Photonics and LED Lighting News

Harnessing quantum principles: Phased arrays within phased arrays for smarter, greener indoor optical wireless networks

Imagine a future where indoor wireless communication systems handle skyrocketing data demands and do so with unmatched reliability and speed. Traditional radio frequency (RF) technologies like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are beginning to struggle, plagued by limited bandwidth and increasing signal congestion.

Posted on 11 October 2024 | 1:40 pm

Hybrid fiber pump combiner could advance mid-IR laser systems

In the last two decades, the rapid advancement in applications such as environmental monitoring, medical diagnostics, and global positioning has intensified the focus on developing novel mid-IR light sources. Fiber-based mid-IR lasers, which operate beyond 2.5 μm, have emerged as particularly promising high-brightness light sources. However, extending laser generation into the mid-IR wavelength range presents significant challenges, primarily due to the extreme absorption in silica fibers, which results from the high phonon energy of glass matrices.

Posted on 9 October 2024 | 8:58 pm

New photonics approach enhances quantum computation efficiency

A recent study, published in Nature Photonics, by Prof. Yaron Bromberg and Dr. Ohad Lib from the Racah Institute of Physics at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem has made significant strides in advancing quantum computing through their research on photonic-measurement-based quantum computation.

Posted on 9 October 2024 | 6:01 pm

Smart new laser technology can monitor greenhouse gases faster, more sensitively

Scientists at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) have developed a new laser-based technique that could dramatically improve our ability to analyze a variety of materials and gases, including greenhouse gases. This new method, called "free-form dual-comb spectroscopy," offers a faster, more flexible and more sensitive way to analyze substances in the air and other materials.

Posted on 9 October 2024 | 4:32 pm

Quantum physicists tap into entanglement to improve the precision of optical atomic clocks

Imagine walking into a room where several different grandfather clocks hang on the walls, each ticking at a different pace. Quantum physicists at the University of Colorado Boulder and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) have essentially recreated that room at the scale of atoms and electrons. The team's advancement could pave the way for new kinds of optical atomic clocks, devices that track the passage of time by measuring the natural "ticking" of atoms.

Posted on 9 October 2024 | 3:00 pm

Quantum register reaches 1,200 neutral atoms in continuous operation

A team of physicists led by Johannes Zeiher, research group leader in Immanuel Bloch's Quantum Many-Body Systems department and co-founder of the MPQ spin-off planqc, has achieved significant progress in scaling up quantum computing platforms with neutral atoms.

Posted on 9 October 2024 | 1:24 pm

Highly sensitive quantum sensors for medicine: First successful demonstration of a dual-media NV diamond laser system

Measuring tiny magnetic fields, such as those generated by brain waves, enables many new novel opportunities for medical diagnostics and treatment. The research team led by Dr. Jan Jeske at Fraunhofer IAF is working on a globally innovative approach to precise magnetic field measurements: Laser Threshold Magnetometry.

Posted on 8 October 2024 | 3:04 pm

AI predicts optical properties to speed up the discovery of energy and quantum materials

Researchers from Tohoku University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have unveiled a new AI tool for high-quality optical spectra with the same accuracy as quantum simulations, but working a million times faster, potentially accelerating the development of photovoltaic and quantum materials.

Posted on 7 October 2024 | 3:53 pm

Engineers create a chip-based tractor beam for biological particles

MIT researchers have developed a miniature, chip-based "tractor beam," like the one that captures the Millennium Falcon in the film "Star Wars," that could someday help biologists and clinicians study DNA, classify cells, and investigate the mechanisms of disease.

Posted on 3 October 2024 | 4:02 pm

Logic with light: Introducing diffraction casting, optical-based parallel computing

Increasingly complex applications such as artificial intelligence require ever more powerful and power-hungry computers to run. Optical computing is a proposed solution to increase speed and power efficiency but has yet to be realized due to constraints and drawbacks.

Posted on 3 October 2024 | 12:00 pm

As the Advanced Photon Source upgrade nears completion, scientists anticipate experimental possibilities

In June, X-rays began to shine again at the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Advanced Photon Source (APS), a facility where intense, directed X-ray light beams are used to inspect everything from materials for better solar cells and batteries to antibodies for fighting viruses. The return of light after a yearlong shutdown is one more momentous step in an upgrade that will create unparalleled research opportunities.

