Optical system, optical structure, optical multiwell plate and optical detection system

Abstract

An optical system includes a backlight configured to emit light from an emission surface thereof and a front reflector. The backlight includes at least one light source configured to emit first light having at least a first wavelength. The front reflector is disposed on the back reflector and defines a circulating optical cavity between the front reflector and the back reflector. The front reflector defines at least one opening. When a test material is disposed in the circulating optical cavity, the test material is configured to emit second light having at least a second wavelength in response to a stimulus. The emitted second light exits the optical system through the at least one opening of the front reflector after circulating in the circulating optical cavity. The circulating affects an optical intensity of the exiting light.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an optical system and an optical detection system. Specifically, this disclosure relates to an optical system including an optical structure and an optical detection system including an optical circulation perforated plate. Background Technology

[0002] In some cases, optical methods are employed to detect target analytes, where the presence of the target analyte alters one or more optical properties of light in response to one or more stimuli. Typically, light responding to one or more stimuli has low optical intensity. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In a first aspect, this disclosure provides an optical system including a backlight and a front reflector. The backlight is configured to emit light from its emitting surface. The backlight includes at least one light source configured to emit first light having at least a first wavelength. The backlight also includes at least one light redirection film disposed on the back reflector for at least redirecting the first light emitted by the at least one light source. The emitting surface, the at least one light redirection film, and the back reflector extend substantially together in length and width. The front reflector is disposed on the back reflector and defines a circular optical cavity between the front reflector and the back reflector. The front reflector defines at least one opening. For substantially perpendicular incident light, at least a first region of the front reflector adjacent to the at least one opening and each of the back reflector reflect at least 60% of the incident light for each of the at least first wavelength and at least a different second wavelength. Furthermore, for the substantially perpendicular incident light, the at least one opening and at least one region of the front reflector have corresponding optical transmittances T1 and T2 at the at least second wavelength, where T1 > 1.2T2, such that when the test material is disposed in the circulating optical cavity, the test material is configured to emit second light having the at least second wavelength in response to a stimulus, and the emitted second light exits the optical system through the at least one opening of the front reflector after circulating in the circulating optical cavity. This circulation affects the optical properties of the emitted light. In some cases, this optical property of the emitted light is the optical intensity of the emitted light.

[0004] In a second aspect, this disclosure provides an optical system comprising a backlight and a plurality of optical units. The backlight is configured to provide substantially polarized illumination to the optical units through its emitting surface. In some cases, the backlight is configured to provide substantially polarized illumination to a display panel through its emitting surface. The backlight includes a back reflector that extends substantially co-located with the emitting surface in length and width. The plurality of optical units are disposed on and arranged across the emitting surface. Each of these optical units includes a top wall disposed on and spaced apart from the emitting surface and defining at least one output window. The at least one output window has a total area A1. The at least one output window is surrounded by the remainder of the top wall. An optical circulation cavity is defined between the top wall and the back reflector of the backlight. For substantially perpendicular incident light having a signal wavelength, the remainder of the top wall and each of the back reflectors have an optical reflectivity of at least 60%, and the at least one output window has an optical transmittance of at least 60%. The optical units are configured to receive test material therein. The test material is configured to emit signal light having the signal wavelength in response to a stimulus. The emitted signal light circulates within the circulating optical cavity and then exits the optical unit through the at least one output window. This circulation enhances the optical properties of the emitted light. In some cases, this optical property of the emitted light is its optical intensity.

[0005] In a third aspect, this disclosure provides an optical construct. The optical construct includes a bottom reflector. The optical construct also includes a top reflector disposed on the bottom reflector. The optical construct further includes an intermediate reflector disposed between the top and bottom reflectors. The top reflector defines a plurality of spaced-apart top groups having one or more top openings. The intermediate reflector defines a plurality of spaced-apart intermediate groups having one or more intermediate openings. These top groups and these intermediate groups correspond one-to-one with each other. For each of the one or more top openings and one or more intermediate openings in these corresponding groups, the total area of ​​the top openings is smaller than the total area of ​​the intermediate openings. Additionally, for each of the one or more top openings and one or more intermediate openings in these corresponding groups, the one or more top openings and the one or more intermediate openings are configured to receive test material between the one or more top openings and the one or more intermediate openings. The test material is configured to emit signal light having a signal wavelength in response to a stimulus. For substantially perpendicularly incident light having the signal wavelength, each of the top reflector, the intermediate reflector, and the bottom reflector has an optical reflectivity of at least 60%. In addition, the substantially perpendicular incident light having the signal wavelength, each of the top opening and the middle opening has an optical transmittance of at least 60%.

[0006] In a fourth aspect, this disclosure provides an optical system including a backlight configured to emit first light having a first wavelength from its emitting surface. The optical system also includes an optical construct of a third aspect disposed on the emitting surface of the backlight, such that the emitting surface is positioned between the intermediate reflector and the bottom reflector. The stimulus includes the first wavelength of light. The test material is configured to emit signal light having the signal wavelength in response to being irradiated at least by the emitted first light having the first wavelength.

[0007] In a fifth aspect, this disclosure provides an optical system including a backlight configured to provide substantially polarized uniform illumination to a display panel through its emitting surface. The backlight includes a back reflector that extends substantially co-located with the emitting surface in length and width. The uniform illumination includes at least a first light and at least a second light having corresponding at least a first wavelength and at least a second wavelength. The optical system also includes a front reflector disposed on the backlight. A circular optical cavity is defined between the front reflector and the back reflector. The front reflector defines at least one opening. For substantially perpendicular incident light, and for each of the at least first wavelength and the at least second wavelength, at least a first region of the front reflector adjacent to the at least one opening and each of the back reflectors reflect at least 60% of the incident light. Additionally, for substantially perpendicular incident light, and for each of the at least first wavelength and the at least second wavelength, the at least one opening transmits at least 60% of the incident light. When the test material is placed in the circulating optical cavity, it is configured to absorb light of each of the first and second wavelengths. The first and second light from the backlight source circulate within the circulating optical cavity and then exit the optical system through at least one opening in the front reflector. This circulation increases the ratio of the optical intensity of one of the first and second light to the optical intensity of the other.

[0008] In a sixth aspect, this disclosure provides an optical system including a light source configured to emit first light having a first wavelength. The optical system also includes an optical structure configured to receive the first light emitted by the light source. The optical structure includes a top wall defining an output window. The optical structure also includes a bottom wall facing the top wall. The optical structure also includes an input wall defining an input window. For substantially perpendicular incident light, each of a first region of the top wall adjacent to the output window and the bottom wall reflects at least 60% of the incident light for each of the first wavelength and different second wavelengths. For substantially perpendicular incident light, the output window transmits at least 60% of the incident light having the second wavelength and reflects at least 60% of the incident light having the first wavelength. Additionally, for substantially perpendicular incident light, the input window reflects at least 60% of the incident light having the second wavelength and transmits at least 60% of the incident light having the first wavelength.

[0009] In a seventh aspect, this disclosure provides an optical system including a light guide disposed between a first optical reflector and a second optical reflector, and extending substantially co-located with the first and second optical reflectors in length and width. The optical system also includes a light source disposed on a side of the light guide and configured to emit first light having a first wavelength. The light guide is configured to receive the emitted first light through the side and to propagate the received first light along the length and width of the light guide therein. The first optical reflector defines a first through-opening such that at least a portion of the first light propagating in the light guide is transmitted through the first through-opening by the first optical reflector. The optical system also includes an optical unit disposed on the first optical reflector. The optical unit includes a third optical reflector opposite to its bottom. The third optical reflector defines a second through-opening. The bottom of the optical unit substantially covers the first through-opening of the first optical reflector such that the first light transmitted through the first through-opening enters the optical unit. The optical unit is configured to receive test material therein, the test material being configured to emit second light having a second wavelength different from the first wavelength in response to being irradiated at least by the first light entering the optical unit. The emitted second light exits the optical unit through the second through-hole of the third optical reflector. For substantially perpendicular incident light having the second wavelength, each of the first to third optical reflectors has an optical reflectivity of at least 60% relative to the region of the first to third optical reflector away from any of these corresponding through-holes. Additionally, for substantially perpendicular incident light, each of the first and second through-holes has an optical transmittance of at least 60%.

[0010] In an eighth aspect, this disclosure provides an optically circulating porous plate comprising a plurality of spaced-apart holes. Each hole includes a top reflector defining a first opening. Each hole also includes a bottom reflector defining a second opening. Each hole further includes one or more sidewalls extending from the top reflector to the bottom reflector, defining a circulating optical cavity between the top and bottom reflectors. The circulating optical cavity is configured to receive a test material therein, the test material being configured to emit a second light having a second wavelength in response to being irradiated by at least first light having a different first wavelength and entering the circulating optical cavity through the second opening of the bottom reflector. The emitted second light circulates within the circulating optical cavity and exits the hole through the first opening of the top reflector. This circulation affects the optical properties of the emitted light. In some cases, the optical properties of the emitted light are the optical intensity of the emitted light. For at least the second wavelength, each of the top and bottom reflectors has an optical reflectivity of at least 60% for regions of the top and bottom reflectors remote from any opening of the corresponding opening.

[0011] In a ninth aspect, this disclosure provides an optical detection system including a backlight configured to emit the first light from its emitting surface. The backlight includes at least one light source configured to generate the first light. The backlight also includes a back reflector for redirecting the first light generated by the at least one light source. The emitting surface and the back reflector extend substantially together in length and width. The optical detection system also includes, in an eighth aspect, an optically circulating porous plate disposed on the emitting surface of the backlight. The circulating optical cavity of each of the plurality of spaced-apart holes is configured to receive at least a portion of the first light emitted from the emitting surface of the backlight through a second opening of the bottom reflector of the hole. Attached Figure Description

[0012] The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein can be more fully understood in light of the following detailed description in conjunction with the figures below. The figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. Similar numbers used in the figures refer to similar parts. However, it should be understood that the use of numbers to refer to parts in a given figure is not intended to limit parts labeled with the same numbers in another figure.

