Ray tracing for ophthalmic optics: specific developments for GRIN materials

Abstract

In this work we present the developments for the simulation of image formation through an ophthalmic lens. The procedure is, essentially an exact ray tracing taking into account the particular mobility conditions of the exit pupil. This leads to the computation of astigmatism as a function of the field angle considered. In the computer program, the use of a commercial glass with a gradient in the refractive index (GRIN material) is foreseen. This latter feature proves to be useful for two practical objectives: modifying the power and the astigmatism of the lens. To illustrate these points, an example based on a lens made by deforming a plane parallel plate of GRIN material will be presented.