This article explains the operation of the MTF operands, and the choice of sampling schemes and algorithms available

The Orthogonal Descent optimizer is a new algorithm specifically designed for the optimization of pure non-sequential systems. This article describes what the Orthogonal Descent optimizer is, how to use it, and gives some examples of its use.

This article explains:

• The limitations of traditional glass choice methods like Conrady d-D and the use of model glasses
• How to use the Glass Substitution method for direct glass optimization
• How to further restrict glass choice to include factors like glass availability, cost, climate resistance etc.

This article is also available in Japanese.

This article describes work I did to improve an existing infrared lamp heater in a so called horizontal geometry MOCVD reactor. ZEMAX was used to model and optimize the heater geometry using non-sequential ray-tracing.

This article describes how to optimize a free-form mirror to improve the brightness of an LED source. A brightness increase of 13x is achieved.

It is also a useful guide to the optimization of any general non-sequential system, and includes tips, techniques and (how to avoid) pitfalls in the optimization of such systems.

This article is also available in Japanese.

This article explains how to utilize a user-defined macro to calculate and return a value to the Merit Function Editor for optimization.

ZEMAX has several features that improve non-sequential optimization effiiciency. In this article, we re-optimize a free form mirror using pixel interpolation and added capabilities of the NSDD merit function operand.

This article explains how to use the TOLR operand to perform an optimization that fully accounts for all manufacturing defects. The technique is robust and stable, and takes full advantage of ZEMAX' ability to run large calculations over multiple processors.

This article is also available in Japanese.