The new release of Ansys includes a number of changes in the field of optics and photonics. Two areas are of particular importance: linking different tools (interoperability) and GPU usage.

Interoperability: Linking Different Tools

There are now two ways to switch from Zemax OpticStudio to Speos. Either a reduced model (ROM) can be used, or the complete design can be exported via a new interface called Optical Design Exchange (ODX). This allows geometries as well as optical properties and sensors to be transferred. A comprehensive scattered light analysis of the complete system created in Zemax can then be carried out in Speos.

The new Ansys version enables more powerful optomechanical analyses with STAR in OpticStudio, so that multiphysical effects can be analyzed more efficiently. In addition, a new workflow between Zemax and Lumerical can be used for metalenses. The connection between Lumerical and Speos has also been enhanced.

Interoperability: The linking of Speos, Zemax OpticStudio and Lumerical has been further improved with Ansys 2024 R1 to facilitate shared use. | © Ansys

Time savings thanks to GPU-based calculations

The GPU options of the Lumerical FDTD solver (finite difference method in the time domain) have been significantly expanded. This has resulted in both better mesh performance and much faster calculations. Speos has a new user interface for the live preview, which is based on GPU calculations. This makes it possible to immediately recognize the influence of changed material parameters in the live preview and evaluate whether the changes produce the desired result. Overall, the new intuitive user interface speeds up processing and increases the efficiency of the simulation environment.

In addition, the Lumerical Sub-wavelength Model can now be used in Speos for GPU-based calculations. This is complemented by a new concept of physical camera sensors, which support fast, direct simulation during camera development. In a sample project, this reduced the simulation time by a factor of 300, from 24 hours to five minutes, with roughly the same calculation accuracy.

Overall, Ansys 2024 R1 utilizes the strengths of GPU simulation in the field of optics and photonics very comprehensively. Take a look at our CADFEM webinars on this topic!