Flexible optical device
US7639916B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 9, 2003 |
| Grant date | Dec 29, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 9, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/0061
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A flexible and optionally highly elastic waveguide capable of propagating and emitting light is disclosed. The flexible waveguide comprises a flexible material having a surface and an end, wherein a first portion of the light is emitted through at least a portion of the surface of the flexible waveguide, and a second portion of the light is emitted through the end. The flexible waveguide can be used, for example as an area illuminator for many applications. Additionally disclosed is a clothing device for providing illumination. The clothing device comprises clothing (or even optionally a sheet) and a light source for providing light. In one embodiment the clothing device comprises the flexible waveguide.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.