The special affine Fourier transformation (SAFT) is a generalization of the fractional Fourier transformation (FRT) and represents the most general lossless inhomogeneous linear mapping, in phase space, as the integral transformation of a wave function. Here we first summarize the most well-known optical operations on lightwave functions (i.e., the FRT, lens transformation, free-space propagation, and magnification), in a unified way, from the viewpoint of the one-parameter Abelian subgroups of the SAFT. Then we present a new operation, which is the Lorentz-type hyperbolic transformation in phase space and exhibits squeezing. We also show that the SAFT including these five operations can be generated from any two independent operations.

The fractional Fourier transform (FRT) is known to be optically implementable with use of a medium with a perfect radial quadratic-index profile. Using the quantum-mechanical operator formalism, we examine the effects on the FRT action of such a medium that are due to small random inhomogeneities in the longitudinal direction, the direction of propagation, and we formulate the random fractional Fourier transform (RFRT). Applying the RFRT to a self-fractional Fourier function, a Gaussian function, we discuss both the total power and the variance. The random Fourier transform is examined as a special limiting case.