IEEE Photonics Journal (Jan 2024)
Design and Implementation of a Perfect Optical Vortex Sorter Using a Binary Dammann Grating
Abstract
This paper presents the design, simulation, and experimental validation of a Perfect Optical Vortex (POV) sorter using a novel approach based on a binary Dammann Grating. POV beams, crucial for applications in communication and quantum systems, have traditionally posed challenges in sorting due to crosstalk and fabrication limitations. In this study, a hybrid lens system, combining a modified radial lens and a lateral lens, was proposed and optimized using parameters $\alpha$ and $\beta$ to achieve precise separation between POV modes. The design was simulated, allowing for the customization of the lens based on beam size and system constraints. To further enhance sorting efficiency, a Dammann Grating was employed to encode the phase profile, facilitating easy fabrication and integration into existing optical setups. Simulations and experiments were conducted, demonstrating the system's ability to map each topological charge to a unique radial location with high efficiency. Results indicated minimal crosstalk when the separation between orders exceeded 3, showcasing the potential for this system to be utilized in communication platforms. This research introduces a scalable, efficient, and compact solution for demultiplexing POV beams, paving the way for their seamless integration into optical communication systems.
Keywords