Optical structures
US7364314B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 9, 2003 |
| Grant date | Apr 29, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 22, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T428/25
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Optical structures and methods for manufacturing the same includes, in one embodiment, a substrate and a plurality of two-sided optical components disposed along the substrate. Each component includes optical microstructures on each side. At least a portion of one side of at least some of the components is air-backed and the other side of the at least some of the components is substantially wetted-out by a material. Retroreflective optical structures, threads, or fibers and manufacturing methods for forming same are also provided. Optical structures are provided that include a plurality of microstructures enclosed within an outer layer that is formed from a single substrate. An apparatus and method are also provided for forming an optical structure comprising injecting a material into a mold to form the optical structure, forming the optical structure into a desired geometric shape, and sealing ends of the optical structure.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.