Generalized Elliptical Vector modes

TL;DR

This paper introduces a new class of vector modes in elliptical coordinates, enabling more complex polarisation distributions and precise control for advanced optical applications like communications.

Contribution

It extends the concept of vector modes to elliptical coordinates, allowing for more intricate polarisation structures and tailored polarisation trajectories.

Findings

Experimental demonstration of elliptical vector modes

Ability to engineer specific polarisation trajectories

Enhanced potential for optical communication applications

Abstract

The strong coupling between the spatial and polarisation degrees of freedom (DoF) in vector modes enables a diverse array of exotic, inhomogeneous polarisation distributions through a non-separable superposition, which are conventionally generated in circular-cylindrical symmetry. Here, we theoretically and experimentally demonstrate a generalized class of vector modes specified in elliptical spatial coordinates and elliptical polarisation. This generalisation gives rise to an even larger set of vector beams with more intricate polarisation distributions. Crucially, controlling the beam parameters allows engineering of vector beams with predefined polarisation trajectories on the Poincar\'e sphere. This capability offers potential applications, for example in optical communications, where precise polarisation control can significantly enhance data transmission and security.