Optical analysis of time-averaged multiscale Bessel beams generated by a tunable acoustic gradient index of refraction lens

Euan McLeod, Craig B. Arnold

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

17 Scopus citations

Abstract

Current methods for generating Bessel beams are limited to fixed beam sizes or, in the case of conventional adaptive optics, relatively long switching times between beam shapes. We analyze the multiscale Bessel beams created using an alternative rapidly switchable device: a tunable acoustic gradient index (TAG) lens. The shape of the beams and their nondiffracting, self-healing characteristics are studied experimentally and explained theoretically using both geometric and Fourier optics. By adjusting the electrical driving signal, we can tune the ring spacings, the size of the central spot, and the working distance of the lens. The results presented here will enable researchers to employ dynamic Bessel beams generated by TAG lenses.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)3609-3618
Number of pages10
JournalApplied optics
Volume47
Issue number20
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 10 2008
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
  • Engineering (miscellaneous)
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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