Computer-generated holographic optical tweezer arrays

Holographic techniques significantly extend the capabilities of laser tweez ing, making possible extended trapping patterns for manipulating large numb ers of particles and volumes of soft matter. We describe practical methods for creating arbitrary configurations of optical tweezers using computer-ge nerated diffractive optical elements. While the discussion focuses on ways to create planar arrays of identical tweezers, the approach can be generali zed to three-dimensional arrangements of heterogeneous tweezers and extende d trapping patterns. (C) 2001 American Institute of Physics.