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Solution Updates

SmartStart Library Updates

The SmartStart Library, an extensive collection of optical data for commercially available diffusers, reflectors, mold textures, plastics, and glasses, can be licensed for use in LucidShape, LucidShape CAA V5 Based, or LightTools. By leveraging the SmartStart Library, you can significantly enhance your optical design process and achieve more accurate results. Discover the full potential of the SmartStart Library in our blog article.

The latest updates include a new catalog for Nihon Etching micro textures as well as additional optical properties and materials from well-known manufacturers including Mold Tech.

To achieve the most accurate simulation results, we recommend downloading the new quarterly release, and replacing those datasets in your downloaded SmartStart Library with these newly published ones.

To access the SmartStart library updates and installation instructions:

1. Log into SolvNetPlus.

2. Click one of the following links:

If you are not currently licensing the SmartStart Library and would like to learn more, read our datasheet. You can also contact the SmartStart Library team at smartstart_support@synopsys.com

New CODE V Example Models

CODE V example models provide opportunities to explore CODE V’s extensive design and analysis capabilities as you work on practical examples. Get a head start designing your next imaging application with example models in CODE V.  We have recently added the following example models to :

BSP Applied: Nanolaser Source

BSP Applied: Nanolaser Source

This example demonstrates how to use the BSP option for modeling the beam propagation from a nanolaser source. We discuss the beam input parameters and the propagation settings.

Constraints for Reducing Sensitivity

Constraints for Reducing Sensitivity

This example demonstrates how to use optimization with SN2 and SNS constraints, in order to reduce the tolerance sensitivity.

Reduce Tolerance Sensitivity (SAB)

Reduce Tolerance Sensitivity (SAB)

This example model demonstrates the workflow of how to use Reduce Tolerance Sensitivity merit function (SAB) in Automatic Design.

TOR Intro: Singlet

TOR Intro: Singlet

In this example, we will use TOR to analyze the sensitivity of a singlet lens and determine the tolerance and compensator values.

MWIR Design: Element Reduction

MWIR Design: Element Reduction

This example discusses a workflow on how to remove an element from a starting point spherical design by introducing aspheres. The workflow is demonstrated with a mid-wave infrared (MWIR) system, although the technique is not limited to MWIR.

Aberration-based Freeform Design

Aberration-based Freeform Design

This example introduces an aberration-based design approach. We apply this approach to reduce field-dependent aberrations in an off-axis three-mirror anastigmat system.

Control Aspheric Inflection Point

Control Aspheric Inflection Point

This example demonstrates how to prevent aspheric inflection point with optimization. This is achieved with a user-defined function by pushing the inflection point outside of the aperture.

Logo Lamp Workflow I

Logo Lamp Workflow I

A logo lamp system is used to project a personalized/brand-specific logo. This example demonstrates how to design a collimator lens for an automotive logo lamp.

Logo Lamp Workflow II

Logo Lamp Workflow II

For a logo lamp system, the projection lens projects the pattern on the mask to a logo on the ground. This example demonstrates how to design a three-element projection lens.  

Pixel Light Workflow II

Pixel Light Workflow II

This example demonstrates the workflow of using CODE V to design a pixel headlamp. We will start with the final design from Part I, design with aspheric surfaces, reduce system F/Number, substitute with real glasses, analyze the system for display to roadway performance, and export the design.

To download the new CODE V example models:

  1. Log into .
  2. Click . 
  3. Under File Name, click the link for the example model to download and on the file page, click Download.
  4. From the download location on your computer, open the .ZIP file and move the folder it contains to your desired location (for example, cvuser).

Expert Insights and Tips

Augment Your Optical Engineering Resources

Looking for optical design services? Partner with a world-class engineering team that has worked on significant space telescope projects, from the Hubble servicing mission to Webb. We offer services in precision imaging, illumination, photonic design, and complete optical systems. Whether you need full project management or specific expert advice, you'll benefit from our top-tier design expertise, advanced software tools, and practical, cost-effective solutions. Our mission is to deliver high-quality results focused on your success.

Expand Your Knowledge Base

Upcoming Tech Talks: Stay Ahead with Application-Focused Topics

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Tech Talks On Demand

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New Foundation Courses Available

Latest SolvNetPlus Knowledge Base Articles

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Support Resources on SolvNetPlus

View knowledge articles, training courses, user group presentations and more on SolvNetPlus. Bookmark these links:


Please note that you must be logged into  first before you click on a SolvNetPlus link.

View this tip for finding resources on SolvNetPlus. 

For Students and Professors

Computer with floating papers | 草榴社区

Have recent publications?

We are always looking for papers that utilize our tools. Have your students published any research in the areas of AR/VR, machine learning, optical design, or photonics? If so, please send us references! Our team of lifelong learners is passionate about following advances in these fields, especially those most relevant to our users.

Thank you for your contributions and for inspiring the community with your work.

Events

Meet us at these upcoming events:

  • OFC - 1-3 April 2025 | San Francisco, CA
  •  - 10-14 June 2025 | Stuttgart, Germany
  • LucidShape User Group Meeting - 16-17 June 2025 | Munich, Germany
  •  - 24-27 June 2025 | Munich, Germany

Follow Us

草榴社区 staff at SPIE Photonics West in San Francisco, CA on 28-30 January 2025. We celebrated LightTools' 30th and CODE V's 50th anniversaries with a Happy Hour at the booth. | 草榴社区

草榴社区 staff at SPIE Photonics West in San Francisco, CA on 28-30 January 2025. We celebrated LightTools' 30th and CODE V's 50th anniversaries with a Happy Hour at the booth.

Missed an enews? View the directory of past enews.