[0013] Figure 1A A detailed schematic cross-sectional view of an optical system including a backlight source according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0014] Figure 1B An embodiment according to this disclosure is shown. Figure 1A A schematic top view of the backlight;

[0015] Figure 1C A schematic cross-sectional view of a front reflector according to another embodiment of this disclosure is shown;

[0016] Figure 2 An embodiment according to this disclosure is shown. Figure 1A Detailed schematic cross-sectional view of the backlight light redirection film;

[0017] Figure 3 A detailed schematic cross-sectional view of a back reflector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0018] Figure 4A An embodiment according to this disclosure is shown. Figure 1A A schematic cross-sectional view of the front reflector;

[0019] Figure 4B An embodiment according to this disclosure is shown. Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view of the back reflector;

[0020] Figure 5 A detailed schematic cross-sectional view of an optical system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0021] Figure 6 A detailed schematic cross-sectional view of an optical system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0022] Figure 7 A schematic cross-sectional view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0023] Figure 8 A detailed schematic cross-sectional view of an optical system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0024] Figure 9A A detailed schematic cross-sectional view of an optical system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0025] Figure 9B A schematic cross-sectional view of a continuous top wall according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0026] Figure 10 A detailed schematic cross-sectional view of an optical system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0027] Figures 11A to 11C Detailed schematic cross-sectional views of different optical structures according to embodiments of the present disclosure are shown;

[0028] Figure 12A A detailed schematic cross-sectional view of an optical system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0029] Figure 12B An embodiment according to this disclosure is shown. Figure 12A A schematic top view of the first optical reflector of the optical system;

[0030] Figure 12C A schematic cross-sectional view of a first optical reflector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0031] Figure 12D A schematic cross-sectional view of a second optical reflector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0032] Figure 12E A schematic cross-sectional view of a third optical reflector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0033] Figure 13 A detailed cross-sectional view of an optical system according to another embodiment of this disclosure is shown; and

[0034] Figure 14 A detailed schematic cross-sectional view of an optical inspection system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0035] In the following description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part thereof, and various embodiments are illustrated therein. It should be understood that other embodiments are contemplated and made without departing from the scope or spirit of this disclosure. Therefore, the following detailed description should not be considered limiting.

[0036] In the following disclosure, the following definitions are used.

[0037] As used herein, all numbers should be considered as being modified by the term “about”. As used herein, “a,” “an,” “the,” “at least one,” and “a or more” are used interchangeably.

[0038] As used herein, the term “approximately” as a modifier for a characteristic or attribute, unless otherwise specifically defined, means that the characteristic or attribute will be easily identifiable by a person skilled in the art without requiring absolute precision or a perfect match (e.g., within + / - 20% for quantifiable characteristics).

[0039] Unless otherwise specifically defined, the term “substantially” means a high degree of approximation (e.g., within + / -10% for quantifiable properties), but also does not require absolute precision or a perfect match.

[0040] Unless otherwise specifically defined, the term “about” means a high degree of approximation (e.g., within + / -5% for quantifiable properties), but also does not require absolute precision or a perfect match.

[0041] As used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” are used as identifiers. Therefore, such terms should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure. Throughout the embodiments of this disclosure, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” are interchangeable when used in conjunction with a feature or element.

[0042] As used in this article, "at least one of A and B" should be understood as meaning "only A, only B, or both A and B".

[0043] As used herein, unless otherwise explicitly defined, the term "between about..." generally refers to a range of inclusion or closure. For example, if parameter X is between about A and B, then A ≤ X ≤ B.

[0044] Various optical detection devices and methods are used to detect or sense the presence of analytes. Specifically, detecting or sensing a target analyte can be important. One common technique among conventional techniques for detecting target analytes is optical technique. In this technique, the target analyte is applied to a test material, which may include a photoluminescent material. The photoluminescent material is then subjected to stimulation, such as optical stimulation. Optical stimulation may include incident light. A portion of the incident light is absorbed by the test material, which then emits emitted light with a specific wavelength. In the case of optical stimulation, the wavelength of the emitted light is typically different from the wavelength of the incident light.

[0045] The detection sensitivity of a target analyte can depend on the utilization of the stimulus by the analyte's molecules. The degree of stimulus utilization can also be related to the optical intensity of the light emitted by the test material. In some cases, the greater the utilization of the stimulus by the test material, the greater the optical intensity of the emitted light may be. Furthermore, a higher optical intensity of emitted light can facilitate better detection of the emitted light.

[0046] In some applications, a light source can be used to stimulate the test material. However, conventional light sources generate light with low optical intensity. Furthermore, not all light from a light source is absorbed by the test material. Due to the low absorption of light by the test material, the emitted light can also have low optical intensity. Additionally, in some conventional optical techniques used to detect target analytes, only a single piece of test material can be subjected to optical stimulation or analyzed by an optical detector.

[0047] In one aspect, this disclosure provides an optical system including a backlight and a front reflector. The backlight is configured to emit light from its emitting surface. The backlight includes at least one light source configured to emit first light having at least a first wavelength. The backlight also includes at least one light redirection film disposed on the back reflector for at least redirecting the first light emitted by the at least one light source. The emitting surface, the at least one light redirection film, and the back reflector extend substantially together in length and width. The front reflector is disposed on the back reflector and defines a circular optical cavity between the front reflector and the back reflector. The front reflector defines at least one opening. For substantially perpendicular incident light, at least a first region of the front reflector adjacent to the at least one opening and each of the back reflectors reflect at least 60% of the incident light for each of the at least first wavelength and at least a different second wavelength. Furthermore, for the substantially perpendicular incident light, the at least one opening and the at least first region of the front reflector have corresponding optical transmittances T1 and T2 at the at least second wavelength, where T1 > 1.2T2, such that when the test material is disposed in the circulating optical cavity, the test material is configured to emit second light having the at least second wavelength in response to a stimulus, and the emitted second light exits the optical system through the at least one opening of the front reflector after circulating in the circulating optical cavity. This circulation affects the optical properties of the emitted light.

[0048] In another aspect, this disclosure provides an optically circulating porous plate comprising a plurality of spaced-apart holes. Each hole includes a top reflector defining a first opening. Each hole also includes a bottom reflector defining a second opening. Each hole further includes one or more sidewalls extending from the top reflector to the bottom reflector, defining a circulating optical cavity between the top and bottom reflectors. The circulating optical cavity is configured to receive a test material therein, the test material being configured to emit a second light having a second wavelength in response to being irradiated by at least first light having a different first wavelength and entering the circulating optical cavity through the second opening of the bottom reflector. The emitted second light circulates within the circulating optical cavity and exits the hole through the first opening of the top reflector. This circulation affects the optical intensity of the emitted light. For at least the second wavelength, each of the top and bottom reflectors has an optical reflectivity of at least 60% for regions of the top and bottom reflectors remote from any opening of the corresponding opening.

[0049] Therefore, the recirculation of emitted light by the test material in response to the stimulus in the recirculating optical cavity affects the optical intensity of the emitted light. The optical intensity of the emitted light after recirculation in the recirculating optical cavity allows it to be easily detected by an optical detector compared to emitted light that leaves without recirculation. Thus, the optical system can improve or enhance the optical intensity of the emitted light so that it can be detected by an optical detector.

[0050] Additionally, the first beam can be circulated within the recirculating optical cavity. This ensures that the test material is fully exposed to the stimulus (i.e., the first beam). This allows for better utilization of the first beam. Furthermore, the circulation of the first beam can also affect its optical intensity. Therefore, the test material can receive a first beam with greater optical intensity.

[0051] Additionally, in some cases, the backlight of a conventional display device (e.g., a smartphone) can be used in conjunction with the optical construct of this disclosure to detect or sense the presence of a target analyte in a test material. Specifically, any backlight including a reflector can be used with the optical construct of this disclosure to enhance the optical intensity of the emitted light.

[0052] Furthermore, multi-well plates allow for the simultaneous or sequential analysis of multiple test materials using a single backlight source in an optical system.

[0053] Now refer to the attached diagram, Figure 1A A detailed schematic cross-sectional view of an optical system 300 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The optical system 300 defines mutually orthogonal x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis. The x-axis and y-axis correspond to in-plane axes of the optical system 300, while the z-axis is a transverse axis disposed along the thickness of the optical system 300. In other words, the x-axis and y-axis are along the plane of the optical system 300 (i.e., the xy plane), and the z-axis is perpendicular to the plane of the optical system 300, i.e., along the thickness of the optical system 300.

[0054] The optical system 300 includes a backlight 200 configured to emit light 10 from its emitting surface 201. Figure 1B A schematic top view of the backlight 200 is shown. Specifically, Figure 1B A schematic top view of the emitting surface 201 of the backlight 200 in the xy plane is shown. The backlight 200 defines a length L and a width W along its in-plane axis. Therefore, the emitting surface 201 can also define its length and width along the y-axis and x-axis, respectively.

[0055] refer to Figure 1A and Figure 1BIn some embodiments, the in-plane axis of the backlight 200 substantially corresponds to the in-plane axis of the optical system 300. In other words, the in-plane axis of the backlight 200 corresponds to the x-axis and y-axis of the optical system 300. Additionally, in some embodiments, the length L may be substantially along the y-axis, and the width W may be substantially along the x-axis.

[0056] Refer again Figure 1A The backlight 200 includes at least one light source configured to emit first light 11 having at least a first wavelength. Figure 1A In an exemplary embodiment, the backlight 200 includes a first light source 20 and a second light source 21, the first light source and the second light source being configured to emit first light 11 having at least a first wavelength. Therefore, at least one light source may include the first light source 20 and the second light source 21. The first light source 20 and the second light source 21 may be collectively referred to as "at least one light source 20, 21".

[0057] The backlight 200 also includes at least one light redirection film. Figure 1A In an exemplary embodiment, the backlight 200 includes a first light redirection film 30 and a second light redirection film 31. Therefore, at least one light redirection film includes a first light redirection film 30 and a second light redirection film 31. The first light redirection film 30 and the second light redirection film 31 may be collectively referred to as "at least one light redirection film 30, 31".

[0058] At least one light redirection film 30, 31 is disposed on the back reflector 40 for at least redirecting the first light 11 emitted by at least one light source 20, 21. In some embodiments, the at least one light redirection film 30, 31 receives, transmits, and at least redirects at least a portion of the first light 11 received from at least one light source 20, 21, such that light exiting the at least one light redirection film 30, 31 substantially covers the emitting surface 201.

[0059] The emitting surface 201, at least one light redirecting film 30, 31, and back reflector 40 extend substantially together in length and width. In other words, the emitting surface 201, at least one light redirecting film 30, 31, and back reflector 40 extend substantially together in the xy plane, that is, the emitting surface 201, at least one light redirecting film 30, 31, and back reflector 40 have substantially similar in-plane dimensions in length (approximately length L) and width (approximately width W).

