Optically controlled three-dimensional rotation of microscopic objects

An approach of optically controlled three-dimensional rotation of microscopic objects was studied. A spatially light modulator was used to create a pair of closely separated optical traps holding different parts of the same object. The pair of traps can be made revolve around each other in any plane, rotating the trapped object with them. The method has implications in the positioning and control of miniature components within the optically-driven micromachines