Software update enhances asymmetric & freeform optical design

Enhanced computations for systems without symmetry

CODE V 10.8 includes algorithmic enhancements to yield highly accurate first-order computations during ray tracing of asymmetric optical systems, including those with tilted and de-centred components as well as freeform surfaces. The computations are based on a rigorous approach that analyses the matrix optics behaviour of imaging systems and allows superior control of the optical system baseline attributes when using CODE V's powerful optimisation engine. This approach is particularly useful for the analysis of systems such as helmet-mounted displays, optics-enabled wearables, segmented aperture telescopes, HUDs and unobscured reflective systems.

Extended formulation for aspheric surfaces

Aspheric surfaces in CODE V, based on the Qbfs mathematical formulations published by Dr. G.W. Forbes, have been extended to support a non-zero conic constant. The extended formulations provide improved manufacturability of strong aspheres assuming interferometric testing. The new formulations are particularly useful for the design of compact optical systems that benefit from the use of aspheres to adhere to stringent packaging and image resolution requirements.

Macro-PLUS enhancements

CODE V's Macro-PLUS programming capabilities offer optical designers flexibility to automate and streamline their optimisation, analysis and tolerancing workflows. CODE V 10.8 includes several new built-in optical functions, improved access to optical database information and updated example macros to further extend the ability of users to customise CODE V to their own requirements.

NHG glass catalogue

CODE V has added the NHG glass catalog from Hubei New Huaguang Information Materials. to the programme's materials library. The NHG catalogue has been integrated into CODE V features such as Glass Expert, which automatically selects the best set of glasses for a lens design to maximise performance while controlling manufacturing costs.

George Bayz, Vice President and General Manager, Optical Solutions Group, Synopsys, commented: "The updates in Synopsys' CODE V 10.8 help streamline the design of innovative optical applications. For example, we've strengthened CODE V's industry-leading analysis and optimisation capabilities with computational enhancements specifically targeted to address the unique challenges of optical systems containing tilted and de-centred elements."

CODE V version 10.8 is available now. Customers with a current maintenance agreement can download this version from the Synopsys website using their SolvNet account.