[0060] In some embodiments, the backlight 200 further includes a reflective polarizer 80 disposed between the back reflector 40 and the emitting surface 201. In some embodiments, the reflective polarizer 80 is disposed on at least one light redirection film 30, 31. In some embodiments, the reflective polarizer 80 includes the emitting surface 201 of the backlight 200. In some embodiments, the reflective polarizer 80 may be a collimating multilayer optical film (CMOF). However, the reflective polarizer 80 may include any other suitable reflective polarizer. In some embodiments, the reflective polarizer 80 may include one or more of a multilayer polymer reflective polarizer, a wire grating reflective polarizer, and a diffuse reflective polarizer.

[0061] In some embodiments, the backlight 200 further includes an optical diffuser 100 disposed between the emitting surface 201 and the back reflector 40. In some embodiments, the optical diffuser 100 is configured to scatter the first light 11. In some embodiments, the optical diffuser 100 may comprise any film, layer, or substrate designed to diffuse light. For example, this light diffusion can be influenced by using a textured surface of the substrate or by other means such as incorporating light-diffusing particles into the film matrix. In some embodiments, the optical diffuser 100 may comprise a volume diffuser in which small particles or spheres of different refractive indices are embedded within the bulk material of the volume diffuser. The embedded small particles or spheres may act as light-scattering elements. In some other embodiments, the refractive index of the material of the volume diffuser may vary across the bulk of the volume diffuser, thus causing light passing through the material to be refracted or scattered at different points. In some embodiments, the optical diffuser 100 may comprise a surface diffuser. Surface diffusers may utilize surface roughness to refract or scatter light in multiple directions. The rough surface of a surface diffuser can be exposed to air or the surrounding medium and can cause angular spread of incident light.

[0062] In some implementations, a backlight circulation cavity 110 is defined between the optical diffuser 100 and the back reflector 40.

[0063] In some embodiments, the backlight 200 also includes a light guide 90 for propagating the first light 11 along the length and width of the light guide 90. The length and width of the light guide 90 may substantially correspond to the length L and width W of the backlight 200.

[0064] In some embodiments, a light guide 90 is disposed between at least one light redirection film 30, 31 and a back reflector 40. In some embodiments, the light guide 90 is disposed within a backlight circulation cavity 110. In some embodiments, the light guide 90 is a solid light guide. In some embodiments, the light guide 90 is a substantially hollow light guide. In some embodiments, the light guide 90 may be a stepped wedge-shaped light guide. In some embodiments, the light guide 90 may use total internal reflection (TIR) ​​to direct or guide light incident on the light guide 90 toward the back reflector 40. In some cases, the light guide 90 may improve the uniformity of light incident on the back reflector 40 and / or at least one light redirection film 30, 31. The light guide 90 may be configured to guide a first light 11 toward the back reflector 40 as light 15a exiting the light guide 90. At least a portion of the light 15a may be reflected by the back reflector 40 as reflected light 15b. Specifically, the back reflector 40 is configured to reflect light 15a that will exit the light guide 90 and propagate toward the back reflector 40 as reflected light 15b that propagates toward at least one light redirection film 30, 31.

[0065] exist Figure 1A In an exemplary embodiment, the backlight 200 has a side-lit configuration. In such embodiments, at least one light source 20, 21 may not be disposed in the backlight circulation cavity 110. On the other hand, the first light 11 may enter the light guide 90 from side 90a and / or side 90b. Specifically, the first light 11 from the first light source 20 may enter the light guide 90 from side 90a, and the first light 11 from the second light source 21 may enter the light guide 90 from side 90b.

[0066] Continue to refer to Figure 1A The optical system 300 also includes a front reflector 50 disposed on the back reflector 40 and defining a circular optical cavity 60 between the front reflector and the back reflector. In some embodiments, the average distance between the front reflector 50 and the back reflector 40 is less than about 10 millimeters (mm). In some embodiments, the average distance between the front reflector 50 and the back reflector 40 is less than about 8 mm, less than about 6 mm, less than about 4 mm, or less than about 2 mm. In other words, the average distance between the front reflector 50 and the back reflector 40 along the z-axis may be less than about 10 mm, less than about 8 mm, less than about 6 mm, less than about 4 mm, or less than about 2 mm.

[0067] In some embodiments, the front reflector 50 and the rear reflector 40 extend substantially together in at least one of their length and width. In other words, the front reflector 50 and the rear reflector 40 may have substantially similar in-plane dimensions in at least one of their length (approximately length L) and width (approximately width W).

[0068] In some implementations, the front reflector 50 and the back reflector 40 extend substantially together in length and width. In other words, the front reflector 50 and the back reflector 40 extend substantially together in the xy plane, that is, the front reflector 50 and the back reflector 40 have substantially similar in-plane dimensions in length (approximately length L) and width (approximately width W).

[0069] In some embodiments, the back reflector 40, at least one light redirection film 30, 31, optical diffuser 100, reflective polarizer 80, and front reflector 50 are arranged substantially adjacent to each other along the z-axis of the optical system 300. In some embodiments, the light guide 90 is arranged substantially along the z-axis of the optical system 300 between the optical diffuser 100 and the back reflector 40.

[0070] The front reflector 50 also defines at least one opening 51. Additionally, in some other embodiments, the front reflector 50 defines at least a first region 54 adjacent to the at least one opening 51. Figure 1A In the illustrated embodiments, at least one opening 51 comprises a single opening. However, in some other embodiments, at least one opening 51 may comprise multiple openings. Similarly, the front reflector 50 may define multiple first regions adjacent to the multiple openings.

[0071] In some embodiments, the front reflector 50 defines opposite first primary surfaces 52 and second primary surfaces 53. In some embodiments, the second primary surface 53 faces the back reflector 40. In some embodiments, at least one of the openings 51 is an optical through-hole opening 51a. Figure 1C As shown, the optical through-hole extends at least partially from the first main surface 52 of the front reflector 50 to the opposite second main surface 53 of the front reflector 50.

[0072] In some other embodiments, at least one of the openings 51 is a physical through opening that extends from the first main surface 52 of the front reflector 50 to the opposite second main surface 53 of the front reflector 50.

[0073] Figure 1C A schematic cross-sectional view of a front reflector 50 including an optical through-hole 51a according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In some embodiments, the front reflector 50 may be a spatially tailored optical film (STOF), wherein the optical through-hole 51a may substantially comprise a region of the front reflector 50 with a reduced thickness to allow light to transmit through the region. In some embodiments, the front reflector 50 is treated with at least one of heat and radiation to increase optical transmittance at the optical through-hole 51a.

[0074] In some embodiments, the front reflector 50 includes a recess 51b at the optical through-hole 51a. Figure 1C In an exemplary embodiment, the recess 51b extends from the first main surface 52 of the front reflector 50. Figure 1A (As shown) extends partially to the opposite second main surface 53 of the front reflector 50. Figure 1A (As shown).

[0075] In some embodiments, the total area of ​​at least one opening 51 is less than about 30% of the area of ​​the front reflector 50. In other words, the area of ​​at least one opening 51 is substantially smaller than the area of ​​the front reflector 50. In some embodiments, the total area of ​​at least one opening 51 is less than about 25%, less than about 20%, less than about 15%, less than about 10%, or less than about 5% of the area of ​​the front reflector 50. In cases where at least one opening 51 comprises multiple openings, the total area may correspond to the sum of the areas of the multiple openings.

[0076] In some embodiments, the total area of ​​at least one opening 51 can be measured on the first main surface 52 and / or the second main surface 53. In some embodiments, based on the shape of at least one opening 51, the area of ​​at least one opening 51 on the first main surface 52 and the area of ​​at least one opening 51 on the second main surface 53 may be substantially similar or may be different from each other. Additionally, at least one opening 51 may be generally rectangular, generally square, generally circular, or may be other generally polygonal shapes.

[0077] Continue to refer to Figure 1A The diagram shows a test material 70 disposed in a circulating optical cavity 60. In some embodiments, the test material 70 includes one or more of a solid material, a fluid material, and a gaseous material.

[0078] When the test material 70 is placed in the circulating optical cavity 60, the test material 70 is configured to emit a second light 13 having at least a second wavelength in response to a stimulus.

[0079] In some embodiments, the stimulation includes optical stimulation, such that in response to light 10 having at least a first wavelength emitted by backlight 200, test material 70 emits second light 13 having at least a second wavelength. In some embodiments, test material 70 may absorb at least a portion of the light 10 having at least a first wavelength emitted by backlight 200 and emit the emitted second light 13 having at least a second wavelength.

[0080] In some embodiments, at least one of the first and second wavelengths is between about 420 nanometers (nm) and about 700 nm. In other words, at least one of the first and second wavelengths may be in the visible wavelength range. In some embodiments, at least one of the first and second wavelengths is less than about 420 nm. In other words, at least one of the first and second wavelengths may be in the ultraviolet range. In some embodiments, at least one of the first and second wavelengths is greater than about 700 nm. In other words, at least one of the first and second wavelengths may be in the infrared range.

[0081] In some implementations, the test material 70 may include a photoluminescent material. A photoluminescent material absorbs photons, exciting one of its electrons to a higher electronic state, and then radiates photons as the electron returns to a lower energy state. In other words, the photoluminescent material emits light after absorbing photons from incident light. This phenomenon is called photoluminescence. Generally, the emitted light has a wavelength different from that of the incident light.

[0082] In some embodiments, the photoluminescent material may include quantum dots. When a quantum dot is irradiated with incident light, electrons in the quantum dot are excited to a higher state, and when the electron returns to its initial state, the excess energy it possesses is released as emitted light. The wavelength of the emitted light depends on the wavelength of the incident light and the band gap between the initial and higher states. The band gap, in turn, depends on the size of the quantum dot. For a given wavelength of incident light, the wavelength of the emitted light can be controlled by changing the size of the quantum dot. In some embodiments, quantum dots may be used for downconversion fluorescence or upconversion fluorescence.

[0083] In some embodiments, the photoluminescent material may include one or more of a fluorescent material and a phosphorescent material. When exposed to incident light, a fluorescent material exhibits fluorescence, while a phosphorescent material exhibits phosphorescence. Fluorescence can be a relatively rapid process, and during this process, some energy can be dissipated or absorbed, such that the re-emitted light has an energy different from that of the absorbed incident light. In phosphorescence, the phosphorescent material may not immediately re-emit the absorbed incident light. Phosphorescence is the emission of light from a triplet excited state, where electrons in the excited orbital have the same spin orientation as the ground-state electrons. The transition to the ground state is spin-forbidden, and the emission rate is relatively slow. The result can be a slow process of radiative transition back to the singlet state, which can sometimes last from milliseconds to seconds to minutes.

