Polarization-multiplexed collimating diffractive metasurface without zeroth-order effect for 3D sensing

We demonstrate a metasurface-based structured-light projector integrating both collimation and diffraction into a single layer for compact 3D sensing modules. The device is compatible with VCSEL arrays and produces high-density dot patterns over an ultra-wide field of view (FOV), while suppressing the zeroth-order component that typically degrades metasurface far-field quality. We further show polarization-multiplexed operation enabling selectable lightning regions, indicating strong potential for practical deployment in robotics and consumer electronics.