Performance limits on optical tweezers and traps in dipole approximation

This work investigates the performance limits of optical tweezers and trapping systems using a dipole approximation of a trapped object and a basis representing the controlling variables based on a Taylor expansion of the electromagnetic field. The study uses a convex optimization framework formulated as a quadratically constrained quadratic program to determine the maximum achievable force and/or potential curvature. The study also identifies constraints that tighten these upper limits. The analysis highlights the impact of optical system parameters, such as beam geometry, polarization, and particle losses, on trapping performance. This research provides new insights into the fundamental constraints of designs used for applications in biological manipulation, precision measurement, and microfabrication.