[0084] In some embodiments, at least the first wavelength may be less than at least the second wavelength. In other words, the first wavelength of light 10 may be less than at least the second wavelength of the emitted second light 13. Therefore, the energy of light 10 is greater than the energy of the emitted second light 13. This phenomenon can be called downconversion fluorescence. When the test material 70 exhibits downconversion fluorescence, a certain amount of energy can be absorbed by the test material 70 during fluorescence, resulting in the emitted second light 13 having a lower energy than light 10.

[0085] In some other embodiments, at least the first wavelength may be greater than at least the second wavelength. In other words, the first wavelength of light 10 may be greater than at least the second wavelength of the emitted second light 13. Therefore, the energy of light 10 may be lower than the energy of the emitted second light 13. This phenomenon can be called upconversion fluorescence, in which the test material 70 can absorb light 10 and emit second light 13, such that the emitted second light 13 has a higher energy than light 10.

[0086] In some embodiments, the stimulus includes a chemical stimulus, such that in response to a chemical reaction, the test material 70 emits a second light 13 having at least a second wavelength. In some embodiments, the chemical stimulus may be provided to the test material 70 together with an optical stimulus.

[0087] In some embodiments, the stimulus includes a kinetic stimulus, such that in response to receiving kinetic energy, the test material 70 emits a second light 13 having at least a second wavelength. In some embodiments, the kinetic stimulus may be provided to the test material 70 together with an optical stimulus.

[0088] In some embodiments, the stimulus includes a thermal stimulus, such that in response to receiving thermal energy, the test material 70 emits a second light 13 having at least a second wavelength. In some embodiments, the thermal stimulus may be provided to the test material 70 together with an optical stimulus.

[0089] In some embodiments, the stimulation includes electrical stimulation, such that in response to receiving electrical energy, the test material 70 emits a second light 13 having at least a second wavelength. In some embodiments, the electrical stimulation may be provided to the test material 70 together with optical stimulation.

[0090] In some embodiments, the stimulation includes electromagnetic stimulation, such that in response to receiving electromagnetic energy, the test material 70 emits a second light 13 having at least a second wavelength. In some embodiments, the electromagnetic stimulation may be provided to the test material 70 together with optical stimulation.

[0091] In some embodiments, the stimulus includes a biological stimulus. In some embodiments, the biological stimulus includes one or more of an enzyme and an antigen. In some embodiments, the biological stimulus includes a nucleic acid. In some embodiments, the biological stimulus may be provided to the test material 70 together with an optical stimulus.

[0092] The test material 70 can emit a second light 13 in all directions in response to a stimulus. Specifically, the test material 70 can emit the second light 13 toward the front reflector 50 and the back reflector 40. The emitted second light 13 circulates in the recirculating optical cavity 60 and then exits the optical system 300 through at least one opening 51 of the front reflector 50. The emitted second light 13 exiting the optical system 300 may be referred to as "emission light 14".

[0093] In some embodiments, the optical system 300 includes an optical detector 130 for receiving and detecting emitted second light 13. Specifically, in some embodiments, the optical detector 130 receives and detects emitted light 14. In some embodiments, the optical detector 130 is pixelated and includes multiple sensor elements 131. For example, the optical detector 130 may include a charge-coupled device (CCD) or an active pixel sensor (e.g., a CMOS sensor). In some other embodiments, the optical detector 130 may be the human eye.

[0094] Figure 2 A detailed schematic cross-sectional view of at least one light redirection film 30, 31 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In some embodiments, at least one light redirection film 30, 31 includes a plurality of prisms 32. In some embodiments, the plurality of prisms 32 are disposed on a substrate layer 32a.

[0095] At least one light redirection film 30, 31, comprising a plurality of prisms 32, can be configured to redirect light incident on the at least one light redirection film 30, 31 along a desired direction. The at least one light redirection film 30, 31, comprising a plurality of prisms 32, can redirect light incident on the at least one light redirection film 30, 31 by refracting a portion of the light incident on the at least one light redirection film 30, 31. Generally, at least one light redirection film 30, 31 is used in display devices (such as liquid crystal displays) to improve the brightness of the display device.

[0096] Figure 3 A detailed schematic cross-sectional view of the back reflector 40 of a backlight 200 (shown in FIG. 1) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0097] In some implementations, the back reflector 40 includes multiple microlayers 55, 56. Figure 3In some exemplary embodiments, the back reflector includes a plurality of alternating first microlayers 55 and second microlayers 56. In some embodiments, the plurality of microlayers 55, 56 are arranged adjacent to each other along the z-axis. In some embodiments, the total number of the plurality of microlayers 55, 56 is at least 20. In some embodiments, the total number of the plurality of microlayers 55, 56 is at least 50, at least 100, at least 150, at least 200, or at least 250.

[0098] Multiple microlayers 55 and 56 are interchangeably referred to as "microlayers 55 and 56". In some embodiments, each microlayer in microlayers 55 and 56 has an average thickness tm. The average thickness tm is defined along the z-axis of each microlayer in microlayers 55 and 56. As used herein, the term "average thickness" refers to the average of the thickness measured at multiple points in a plane (i.e., the xy-plane) across each microlayer in microlayers 55 and 56. In some embodiments, each microlayer in microlayers 55 and 56 has an average thickness tm of less than about 500 nm. In some embodiments, each microlayer in microlayers 55 and 56 has an average thickness tm of less than about 450 nm, less than about 400 nm, less than about 350 nm, less than about 300 nm, less than about 250 nm, or less than about 200 nm.

[0099] In some embodiments, the back reflector 40 further includes at least one surface layer 57. The at least one surface layer 57 has an average thickness ts. The average thickness ts is defined along the z-axis of the at least one surface layer 57. In some embodiments, the at least one surface layer 57 has an average thickness ts greater than about 500 nm. In some embodiments, the at least one surface layer 57 has an average thickness ts greater than about 750 nm, greater than about 1000 nm, greater than about 1500 nm, or greater than about 2000 nm.

[0100] At least one surface layer 57 can act as a protective layer for multiple microlayers 55, 56. Figure 3 In an exemplary embodiment, the back reflector 40 includes a pair of opposite surfaces 57. Figure 3 The surface layer 57 of the back reflector 40 can act as a protective boundary layer (PBL).

[0101] refer to Figure 1A and Figure 3 In some embodiments, the reflective polarizer 80 may be constructed substantially similarly to the back reflector 40. In some embodiments, the reflective polarizer 80 includes a plurality of microlayers 55, 56 totaling at least 20, each of the microlayers 55, 56 having an average thickness tm of less than about 500 nm.

[0102] In some embodiments, the front reflector 50 may also be substantially similar in construction to the back reflector 40. In some embodiments, the front reflector 50 includes a plurality of microlayers 55, 56, totaling at least 20, each of the microlayers 55, 56 having an average thickness tm of less than about 500 nm. In some embodiments, the front reflector 50 further includes at least one surface layer 57 having an average thickness ts of greater than about 500 nm.

[0103] In some embodiments, at least one of the front reflector 50 and the back reflector 40 includes a plurality of microlayers 55, 56 totaling at least 20, each of the microlayers 55, 56 having an average thickness tm of less than about 500 nm. In some embodiments, at least one of the front reflector 50 and the back reflector 40 further includes at least one surface layer 57 having an average thickness ts of greater than about 500 nm.

[0104] In some embodiments, at least one of the front reflector 50 and the back reflector 40 includes a metal layer (not shown). In some embodiments, the metal layer includes one or more of silver, gold, aluminum, and titanium. Additionally, in some embodiments, the metal layer has an average thickness between about 50 nm and about 1000 nm.

[0105] Figure 4A An optical system 300 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 1A A schematic cross-sectional view of the front reflector 50 (shown). Figure 4A Also shown is a substantially perpendicular incident light 12 incident on the front reflector 50, i.e., the substantially perpendicular incident light 12 is incident at an angle of approximately 0 degrees relative to the normal N1 of the front reflector 50. In some embodiments, the normal N1 may be substantially along the z-axis of the optical system 300. The substantially perpendicular incident light 12 is interchangeably referred to as "incident light 12".

[0106] With respect to incident light 12, at least a first region 54 of the front reflector 50 adjacent to at least one opening 51 reflects at least 60% of the incident light 12 for each of at least a first wavelength and at least a different second wavelength. In some embodiments, with respect to incident light 12, at least a first region 54 of the front reflector 50 adjacent to at least one opening 51 reflects at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 99% of the incident light 12 for each of at least a first wavelength and at least a different second wavelength. In other words, with respect to incident light 12, at least a first region 54 of the front reflector 50 adjacent to at least one opening 51 substantially reflects the incident light 12 for each of at least a first wavelength and at least a different second wavelength.

[0107] For incident light 12, at least one opening 51 and at least one first region 54 of the front reflector 50 have corresponding optical transmittances T1 and T2 at at least a second wavelength. T1 is approximately 1.2 times greater than T2, i.e., T1 > 1.2T2. In some embodiments, T1 > 1.5T2, T1 > 2T2, T1 > 5T2, T1 > 10T2, T1 > 50T2, or T1 > 100T2. Therefore, the optical transmittance T1 of at least one opening 51 at at least a second wavelength is substantially greater than the optical transmittance T2 of at least the first region 54 at at least a second wavelength.

[0108] In some embodiments, at least one opening 51 transmits at least 60% of the incident light 12 for both the first and second wavelengths. In some embodiments, at least one opening 51 transmits at least 70%, at least 80%, or at least 90% of the incident light 12 for both the first and second wavelengths.

[0109] Figure 4B An optical system 300 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 1A A schematic cross-sectional view of the back reflector 40 (shown). Figure 4B The image also shows incident light 12 incident on the back reflector 40, that is, incident light 12 substantially perpendicular to the back reflector 40 at an angle of approximately 0 degrees relative to the normal N2 of the back reflector 40. In some embodiments, the normal N2 may be substantially along the z-axis of the optical system 300 and substantially parallel to the normal N1. Figure 4A (As shown).

[0110] With respect to incident light 12, the back reflector 40 reflects at least 60% of the incident light 12 for each of at least a first wavelength and at least a different second wavelength. In some embodiments, with respect to incident light 12, the back reflector 40 reflects at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 99% of the incident light 12 for each of at least a first wavelength and at least a different second wavelength. In other words, with respect to incident light 12, the back reflector 40 substantially reflects the incident light 12 for each of at least a first wavelength and at least a different second wavelength.

[0111] Now for reference Figure 4A and Figure 4BWith respect to the incident light 12, each of at least a first region 54 of the back reflector 40 and the front reflector 50 adjacent to at least one opening 51 reflects at least 60% of the incident light 12 for at least a first wavelength and for each of at least a different second wavelength. In other words, with respect to the incident light 12 and for each of at least a first wavelength and at least a second wavelength, each of the back reflector 40 and the front reflector 50 adjacent to at least one opening 51 reflects at least 60% of the incident light 12.

