Advanced Topics in LightTools^®: COM Macro Programming, Photorealistic Rendering, and Optimization

This 2-day course provides a practical overview of the LightTools Optimzation Module, COM Macro Programming, and Photorealistic Rendering capabilities. The course includes lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on computer workshop sessions. Familiarity with LightTools basic features is assumed.

The LightTools Optimization Module is a fully integrated system optimization tool. The course will provide background on the optimization process, and explore the range of available variables and customized performance goals.

The COM Macro Programming capability allows users to automate tasks within LightTools. The course will use Excel Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) to control LightTools. Basic programming experience is helpful, although proficiency in VBA is not necessary.

The LightTools photorealistic rendering engine enables designers to generate high-quality images of LightTools models that appear to be digital photographs. Specification of surface finishes to simulate the visual appearance of surfaces is detailed. Controlling the illumination of the scene to include self-lit (LightTools sources) and studio lighting is demonstrated.

Topics covered in the course include: COM Macro Programming Accessing LightTools via Excel's VBA COM interface LightTools JumpStart Macro Library Direct database access Photorealistic Rendering Creating Photorealistic Renderings Self-lit Rendering Finishes, Shaders, and Studio Elements Output Controls Optimization Defining merit functions, variables and constraints Merit function considerations when optimizing illumination systems Controlling the optimization Use of pickups, aliases, and numeric parameters for efficient optimization

Classes begin at 8:30 a.m. and end at 5:30 p.m. each day, with coffee and lunch breaks at appropriate times. Hands-on workshops are held throughout the day. One computer will be provided for each two attendees. Students wishing to work independently are welcome to bring their own laptop (with Microsoft Excel installed)  will receive a $200 discount on their registration.

Who Should Attend?

Any engineer, designer, or scientist who wants to learn how to use LightTools Optimization, COM Macro Programming, or Photorealistic Rendering features will benefit from this course. Familiarity with LightTools is assumed.

Registration and Fees

The fee for this short course is $600 for students who bring their own laptop (with Microsoft Excel installed) to use during the workshops; $800 if you would like ORA to provide a computer. This includes instruction, computer resources, course notes, and refreshments.

Attendance is limited. Pre-registration with payment must be made at least three weeks before the start of the course. The fee is refundable up to that point. (A $200 fee is charged for later cancellations.)

ORA Training Registration Phone: (626) 795-9101 Fax: (626) 795-0184 E-mail: service@opticalres.com

Location

The seminar will be held at:

Optical Research Associates 3280 East Foothill Blvd., Ste 300 Pasadena, California 91107 Phone: (626)795-9101 Fax: (626)795-0184 Directions and accommodation information will be faxed/mailed upon receipt of registration.

Mary Kate Crawford, Ph.D. is a Systems Engineer/Technical Consultant in Customer Service. Dr. Crawford provides technical support for both LightTools and CODE V and has over 10 years optical design experience.

Mali Maliyagoda is a Senior Optical Engineer/Technical Consultant in Customer Service. Mr. Maliyagoda provides technical support for LightTools and has over 8 years experience in illumination design.

Jake Jacobsen, Ph. D. is the LightTools Product Manager and is responsible for planning new product features in LightTools. Dr. Jacobsen has over 10 years optical design experience.

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