Optical phase retrieval using conical refraction in structured media

We propose a method of optical phase retrieval based on the conical refraction imaging in structured media. We show that a multilayered dielectric photonic crystal functioning as a conically refractive flat lens can be used to reconstruct phase information of complex optical signals. Our method enables a single simultaneous measurement of multiple images on the same image plane and allows a rapid stable recovery of the optical phase. The planar geometry of the proposed device is compatible with current nano-fabrication techniques and, therefore, can find broad applications in optical signal processing and imaging. (C) 2016 Optical Society of America