[0112] Therefore, at least a first region 54 of the back reflector 40 and the front reflector 50 adjacent to at least one opening 51 can substantially reflect each of a first light 11 having at least a first wavelength and a second light 13 having at least a second wavelength within the circulating optical cavity 60 (shown in FIG. 1).

[0113] Now for reference Figure 1A , Figure 4A and Figure 4B The emitted second light 13 circulates within a loop optical cavity 60 defined between the back reflector 40 and the front reflector 50. Specifically, the emitted second light 13 circulates due to multiple reflections between at least a first region 54 of the back reflector 40 and the front reflector 50. The emitted second light 13 circulates until it exits the optical system 300 as an outgoing light 14 through at least one opening 51 of the front reflector 50, the optical transmittance T1 of which may be substantially greater than the optical transmittance T2 of at least the first region 54 of the front reflector 50.

[0114] Cyclicity affects the optical intensity of the emitted light 14. In some embodiments, cyclicity increases the optical intensity of the emitted light 14. In some embodiments, cyclicity decreases the optical intensity of the emitted light 14. Therefore, the optical system 300 can improve or enhance the optical intensity of the emitted light 14 so that the emitted second light 13 can be detected by the optical detector 130.

[0115] Since at least a first region 54 adjacent to at least one opening 51 of the back reflector 40 and the front reflector 50 can also substantially reflect the first light 11, the first light 11 can also be circulated within the circulating optical cavity 60. The circulation of the first light 11 within the circulating optical cavity 60 ensures that the test material 70 is adequately exposed to the stimulus, i.e., the first light 11. This allows for better utilization of the first light 11. Furthermore, the circulation of the first light 11 can also affect its optical intensity. Therefore, the test material 70 can receive the first light 11 with improved optical intensity.

[0116] Figure 5 Another detailed schematic cross-sectional view of the optical system 300 is shown. (See attached image.) Figure 5As shown, the first light 11 is reflected from the front reflector 50 toward the reflective polarizer 80. Additionally, the emitted second light 13 is also reflected from the front reflector 50 toward the reflective polarizer 80. The reflective polarizer 80 can reflect light incident on it for at least one of a first wavelength and at least one of a second wavelength. Therefore, the first light 11 can further circulate between the front reflector 50 and the reflective polarizer 80. Furthermore, the emitted second light 13, emitted by the test material 70 in response to a stimulus, can also circulate between the front reflector 50 and the reflective polarizer 80. Besides circulating within the circulating optical cavity 60, the first light 11 and the emitted second light 13 can also circulate between the front reflector 50 and the reflective polarizer 80. This can further affect the optical intensity of the emitted light 14.

[0117] Figure 6 A detailed schematic cross-sectional view of an optical system 300 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 6 The optical system 300 is essentially similar to Figure 1A and Figure 5 The optical system 300 shown, however, in Figure 6 In an exemplary embodiment, the backlight 200 of the optical system 300 has a backlight configuration. In such embodiments, at least one light source 20, 21 is disposed in the backlight circulation cavity 110. Additionally, in Figure 6 In the exemplary implementation, the optical system 300 does not include the light guide 90 ( Figure 1A and Figure 5 (as shown). However, in some other embodiments, the optical system 300 with a backlit configuration may include a light guide 90.

[0118] Figure 7 A schematic cross-sectional view of a display device 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0119] The display device 1000 may include Figure 1A or Figure 6 A backlight 200 is provided. The backlight 200 is configured to provide substantially polarized uniform illumination 15 to the display panel 120 through its emitting surface 201. In some embodiments, the optical intensity of the substantially polarized uniform illumination 15 to the display panel 120 varies across the emitting surface 201 by less than about 20%. In some embodiments, the optical intensity of the substantially polarized uniform illumination 15 to the display panel 120 varies across the emitting surface 201 by less than about 15%, less than about 10%, or less than about 5%.

[0120] In some embodiments, the substantially polarized uniform illumination 15 to the display panel 120 includes a first illumination portion polarized along a first direction. In some embodiments, the substantially polarized uniform illumination 15 to the display panel 120 includes a second illumination portion polarized along an orthogonal second direction. In some embodiments, the first and second directions are parallel to the emitting surface 201. In other words, the first and second directions are parallel to the xy plane. In some embodiments, the first direction is along the x-axis. In some embodiments, the orthogonal second direction is along the y-axis.

[0121] In some embodiments, the ratio of the first illumination portion to the second illumination portion is greater than about 10. In other words, the substantially polarized uniform illumination 15 may include a larger amount of the first illumination portion compared to the second illumination portion. In other words, the substantially polarized uniform illumination 15 is polarized substantially along a first direction. In some embodiments, the ratio of the first illumination portion to the second illumination portion is greater than about 50, greater than about 100, greater than about 500, or greater than about 1000.

[0122] Figure 8 A detailed schematic cross-sectional view of an optical system 300” according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The optical system 300” includes Figure 7 The backlight 200 is shown. Specifically, the optical system 300 includes... Figure 7 The backlight 200 of the display device 1000 is shown. In some embodiments, in order to use the backlight 200 in the optical system 300", the display panel 120 of the display device 1000 may be removed from the display device 1000. In some other embodiments, in order to use the backlight 200 in the optical system 300", the display panel 120 of the display device 1000 may not be removed from the display device 1000.

[0123] As described above, the backlight 200 is configured to provide substantially polarized uniform illumination 15 through its emitting surface 201. Figure 7 (As shown). The backlight 200 also includes a back reflector 40. The back reflector 40 has a length L and a width W (as shown). Figure 1B As shown, it extends substantially together with the launching surface 201.

[0124] The substantially polarized uniform illumination 15 includes at least a first light 811 having at least a first wavelength and a second light 16 having at least a second wavelength. In some embodiments, the substantially polarized uniform illumination 15 includes the first light 811 and the second light 16 in substantially equal proportions. In some embodiments, the substantially polarized uniform illumination 15 includes the first light 811 and the second light 16 in different proportions.

[0125] The optical system 300 also includes a front reflector 50 disposed on the backlight 200. A circular optical cavity 510 is defined between the front reflector 50 and the back reflector 40. A test material 70 is shown disposed in the circular optical cavity 510. When the test material 70 is disposed in the circular optical cavity 510, the test material 70 can be configured to absorb light of each of a first wavelength and a second wavelength. In other words, the test material 70 can be configured to absorb both the first light 811 and the second light 16 of the substantially polarized uniform illumination 15.

[0126] After circulating in the recirculating optical cavity 510, the first light 811 and the second light 16 from the backlight 200 exit the optical system 300 through at least one opening 51 of the front reflector 50. The first light 811 and the second light 16, after circulating in the recirculating optical cavity 510, exit the optical system 300 as outgoing lights 811' and 16', respectively, through at least one opening 51 of the front reflector 50. This circulation increases the ratio of the optical intensity of one of the first light 811 and the second light 16 to the optical intensity of the other. Therefore, due to the circulation, the ratio of the optical intensity of one of the outgoing lights 811' and 16' to the optical intensity of the other outgoing light 811' and 16' can be enhanced within the recirculating optical cavity 510. Thus, in some cases, the circulation can enhance or improve the contrast of the outgoing lights 811' and 16'. In some embodiments, the front reflector 50 and the back reflector 40 may extend substantially together in length and width. This can further improve the loop, and in turn further enhance the contrast.

[0127] Figure 9A A detailed schematic cross-sectional view of an optical system 300' according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0128] Optical system 300' includes Figure 7 The backlight 200 is shown. Specifically, the backlight 200 is configured to provide substantially polarized uniform illumination 15 through its emitting surface 201. Specifically, the optical system 300' includes... Figure 7 The backlight 200 of the display device 1000 is shown. In some embodiments, the display panel 120 of the display device 1000 may be removed from the display device 1000 in order to use the backlight 200 in the optical system 300'. In some other embodiments, the display panel 120 of the display device 1000 may not be removed from the display device 1000 in order to use the backlight 200 in the optical system 300'.

[0129] The backlight 200 is configured to emit first light 11 having a first wavelength from its emitting surface 201. In some embodiments, the backlight 200 includes a first light source 20 configured to emit first light 11 having at least a first wavelength.

[0130] The optical system 300' is interchangeably referred to as the optical construct 300'. The optical construct 300' includes a bottom reflector 940. The bottom reflector 940 has a length L and a width W ( Figure 1B As shown, it extends substantially together with the launching surface 201.

[0131] The optical construct 300' also includes a top reflector 410 disposed on the bottom reflector 940. The optical construct 300' also includes an intermediate reflector 420 disposed between the top reflector 410 and the bottom reflector 940. In some embodiments, the optical construct 300' is disposed on the emitting surface 201 of the backlight 200, such that the emitting surface 201 is disposed between the intermediate reflector 420 and the bottom reflector 940.

[0132] In some embodiments, at least one of the top reflector 410, the middle reflector 420, and the bottom reflector 940 is substantially similar in construction to the back reflector 40. Figure 3 (As shown). In some embodiments, at least one of the top reflector 410, the middle reflector 420, and the bottom reflector 940 includes a plurality of microlayers 55, 56 totaling at least 20, each of the microlayers 55, 56 having an average thickness tm of less than about 500 nm. Additionally, in some embodiments, at least one of the top reflector 410, the middle reflector 420, and the bottom reflector 940 includes at least one surface layer 57 having an average thickness ts of greater than about 500 nm.

[0133] The top reflector 410 defines a plurality of spaced-apart groups of one or more top openings 411. Additionally, the intermediate reflector 420 defines a plurality of spaced-apart intermediate groups of one or more intermediate openings 421. The top group 411 and the intermediate group 421 correspond one-to-one with each other. Figure 9A For example, the top reflector 410 defines a group of top openings 411a, 411b and a corresponding group of middle openings 421a, 421b.

[0134] For each of the one or more top openings 411 and one or more intermediate openings 421 in the corresponding group, the total area A1 of the top openings 411 is less than the total area A2 of the intermediate openings 421. For example, the total area A1 of the top openings 411a and 411b is less than the total area A2 of the intermediate openings 421a and 421b.

[0135] In some embodiments, the total area A1 of the top opening 411 is at least 10% smaller than the total area A2 of the middle opening 421. In some embodiments, the total area A1 of the top opening 411 is at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, or at least 75% smaller than the total area A2 of the middle opening 421.

