Simulation and optimization of the trapping efficiency in optical tweezers

Optical tweezing experiments have been performed with a variety of different types of beams. Starting from the 0th order Gaussian beam, trapping has been demonstrated using e.g. higher order Gaussian beams, Bessel beams or diffractively generated intensity profiles. For a fundamental study of the trapping forces generated by the various focal field distributions we develop a simulation tool based on 3D ray tracing. This allows us to identify limiting parameters for the efficiency of optical traps and their dependence on the incident light distributions. The findings of this analysis illustrate the possibilities and limitations for the design of new types of optical traps using specific beam shaping elements as well as specifically adapted light sources.