Posted on 2 October 2024 | 8:10 pm

Quantum research paves the way toward efficient, ultra-high-density optical memory storage

As our digital world generates massive amounts of data—more than 2 quintillion bytes of new content each day—yesterday's storage technologies are quickly reaching their limits. Optical memory devices, which use light to read and write data, offer the potential of durable, fast and energy-efficient storage.

Posted on 2 October 2024 | 6:48 pm

PROJECT | High-bay illumination brings style and comfort to library operations center

In an adaptive reuse project, Luminis pendants deliver soft direct and indirect illumination to balance the interior rooted in a more industrial style.

Posted on 2 October 2024 | 5:22 pm

SSL IN ACTION | Acclaim Lighting illuminates high-traffic walkway in Maitland, Florida

Pedestrian bridge features color-changing lighting to help ensure safe passage over busy interstate while adding beacon of radiant light on city skyline.

Posted on 2 October 2024 | 2:49 pm

Scientists demonstrate advanced low-coherence BOCDR system using periodic pseudo-random modulation

Scientists have successfully demonstrated a low-coherence Brillouin optical correlation-domain reflectometry (BOCDR) system that overcomes longstanding challenges related to spatial resolution and measurement range in mapping strain and temperature distributions along optical fibers.

Posted on 1 October 2024 | 3:58 pm

Researchers observe hidden deformations in complex light fields

Everyday experience tells us that light reflected from a perfectly flat mirror will give us the correct image without any deformation. Interestingly, this is not the case when the light field itself is structured in a complex way. Tiny deformations appear.

Posted on 1 October 2024 | 3:27 pm

Researchers harness liquid crystal structures to design simple, yet versatile bifocal lenses

Researchers have developed a new type of bifocal lens that offers a simple way to achieve two foci (or spots) with intensities that can be adjusted by applying external voltage. The lenses, which use two layers of liquid crystal structures, could be useful for various applications such as optical interconnections, biological imaging, augmented/virtual reality devices and optical computing.

Posted on 1 October 2024 | 1:39 pm

Headband-like device uses speckle contrast optical spectroscopy to predict stroke risk

A team of researchers from the Keck School of Medicine of USC and California Institute of Technology (Caltech) have developed a potential new way to measure a person's stroke risk that is cost-effective and noninvasive, akin to a cardiac stress test. If validated through further tests, the device could transform stroke care, making early detection of increased risk a standard part of medical exams around the world.

Posted on 30 September 2024 | 4:57 pm

A new apparatus for analyzing partial coherence in integrated photonic networks

Anyone familiar with optics labs is familiar with the extremes of light coherence: laser beams are highly coherent, producing clear interference patterns used for precise applications like atomic manipulation or precise sensing. In contrast, light from sources like flashlights is incoherent, typically unable to produce such patterns without considerable effort, or at the cost of considerable optical power losses.

Posted on 30 September 2024 | 3:48 pm

Inverse-design method enhances performance and reliability of on-chip spectrometers

In a study published in Engineering, researchers from Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics and Zhejiang University have unveiled a pioneering approach to designing on-chip computational spectrometers, heralding a new era of high-performance and reliable integrated spectrometers. This innovative inverse-design methodology offers a dramatic leap forward in spectrometer technology, addressing longstanding challenges in performance and reproducibility.

Posted on 27 September 2024 | 5:54 pm

Research team succeeds in ultra-fast switching of tiny light sources

Extremely thin materials consisting of just a few atomic layers promise applications for electronics and quantum technologies. An international team led by TU Dresden has now made remarkable progress with an experiment conducted at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR): The experts were able to induce an extremely fast switching process between electrically neutral and charged luminescent particles in an ultra-thin, effectively two-dimensional material.

Posted on 27 September 2024 | 5:27 pm

Nonlinear optical metasurface achieves electrically tunable third-harmonic generation

A recent study has unveiled a transformative nonlinear optical metasurface technology. This new technology, characterized by structures smaller than the wavelength of light, paves the way for significant advancements in next-generation communication technologies, including quantum light sources and medical diagnostic devices.

Posted on 27 September 2024 | 4:00 pm

New upgrade will supercharge atomic vision of the world's most powerful X-ray laser

The Department of Energy (DOE) has given the green light for construction to begin on a high-energy upgrade that will further boost the performance of the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS), the world's most powerful X-ray free-electron laser (XFEL) at the DOE's SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory.