[0136] Additionally, for each of the corresponding group of one or more top openings 411 and one or more intermediate openings 421, the one or more top openings 411 and one or more intermediate openings 421 are configured to receive test material 70 between the one or more top openings and one or more intermediate openings. Test material 70 is configured to emit signal light 913 having a signal wavelength in response to a stimulus. In some embodiments, the stimulus includes light of a first wavelength, such that test material 70 is configured to emit signal light 913 having a signal wavelength in response to being irradiated at least by emitted first light 11 having a first wavelength.

[0137] For substantially perpendicular incident light with a signal wavelength (e.g., Figure 4A The incident light 12 shown has an optical reflectivity of at least 60% for each of the top reflector 410, the middle reflector 420, and the bottom reflector 940. In some embodiments, for substantially perpendicular incident light having a signal wavelength, each of the top reflector 410, the middle reflector 420, and the bottom reflector 940 has an optical reflectivity of at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 99%. Therefore, each of the top reflector 410, the middle reflector 420, and the bottom reflector 940 can substantially reflect the signal light 913 having the signal wavelength.

[0138] Furthermore, for substantially perpendicularly incident light having a signal wavelength, each of the top opening 411 and the middle opening 421 has an optical transmittance of at least 60%. In some embodiments, for substantially perpendicularly incident light having a signal wavelength, each of the top opening 411 and the middle opening 421 has an optical transmittance of at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 99%. Therefore, each of the top opening 411 and the middle opening 421 can substantially transmit signal light 913 having a signal wavelength.

[0139] In some embodiments, the optical system 300' includes a plurality of optical units 400 disposed on and arranged across the emitting surface 201. In some embodiments, one of the optical units 400 is disposed on and supported by a substrate 440. In some embodiments, the substrate 440 may be a display panel 120. Figure 7 (As shown).

[0140] The top reflector 410 and the middle reflector 420 can be interchangeably referred to as "top wall 410" and "bottom wall 420", respectively. In addition, the top opening 411 and the middle opening 421 can be interchangeably referred to as "output window 411" and "input window 421", respectively.

[0141] Each optical unit in the optical unit 400 includes a top wall 410 disposed on and spaced apart from the emitting surface 201. In some embodiments, the top wall 410 defines a first outermost principal surface 413 and a second outermost principal surface 414 opposite to each other. In some embodiments, the second outermost principal surface 414 faces the emitting surface 201. The top wall 410 defines at least one output window 411. In some embodiments, the at least one output window 411 includes a physical through-opening extending from the first outermost principal surface 413 of the top wall 410 to the opposite second outermost principal surface 414 of the top wall 410.

[0142] At least one output window 411 has a total area A1 and is surrounded by the remaining portion 412 of the top wall 410. In some embodiments, A1 is less than about 30% of the area of ​​the top wall 410. In some embodiments, A1 is less than about 25%, less than about 20%, less than about 15%, less than about 10%, or less than about 5% of the area of ​​the top wall 410.

[0143] In some embodiments, each optical unit in optical unit 400 further includes a bottom wall 420 disposed between the top wall 410 and the emitting surface 201. The bottom wall 420 defines at least one input window 421 having a total area A2. In some embodiments, the total area A2 of the at least one input window 421 is greater than the total area A1 of the at least one output window 411, i.e., A2 > A1. In some embodiments, A2 is at least 10% larger than A1. In some embodiments, A2 is at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, or at least 50% larger than A1.

[0144] In some embodiments, each optical unit in optical unit 400 further includes one or more sidewalls 450 extending from top wall 410 toward emitting surface 201. The one or more sidewalls 450 may have optical reflectivity similar to that of top reflector 410, intermediate reflector 420, and bottom reflector 940. In some embodiments, the one or more sidewalls 450 have an optical reflectivity of at least 60% for substantially perpendicularly incident light having a signal wavelength. In some embodiments, the one or more sidewalls 450 have an optical reflectivity of at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 99% for substantially perpendicularly incident light having a signal wavelength. Therefore, the one or more sidewalls 450 may substantially reflect signal light 913 having a signal wavelength.

[0145] In some implementations, the bottom wall 420 may be constructed similarly to the back reflector 40. Figure 3 (As described). Therefore, the bottom wall 420 includes a plurality of microlayers 55, 56 totaling at least 20, each of the microlayers 55, 56 having an average thickness tm of less than about 500 nm.

[0146] Additionally, in some embodiments, at least one of the sidewalls 450 is constructed to resemble the back reflector 40. Figure 3 (As described). Therefore, in some embodiments, at least one of the sidewalls 450 includes a plurality of microlayers 55, 56 in total numbering at least 20, each of the microlayers 55, 56 having an average thickness tm of less than about 500 nm.

[0147] An optical circulation cavity 430 is defined between the top wall 410 and the bottom reflector 940 of the backlight 200.

[0148] In some embodiments, at least one of the bottom reflector 940 and the top wall 410 is constructed similarly to the back reflector 40. Figure 3 (As described). In some embodiments, at least one of the bottom reflector 940 and the top wall 410 includes a plurality of microlayers 55, 56 totaling at least 20, each of the microlayers 55, 56 having an average thickness tm of less than about 500 nm. Additionally, in some embodiments, at least one of the bottom reflector 940 and the top wall 410 includes at least one surface layer 57 having an average thickness ts of greater than about 500 nm.

[0149] In some embodiments, each of the bottom reflector 940 and the remaining portion of the top wall 412 has an optical reflectivity of at least 60% for substantially perpendicular incident light having a signal wavelength. In some embodiments, each of the bottom reflector 940 and the remaining portion of the top wall 412 has an optical reflectivity of at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 99% for substantially perpendicular incident light having a signal wavelength.

[0150] For substantially perpendicularly incident light having a signal wavelength, at least one output window 411 has an optical transmittance of at least 60%. In some embodiments, for substantially perpendicularly incident light having a signal wavelength, at least one output window 411 has an optical transmittance of at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 99%.

[0151] Optical unit 400 is configured to receive test material 70 therein, which is configured to emit signal light 913 having a signal wavelength in response to a stimulus. The emitted signal light 913 circulates in optical circulation cavity 430 and then exits optical unit 400 through at least one output window 411. In some embodiments, the emitted signal light 913 circulates between top reflector 410 and bottom reflector 940 and then exits optical unit 400 through at least one output window 411. In some embodiments, the emitted signal light 913 circulates between top reflector 410, intermediate reflector 420, and bottom reflector 940 and then exits optical unit 400 through at least one output window 411. In some embodiments, the emitted signal light 913 exits optical unit 400 through at least one output window 411 after being reflected by at least one of one or more sidewalls 450. The emitted signal light 913 exiting optical unit 400 may be referred to as "outgoing light 914". Circulation affects the optical intensity of outgoing light 914. In other words, cyclication can enhance the optical intensity of the emitted light 914. In some embodiments, cyclication increases the optical intensity of the emitted light 914. In some embodiments, cyclication decreases the optical intensity of the emitted light 914. Therefore, the optical system 300' can improve the optical intensity of the emitted light 914 so that the emitted signal light 913 can be detected by an optical detector (not shown).

[0152] In some embodiments, the test material 70 is configured to emit signal light 913 with a signal wavelength in response to a stimulus, while the backlight 200 is turned off. In some embodiments, the stimulus may be at least one of chemical stimulation, kinetic stimulation, thermal stimulation, electrical stimulation, electromagnetic stimulation, and biological stimulation.

[0153] Figure 9B An optical system 300' according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 9A A schematic cross-sectional view of the continuous top wall 415 (shown). Reference Figure 9A and Figure 9B In some embodiments, the top wall 410 of the optical unit 400 is connected to form a continuous top wall 415. In some embodiments, the top reflector 410 is a continuous reflector (e.g., a continuous top wall 415). In some embodiments, the intermediate reflector 420 is a continuous reflector. Such a continuous reflector may be substantially similar to the continuous top wall 415. In some embodiments, at least one of the top reflector 410 and the intermediate reflector 420 is a continuous reflector.

[0154] Figure 10 A detailed schematic cross-sectional view of another optical system 301 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0155] Optical system 301 includes a first light source 20. In some embodiments, optical system 301 may include a backlight 200, which includes the first light source 20 and a back reflector 40. The first light source 20 is configured to emit first light 11 having a first wavelength. Optical system 301 also includes an optical structure 250 configured to receive the first light 11 emitted by the first light source 20. In some embodiments, optical structure 250 may be configured to receive test material 70 therein. Test material 70 may be configured to emit emitted second light 13 having a second wavelength in response to the first light 11 having the first wavelength.

[0156] Optical structure 250 includes a top wall 520 defining an output window 521. In some embodiments, the area of ​​the output window 521 is less than about 30% of the area of ​​the top wall 520. In some embodiments, the area of ​​the output window 521 is less than about 25%, less than about 20%, less than about 15%, less than about 10%, or less than about 5% of the area of ​​the top wall 520.

[0157] The optical structure 250 also includes a bottom wall 530 facing the top wall 520. The optical structure 250 also includes an input wall defining an input window 531. Figure 10 In the illustrative implementation scheme, the input wall is the bottom wall 530.

[0158] In some implementations, for substantially perpendicular incident light (e.g., Figure 4A The input wall reflects at least 60% of the incident light 11 and the emitted second light 13 for each of the first wavelength and different second wavelengths, as shown in the incident light 12. In some embodiments, for substantially perpendicular incident light, the input wall reflects at least 70%, at least 80%, or at least 90% of the incident light for each of the first wavelength and different second wavelengths. Thus, the input wall can substantially reflect the first light 11 and the emitted second light 13.

[0159] In some embodiments, the area of ​​the input window 531 is less than about 30% of the area of ​​the bottom wall 530. In some embodiments, the area of ​​the input window 531 is less than about 25%, less than about 20%, less than about 15%, less than about 10%, or less than about 5% of the area of ​​the bottom wall 530.

[0160] In some embodiments, at least one of the input window 521 and the output window 531 includes a physical through opening. In some embodiments, the area of ​​the input window 531 is larger than the area of ​​the output window 521. In some embodiments, at least one of the top wall 520 and the bottom wall 530 is structurally similar to the back reflector 40. Figure 3 (As described). In some embodiments, at least one of the top wall 520 and the bottom wall 530 includes a plurality of microlayers 55, 56 totaling at least 20, each of the microlayers 55, 56 having an average thickness tm of less than about 500 nm. Additionally, in some embodiments, at least one of the top wall 520 and the bottom wall 530 includes at least one surface layer 57 having an average thickness ts of greater than about 500 nm.

