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We propose a laser manipulator for controlling positions and rotation of trapped microscopic particles suspended in water by using a liquid crystal (LC) device. This LC device has unique functions such as an anamorphic lens property, variable-focusing and deflection properties. The trapped slender particle can be aligned along the major axis of the elliptically shaped laser beam spot and the position of the particle can be controlled. Furthermore, the positions of multiple microscopic particles can also be controlled along the interference fringe patterns of a wedge LC cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new method of voltage application is proposed to increase the focus range of a liquid crystal lens driven by two voltages. It is possible for the optical power of the liquid crystal lens to change in a wider range, while the root mean square aberration of low level is maintained. The liquid crystal lens is driven by a frequency of the voltages different in positive and negative lens states to obtain its largest optical power in each state. An obvious increase in focus range is realised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]