Real-time three-dimensional orientation control of non-spherical micro-objects using laser trapping

Non-contact three-dimensional (3D) manipulation techniques for non-spherical micro-objects are presented. Three-beam optical tweezers and a line-scanning laser trap using a three-beam laser manipulation system enable real-time orientation control in 3D space. Tilt angle control, translation and rotation of diatoms of non-spherical shape are demonstrated by various manipulation schemes.