Simulation and optimization of volume holographic imaging systems in Zemax

We present a new methodology for ray-tracing analysis of volume holographic imaging (VHI) systems. Using the k-sphere formulation, we apply geometrical relationships to describe the volumetric diffraction effects imposed on rays passing through a volume hologram. We explain the k-sphere formulation in conjunction with ray tracing process and describe its implementation in a Zemax UDS (User Defined Surface). We conclude with examples of simulation and optimization results and show proof of consistency and usefulness of the proposed model.