Analysis Features

How to debug CAD Import/Export Errors?

Relating to: CAD Export

OpticStudio uses two CAD libraries to render objects: SMS and Parasolid CAD libraries. There might be occasions when specific CAD parts cannot be properly rendered using either of CAD libraries. So, the first step of troubleshooting would be to switch the CAD libraries by unchecking (checking) “Use Parasolid Libraries” through Setup…OpticStudio preferences…General:

 

 

If the CAD object export runs into errors using both CAD libraries, you may need to make sure that the object is not oversized. For example, solids with dimensions larger than approximately 1×10^4 are not supported by the Parasolid libraries. This can be avoided by changing the lens units, say change the lens units from millimeters to meters.

In the next step, the following items about the CAD object need to be inspected inside your CAD platform:

OpticStudio only imports solids. No lines or surfaces are allowed. Distinctive lines and Surfaces need to be removed from the model before exporting STP files.

Shells must be converted to thin solids before being imported into OpticStudio.

Solids must be simply closed with a continuous exterior surface without holes or gaps.

No internal surfaces or faces are allowed.

Solids composed of multiple solid volumes either in contact or overlapping cannot be ray traced. Any contact or overlapping need to be removed before exporting STP files from your CAD platform. Multiple volumes not in contact are allowed.