We proposed the perfect vector optical vortex arrays (PVOVAs) for encoding and decoding communications, including the 2×2, 1×4, 4×4, and 2×4 array forms, which were generated with the coaxial superposition of two vector optical vortex arrays with left- and right-handed circular polarization. The polarization order and state of each vector element could be modulated independently by adjusting the corresponding topological charges (TCs) and additional phases, θn. By attaching code information to these vector elements with different states of polarization, the hexadecimal code elements, including 0 to F, were represented. Therefore, PVOVAs consisting of multiple vector elements can transmit encoding information and be decoded as original information in the receiving end. The bighorn sheep grayscale image, with a size of 64×64 pixels, was transmitted using the encoding and decoding communication via PVOVAs, and the received restored image had a reliable accuracy. This study proves PVOVAs have flexible spatial structure and controllable state of polarization, and it expands the application of vector optical fields in optical encoding and decoding communication.

Lithium-sulfur (Li-S) battery is probably a superior alternative to the next-generation batteries because of its high theoretical energy density, low cost and environmentally friendly. However, the shuttle effect caused by...

Optical vortex arrays (OVAs) have drawn widespread attention owing to their multiple optical vortices and higher dimensions. However, existing OVAs have not yet been utilized to exploit the synergy effect as an entire system, particularly for manipulating multiple particles. Thus, the functionality of OVA should be explored to respond to application requirements. Hence, this study proposes a functional OVA, called cycloid OVA (COVA), based on a combination of cycloid and phase-shift techniques. By modifying the cycloid equation, multiple structural parameters are designed to modulate the structure of the COVAs. Subsequently, versatile and functional COVAs are experimentally generated and modulated. In particular, COVA executes local dynamic modulation, whereas the entire structure remains unchanged. Further, the optical gears are first designed using two COVAs, which exhibit potential for transferring multiple particles. Essentially, OVA is endowed the characteristics and capacity of the cycloid when they meet. This work provides an alternative scheme to generate OVAs, which will open up advanced applications for the complex manipulation, arrangement and transfer of multiple particles.