Three for the Price of One: Reconfigurable Generation of Gaussian, Flattop and Vortex Beams
Year: 2026
Type: conference-paper
Abstract: We propose and demonstrate a reconfigurable “three-for-one” beam shaping system enabled by a polarization-controlled Mach-Zehnder Interferometer (MZI). By tuning the input beam's polarization, we control the ratio of power split between a Gaussian arm and a vortex arm to generate an incoherent superposition. The system allows dynamic switching between Gaussian, flat-top, and optical vortex/donut beams without mechanical reconfiguration, offering a flexible and robust solution for applications ranging from laser machining to optical trapping.
Source: Photonics North (PN)
Authors: Owen Stewart, Dean Smith, Ilya Golub
Institution: Algonquin College
Language: English
Subfield: Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7204178876