Efficient approach for generating vortex sources with arbitrary orbital angular momentum in acoustic experiments

In theoretical research framework of acoustics or optics, how to provide stable and efficient experimental vortex sources with arbitrary orbital angular momentum (OAM) (especially with larger OAM) is a highly challenging research topic. Here, we propose and demonstrate the general principle of two different methods to generate vortex sources with arbitrary OAM, based on the point-sources array and acoustic metamaterials, respectively. Specifically, the general synthetic law is summarized from the analytical perspective behind generating two-dimensional vortex waves using different point sources with different phases, and the design flexibility of acoustic metamaterials is also utilized to provide an ideal solution for generating vortex sources with larger OAM. Besides, we qualitatively and quantitatively determine the OAM of generated vortex waves through simple formulas, and briefly discuss the applicability and stability of two different methods with complementary advantages. The principles of vortex sources generation revealed in this work provide direct theoretical support for the experimental exploration of interactions between multiphysics fields and complex media, with potential applications in vortex fields manipulation and OAM detection.