Optimal Targeted Mode Transport in Complex Wave Environments: A Universal Statistical Framework

TL;DR

This paper introduces a universal statistical framework for targeted mode transport in complex wave environments, enabling efficient energy transfer in multimode chaotic systems with broad practical applications.

Contribution

It develops a statistical theory for optimal targeted mode transport, validated through experiments, advancing control over wave energy transfer in complex environments.

Findings

Theoretical upper bounds for targeted mode transport are established.

Experimental validation in microwave and complex cavities confirms the theory.

Broad implications for wireless communications and imaging are demonstrated.

Abstract

Recent advances in the field of structured waves have resulted in sophisticated coherent wavefront shaping schemes that provide unprecedented control of waves in various complex settings. These techniques exploit multiple scattering events and the resulting interference of wave paths within these complex environments. Here, we introduce the concept of targeted mode transport (TMT), which enables energy transfer from specific input channels to designated output channels in multimode wave-chaotic cavities by effectively engaging numerous cavity modes. We develop a statistical theory that provides upper bounds on optimal TMT, incorporating operational realities such as losses, coupling strengths and the accessibility of specific interrogating channels. The theoretical predictions for the probability distribution of TMT eigenvalues are validated through experiments with microwave chaotic networks of coaxial cables as well as two-dimensional and three-dimensional complex cavities. These findings have broad implications for applications ranging from indoor wireless communications to imaging and beyond.