Illumination assembly
US6424786B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 14, 2000 |
| Grant date | Jul 23, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 14, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02F1/133607
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An optical illumination assembly comprising an array of optical microprisms and microlenses for redirecting light from a light source. Such displays are used in a wide variety of applications such as backlit flat panel displays requiring a directed light source which provides an efficient output of light. The illumination assembly has a light transmitter optically coupled to an input end of array of microprisms through an optional diffuser, and a microlens on the light output end of each microprism. The microprisms have a light input end optically coupled to the light transmitting means and a light output end spaced from the light input end. Two pairs of oppositely positioned sidewalls having one an edge defined by said light input end and another edge defined by said light output end are positioned for reflecting of transmitted light toward the light output end; When light from the light transmitting means enters each microprism through the light input end, the light is directed by said sidewalls through the microprisms to each light output end and then through the microlenses. Optionally a light diffuser is positioned between the light transmitter and the input end of the micropr…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.