We present a model for the optical design of gradient-index (GRIN) media of general rotationally symmetric form, based on any number of constituent materials. This is achieved by modelling the relative composition of the medium as a function of space in a form that may be readily converted to refractive index and its derivatives, and is also suitable for optimisation in lens design software. This model is used in the optical design of a singlet GRIN eyepiece where we demonstrate equivalent performance to a multi-element homogeneous design. We show the potential of such media for correction of both chromatic and monochromatic aberrations. Whilst conventional optical systems depend on a set of homogeneous media bounded by discontinuous surfaces, such arbitrary GRIN media introduce the scope for a class of continuous optical systems where the majority of optical work is performed by GRIN media. We explore concepts for the optical design of such systems.

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Andrew M. Boyd, "Optical design of multi-material, general rotationally symmetric GRIN lenses," Proc. SPIE 10998, Advanced Optics for Imaging Applications: UV through LWIR IV, 109980J (Presented at SPIE Defense + Commercial Sensing: April 15, 2019; Published: 14 May 2019); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2518107.