Transformation optics articles from across Nature Portfolio

Optical techniques adopted in optical computing rely on spatial multiplexing, requiring numerous integrated elements and restricting the architecture to perform a single kernel convolution per layer. The authors demonstrate a fiber-optic computing architecture based on temporal multiplexing that performs multiple convolutions in a single layer.

Conformal transformation optics is exploited to design curved accelerating waveguides with spatially gradient curvatures to boost the nonlinear efficiency and broaden the bandwidth of the nonlinear optical processes in the waveguides.

Optical computing has the potential to be faster and more energy-efficient than conventional digital-electronic computing for certain applications. This Perspective article surveys the differences between optics and electronics that could be exploited, and explores the physics and engineering challenges in realizing useful optical computers.

Transformation optics has shown a powerful way in controlling the light flow. This study provides the conformal mapping between two manifolds embedded in three-dimensional space, enabling the control of surface electromagnetic waves on arbitrary two-dimensional manifold and potentially extends to other fields such as acoustics, mechanics, and thermodynamics.

Reflected light is often unwanted, causing interference, and reducing transmitted power. Controlling the non-local response of a material can lead to anti-reflection coatings with impressive properties.