| Optimization is used to improve the performance of an optical system based upon an initial design. |
ZEMAX uses a powerful actively damped least squares optimization algorithm. Any number of variables may be simultaneously optimized, using either a user defined or one of the default merit functions. An infinite number of different user defined merit functions may be created using any of the hundreds of predefined controls. |
Merit functions |
| The 20 default merit functions include minimization of peak-to- valley or RMS, of either spot radius, x, y, x + y, or wavefront error, referenced to either the chief ray or the centroid. Other physically significant merit functions are available such as best MTF response or encircled energy. Frequently used merit functions may be stored independently of the lens as an option. |
The predefined targets include ray and construction data, as well as detailed boundary controls on lens and system data. Other optimization targets include aberration coefficients, macro computations, and many more. The merit function is easily edited and customized. |
Optimization over multiple configurations is simple and transparent. Equality, inequality, and Lagrange multiplier constraints are all supported with arbitrary weighting. |
Optimization variables |
| ZEMAX can optimize virtually any parameter in the system, including radii, thickness, glasses, conics, aspheric coefficients, grating spacings, apertures, wavelengths, fields, and more. Non-sequential position and parameter data may also be optimized. |
Easy to use |
| Optimization is very simple to use. First, define which parameters ZEMAX is free to optimize. Then define a merit function using the default merit function dialog box. Lastly, click on “Automatic” and ZEMAX does the rest. ZEMAX chooses optimal derivative increments and damping factors automatically at every iteration. |
ZEMAX can optionally display and update other windows during optimization, which provides valuable feedback on the evolution of the optical system. |
For even more advanced capability, ZEMAX can optimize any data computed either in a macro or by an externally written program designed to interface with ZEMAX. |
