perspectives. There are two main types:
- Optical holograms: Created using lasers and physical objects.
- Computer-generated holograms: Simulated digitally and displayed via specialised hardware.
How is it formed?
- Traditional Method (Laser-based): A laser beam is split into two parts: the object beam (reflected from the object) and the reference beam (directed onto the recording medium). When these beams meet on a recording plate, they create an interference pattern. On illumination, this pattern reconstructs a 3D image of the original object.
- New Research Breakthrough (St Andrews, 2025): Uses OLEDs (Organic Light-Emitting Diodes) + Holographic Metasurfaces (HMs). Each meta-atom of the HM modifies light at the pixel level, shaping it to create interference patterns. This eliminates bulky laser setups, making hologram generation cheaper, compact, and scalable.
Where is a hologram used?
Holograms are already embedded in many aspects of daily life:
- Security: On credit cards, passports, and currency to prevent counterfeiting.
- Entertainment: Concerts (e.g., Tupac’s holographic performance), theme parks, and AR/VR experiences.
- Education: Interactive anatomy lessons, historical reconstructions, and immersive learning.
- Medical Imaging: 3D visualisation of organs and surgical planning.
- Telecommunications: Holographic video calls and remote presence.
- Retail & Advertising: 3D product displays and interactive marketing.
What are its potential applications?
- Consumer Electronics → next-gen holographic smartphones, tablets, and TVs.
- Virtual & Augmented Reality (VR/AR) → lightweight, compact holographic displays for immersive experiences.
- Gaming & Entertainment → interactive 3D projections without bulky equipment.
- Communication → real-time holographic telepresence (3D video calls).
- Medical Imaging → holographic visualisation for diagnostics and surgery.
- Biophotonics & Sensing → miniaturised, light-based platforms for advanced sensing.
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