Design of binary subwavelength multiphase level computer generated holograms.

The ability of subwavelength structures to create an artificial effective index opens up new perspectives in designing highly efficient diffractive optical elements. We demonstrate a design approach for binary multi-phase level computer generated holograms based on the effective medium approach. The phase pattern is formed by various subwavelength structures that cause a certain phase delay to an incident light wave. This binary structure approach leads to a significant cost reduction by simplifying the fabrication process. For demonstration, a three-phase level element, operating in the visible range, is fabricated and experimentally evaluated.