Thomas Edwin Beechem, III

Title: Thomas Edwin Beechem, III: Innovator in Reconfigurable Metasurfaces

Introduction

Thomas Edwin Beechem, III is a notable inventor based in Lafayette, IN (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of reconfigurable metasurfaces and RF devices. His innovative work focuses on leveraging the acoustoelectric effect to enhance device functionality.

Latest Patents

Thomas holds a patent for "Reconfigurable metasurfaces and x-band RF devices employing the acoustoelectric effect." This invention discloses a reconfigurable metasurface device that utilizes the interaction of phonon modes and charge carrier distribution in a thin film semiconductor/piezoelectric film stack. The device operates by launching a surface acoustic wave (SAW) into the piezoelectric layer, which propagates and induces a corresponding electric field. This electric field capacitively couples to the thin film semiconductor, leading to periodic modulations of the charge carriers. The resulting charge carrier distribution forms ribbons that follow the constant phase fronts of the SAW. By controlling the charge carrier patterning, one can modulate the coupling to the plasmonic modes, resulting in a reconfigurable metasurface.

Career Highlights

Thomas is currently employed at National Technology & Engineering Solutions of Sandia, LLC, where he continues to push the boundaries of innovation in his field. His work has garnered attention for its potential applications in advanced RF devices and metasurfaces.

Collaborations

Thomas collaborates with Amun Jarzembski, contributing to the advancement of technology in their respective fields.

Conclusion

Thomas Edwin Beechem, III is a pioneering inventor whose work in reconfigurable metasurfaces showcases the intersection of acoustoelectric effects and advanced semiconductor technology. His contributions are paving the way for future innovations in RF devices.