| Title |
Wide-aperture diffraction-based beam-shaping structures for enhanced directivity in next-generation high-frequency communication systems |
| Authors |
Čižas, Vladislovas ; Driukas, Simonas ; Masaitis, Andrius ; Nacienė, Kotryna ; Stanaitis, Kasparas ; Šideika, Egidijus ; Minkevičius, Linas |
| DOI |
10.3390/instruments10010010 |
| Full Text |
|
| Is Part of |
Instruments.. Basel : MDPI AG. 2026, vol. 10, iss. 1, art. no. 10, p. 1-9.. eISSN 2410-390X |
| Keywords [eng] |
diffractive optical elements ; beam shaping ; sub-terahertz band ; high-impact polystyrene ; high-frequency communication ; fused deposition modelling |
| Abstract [eng] |
Sub-terahertz (sub-THz) frequencies are in the spotlight in the ongoing development of sixth-generation (6G) wireless communication systems, offering ultra-high data rates and low latency for rapidly emerging applications. However, employment of sub-THz frequencies introduces strict propagation challenges, including free-space path loss and atmospheric absorption, which limit coverage and reliability. To address these issues, highly directional links are required. The conventional beam-shaping solutions such as refractive lenses and parabolic mirrors are bulky, heavy, and costly, making them less attractive for compact systems. Diffractive optical elements (DOEs) offer a promising alternative by enabling precise wavefront control through phase modulation, resulting in thin, lightweight components with high focusing efficiency. Employing the fused deposition modelling (FDM) using high-impact polystyrene (HIPS) allows cost-effective fabrication of DOEs with minimal material waste and high diffraction efficiency. This work investigates the beam-shaping performance of the FDM-printed structures comparing DOEs and spherical refraction-based structures, wherein both are aiming for application in sub-THz communication systems. DOEs exhibit clear advantages over classically employed solutions. |
| Published |
Basel : MDPI AG |
| Type |
Journal article |
| Language |
English |
| Publication date |
2026 |
| CC license |
|