[0161] Each of the first region 522 of the top wall 520 adjacent to the output window 521 and the bottom wall 530 has at least a first region 54 similar to a front reflector. Figure 4A (as described) and back reflector 40 ( Figure 4B The optical reflectivity of (as described). Therefore, for substantially perpendicular incident light (e.g., Figure 4A The incident light 12 shown is reflected by each of the first region 522 of the top wall 520 adjacent to the output window 521 and the bottom wall 530, for each of the first wavelength and different second wavelengths, by at least 60% of the incident light (not shown). Therefore, each of the first region 522 of the top wall 520 adjacent to the output window 521 and the bottom wall 530 reflects at least 60% of each of the first light 11 and the emitted second light 13.

[0162] For substantially perpendicular incident light, the output window 521 transmits at least 60% of the incident light having a second wavelength. In some embodiments, for substantially perpendicular incident light, the output window 521 transmits at least 70%, at least 80%, or at least 90% of the incident light having a second wavelength. Additionally, for substantially perpendicular incident light, the output window 521 reflects at least 60% of the incident light having a first wavelength. In some embodiments, for substantially perpendicular incident light, the output window 521 reflects at least 70%, at least 80%, or at least 90% of the incident light having a first wavelength. Therefore, the output window 521 can substantially transmit the emitted second light 13 and substantially reflect the first light 11.

[0163] For substantially perpendicular incident light, the input window 531 reflects at least 60% of the incident light having a second wavelength. In some embodiments, for substantially perpendicular incident light, the input window 531 reflects at least 70%, at least 80%, or at least 90% of the incident light having a second wavelength. Therefore, the input window 531 substantially reflects the emitted second light 13. Thus, the input window 531 facilitates the circulation of the emitted second light 13.

[0164] Additionally, for substantially perpendicular incident light, the input window 531 transmits at least 60% of the incident light having the first wavelength. In some embodiments, for substantially perpendicular incident light, the input window 531 transmits at least 70%, at least 80%, or at least 90% of the incident light having the first wavelength. Therefore, the input window 531 can substantially transmit the first light 11. This ensures that the test material 70 receives the first light 11.

[0165] In some embodiments, the second region 532 of the bottom wall 530 adjacent to the input window 531 reflects at least 60% of the incident light (not shown) for each of the first wavelength and different second wavelengths. In some embodiments, the second region 532 of the bottom wall 530 adjacent to the input window 531 reflects at least 70%, at least 80%, or at least 90% of the incident light for each of the first wavelength and different second wavelengths. Thus, the second region 532 of the bottom wall 530 adjacent to the input window 531 substantially reflects the first light 11 and the emitted second light 13.

[0166] The emitted second light 13 is configured to circulate between the top wall 520 and the bottom wall 530 and exit the optical structure 250 as the outgoing light 14.

[0167] Figure 11A An optical system 301 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 10 A detailed schematic diagram of the optical structure 250 (shown). In some embodiments, the input wall is a side wall 595 connecting the top wall 520 and the bottom wall 530. In some embodiments, the side wall 595 defines an input window 596.

[0168] As described above, in some embodiments, for substantially perpendicular incident light, the input wall reflects at least 60% of the incident light for each of the first wavelength and different second wavelengths. Therefore, in some embodiments, for substantially perpendicular incident light, the sidewall 595 reflects at least 60% of the incident light for each of the first wavelength and different second wavelengths. In some embodiments, the first light 11 emitted by the first light source 20 enters the optical fiber 73 from a first end 73a and exits the optical fiber 73 from different second ends 73b. In some embodiments, the second ends 73b are disposed in or near the input window 596. In some embodiments, the optical fiber 73 may be flexible. In some embodiments, the optical fiber 73 may be substantially rigid. In some embodiments, the optical fiber 73 may be an optical waveguide.

[0169] Figure 11B An optical system 301 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 10 Another detailed schematic diagram of the optical structure 250 (shown) is shown. In some embodiments, the input window 531 includes a receiving region 77 that protrudes within a cavity region 78 defined between the top wall 520 and the bottom wall 530. In some embodiments, a second end 73b is disposed within the receiving region 77. In some embodiments, the receiving region 77 may secure the second end 73b of the optical fiber 73 within the cavity region 78. In some embodiments, the receiving region 77 may diffuse or collimate the light.

[0170] Figure 11C An optical system 301 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 10 Another detailed schematic diagram of the optical structure 250 (shown) is shown. Figure 11C In an exemplary embodiment, the second end 73b is disposed in or near the input window 531. Specifically, the second end 73b of the optical fiber 73 is disposed in or near the input window 531 of the bottom wall 530.

[0171] Figure 12A A detailed schematic cross-sectional view of an optical system 700 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0172] Optical system 700 includes a light guide 710 disposed between a first optical reflector 720 and a second optical reflector 721 and a length L1 and a width W1. Figure 12BThe first optical reflector 720 and the second optical reflector 721 extend substantially together with each other in length L1 and width W1, as shown. The optical system 700 also includes a light source 730 disposed on a side 711 of the light guide 710. The light source 730 is configured to emit first light 731 having a first wavelength. The light guide 710 is configured to receive the emitted first light 731 through its side and to propagate the received first light 731 along the length and width of the light guide 710.

[0173] The first optical reflector 720 defines a first through-hole 722 such that at least a portion 723 of the first light 731 propagating in the light guide 710 is transmitted through the first through-hole 722 by the first optical reflector 720.

[0174] The optical system 700 also includes an optical unit 740 disposed on the first optical reflector 720. The optical unit 740 includes a third optical reflector 741 opposite to (i.e., the bottom 742 of the optical unit 740). The third optical reflector 741 defines a second through-hole 743. The bottom 742 of the optical unit 740 substantially covers the first through-hole 722 of the first optical reflector 720, such that first light 731 transmitted through the first through-hole 722 enters the optical unit 740.

[0175] Optical unit 740 is configured to receive test material 70 therein, the test material being configured to emit second light 724 having a second wavelength different from the first wavelength in response to being irradiated at least by first light 731 entering optical unit 740. The emitted second light 724 exits optical unit 740 through a second through-hole 743 of third optical reflector 741.

[0176] In some embodiments, the optical unit 740 also includes one or more sidewalls 744 extending from the third optical reflector 741 to the bottom 742 of the optical unit 740.

[0177] In some embodiments, at least one of the first to third optical reflectors 720, 721, 741 is substantially similar in construction to the back reflector 40. Figure 3(As described). In some embodiments, at least one of the first to third optical reflectors 720, 721, 741 includes a plurality of microlayers 55, 56 totaling at least 20, each of the microlayers 55, 56 having an average thickness tm of less than about 500 nm. Additionally, in some embodiments, at least one of the first to third optical reflectors 720, 721, 741 includes at least one surface layer 57 having an average thickness ts of greater than about 500 nm.

[0178] In some embodiments, at least one of the one or more sidewalls 744 is constructed substantially similar to the back reflector 40. Figure 3 (As described). In some embodiments, at least one of the one or more sidewalls 744 includes a plurality of microlayers 55, 56 in total numbering at least 20, each of the microlayers 55, 56 having an average thickness tm of less than about 500 nm. Additionally, in some embodiments, at least one of the one or more sidewalls 744 includes at least one surface layer 57 having an average thickness ts of greater than about 500 nm.

[0179] Additionally, for substantially perpendicularly incident light having a second wavelength (e.g., incident light 12), one or more sidewalls 744 have an optical reflectivity of at least 60%. In some embodiments, for substantially perpendicularly incident light having a second wavelength, one or more sidewalls have an optical reflectivity of at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 99%. Therefore, one or more sidewalls 744 can substantially reflect the emitted second light 724.

[0180] In some embodiments, the optical system 700 further includes an optical detector 750 for receiving and detecting the emitted second light 724 exiting the optical unit 740. Specifically, the optical detector 750 may receive and detect the emitted second light 724 exiting the optical unit 740 through the second through-hole 743.

[0181] Figure 12B A schematic top view of a first optical reflector 720 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Specifically, Figure 12B A schematic top view of the top reflector 720 in the xy plane is shown. The top reflector 720 defines a length L1 and a width W1 along the y-axis and x-axis, respectively. Figure 12B Also shown are a sidewall 744 and a first through-hole 722 defined in the first optical reflector 720. The sidewall 744 substantially surrounds the first through-hole 722. The third optical reflector 741 is not shown. Figure 12B As shown in the image.

[0182] Figure 12C An optical system 700 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 12A A schematic cross-sectional view of the first optical reflector 720 (shown). Figure 12C Also shown is a substantially perpendicular incident light 502 incident on the first optical reflector 720, i.e., the substantially perpendicular incident light 502 is incident at an angle of approximately 0 degrees relative to the normal N3 of the first optical reflector 720. In some embodiments, the normal N3 may be substantially along the z-axis of the optical system 700.

[0183] Figure 12D An optical system 700 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 12A A schematic cross-sectional view of the second optical reflector 721 (shown). Figure 12D Also shown is a substantially perpendicular incident light 503 incident on the second optical reflector 721, i.e., the substantially perpendicular incident light 503 is incident at an angle of approximately 0 degrees relative to the normal N4 of the second optical reflector 721. In some embodiments, the normal N4 may be substantially along the z-axis of the optical system 700.

[0184] Figure 12E An optical system 700 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 12A A schematic cross-sectional view of the third optical reflector 741 (shown). Figure 12E Also shown is a substantially perpendicular incident light 501 incident on the third optical reflector 741, i.e., the substantially perpendicular incident light 501 is incident at an angle of approximately 0 degrees relative to the normal N5 of the third optical reflector 741. In some embodiments, the normal N5 may be substantially along the z-axis of the optical system 700.

[0185] refer to Figures 12C to 12E For substantially perpendicularly incident light 502, 503, 501 having a second wavelength, each of the first to third optical reflectors 720, 721, 741 has an optical reflectivity of at least 60% for the region of the first to third optical reflectors 720, 721, 741 remote from any of the corresponding through-holes 722, 743. In some embodiments, for substantially perpendicularly incident light 502, 503, 501 having a second wavelength, each of the first to third optical reflectors 720, 721, 741 has an optical reflectivity of at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 99% for the region of the first to third optical reflectors 720, 721, 741 remote from any of the corresponding through-holes 722, 743.

[0186] Furthermore, for substantially perpendicularly incident light 502, 501 having a second wavelength, each of the first through-hole 722 and the second through-hole 743 has an optical transmittance of at least 60%. In some embodiments, for substantially perpendicularly incident light 502, 501 having a second wavelength, each of the first through-hole 722 and the second through-hole 743 has an optical transmittance of at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 99%.

