Meta-optical and thin film devices for all-optical information processing

All-optical spatial frequency filtering has a long history with many applications now commonly replaced with digital alternatives. Although optical approaches are attractive in that they minimize energy requirements and images can be manipulated in real time, they are relatively bulky compared to the compact electronic devices that are now ubiquitous. With emerging interest in nanophotonic approaches to all-optical information processing, these approaches to enhancing images and performing phase visualization are attracting significant interest. Metasurfaces have been demonstrated as tailored alternatives to conventional spatial filters, but utilizing the spatial frequency sensitivity of these and thin film devices also has the potential to form the basis for ultracompact approaches to image processing. There are, however, significant challenges remaining to realize this promise. This review summarizes the current status of research in this rapidly growing field, places it in the context of the history of all-optical spatial filtering, and assesses prospects for future directions.

Automated summary

All-optical spatial frequency filtering, with a long history, is now often replaced with digital alternatives. Optical methods minimize energy requirements and allow for real-time image manipulation, but are relatively bulky. Nanophotonic approaches are gaining interest in enhancing images, with metasurfaces and thin film devices seen as potential for ultra-compact image processing in the future.