Generalized variational calculus in terms of multi-parameters fractional derivatives

In this paper, we briefly introduce two generalizations of work presented a few years ago on fractional variational formulations. In the first generalization, we consider the Hilfer’s generalized fractional derivative that in some sense interpolates between Riemann–Liouville and Caputo fractional derivatives. In the second generalization, we develop a fractional variational formulation in terms of a three parameter fractional derivative. We develop integration by parts formulas for the generalized fractional derivatives which are key to developing fractional variational calculus. It is shown that many derivatives used recently and their variational formulations can be obtained by setting different parameters to different values. We also define fractional generalized momenta and provide fractional Hamiltonian formulations in terms of the new generalized derivatives. An example is presented to show applications of the formulations presented here. Some possible extensions of this research are also discussed.

► Two new generalizations of fractional variational formulations are proposed. ► Firstly, fractional Euler -Lagrange equations are developed for functionals defined in terms of Hilfer fractional derivatives. ► Secondly, we develop a new fractional variational formulation involving a three parameter fractional derivative. ► Integration by parts formulas are developed for both cases.