Software for tolerance analysis of optical systems

A new program for the tolerancing of optical designs is presented. This software was developed using a combination of theoretical understanding and practical experience. A comprehensive sensitivity analysis provides insight into the key parameters. Tolerance editors allow the user to define satisfactory tolerances in an interactive process involving parameter and defect variations; a key feature is the statistical prediction of system performance, which provides rapid feedback on the impact of any change. The production of a batch of optical systems under the current tolerances can be modeled in a Monte Carlo simulation; the resultant aberration variations are shown in multiple dynamic graphs.