Generation of vector beams array with a single spatial light modulator

In this paper, we propose a new approach for generating a vector beams array and dynamically manipulating the polarization state of the beam array, based on a stable interferometric arrangement with a single reflective spatial light modulator (SLM). In our system, two designed holograms are encoded on the SLM for the generation and control of the beam array. We demonstrate two examples of vector beams arrays with two and four different polarization states, respectively, whose experimental results show excellent agreement with the theoretical predictions. Each vector beam in the array is designed to have uniform energy but different polarization state. Our system enables active control of both the beam number and the polarization distribution of the vector beams array. Thus, it has great potential in many applications such as laser processing, optical trapping, and optical communications.

Automated summary

In this paper, a new approach for generating a vector beams array and dynamically manipulating the polarization state of the beam array is proposed based on a stable interferometric arrangement with a single reflective SLM. The experimental results demonstrate excellent agreement with the theoretical predictions, showing the system's capability in generating and controlling vector beams arrays with different polarization states. The system has great potential in various applications such as laser processing, optical trapping, and optical communications.