Light Coupling Apparatus Using Refractive Index Interfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light coupling apparatuses are limited in their ability to efficiently couple multiple incident lights into a single or multiple outward directions, requiring fixed incident angles and being inflexible in handling more than three light sources, with a lack of adaptability in dividing lights into different colors.
Innovation Solution
A light coupling apparatus utilizing mediums with different refractive indexes for total internal reflection, allowing flexible assembly and configuration to couple multiple incident lights into a predetermined direction or directions without prior color division, employing the principles of Snell's law for total internal reflection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional light coupling apparatuses (X-cube, X-plate, dichroic mirrors) are used, then light coupling can be achieved for three divided lights, but the incident angles must be fixed and the apparatus cannot flexibly handle more than three light sources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a universal light coupling apparatus that can handle multiple light sources (more than three) with different incident angles, making the device adaptable to various optical configurations. The apparatus uses a combination of mirrors and prisms that can accommodate different light paths and convergence requirements, eliminating the need for fixed incident angles and color division before coupling.
2Reliability
If fixed incident angles are used in traditional apparatuses, then light coupling can be achieved, but the apparatus loses adaptability when light sources are positioned at different angles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic light coupling design where the apparatus can adapt to different incident angles through its mirror and prism configuration. The system allows light sources to be positioned at various angles and still achieves effective coupling, making the apparatus reliable across different operational conditions without requiring fixed angle constraints.
3Ease of manufacture
If lights are divided into different colors beforehand using dichroic mirrors, then light coupling can be achieved, but the process becomes complex and loses flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of light division and coupling into a single integrated apparatus. Instead of dividing lights into different colors before coupling, the system combines multiple light sources with different wavelengths and incident angles directly into the coupling apparatus, which then converges them into a single output beam. This eliminates the need for separate color division steps and simplifies the overall process.
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
Enables efficient and flexible coupling of multiple incident lights into a single or multiple directions, improving light coupling quality and adaptability for various optical devices, without the need for fixed incident angles or prior color division.
Implementation Method 1
A first light source provides a first incident light, totally reflecting onto the 1-2 interface from the first medium and emitting in a coupling direction from the light coupling apparatus
Implementation Method 2
A second light source provides a second incident light, refracting through the 1-2 interface from the second medium into the first medium, and emitting in the coupling direction from the light coupling apparatus
Data Source
AI summary
A light coupling apparatus for use in an optical equipment is provided. The light coupling apparatus is used to couple a plurality of different incident lights from different light sources into a light that emits in a substantial single outward direction.