Abstract

The design of gradient index optical systems has advanced to the point where gradients can now be treated in much the same way as homogeneous degrees of freedom. Although many authors have restricted their gradients to radial type geometries with only plano surfaces, these limitations have for some time been overcome, and therefore, gradients bounded by curves or aspheric surfaces are now possible, at least in theory. The analytic tools for describing the performance of gradient index systems have been well described. These lens systems can now be evaluated from aberration theory, ray trace analysis, modulation transfer functions, and wavefront aberrations. At least one optimization routine has been written which permits the gradient profile to be varied in the same way as other construction parameters in homogeneous lenses. Therefore, the tools are in place for the automatic design of many different types of lens systems.

© 1981 Optical Society of America