Flip-component metasurfaces for camouflaged meta-domes

Allowing microwaves to transmit through without changing the wavefront is one of the essential requirements of the dome structures of antenna arrays like radars. Here, we demonstrate a microwave metasurface as an array of two types of meta-atoms, which are the flip counterparts to each other. Due to the reciprocity and space-inversion symmetry, the wavefront in the transmission is unchanged by the metasurface in a broad spectrum; while at the same time, the wavefront in reflection can be manipulated independently by changing the arrangement of the meta-atoms. Specifically, a random-flip metasurface that produces diffuse reflection is realized, enabling a camouflaged meta-dome. The broadband, wide-angle, and polarization-independent diffuse reflection and undistorted transmission are numerically and experimentally verified. Our finding enables a unique meta-dome structure that has camouflage functionality. (C) 2022 Optica Publishing Group under the terms of the Optica Open Access Publishing Agreement

Automated summary

In this study, we demonstrate a microwave metasurface that achieves broadband, wide-angle, and polarization-independent diffuse reflection and undistorted transmission. By changing the arrangement of meta-atoms, the wavefront in reflection can be independently manipulated, enabling a camouflaged meta-dome structure.