$\mathbb{T}$-Operator Limits on Optical Communication: Metaoptics, Computation, and Input-Output Transformations

TL;DR

This paper introduces a theoretical framework using the scattering $ ext{T}$ operator and Lagrange duality to establish fundamental limits on optical transformations and device capabilities in structured materials and communication applications.

Contribution

It develops a novel optimization approach to determine the maximum achievable features and performance bounds of optical devices based on electromagnetic principles.

Findings

Derived limits on optical transformation capabilities.

Analyzed implications for multi-wavelength and multiport devices.

Provided bounds relevant to shielding, focusing, and computing applications.

Abstract

We present an optimization framework based on Lagrange duality and the scattering $\mathbb{T}$ operator of electromagnetism to construct limits on the possible features that may be imparted to a collection of output fields from a collection of input fields, i.e., constraints on achievable optical transformations and the characteristics of structured materials as communication channels. Implications of these bounds on the performance of representative optical devices having multi-wavelength or multiport functionalities are examined in the context of electromagnetic shielding, focusing, near-field resolution, and linear computing.