optikdesign

Optikdesign, or optical design in German-speaking contexts, is the discipline focused on the layout, modeling, and optimization of optical systems and components. It encompasses imaging devices, illumination systems, and laser instruments, and requires consideration of geometry, materials, coatings, and manufacturability.

Design work combines geometric optics for ray tracing with physical optics for wave effects. Practitioners create models to predict performance metrics such as aberrations, optical throughput, distortion, and wavefront error, and they optimize using merit functions. Common tools include Zemax, Code V, and Oslo for ray tracing and tolerancing, as well as illumination design software like LightTools. Analyses often employ Zernike polynomials for aberrations and modulation transfer function charts for image quality.

The design process typically proceeds from a specification to a preliminary design, followed by iterative optimization, tolerancing, and manufacturability assessment. Prototypes, metrology, and testing verify performance against requirements. Documentation and design reviews are standard to ensure alignment with budgets and timelines.

Optikdesign has applications across consumer electronics, automotive sensors, medical imaging, ophthalmic lenses, cameras, telescopes, and laser systems. It also plays a key role in augmented reality and virtual reality devices, where compact, high-performance optics are essential. The field intersects with mechanical, electrical, and software engineering to address integration and control challenges.

Educationally, professionals typically hold degrees in optical engineering, physics, or related fields, and work with multidisciplinary teams to translate optical specifications into manufacturable components.