Deep learning–based vortex decomposition and switching based on fiber vector eigenmodes

Abstract

Structured optical fields, such as cylindrical vector (CV) and orbital angular momentum (OAM) modes, have attracted considerable attention due to their polarization singularities and helical phase wavefront structure. However, one of the most critical challenges is still the intelligent generation or precise control of these modes. Here, we demonstrate the first simulation and experimental realization of decomposing the CV and OAM modes by reconstructing the multi-view images of projected intensity distribution. Assisted by the deep learning–based stochastic parallel gradient descent (SPGD) algorithm, the modal coefficients and optical field distributions can be retrieved in 1.32 s within an average error of 0.416 % showing high efficiency and accuracy. Especially, the interference pattern and quarter-wave plate are exploited to confirm the phase and distinguish elliptical or circular polarization direction, respectively. The generated donut modes are experimentally decomposed in the CV and OAM modes, where purity of CV modes reaches 99.5 %. Finally, fast switching vortex modes is achieved by electrically driving the polarization controller to deliver diverse CV modes. Our findings may provide a convenient way to characterize and deepen the understanding of CV or OAM modes in view of modal proportions, which is expected of latent applied value on information coding and quantum computation.

Keywords

• deep learning
• mode decomposition
• vector eigenmodes
• vortex switching