Dynamic generation of Ince-Gaussian modes with a digital micromirror device

Ince-Gaussian (IG) beam with elliptical profile, as a connection between Hermite-Gaussian (HG) and Laguerre-Gaussian (LG) beams, has showed unique advantages in some applications such as quantum entanglement and optical micromanipulation. However, its dynamic generation with high switching frequency is still challenging. Here, we experimentally reported the quick generation of Ince-Gaussian beam by using a digital micro-mirror device (DMD), which has the highest switching frequency of 5.2 kHz in principle. The configurable properties of DMD allow us to observe the quasi-smooth variation from LG (with ellipticity e=0) to IG and HG (e=∞) beam. This approach might pave a path to high-speed quantum communication in terms of IG beam. Additionally, the characterized axial plane intensity distribution exhibits a 3D mould potentially being employed for optical micromanipulation.