Diffractive Deep Neural Networks at Visible Wavelengths

Optical deep learning based on diffractive optical elements offers unique advantages for parallel processing, computational speed, and power efficiency. One landmark method is the diffractive deep neural network (D²NN) based on three-dimensional printing technology operated in the terahertz spectral range. Since the terahertz bandwidth involves limited interparticle coupling and material losses, this paper extends D²NN to visible wavelengths. A general theory including a revised formula is proposed to solve any contradictions between wavelength, neuron size, and fabrication limitations. A novel visible light D²NN classifier is used to recognize unchanged targets (handwritten digits ranging from 0 to 9) and targets that have been changed (i.e., targets that have been covered or altered) at a visible wavelength of 632.8 nm. The obtained experimental classification accuracy (84%) and numerical classification accuracy (91.57%) quantify the match between the theoretical design and fabricated system performance. The presented framework can be used to apply a D²NN to various practical applications and design other new applications.