[0187] Figure 13 A detailed cross-sectional view of an optical system 700 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In some embodiments, the optical system 700 includes a perforated plate 760 disposed on a first optical reflector 720 opposite to a second optical reflector 721. The perforated plate 760 includes a plurality of spaced-apart holes 770. Figure 13 In the illustrative example, the bottom wall 771a of the first hole 770a of the plurality of spaced-apart holes 770 is substantially aligned with and covers the first through-hole 722 of the first optical reflector 720. An optical unit 740 is disposed on the first hole 770a. A third optical reflector 741 is disposed near the top 771b of the first hole 770a, and the bottom 742 of the optical unit 740 is disposed near the bottom wall 771a of the first hole 770a.

[0188] In some embodiments, the bottom wall 771a of the first aperture 770a has an optical transmittance of at least 60% at the second wavelength. In some embodiments, the bottom wall 771a of the first aperture 770a has an optical transmittance of at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 99% at the second wavelength. Therefore, the bottom wall 771a of the first aperture 770a substantially transmits the emitted second light 724. Figure 12A (As shown). Therefore, the emitted second light 724 can be transmitted through the first through-hole 722 toward the second optical reflector 721 for circulation of the emitted second light 724.

[0189] Additionally, more than one optical unit 740 can be placed in correspondingly spaced apertures 770. This allows the optical system 700 to analyze more than one test material 70 simultaneously or sequentially.

[0190] Figure 14 A detailed schematic cross-sectional view of an optical inspection system 600 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0191] The optical inspection system 600 includes a backlight 200' configured to emit a first light 587 from its emitting surface 91. The backlight 200' includes at least one light source 545 configured to generate the first light 587. The backlight 200' also includes a back reflector 621 for redirecting the first light 587 generated by the at least one light source 545. The emitting surface 91 and the back reflector 621 extend substantially together in length and width.

[0192] The optical inspection system 600 also includes an optical circulating porous plate 580 disposed on the emitting surface 91 of the backlight 200'. The optical circulating porous plate 580 includes a plurality of spaced-apart holes 570. In some embodiments, the holes among the plurality of spaced-apart holes 570 are supported by a substrate 590.

[0193] Each aperture 570 includes a top reflector 581 that defines a first opening 583. Each aperture 570 also includes a bottom reflector 582 that defines a second opening 584. Each aperture 570 also includes one or more sidewalls 585 that extend from the top reflector 581 to the bottom reflector 582.

[0194] In some embodiments, the top reflectors 581 of the holes in a plurality of spaced-apart holes 570 are connected to form a continuous top reflector. In some embodiments, the bottom reflectors of the holes in a plurality of spaced-apart holes 570 are connected to form a continuous bottom reflector.

[0195] In some embodiments, at least one of the top reflector 581, the bottom reflector 582, and one or more sidewalls 585 is constructed similarly to the back reflector 40. Figure 3 (As described). In some embodiments, at least one of the top reflector 581 and the bottom reflector 582, and one or more sidewalls 585, includes a plurality of microlayers 55, 56 totaling at least 20, each of the microlayers 55, 56 having an average thickness tm of less than about 500 nm. Additionally, in some embodiments, at least one of the top reflector 581 and the bottom reflector 582, and one or more sidewalls 585, includes at least one surface layer 57 having an average thickness ts of greater than about 500 nm.

[0196] A recirculating optical cavity 589 is defined between a top reflector 581 and a bottom reflector 582. First light 587 enters the recirculating optical cavity 589 through a second opening 584 in the bottom reflector 582. Specifically, the recirculating optical cavity 589 of each of the plurality of spaced-apart holes 570 is configured to receive at least a portion of the first light 587 emitted from the emitting surface 91 of the backlight 200' through the second opening 584 of the bottom reflector 582 of the hole 570.

[0197] The circulating optical cavity 589 is configured to receive test material 70 therein, which is configured to emit second light 586 having a second wavelength in response to being irradiated by first light 587 having a different first wavelength.

[0198] For at least the second wavelength, each of the top reflector 581 and the bottom reflector 582 has an optical reflectivity of at least 60% for the regions of the top reflector 581 and the bottom reflector 582 remote from the corresponding openings 583, 584. In some embodiments, for at least the second wavelength, each of the top reflector 581 and the bottom reflector 582 has an optical reflectivity of at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 99% for the regions of the top reflector 581 and the bottom reflector 582 remote from the corresponding openings 583, 584. Therefore, the regions of the top reflector 581 and the bottom reflector 582 remote from the corresponding openings 583, 584 can substantially reflect the emitted second light 586.

[0199] In some embodiments, for each of the first and second wavelengths, each of the top reflector 581 and the bottom reflector 582 has an optical reflectivity of at least 60% for the regions of the top reflector 581 and the bottom reflector 582 remote from the corresponding openings 583, 584. In some embodiments, for each of the first and second wavelengths, each of the top reflector 581 and the bottom reflector 582 has an optical reflectivity of at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 99% for the regions of the top reflector 581 and the bottom reflector 582 remote from the corresponding openings 583, 584. Therefore, the regions of the top reflector 581 and the bottom reflector 582 remote from the corresponding openings 583, 584 can substantially reflect the first light 587 and the emitted second light 586.

[0200] Additionally, for substantially perpendicularly incident light (not shown) having a second wavelength, and for at least the second wavelength, one or more sidewalls 585 of each aperture 570 have an optical reflectivity of at least 60%. In some embodiments, for substantially perpendicularly incident light having a second wavelength, and for at least the second wavelength, one or more sidewalls 585 of each aperture 570 have an optical reflectivity of at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 99%. Therefore, one or more sidewalls 585 can substantially reflect the emitted second light 586.

[0201] The emitted second light 586, after circulating in the recirculating optical cavity 589, exits the aperture 570 as the outgoing light 588 through the first opening 583 of the top reflector 581. Specifically, the emitted second light 586, after circulating between the top reflector 581 and the bottom reflector 582, exits the aperture 570 through the first opening 583 of the top reflector 581. In some embodiments, the emitted second light 586 exits the aperture 570 through the first opening 583 of the top reflector 581 after being reflected at least once by one or more sidewalls 585. Circulation affects the optical intensity of the outgoing light 588. In some embodiments, the optical detection system 600 also includes an optical detector 550 for receiving and detecting the outgoing light 588. The outgoing light 588 is more easily detected by the optical detector 550 than the emitted second light 586, which does not circulate in the recirculating optical cavity 589.

[0202] Furthermore, the optical circulation porous plate 580 allows for the simultaneous or sequential analysis of more than one test material 70 using the backlight 200' of the optical detection system 600.

[0203] Unless otherwise stated, all figures used in the specification and claims to indicate feature dimensions, quantities, and physical properties should be understood to be modified by the term "about". Therefore, unless stated to the contrary, the numerical parameters listed in the foregoing specification and appended claims are approximations and can vary according to the desired properties sought by those skilled in the art using the teachings disclosed herein.

[0204] While specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, those skilled in the art will recognize that various alternative and / or equivalent embodiments may be used in place of the illustrated and described embodiments without departing from the scope of this disclosure. This application is intended to cover any modifications or variations of the specific embodiments discussed herein. Therefore, this disclosure is intended to be limited only by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An optical system, comprising: A backlight source configured to emit light from its emitting surface, and comprising: At least one light source, said at least one light source being configured to emit first light having at least a first wavelength; and At least one light redirection film, disposed on a back reflector, is provided to redirect the first light emitted by the at least one light source, wherein the emitting surface, the at least one light redirection film, and the back reflector extend substantially together in length and width; and A front reflector, disposed on the back reflector and defining a circular optical cavity between the front reflector and the back reflector, the front reflector defining at least one opening such that, for substantially perpendicular incident light: Each of the front reflector and the back reflector, in a first region adjacent to the at least one opening, reflects at least 60% of the incident light for each of the at least first wavelength and at least a different second wavelength; and The at least one opening and the at least first region of the front reflector have corresponding optical transmittances T1 and T2 at the at least second wavelength, where T1 > 1.2T2; When the test material is placed in the circulating optical cavity, the test material is configured to emit second light having at least the second wavelength in response to a stimulus, and the emitted second light exits the optical system through the at least one opening of the front reflector after circulating in the circulating optical cavity, the circulation affecting the optical intensity of the emitted light.

2. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the stimulation comprises an optical stimulation such that, in response to light having the at least first wavelength emitted by the backlight, the test material emits second light having the at least second wavelength.

3. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the stimulus comprises a chemical stimulus, such that in response to a chemical reaction, the test material emits the second light having the at least second wavelength.

4. The optical system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the at least one openings is a physical through-hole opening extending from a first primary surface of the front reflector to an opposite second primary surface of the front reflector.

5. The optical system according to claim 1, wherein the backlight further comprises: A light guide for propagating the first light along its length and width, the light guide being disposed between the at least one light redirection film and the back reflector, the back reflector being configured to reflect light exiting the light guide and propagating toward the back reflector, the reflected light propagating toward the at least one light redirection film; and A reflective polarizer disposed on the at least one light redirection film and including the emitting surface of the backlight.

6. An optical system, comprising: A backlight source configured to provide substantially polarized uniform illumination to a display panel through its emitting surface, and including a back reflector that extends substantially co-located with the emitting surface in length and width; and A plurality of optical units are disposed on the emitting surface and arranged across the emitting surface, each of the optical units comprising: A top wall is disposed on and spaced apart from the emitting surface, and the top wall defines at least one output window having a total area A1 and being surrounded by the remainder of the top wall. An optical circulation cavity is defined between the top wall and the back reflector of the backlight. The remaining portion of the top wall and each of the back reflectors have an optical reflectivity of at least 60% for substantially perpendicular incident light having a signal wavelength, and the at least one output window has an optical transmittance of at least 60%. The optical unit is configured to receive a test material therein, the test material being configured to emit signal light having the signal wavelength in response to a stimulus. The emitted signal light circulates in the circulating optical cavity and then exits the optical unit through the at least one output window, the circulation enhancing the optical intensity of the emitted light.

7. The optical system of claim 6, wherein each optical unit further comprises a bottom wall disposed between the top wall and the emitting surface and defining at least one input window having a total area A2, A2>A1.

8. The optical system of claim 7, wherein each optical unit further comprises one or more sidewalls extending from the top wall toward the emitting surface, and wherein the one or more sidewalls have an optical reflectivity of at least 60% for substantially perpendicular incident light having the signal wavelength.

9. The optical system of claim 7, wherein the at least one output window includes a physical through-hole extending from a first outermost principal surface of the top wall to an opposite second outermost principal surface of the top wall.

Images