What’s new in our Optical Modeling and Design Software?

We are pleased to announce the release of VirtualLab Fusion (Build 7.5.0.158)!
In order to be able to use this update, the update service must include the 1^st quarter of 2019.

C# modules in VirtualLab Fusion give total freedom to the user for different calculation purposes. They can be implemented fast for relatively simple tasks based on given formulas while, at the same time, the C# module retains the capacity to interact with typical documents inside VirtualLab Fusion. For example, we demonstrate how to realize the grating period calculation (based on a given formula) for lightguide coupling in a C# module, as well as the computation of the deviation between two fields inside VirtualLab Fusion.

Slanted gratings play an important role in modern waveguide-based near-eye display devices for AR/MR applications. In VirtualLab Fusion, the performance of slanted gratings can be rigorously analyzed with the Fourier modal method (FMM, also known as RCWA). And, in combination with the evolutionary algorithm from optiSLang, we show how to optimize the parameters of a slanted grating structure for user-specified targets, e.g. good uniformity over the desired FOV or high coupling efficiencies on average.<u class="msoIns"> </u>

Diffractive gratings are often used to couple light into lightguides, and that forms the basis of the near-eye display devices for AR/MR applications. For vision purposes, the diffraction efficiency of the coupling grating must be optimized over a certain field of view (FOV). That is a challenging task. Using the rigorous Fourier modal method (FMM, also known as RCWA) in VirtualLab Fusion, and the evolutionary algorithm from optiSLang, an optimized grating structure that delivers good uniformity over the desired FOV can be obtained.

Gratings are often used for coupling light out of or into lightguides. How to optimize the coupling efficiency is always an important issue in such cases. The coupling gratings usually have feature sizes comparable with the wavelength and therefore require a rigorous modeling technique. VirtualLab Fusion provides convenient tools for the configuration of the grating structures, the rigorous Fourier modal method (FMM) for grating analysis, and also the parametric optimization method. With the combination of these technologies, a practical workflow for coupling grating optimization is presented.

A few weeks ago LightTrans had the pleasure of being interviewed by SCHOTT. The technology magazine focused this time on the theme "Real digital"; LightTrans seems therefore a very fitting interviewee choice – not only because of our software, but also because of a long-lasting collaboration and the physical proximity between the two companies.

SPIE Photonics West 2019 is just around the corner. Besides the SPIE exhibition you can attend our FREE seminars on February 7^th and 8^th. Both seminars are organized by LightTrans and you can therefore register for them using the registration form on our website. Take the chance and save your seat now!

Lightguide structures play a role in various applications nowadays, from integrated optics to modern display technology. Coupling light out of or into the lightguide is therefore an issue of concern for all lightguide-based applications. Such tasks are usually realized with diffractive gratings, since they can be integrated with the lightguide using modern fabrication techniques. In VirtualLab Fusion, the coupling efficiency can be rigorously calculated with the Fourier modal method (FMM). As an example, we analyzed several selected slanted gratings, and the simulation results show good agreement with those from literature.