This discussion focuses on the feasibility of assembling an optical tweezers setup using 3D printed components and the potential use of a Digital Micromirror Device (DMD) instead of a Spatial Light Modulator (SLM) for beam manipulation. While certain optomechanical parts can be 3D printed, critical components like microscope objectives cannot. The DMD can function similarly to an SLM; however, its lack of phase modulation may limit its effectiveness in forming and controlling multiple optical traps compared to an SLM.
PREREQUISITESResearchers, optical engineers, and hobbyists interested in building optical tweezers systems, particularly those exploring the integration of 3D printing and advanced beam manipulation techniques.
I'm sure some of the parts can be printed, but for example, the microscope objective cannot. A DMD should work as well as an SLM, but since the DMD is not a phase device, I suspect the ability to form and control multiple traps will be limited compared to an SLM.CyrusTheAchaemenid said:I am trying to assemble an optical tweezers setup and was thinking if it is realistic to assemble an optical tweezers setup using 3D printed parts? Also can DMD (Digital Micromirror Device) be used instead of SLM to manipulate the beam and generate multiple traps?
Thank you for your reply. I wanted to reassure myself that there is no reason that it wouldn't work at all if I use DMD instead of SLM and if I print optomechanical parts on 3D printer.Andy Resnick said:I'm sure some of the parts can be printed, but for example, the microscope objective cannot. A DMD should work as well as an SLM, but since the DMD is not a phase device, I suspect the ability to form and control multiple traps will be limited compared to an SLM.