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Updated: Jul 18, 2026
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Shaping the Amplitude and Phase of Laser Beams by Using a Phase-only Spatial Light Modulator
Published on: January 28, 2019
Diffractive optical elements designed for highly precise far-field generation in the presence of artifacts typical
Gabriel Milewski1, David Engström, Jörgen Bengtsson
1Photonics Laboratory, Department of Microtechnology and Nanoscience, Chalmers University of Technology, Göteborg, Sweden. gabriel.milewski@epsilon.nu
Applied Optics
|December 15, 2006
Summary
This study introduces an iterative design method for diffractive optical elements (DOEs) using spatial light modulators (SLMs). The method accounts for SLM artifacts to optimize DOE performance, enabling precise control over beam splitting and phase modulation.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Optical Engineering
- Micro-optics
Background:
- Conventional static diffractive optical elements (DOEs) have limitations.
- Spatial light modulators (SLMs) introduce unique artifacts like phase-amplitude coupling and deadspace effects.
- Accurate DOE design must account for these SLM-specific artifacts for optimal performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an iterative design method for DOEs implemented with SLMs.
- To precisely control diffractive optical element (DOE) function, such as multiple-beam splitting.
- To incorporate SLM artifacts into the design process for improved functionality.
Main Methods:
- An iterative design approach was employed to optimize SLM pixel settings.
- SLM artifacts, including deadspace and interpixel crosstalk, were modeled.
- Subarea division of pixels and their neighbors was used to account for cross talk.
- Phase control was integrated into the design targets alongside intensity control.
Main Results:
- The iterative method successfully designed DOEs that account for SLM artifacts.
- Demonstrated precise control over beam splitting and phase modulation.
- Successfully canceled an unwanted zeroth-order beam using phase control.
- Achieved high-efficiency phase modulation (~2pi rad) and intensity modulation (>95%) on a liquid crystal on silicon SLM.
Conclusions:
- The developed iterative design method enables the creation of high-performance DOEs using SLMs.
- Accounting for SLM artifacts is crucial for achieving desired optical functions.
- The method offers precise control over optical field properties, including phase and intensity.
