Gradient-Index Optical Element for Omnidirectional Light Trapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical elements are unable to collect and direct light omnidirectionally, leading to inefficiencies in light collection and utilization, particularly in applications like lighting apparatuses and solar cell devices.
Innovation Solution
A spherical optical element with a continuous gradient index distribution, where the refractive index attenuates radially from the center, allowing omnidirectional light collection and absorption, preventing light loss through seamless refractive index transitions and enabling efficient energy conversion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional optical elements are used, then light collection from wide viewing angles is achieved, but omnidirectional light collection and utilization efficiency are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by implementing a continuous gradient index distribution where the refractive index varies continuously from the center to the periphery of the optical element. This gradual parameter change enables omnidirectional light collection by matching refractive indices at interfaces, preventing reflection losses and achieving complete light trapping without conventional optical limitations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by creating different refractive index zones within the optical element - a high refractive index core region for light absorption and a gradient transition region for seamless optical coupling. This spatial variation in optical properties enables simultaneous omnidirectional light collection and complete light trapping within specific zones
2Productivity
If conventional optical elements are used, then simple structure is maintained, but light utilization efficiency and energy conversion are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves high energy conversion efficiency through parameter changes in the refractive index distribution, creating a continuous gradient from center to periphery. This enables the optical element to function as both a light collector and light director without additional components, converting incident light into absorbed energy with near-100% efficiency while maintaining relatively simple fabrication processes
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The optical element effectively collects and directs light from any direction, enhancing light utilization efficiency in lighting and solar cell applications by ensuring no light is lost due to refractive index gaps, and enabling high-efficiency energy conversion and wide wavelength distribution.
Implementation Method 1
an first continuous gradient index distribution area which is configured to continuously attenuate a refractive index from a center of the optical element in a radial direction
Implementation Method 2
a first medium at the center... including an area where an absolute value of an imaginary part of a complex refractive index is greater than zero
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, an optical element includes a continuous gradient index distribution area, and a first medium. The continuous gradient index distribution area is configured to continuously attenuate gradient index from a center of the optical element in a radial direction. The first medium is at the center. The first medium includes an area where absolute value of imaginary part of a complex refractive index is greater than zero.