Switching of three-dimensional optical cages using spatial coherence engineering

Abstract

Precisely capturing and manipulating microparticles is the key to exploring microscopic mysteries. Optical tweezers play a crucial role in facilitating these tasks. However, existing optical tweezers are limited by their dependence on specific beam modes, which restrict their ability to flexibly switch and manipulate optical traps, thereby limiting their application in complex scientific challenges. Here, we propose a new method to achieve type switching and manipulation of optical traps using a single structured beam via optical coherence engineering. A conjugate-model random structured beam with a switch is designed. By altering the state of the switch, we can change the type of optical cage, enabling the capture of different particle types. Furthermore, the range, strength, and position of the optical trap can be controlled by adjusting the initial beam parameters. We hope that optical coherence engineering will extend the capabilities of existing structured optical tweezers, paving the way for advances in future optical tweezers applications.