Real-time calculation of Fresnel holograms using the split-Lohmann method

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Computer Graphics
• Immersive Technologies

Background:

• Holography is key for realistic 3D perception in augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR).
• Real-time hologram computation for complex 3D scenes remains a significant computational challenge.
• Existing methods struggle with the speed and complexity required for dynamic holographic displays.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel, efficient one-step technique for calculating Fresnel diffraction integrals.
• To enable real-time hologram computation for complex 3D scenes.
• To improve the fidelity of 3D perception in holographic applications.

Main Methods:

• A one-step technique based on the split-Lohmann method is proposed.
• The method involves successive operations in both spatial and frequency domains.
• A Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) implementation was utilized for acceleration.

Main Results:

• The proposed technique computes Fresnel holograms of complex scenes in real time.
• The GPU implementation achieved speeds up to 18.1 times faster than layer-based approaches.
• Optical experiments on a 4K full-color holographic display confirmed high-fidelity 3D perception.

Conclusions:

• The developed one-step split-Lohmann method offers a computationally efficient solution for real-time hologram generation.
• This advancement significantly enhances the feasibility of high-fidelity 3D perception in AR/VR.
• The technique paves the way for more immersive and interactive holographic experiences.