Posted on 27 September 2024 | 3:03 pm

Discovering quasiparticles ejected from color centers in diamond crystals

A research group led by University of Tsukuba has observed the cooperative behavior of polaron quasiparticles formed by the collective interaction of electrons and lattice vibrations around color centers in diamond crystals.

Posted on 27 September 2024 | 2:54 pm

Ultra-high speed camera for molecules: Attosecond spectroscopy captures electron transfer dynamics

In nature, photosynthesis powers plants and bacteria; within solar panels, photovoltaics transform light into electric energy. These processes are driven by electronic motion and imply charge transfer at the molecular level. The redistribution of electronic density in molecules after they absorb light is an ultrafast phenomenon of great importance involving quantum effects and molecular dynamics.

Posted on 25 September 2024 | 5:16 pm

Shrinking augmented reality displays into eyeglasses to expand their use

Augmented reality (AR) takes digital images and superimposes them onto real-world views. But AR is more than a new way to play video games; it could transform surgery and self-driving cars. To make the technology easier to integrate into common personal devices, researchers report in ACS Photonics how to combine two optical technologies into a single, high-resolution AR display. In an eyeglasses prototype, the researchers enhanced image quality with a computer algorithm that removed distortions.

Posted on 25 September 2024 | 3:29 pm

A versatile approach to realize quantum-enhanced metrology with large Fock states

The collecting of highly precise measurements can enable research developments and technological advancements in numerous fields. In physics, high-precision measurements can unveil new phenomena and experimentally validate theories.

Posted on 25 September 2024 | 1:42 pm

New insights into hot carrier solar cells: Study explores hot electron tunneling and collection to enhance efficiency

Hot carrier solar cells, a concept introduced several decades ago, have long been seen as a potential breakthrough in solar energy technology. These cells could surpass the Shockley–Queisser efficiency limit, which is a theoretical maximum efficiency for single-junction solar cells. Despite their promise, practical implementation has faced significant challenges, particularly in managing the rapid extraction of hot electrons across material interfaces.

Posted on 24 September 2024 | 9:06 pm

Controlling light while measuring trapped ion qubits

Quantum information is fragile and often difficult to protect during experiments. Protecting qubits from accidental measurements is essential for controlled quantum operations, especially during state-destroying measurements or resets on adjacent qubits in protocols like quantum error correction.

Posted on 23 September 2024 | 2:27 pm

Physicists use quantum correlations of photon pairs to hide images from standard cameras

What if you could hide an image in plain sight—so well that even the most advanced cameras couldn't detect it? Imagine encoding visual information using the properties of quantum optics, rendering it invisible to normal imaging technology.

Posted on 23 September 2024 | 2:00 pm

Scientists propose a new method to search for dark matter using LIGO

A new study published in Physical Review Letters (PRL) proposes using gravitational wave detectors like LIGO to search for scalar field dark matter.

Posted on 20 September 2024 | 1:00 pm

Researchers improve tunability in optical differentiation

A new technique may make it easier for researchers to create real-time images of microscopic samples by considering the waves that propagate through sample surfaces as light interacts with them.

Posted on 19 September 2024 | 1:30 pm

LIGHT BITES | Lighting, controls, and design firms announce new personnel

New hires demonstrate the breadth of exciting opportunities in the North American lighting and controls market.

Posted on 17 September 2024 | 9:21 pm

DESIGN TOOLS | Simulation software optimizes indoor lighting efficiency

POOK VILLEGAS introduces the basics of lighting simulation software for designers who are just starting out.

Posted on 16 September 2024 | 9:17 pm

RETAIL APPLICATIONS | LED retrofits deliver ROI for large retailers

When properly planned, large retail projects can benefit from the improved illumination, energy savings, low maintenance, reduced downtime, and lower costs of LED lighting retrofits.

Posted on 11 September 2024 | 4:54 pm

UV STUDIES | Modeling methods to address office building clean air targets

PNNL researchers compare the effectiveness and energy use of GUV to other methods for meeting CDC and ASHRAE guidelines on indoor air quality.

