Getting Started with OpticsBuilder

Getting Started with OpticsBuilder
Learn how to easily convert optical designs into CAD, analyze the affect mechanical components have on optical performance by performing a stray light check, and easily create ISO 10110 optical drawings with automated data. Follow these tutorials to work more efficiently with the optical product team and speed up your time to market with better accuracy.

Get Started:

OpticsBuilder licensing and installation

This article explains the installation and licensing process for OpticsBuilder. OpticsBuilder uses the Zemax License Manager to manage access to License Administrators and End Users. Installation of the Zemax License Manager and OpticsBuilder software is discussed, as well as troubleshooting issues an End User could encounter. The Zemax Setup Troubleshooter tool is introduced as a new tool to analyze an End User computer and highlight installation and licensing issues.

OpticsBuilder licensing and installation

Prepare for OpticsBuilder
Learn how the Prepare for OpticsBuilder tool converts OpticStudio lens files (ZMX and ZAR files) to the ZBD file format that helps to maintain design fidelity through handoff to other design team members, such as CAD users that use OpticsBuilder. Prepare for OpticsBuilder prepares the file to be sent out by converting to non-sequential, generating critical rays, gathering automated drawing information, and packaging everything into one file format.

Prepare for OpticsBuilder

How to load an OpticsBuilder (.ZBD) file

The Prepare for OpticsBuilder feature inside of OpticStudio ensures that all supporting data is grouped with the optical design. The data includes (but is not limited to): the lens material, coatings, source definition, and manufacturing drawing data. The resulting OpticsBuilder (.ZBD) file loads all necessary information into the CAD software.

How to load an OpticsBuilder (.ZBD) file for Creo

How to perform a simulation in OpticsBuilder

The .ZBD file created from the Prepare for OpticsBuilder tool in OpticStudio contains all of the design information as well as the relevant simulation settings. Using the default settings, an OpticsBuilder user can immediately begin the design phase and simulate performance with a single click in the Command Manager.

How to perform a simulation in OpticsBuilder for Creo

OpticsBuilder drawing tutorial


Learn how to use OpticsBuilder to create automated drawings, including drawings with custom templates, within CREO.

OpticsBuilder drawing tutorial for Creo