We describe a convenient approach for generating arbitrary vector beams in a 4-f system with a spatial light modulator (SLM) and a common path interferometric arrangement. A computer-generated hologram is introduced onto SLM for performing the beam conversion. Optical realization of a variety of polarization configurations confirms the reliability and flexibility of our method.

We present an idea based on Poincaré sphere and demonstrate the creation of a new type of vector fields, which have hybrid states of polarization. Such a type of hybridly polarized vector fields have completely different property from the reported scalar and vector fields. The novel vector fields are anticipated to result in new effects, phenomena, and applications.

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We predict a new category of optical orbital angular momentum that is associated with the curl of polarization and a kind of vector field with radial-variant hybrid states of polarization that can carry such novel optical orbital angular momentum. We present a scheme for creating the desired vector fields. Optical trapping experiments validate that the vector fields, which have no additional phase vortex, exert torques to drive the orbital motion of the trapped isotropic microspheres.