Passive torque wrench and angular position detection using a single-beam optical trap
Abstract
The recent advent of angular optical trapping techniques has allowed for rotational control and direct torque measurement on biological substrates. Here we present a method that increases the versatility and flexibility of these techniques. We demonstrate that a single beam with a rapidly rotating linear polarization can be utilized to apply a constant controllable torque to a trapped particle without active feedback, while simultaneously measuring the particle angular position. In addition, this device can rapidly switch between a torque wrench and an angular trap. These features should make possible torsional measurements across a wide range of biological systems. © 2010 Optical Society of America.
Date Published
Journal
Optics Letters
Volume
35
Issue
17
Number of Pages
2949-2951,
URL
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-77956328121&doi=10.1364%2fOL.35.002949&partnerID=40&md5=8090eee0e11ccd587dcd3093acbaa1b5
DOI
10.1364/OL.35.002949
Research Area
Group (Lab)
Michelle Wang Group