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On ray tracing for sharp changing media
Jorge A Ramos Oliveira1, Arturo Baltazar1, Mario Castelán1
1Robótica y Manufactura Avanzada, CINVESTAV, Ramos Arizpe, Coahuila 25900, Mexico.
The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America
|October 9, 2019
Summary
This study presents an enhanced numerical algorithm for ray tracing, combining two classical methods. The new approach effectively handles both sharp and gradual changes in refractive index for improved imaging and inversion techniques.
Area of Science:
- Computational physics
- Optics
- Numerical analysis
Background:
- Ray tracing is crucial for modern imaging and inversion.
- Existing algorithms suit either sharp or gradual material property changes.
- A unified approach is needed for diverse media.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce an enhanced numerical ray tracing algorithm.
- To address limitations of current methods in varied media.
- To demonstrate applicability to initial-value problems.
Main Methods:
- Combining two classical ray tracing implementations.
- Solving ordinary differential equations with initial-value conditions.
- Utilizing the shooting method for ray path computation.
Main Results:
- The enhanced algorithm effectively traces rays in media with sharp refractive index changes.
- The algorithm also performs well in media with gradual refractive index variations.
- Demonstrated successful application of ray path computation.
Conclusions:
- The proposed enhanced ray tracing algorithm offers versatility.
- It is suitable for media with both abrupt and smooth property variations.
- This method advances numerical techniques in optical modeling.
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