Abstract:
Linear light sources with features that enhance light extraction are disclosed. In an embodiment, a linear light guide with one or more reflective faces is oriented in such a manner that deflected light undergoes reduced reflections. In another embodiment, a linear light guide with non-parallel side faces is combined with a particularly shaped reflector. The particular features result in efficient light extraction from linear light guides.
Abstract:
An apparatus and method for providing a linear light source emitting light in a narrow cone of directions is disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a linear light source and a sheet designed in such a way that light is emanated out in a narrow set of directions. Also disclosed is a directional surface light source using a directional linear light source.
Abstract:
An apparatus for providing a multicolored illuminator for displays is disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a first sheet comprising a plurality of columnar illuminators stacked side by side, and a plurality of colored light sources placed along an edge of the first sheet. The plurality of columnar illuminators diffuse light generated by the plurality of colored light sources. The light emanates in a predetermined pattern.
Abstract:
An apparatus and method of manufacturing sheets with varying concentrations of particles are described. In one embodiment, a method comprises manufacturing a first sheet having a varying concentration of particles. A second sheet having a second concentration of particles and a first shape with varying thickness is provided. A third sheet having a third concentration of particles and a second shape with varying thickness is provided. The second sheet and the third sheet are merged to generate the first sheet.
Abstract:
A light source using a photoluminescent plate is disclosed. A point light source such as an LED sources light into a linear light guide, which in turn deflects light into a surface light guide, which creates a surface of light by light extraction. One or more photoluminescent plates are situated between the linear and surface light guides, converting wavelengths of some of the light. In an embodiment, the photoluminescent plates can move, changing the wavelength conversion effect.
Abstract:
A color insensitive scattering pigment is disclosed. In an embodiment, the scattering pigment is composed of particles of a range of sizes. In at least one subrange of the range of sizes, the particles are present in such relative proportions that the v/v concentration (volumetric concentration) of a particular size of particles is proportional to the size itself. In an embodiment, such a scattering pigment is included in light guides to scatter light from a primary light source.
Abstract:
An apparatus and method for providing a light source in the form of a surface are disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a first sheet including a light diffuser, and a light source placed along an edge of the first sheet. The first sheet diffuses light generated by the light source, wherein the distribution of light diffusing particles is varied throughout the light diffuser to emanate a predetermined light pattern.
Abstract:
A display with selectable viewing angles and methods pertaining thereto are disclosed. According to one embodiment, an apparatus comprises a display having at least two backlights. At least one of the backlights is primarily transparent and the at least two backlights emit light in different patterns of emanation.
Abstract:
An apparatus and method for manufacturing an object with a varying concentration of particles, with a defined concentration profile are disclosed. In an embodiment, the object with varying concentration of particles is manufactured by mixing liquids comprising different particle concentrations, the proportion in which such liquids are mixed being varied over time. The resultant liquid is cast or extruded into the required shape to form the object with a varying concentration of particles.
Abstract:
A light guide system is disclosed in which one or more light sources are embedded within the body of the light guide. The light sources emit light into the light guide. Light entering the light sources from outside is either reflected back or is allowed to pass through. In an embodiment, a light guide with light deflecting particles within it is used. The concentration of the light deflecting particles within the light guide can be varied based on the location of the embedded light sources in order to obtain a desired light emanation pattern. In an embodiment, external light sources can be used to increase the amount of light and mirrors can be used to reduce wastage and increase the amount of light. Finally, by building the light guide system in a modular form, multiple light guide modules can be combined to get a light source of desired specifications.