Abstract
In the framework of geometrical optics, we consider the inverse problem consisting in obtaining refractive-index distributions of a two-dimensional transparent inhomogeneous isotropic medium from a known family of monochromatic light rays, lying on a given regular surface. Using some basic concepts of differential geometry, we establish a first-order linear partial differential equation relating the assigned family of light rays with all possible refractive-index profiles compatible with this family. In particular, we study the refractive-index distribution producing, as light rays, a given family of geodesic lines on some remarkable surfaces. We give appropriate examples to explain the theory.
© 2011 Optical Society of America
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