Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) have unveiled a new optical technology that enables precise focusing of light—only in one direction. This novel unidirectional focusing design uses structured diffractive layers that are optimized using deep learning to transmit light efficiently in the forward direction of operation while effectively suppressing unwanted backward focusing of light.

The findings are published in the journal Advanced Optical Materials. This innovation offers a compact and broadband solution for the unidirectional delivery of radiation with significant potential for applications in security, defense, and optical communications.

Controlling asymmetric light propagation—where light preferentially travels in one direction while being blocked or scattered in the opposite direction—has been a longstanding need in optical systems. Traditional solutions often rely on specialized material properties or nonlinear materials, which require relatively complex and costly fabrication methods, bulky hardware, and high-power laser sources.