Compact multi-ring perfect vortex beam generator fabricated by laser direct writing

Abstract

Perfect vortex beams (PVBs) have received much attention in recent years since the annular intensity distributions are independent of the topological charge (TC). However, the cost-effective preparation of micrometer-scale monolithic devices capable of generating multiple PVBs through a simple approach remains a significant challenge. In this work, a design of double-ring perfect spiral phase plates (DPSPPs) is presented for the generation of PVBs at two distinct locations along the radial direction. The respective radii and spacing of the double-ring PVBs can be tuned by changing the control parameters. The proposed DPSPPs are fabricated by the flexible femtosecond laser direct writing (FsDLW) technique. The experimentally generated double-ring vortex beams with different TCs possess an almost constant radius, which is consistent with the characteristics of PVBs. Furthermore, the double-ring PVBs with different fractional and trigonometric function TCs and the multi-ring PVB are also demonstrated. The design and fabrication methods are expected to facilitate the miniaturization of the applications of PVBs in optical manipulation, optical communication, and high-capacity information storage.