Posted on 28 August 2024 | 4:59 pm

DARK SKIES | LUNA program seeks to advance acceptance of targeted outdoor lighting usage

DLC’s LUNA guidance gets a nod from the GSA, as the consortium shares study findings that elaborate on energy/cost benefits of qualified outdoor lighting.

Posted on 15 August 2024 | 10:31 pm

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS | Bringing circadian rhythm lighting and quantum dots together to advance wellbeing

Technology startup founder SARAH MORGAN opens a series about circadian lighting opportunities with a call for readers to vote on covered project findings.

Posted on 7 August 2024 | 6:17 pm

LIGHT BITES | New LED launches from Lumileds, Luminus, and Violumas

LED developers continue to push performance in compact emitters, digging in to refine thermal management and optical designs for a range of use cases.

Posted on 5 August 2024 | 8:03 pm

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS | Develop serviceable luminaires with support from Zhaga standards

ZHAGA CONSORTIUM members summarize how replaceable components prolong the useful life of luminaires and contribute to a circular economy.

Posted on 25 July 2024 | 1:34 pm

DarkSky teams with global cities association to fight light pollution

Any sustainability initiative must include protection of night skies, says the nonprofit, as it joins forces with LUCI.

Posted on 23 July 2024 | 4:56 pm

With Cree’s parent going all in on the AI business, how does Cree fit? (UPDATED)

A name change is coming at owner SGH to reflect the computing emphasis. SK Telecom invests $200 million for AI development, soon after SGH boss says LED industry will likely consolidate. Is Cree in or out?

Posted on 18 July 2024 | 9:17 pm

STANDARDS | Market transformation and standards groups ally to evolve guidance for energy-efficient lighting products

DLC program director LIESEL WHITNEY-SCHULTE condenses the core industry initiatives in which the DLC participates to inform standards development and product assessment criteria.

Posted on 17 July 2024 | 12:56 pm

PROJECT | Workhorse pendants balance ambience and task illumination in hospitality venue

High-bay lighting from Luminis contributes to a unique restaurant aesthetic in Earl Giles Distillery production space.

Posted on 16 July 2024 | 7:53 pm

New U.K. government must continue to fund study of LED headlight glare, says motoring group

RAC secured a commitment from the Conservative Party. With Labour now in power, there’s no guarantee the research will continue.

Posted on 15 July 2024 | 6:11 pm

CEO of Cree’s parent: LED industry will consolidate

Will owner SGH sell the venerable chip maker? Or is it looking to buy?

Posted on 11 July 2024 | 5:36 pm

INTERVIEW | Cree LED CEO says application-specific innovation is key to long-term strategy

Cree LED president JOE CLARK credits manufacturing outsourcing, application-specific advances, and a collaborative R&D facility with bolstering the LED developer through challenges.

Posted on 10 July 2024 | 12:00 pm

Sollum adds real-time growth data to its horticultural lighting system

The Montreal company partners with Pittsburgh’s Leaficient to enhance the SUN as a Service offering.

Posted on 9 July 2024 | 8:06 pm

New report: Light near bedtime has little effect on sleep

So say the authors of a new paper that is bound to stir controversy.

Posted on 5 July 2024 | 4:23 pm

Latest outdoor luminaires from Glamox tick multiple eco boxes

Recycled aluminum, reusability, and night sky protection all factor into a rugged new wall-mounted line.

Posted on 3 July 2024 | 3:49 pm

Fagerhult teams with metals company for aluminum recycling

Not all recycling is created equal. A pilot project involving a sprawling Oslo office park yields promising results.

Posted on 28 June 2024 | 12:00 pm

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS | Photometric data files must be dependable

The LIA and consultancy 42 Partners Limited reveal some “dirty secrets” regarding photometric data and explain how results can be cleaned up to improve software tools and, in turn, design outcomes.

Posted on 27 June 2024 | 2:24 pm

Signify to suppliers: Get green

The world’s largest lighting provider will be insisting on eco practices when it negotiates with its vendors.

Posted on 26 June 2024 | 3:23 pm

Remembering Maury Wright: More than an editor — A friend

LEDs Magazine editor-in-chief CARRIE MEADOWS shares with great sadness that former editor Maury Wright has passed, and celebrates his memory.

Posted on 25 June 2024 | 6:13 pm

The Lighting Industry Association

Posted on 18 June 2024 | 3:05 pm