Spectacle Optics is a suite of lens design and analysis tools for use by optics educators, students, and clinicians. Spectacle Optics was developed for the Windows operating system. The software comprises six modules:

Progressive Analysis. Analyze simple progressive lens designs and manipulate the variables that affect optical performance. Second-order and high-order aberrations are calculated for any point on the lens. Four different contour plots are available, which can also be analyzed on a point-by-point basis by moving the mouse over each plot.

Prescription Analysis. Analyze spectacle prescriptions and layout geometry. Prescription compensation values are calculated for lens tilt and vertex distance. Vertical imbalance at near and spectacle magnification are also calculated. Cut-out is also shown.

Optical Analysis. Analyze single vision spherical and aspheric lens designs and manipulate the variables that affect optical performance. The physical geometry of the lens is also calculated. The red vernier line can be moved by clicking and dragging in order to assess the optical performance of the lens at any viewing angle.

Geometrical Analysis. Analyze the relationship between objects and images for lenses, mirrors, and single surfaces using Gaussian optics. The red object can be moved by clicking and dragging in order to ray trace different object and conjugate image configurations.

Tscherning Analysis. Analyze the classic Tscherning ellipse and manipulate the variables that affect optical performance. The red vernier line can be moved by clicking and dragging in order to see the exact "best form" front curves for any prescription power.

Spectral Analysis. Analyze the transmittance and colorimetry data for an extensive range of lens materials and filters, including tinted and photochromic lenses. Charts of spectral transmittance and the CIE 1931 color space are available. Move the red vernier line to evaluate transmittance and refractive index as a function of wavelength.

Images from each module can be saved as bitmap (BMP) files. Extensive help documentation is also available.

Spectacle Optics v2.0 Beta

Once you download the Spectacle Optics v2.0 Beta file, extract the three installation files and run the 'setup.exe' file to install the program.

This software is intended for educational purposes only, and in no way represents the advice or direction of a licensed professional. Always use judgment when interpreting these results. This software is provided with no warranty, and by utilizing this software the user agrees to hold the author and his employer harmless from any liability or legal action that may result from its use.