Virtual Polarization Elements for Spatially Varying Jones Matrix Transformations on a Free-Space Plane

TL;DR

This paper introduces virtual polarization elements (VPEs) that enable remote, contactless control of light's polarization properties across space using metasurfaces, expanding possibilities for non-invasive optical manipulation.

Contribution

The paper presents a new framework for virtual polarization elements that perform spatially varying Jones matrix transformations remotely without physical contact, demonstrated via metasurfaces.

Findings

Realization of diverse polarization functionalities with VPEs

Implementation of multifunction VPEs for complex polarization control

Generation of structured vector vortex beams using VPEs

Abstract

Precise control over the spatial and polarization properties of light is foundational for advanced photonic systems, yet most conventional approaches are constrained to local, contact-based manipulation at physical interfaces. To overcome these constraints, here we introduce a fundamentally new framework for action-at-a-distance polarization control using virtual polarization elements (VPEs). VPEs apply prescribed local Jones matrix transformations between an input field at the modulation plane and an output field at a remote, contactless free-space plane, enabling polarization transformations without physical interaction at the target. We demonstrate VPEs, in metasurface platform, realizing diverse polarization functionalities, including single-function VPEs for circular polarizer, linear polarizer, half-wave plate, and quarter-wave plate operations; a multifunction VPE simultaneously implementing distinct polarization functions with arbitrary phase difference across spatial regions; and vortex waveplate configurations generating structured vector vortex beams. By decoupling the modulation and target planes, VPEs open new opportunities for remote polarization shaping, non-invasive beam engineering, and contactless polarization manipulation in challenging optical environments.