Ansys, the global leader and innovator of engineering simulation software, announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Zemax, LLC, a leader in high-performance optical imaging system simulation. Once closed, the acquisition will expand the scope of Ansys' solution offering, giving users comprehensive, end-to-end solutions for simulating next-generation optical and photonics products. Those innovations range in scope from photonics-enabled circuits to precision vision systems to system-level illumination and could drive breakthroughs in healthcare, autonomy, consumer electronics and the industrial internet of things.
Modern products rely upon embedded optical systems for successful performance. Accurately imaging the physical world and predicting the performance of these imaging systems is critical in products as diverse as robotic surgery-assist systems, autonomous vehicles, machine vision cameras and aerospace and defense applications. These products depend on precision optical raytracing and reliable lens design, yet imaging system creation is an intricate task complicated by strict requirements for precision, tolerancing and manufacturability. Zemax provides users with unsurpassed precision and breadth in imaging simulation and optimization technologies.
With the addition of Zemax technologies, Ansys will offer customers a comprehensive solution for simulating the behavior of light in complex, innovative products – ranging from the microscale with the Ansys Lumerical™ photonics products, to the imaging of the physical world with Zemax, to human vision perception with Ansys Speos™. That comprehensive solution will enable users to create optimal designs more quickly by streamlining the workflow and communication among photonics, optical, mechanical and manufacturing engineers.
Based in Kirkland, Washington, Zemax has a 30-year track record of global success across industries. The company employs over 100 people around the world.
"Simulating the behavior of light – from creation to illumination – is becoming critical for the development of next-generation products," said Shane Emswiler, senior vice president, Ansys. "With the addition of the best-in-class technology from Zemax, Ansys' customers will benefit from a complete, end-to-end solution for simulating light."
"Zemax has been a leader in optical simulation since our founding 30 years ago," said S. Subbiah, CEO of Zemax. "Our mission is enabling customers to design sophisticated optical products and bring them to market faster. By joining forces with Ansys, we will quickly deliver Zemax's gold-standard imaging products to a wider audience and have an even greater impact on optical product development. It is a winning combination for our customers and for Ansys users across the globe."
Ansys entered into the definitive agreement to acquire Zemax with EQT Private Equity, the company's current owner. The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2021, subject to receipt of regulatory clearance and the satisfaction of other customary closing conditions. The transaction is not expected to have a material impact on the 2021 financial results.
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