LightTrans recently introduced its VirtualLab 5 software for field tracing during the design of optical systems. Field tracing is a technique based on considerations of harmonic fields and provides more information than ray tracing about the light in optical simulations. The approach allows the software to take into account diffraction, interference and polarisation effects, and aberrations caused by optimisation of the simulation. The software supports the design of different types of micro-structured elements being used in highly compact optical systems.
VirtualLab 5 offers several optimisation methods including local and global parametric optimisation, the iterative Fourier transform algorithm, and a design algorithm for grating cell arrays. These methods enable the design of diffractive beam splitters, diffusers, and shapers, elements for shaping LED light, and gratings, as well as the optimisation of laser systems.