초록 ▼

A light expanding system for converting a light beam generated from a point-like light source into a collimated linear or planar light beam is disclosed herein. According to an embodiment of the invention, a system for producing a linear light beam includes a beam collector and a light pipe adjacent

A light expanding system for converting a light beam generated from a point-like light source into a collimated linear or planar light beam is disclosed herein. According to an embodiment of the invention, a system for producing a linear light beam includes a beam collector and a light pipe adjacent to which a multiplicity of specially configured microprisms are located. The light expanding system according to this embodiment is suitable for use in devices utilizing a linear light beam, such as a scanner. According to another embodiment of the invention, a system for producing a planar light beam includes, in addition to the beam collector and light pipe described above, an additional light pipe with adjacent microprisms. The light expanding system according to this embodiment of the invention can be used, for example, in displays, road signs, medical research equipment, instrument meters or jewelry; to light pictures or art work; or as part of a see-through lighting system for use in dentistry and surgery.

대표청구항 ▼

A light expanding system for producing collimated light from a divergent light beam emitted from a point-like light source, comprising: a light pipe having first, second and third surfaces, wherein: the first and second surfaces are substantially perpendicular; and the third surface is opposite the

A light expanding system for producing collimated light from a divergent light beam emitted from a point-like light source, comprising: a light pipe having first, second and third surfaces, wherein: the first and second surfaces are substantially perpendicular; and the third surface is opposite the second surface; a beam collector positioned between said point-like source and the first surface of said light pipe for directing light from the point-like light source into said light pipe in a predetermined way; a prismatic diffuser for one-dimensionally increasing the divergence angle and changing the propagation direction of collimated light positioned between said light pipe and said beam collector, said prismatic diffuser comprising: a transparent film; and a plurality of microprisms, each microprism further comprising: a base surface that is positioned adjacent to surface of the film; and a light refracting surface including a plurality of sections, wherein: at least one of the sections is curved; and viewed in a plane parallel to the direction of light passing through the prismatic diffuser, the light refracting surface is asymmetric.