Importing 2D Model (GDSII) Files

2D model files can be imported directly into the active Modeler window. GDSII is the industry standard file format for 2D graphical design layout data.

Note:
  • Object, material, and parameter names with non-ASCII characters are not allowed for data transfer. Such transfers fail and produce an error message.
  • If you import a file into an active Modeler window that contains an existing model, the file is added to the existing model; it will not replace it.

To import a 2D model file:

  1. Click Modeler > Import.

    The Import File dialog box appears.

    Import File window

  2. Select a file type from the Files of type drop-down menu. For 2D model files, this is GDSII Files (*.gds).
  3. Use the file browser to find and select the file you want to import.
  4. Click Open.

    The GDSII Import window appears.

    GDSII Import

  5. Use the panes to select your desired options:
    • Structure Selection – a GDSII file may contain several top-level structures. Use this pane to select structure(s) for import. When multiple structures are imported, HFSS creates multiple designs under the current project, one for each of the GDSII structures.
    • Descendants – GDSII files are hierarchical and may contain many sub-layouts. This panel shows the sub-layouts in the selected top-level designs.
    • Layers in [Structure Name] – this panel's name changes based on the name of the selected structure, and displays that structure's layers, by layer number.
    • All Layers – lists all layers from all structures in the file. Use the Import check boxes to select or deselect layers for import.
    • General – the Flatten hierarchy check box is selected by default. HFSS always flattens any hierarchical geometry in the GDSII.
    • Nodes – GDSII supports nodes and boundaries as separate data types. Normally, boundaries represent polygons. HFSS can either convert objects that use the nodes data type to boundary types, or ignore them. Use the radio buttons to select either Convert to boundaries (default) or Ignore.
    • Import Method – select either Script or Acis.
    • Layer Mapping – if desired, create a mapping of GDSII layer numbers to layer names in the design stackup.
  6. Click OK.

    The file is imported into the active Modeler window.

Related Topics:

Importing 3D Model Files

Creating GDSII Mapping Files