Skyrmions with customized intensity distribution and trajectory

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel theoretical method combining angular spectrum and phase-shifting theories to generate and control optical skyrmions with customizable intensity and trajectory, advancing structured light applications.

Contribution

It presents a new approach for generating various types of optical skyrmions and independently modulating their intensity and trajectory using phase control techniques.

Findings

Successful generation of Neel-type, Bloch-type, anti-type, and 2nd order skyrmions.

Independent control of skyrmion intensity distribution and trajectory.

Ability to create customized skyrmion arrays with specific shapes and paths.

Abstract

Optical skyrmions, which are topological protection quasi-particles with nontrivial textures, hold a pivotal focus in current structured light research for their potential in diverse applications. In this work, the angular spectrum theory is first introduced into the generation of optical skyrmions and modulation of the intensity and trajectory of skyrmions at will. We propose a novel theoretical approach for the generation of skyrmions, including Neel-type, Bloch-type, anti-type and 2nd order. The simultaneous and independent modulation of intensity distribution and trajectory of isolated skyrmions is first achieved with the combination of phase-shifting theory with angular spectrum theory. By controlling the displacement phase factor (DPF), the customized shape of skyrmions array with controllable intensity distribution and trajectory is also generated. Our findings in this work allow a greater exploration of skyrmions, which promote applications in particle manipulation and high-density storage.