Indirect Optical Geometry Measurement Using Optical Tweezers

As part of a top European research project, an indirect optical measurement approach is to be used to explore completely new ways of measuring geometry and surface. The basic idea is not to measure the surface of the target object directly but to scan the medium in which the object is placed. To do this, the target can be surrounded by many uncontrolled particles or a single, well-controlled particle. This would allow the object's surface to be recreated from its footprint on the surrounding medium.

This topic aims to use an optical tweezer to position and move microspheres in the surrounding medium as a probe to study the surface of the target object. With the help of an infrared laser, an optical setup is built to manipulate the particles and, at the same time, observe and record them.

Tasks

• Simulating the 3D point spread function (PSF) and measuring it for the optical setup.
• Simulation of the evolution of the particle image as it moves around the focal spot of the microscope. Recording the particle as it’s placed around the focal position.
• Gather data and compare the experimental results with the simulations.

Your Profile:

• Basic programming knowledge in Python, Matlab, or any other programming platform.
• Enthusiasm for light, optical systems, and optical metrology
• You like working independently and responsibly and want to help shape the future of optical measurement technology.