The mathematical theory of multifocal lenses

Abstract

This paper presents the fundamental optical concepts of designing multifocal ophthalmic lenses and the mathematical methods associated with them. In particular, it is shown that the design methodology is heavily based on differential geometric ideas such as Willmore surfaces. A key role is played by Hamilton’s eikonal functions. It is shown that these functions capture all the information on the local blur and distortion created by the lenses. Along the way, formulas for computing the eikonal functions are derived. Finally, the author lists a few intriguing mathematical problems and novel concepts in optics as future projects.

Keywords

Optical design / Differential geometry / Eikonal functions / Multifocal lenses

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