This article describes how to import CAD objects into ZEMAX, using

• STL
• IGES
• STEP
• SAT

file formats. The choice of CAD format you use is likely to be based on the CAD program you use. STL is good for objects that are inherently faceted, or where you will use stereolithography to generate rapid prototypes. IGES and STEP are CAD exchange standards, and the choice between them will probably be based on the quality of your CAD program's export routines. SAT format will be used if your CAD program is based on the ACIS engine.

Non-sequential objects are 3D volumes. Thin-film coatings, and scattering functions, are surface properties of these 3D volumes. This article explains:

• The concept of the "face number" of an object
• How thin-film coatings and scattering functions are applied to the various faces of an object
• Special issues involved in applying these properties to CAD objects

This article explains the range of ZEMAX surfaces and objects than can be exactly defined using NURBS, and gives an example of exporting high-order aspheres.

ZEMAX supports the ability to perform Boolean operations on volume NSC objects. This feature allows operations such as adding objects together, subtracting one object from another, or defining an object as the intersection volume of two objects. The resulting trimmed object may have properties assigned to each resulting face independently.

This article discusses how to use the Boolean object and the Combine Objects Tool.

This article is also available in Japanese.

ZEMAX exports ray information into IGES, STEP and SAT CAD file formats, however SolidWorks™ does not read this information in by default.  This article describes how to get SolidWorks to show the rays inside the exported data files.

This article explains what the Zexport.msg file is and what it is used for.