Did you know that TracePro has recently introduced a groundbreaking feature that allows it to model diffractive optical elements, or DOEs? These DOEs utilize the phenomenon of diffraction to precisely bend light into multiple orders at specific angles, presenting a remarkable solution to various optical design challenges. The incorporation of DOEs in optical systems brings about a host of advantages, including compactness, lightweight construction, and the ability to create innovative and efficient designs. The applications of DOEs span across a wide range of fields such as illumination, lithography, biomedical imaging, and many more.
With the latest update, both the Standard and Expert editions of TracePro now offer the capability to model diffractive optical elements, expanding the possibilities for optical design and analysis. To facilitate this, three new Surface Property types have been introduced: Holographic Optical Element (HOE), Computer Generated Hologram (CGH), and Zernike phase. Each of these property types serves a specific purpose in modeling DOEs. The Computer-Generated Hologram surface, for instance, can be configured as Radially symmetric, Asymmetric x-y, or Asymmetric (absolute value), allowing for precise control over the diffraction patterns produced by the DOEs.
Furthermore, the seamless integration between TracePro and OSLO enables users to effortlessly import DOE designs created in the latter software. This interoperability ensures that designers and engineers can leverage their existing designs and seamlessly transition them into TracePro for further analysis and optimization.
By incorporating the modeling of diffractive optical elements, TracePro has solidified its position as a comprehensive and powerful optical design software. Designers and engineers can now unlock the full potential of their optical systems and explore new avenues for solving complex design challenges. Whether you are working on a cutting-edge illumination system, a breakthrough biomedical imaging device, or any other application that requires precise control over light, TracePro's ability to model DOEs will undoubtedly be an invaluable asset in your design process.
Figure 1: LED with DOE lens
Figure 2: HOE reflection grating example in TracePro showing 1st and 2nd orders
Figure 3: CGH lens example in TracePro
See it in Action!