Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 15, 2026

12:18
Microwave Photonics Systems Based on Whispering-gallery-mode Resonators
Published on: August 5, 2013
17.6K
Optical vortex generation with wavelength tunability based on an acoustically-induced fiber grating.
Optics Express
|August 25, 2016
Summary
We developed a method for tunable optical vortex generation using an acoustically-induced fiber grating (AIFG). This technique efficiently converts circular polarization to optical vortices across a 20 nm spectral range.
Area of Science:
- Photonics and Optical Engineering
- Acousto-Optics
- Fiber Optics
Background:
- Optical vortices, characterized by helical wavefronts, are crucial for applications in optical trapping, imaging, and communication.
- Generating tunable optical vortices efficiently remains a challenge in photonics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel method for generating tunable optical vortices.
- To demonstrate wavelength tunability and high mode conversion efficiency.
Main Methods:
- Utilized an acoustically-induced fiber grating (AIFG) driven by a radio frequency source.
- Converted a circular polarization fundamental mode to a first-order optical vortex.
- Verified topological charges via coaxial interference with a Gaussian beam.
Main Results:
- Achieved a spectral tuning range from 1540 nm to 1560 nm.
- Demonstrated a wavelength tunability slope of 4.65 nm/kHz.
- Obtained a mode conversion efficiency of 95% across the entire tuning range.
Conclusions:
- The proposed AIFG method enables efficient and tunable generation of optical vortices.
- This technique offers a promising solution for applications requiring wavelength-agile optical vortex beams.

