Reversible vertical positioning of acoustically levitated particle using a spiral reflector

Abstract

Dynamic positioning in acoustic levitation typically depends on active control of the transducers phases, which necessitates complex driving electronics. While mechanically actuated reflectors offer a simpler alternative, achieving reversible transport along the vertical axis solely through mechanical actuation remains challenging. Here, we demonstrate vertical particle translation using a rotating spiral reflector with a half-wavelength pitch. With the rotation axis laterally offset relative to the acoustic focus, the spiral surface functions as a series of translating slopes. Experimental and numerical results confirm stable, bidirectional transport, yielding a vertical displacement of approximately $0.58\lambda$ per revolution and a maximum height of $3.18\lambda$, with radial confinement maintained within $0.24\lambda$. This approach provides a cost-effective solution for non-contact sample handling without active phase control.