volume | PIER Journals

Abstract

Temporal metasurfaces offer a promising platform for new-architecture wireless communications by enabling fast modulation of both electromagnetic waves and digital information. Optical control of these metasurfaces is particularly attractive as it establishes a direct physical bridge between optical and microwave signals, forming the foundation for optoelectronic hybrid communication systems. However, existing schemes are confined to static pre-alignment of the laser beam with the metasurface, lacking real-time spatial alignment capability essential for real-world mobile applications. Here, we propose and realize a mobile hybrid wireless communication system based on the designed laser-tracking-modulated microwave temporal metasurface. This communication system is constructed by integrating a photodiode-based microwave temporal metasurface, a vision-assisted laser-tracking transmitter, and a microwave receiver, enabling direct laser-to-microwave signal conversion sustained by dynamic alignment. Experimental results demonstrate that the system maintains successfully a stable hybrid communication link while the laser transmitter is in motion. This work provides a viable strategy for establishing stable hybrid wireless links for moving platforms and drones in high-mobility scenarios.

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Dr. Sheng Yuan

Dr. Zhi Zhou Ding

Dr. Xin Ge Zhang

Dr. Dong Jie Wang

Dr. Jian Kai Sun

Prof. Wei Xiang Jiang