Systematic Approach to Arbitrary Transformation of Multiple Polarization States Using Waveplates

TL;DR

This paper introduces a systematic, generalized method for transforming multiple polarization states into arbitrary targets using waveplates, expanding beyond previous algorithms to enable precise polarization control in various optical applications.

Contribution

It develops a comprehensive framework that allows arbitrary polarization transformations by calculating exact waveplate rotations, surpassing the limitations of existing methods like TRIAD.

Findings

Framework accurately transforms polarization states to any target.

Method generalizes polarization control beyond specific states.

Provides a robust approach for versatile optical polarization manipulation.

Abstract

This paper presents a systematic method for transforming states of polarization (SoPs) into any arbitrary target SoPs, whether linear or elliptical, by determining the precise waveplate rotation angles required for the transformation. Unlike the method based on TRIAD algorithm, which is restricted to specific target SoPs, this study generalizes the approach to enable transformations to arbitrary target states. By representing these transformations as rigid body rotations in Stokes space and computing the corresponding Mueller matrices, we establish a robust framework for accurate and versatile polarization control.