Thomas Edwin Beechem, Iii

Title: Innovations of Thomas Edwin Beechem, III

Introduction

Thomas Edwin Beechem, III is a prominent inventor based in Albuquerque, NM. He holds a total of 8 patents that showcase his contributions to the field of technology, particularly in the area of infrared detection and imaging.

Latest Patents

One of his latest patents is titled "Tunable infrared pixels having unpatterned graphene layer and conductive metasurface." This invention features a monolithically integrated, tunable infrared pixel that combines a broadband detector with a graphene-enabled tunable metasurface filter. The device operates as a single solid-state unit without any moving parts. The tunability is achieved through the plasmonic properties of graphene, which are highly dependent on the carrier concentration within the infrared spectrum. By inducing voltage changes in graphene's carrier concentration, the metasurface filter's transmission can be altered, affecting the 'colors' of light that reach the broadband detector and its spectral responsivity. This innovation allows for spectrally agile infrared detection with independent pixel-to-pixel spectral tunability.

Another significant patent is the "Radiation detector using a graphene amplifier layer." This invention detects or images a radiation field using junction devices where a two-dimensional conductor layer is capacitively coupled to a semiconductor absorber layer. In these junction devices, pixel-level amplification and read-out are achieved through the photogating of the devices by absorption within the absorber layer while in a state of deep depletion. When the two-dimensional conductor is graphene, the device is referred to as a deeply depleted graphene-oxide-semiconductor (DGOS) detector.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Thomas has worked with notable organizations such as National Technology & Engineering Solutions of Sandia, LLC and Sandia Corporation. His work has significantly advanced the field of infrared technology and detection.

Collaborations

Thomas has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Stephen Wayne Howell and David W. Peters. Their combined expertise has contributed to the success of various projects and innovations.

Conclusion

Thomas Edwin Beechem, III is a distinguished inventor whose work in infrared technology has led to groundbreaking patents. His contributions continue to influence advancements in the field, showcasing the importance of innovation in technology.