  We introduce a method that can orthogonalize any pure continuous variable
quantum state, i.e. generate a state $|\psi_\perp>$ from $|\psi>$ where
$<\psi|\psi_\perp> = 0$, which does not require significant a priori knowledge
of the input state. We illustrate how to achieve orthogonalization using the
Jaynes-Cummings or beam-splitter interaction, which permits realization in a
number of systems. Furthermore, we demonstrate how to orthogonalize the
motional state of a mechanical oscillator in a cavity optomechanics context by
developing a set of coherent phonon level operations. As the mechanical
oscillator is a stationary system such operations can be performed at multiple
times, providing considerable versatility for quantum state engineering
applications. Utilizing this, we additionally introduce a method how to
transform any known pure state into any desired target state.
