Synopsys Inc.'s LightTools is a 3D optical
engineering and design software product that supports virtual prototyping,
simulation, optimization and photorealistic renderings of illumination
applications and LightTools version 7.1 now delivers new analytical
capabilities that speed the development of luminaires, particularly for general
lighting and automotive applications. New user interface features maximized
working area and flexibility to help boost designers' productivity throughout
the design and verification process.
LightTools 7.1 adds support for IES photometry types A and B
for orienting intensity data for both far-field and surface receivers. This
simplifies the analysis of sources with non-rotationally symmetric output, such
as automotive headlamps, tail lamps and interior lighting. LightTools 7.1
contains a utility for automatically generating photometric reports in the
standardized IES format; IES Indoor, Flood and Road Report types are all
supported.
A new analysis feature in LightTools 7.1 lets users
superimpose illuminance data on any user-defined plane in the 3D model, helping
them quickly understand the shape and orientation of the distribution across a
receiver relative to the model geometry.
A new CIE color difference capability provides a mechanism
for calculating and optimizing spatial or angular color differences in a
system. This analysis is useful for designers whose goal is to produce an even
color distribution across an entire display, for applications ranging from flat
panel displays and projectors to display backlights and LED-based luminaires.
Improvements to the user interface in LightTools 7.1 provide
new ways to organize and maximize desktop workspace. Specifically, 3D design
views and analysis charts are now presented in tabbed or floating windows. This
gives users the flexibility to make a 3D view as large as desired while still
having rapid access to other windows via tabs. Dialog boxes, such as Properties
and Preferences, can be moved outside the LightTools window to a second
monitor, if available.
