Shaping of focal field with controllable amplitude, phase, and polarization

We propose a method for configuring the distribution of amplitude, phase, and polarization in the focal region of vector beams. The polarization and phase of incident beam is spatially tailored so that it can produce a focal field that has elaborately prescribed shapes. Our work focuses on the design of a special focus structure with two oval rings, wherein a phase gradient and polarization gradient exist in the inner and outer rings, respectively. The incident light yielding the desired focal field is determined based on an iterative scheme involving vectorial diffraction calculations and fast Fourier transforms. Simulations and experiments demonstrate the generation of a focal field with phase and polarization gradients, which may find applications in optical manipulation.