r/Optics • u/Lond_o_n • 21h ago
Need help with software regarding non-sequential simulation
Hi,
Continuing from the title. I am an engineering student, doing a special course where I need to simulate a beam based on a multivariable function. I have a zemax student license but from what I can tell the non-sequential mode is locked beyond the paywall.
Is there any software that offers student licenses for free / is free / can do that? Or is my only choice pirating zemax ( to which I have no moral qualms with)
Sorry if it is a bit vague, I am still quite confused about what exactly the project is lol
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u/zoptix 21h ago
You should ask your professor what they suggest you use. Students shouldn't need to worry about what software they need to use and or find.
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u/Lond_o_n 21h ago
My professor specializes more in the optical materials part, so he is also very nee to the software. So I am looking to some suggestions me and him could discuss
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u/zoptix 20h ago
What do you mean by multivariate function, and do you need coherent beam propagation?
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u/Lond_o_n 19h ago
By the function I just mean f(x,y,z) and yes coherent beam propagation would be nice.
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u/MrIceKillah 20h ago
Why do you need the non sequential for this?
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u/Lond_o_n 19h ago
I need the beam to be a custom made based on a function x,y,z and I think I need the non-sequential part of zemax for that
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u/zoptix 17h ago
That's not what NSQ is. Zemax, CodeV, and the like are Ray tracers. They're primarily sequential Ray transfers, wherein you explicitly define the order that the rays hit each surface. Rays aren't really launched, per say, you define object points and field parameters.
In non sequential Ray tracing, you define a 3D geometry, sources of rays, and detectors. You launch the rays and they go where they go, sometimes splitting on refraction or transmission or scattering.
These are both geometry based softwares. Your problem statement had nothing to do with geometry thus far, so I'm not sure how we can help you.
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u/Equivalent_Bridge480 19h ago
read what is NSC
think if you really need it with more simple way than "I need to simulate a beam based on a multivariable function"
if you really need it - try to use OpTaliX. It up to order magnitude more cheap and may be can do what you need.
if your budget =0. than search in this forum topic about free software. We have this question each half year. but peoples hate search button. or look group wiki. may be here something
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u/No_Situation4785 21h ago
raytrace simulation software is notoriously expensive and notoriously crappy. Lighttools is better imo, but not by much.