Design of cycloidal rays in optical waveguides in analogy to the fastest descent problem

Abstract: In this work, we present the design of cycloidal waveguides from a gradient refractive index (GRIN) medium in analogy to the fastest descending problem in classical mechanics. Light rays propagate along cycloids in this medium, of which the refractive index can be determined from relating to the descending speed under gravity force. It can be used as GRIN lenses or waveguides, and the frequency specific focusing and imaging properties have been discussed. The results suggest that the waveguide can be viewed as an optical filter. Its frequency response characteristics change with the refractive index profile and the device geometries.