Open AccessFresnel-Gaussian shape invariant for optical ray tracing
Author(s) -
Moisés Cywiak,
Arquímedes Morales,
J. Mauricio Flores,
Manuel Servı́n
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
optics express
Language(s) - Uncategorized
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.394
H-Index - 271
ISSN - 1094-4087
DOI - 10.1364/oe.17.010564
Subject(s) - optics , ray tracing (physics) , gaussian , physics , ray transfer matrix analysis , diffraction , fresnel diffraction , fresnel zone , fresnel number , geometrical optics , gaussian beam , refractive index , invariant (physics) , distributed ray tracing , ray , fresnel equations , position (finance) , beam tracing , beam (structure) , finance , quantum mechanics , economics , mathematical physics
We propose a technique for ray tracing, based in the propagation of a Gaussian shape invariant under the Fresnel diffraction integral. The technique uses two driving independent terms to direct the ray and is based on the fact that at any arbitrary distance, the center of the propagated Gaussian beam corresponds to the geometrical projection of the center of the incident beam. We present computer simulations as examples of the use of the technique consisting in the calculation of rays through lenses and optical media where the index of refraction varies as a function of position.