Light Diffusing Optical Fiber Radial Scattering Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current light modules configured to deliver light into optical fibers face inefficiencies in light transmission and distribution, particularly in scattering light radially for applications like signage, disinfection, and identification, where uniform illumination and disinfecting capabilities are needed.
Innovation Solution
The design involves a light diffusing optical fiber with nano-structured core regions and a cladding system that scatters light away from the core, coupled with a light module assembly that optically couples the fiber to LEDs, using adhesives or index-matching gels for efficient light transfer, and multiple fibers can be bundled to increase coupling efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If conventional light modules are used to deliver light into optical fibers, then light transmission is achieved, but light scattering efficiency and uniform illumination are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The optical fiber incorporates a nano-structured core region with porous or heterogeneous internal structure that scatters light radially as it propagates through the fiber. This nano-structuring enables efficient light diffusion throughout the fiber volume, achieving uniform illumination while maintaining high light transmission efficiency from the LED source.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical fiber is constructed as a composite structure with distinct functional regions: a nano-structured core region for light scattering and a cladding region for light confinement. This composite design enables simultaneous optimization of light transmission (via the cladding) and radial scattering (via the nano-structured core), resolving the contradiction between transmission efficiency and illumination uniformity.
2Illumination intensity
If light is scattered radially for uniform illumination, then illumination quality improves, but light transmission efficiency may decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The optical fiber is segmented into functionally distinct regions: a nano-structured core region that performs light scattering and a cladding region that performs light guidance. This segmentation allows each region to be optimized for its specific function, enabling effective radial scattering while maintaining high overall light transmission efficiency through the fiber.
3Productivity
If multiple optical fibers are bundled to increase coupling efficiency, then light distribution improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light module design enables a single optical fiber to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the light guidance medium and the illumination distribution network through its nano-structured core. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate fiber bundles dedicated to different functions, reducing device complexity while maintaining high coupling efficiency.
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
This configuration achieves efficient radial scattering of light for uniform illumination and disinfection, enhancing light transmission and distribution along the fiber length, suitable for various applications including signage, disinfection, and identification.
Implementation Method 1
a light diffusing optical fiber with nano-structured core regions and a cladding system that scatters light away from the core
Implementation Method 2
using adhesives or index-matching gels for efficient light transfer
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C
AI summary
According to one implementation an assembly is provided that facilitates a coupling of one or more light diffusing optical fibers to one or more light emitting diodes. According to one implementation the assembly includes a light emitting diode positioned inside a cavity of a frame that is equipped with means to directly or indirectly electrically couple the anode and cathode of the light emitting diode to a printed circuit board. A proximal end portion of the light diffusing optical fiber is supported inside a through opening of a lid positioned over a front side of the frame. The light diffusing optical fiber includes a core that is surround by a cladding. According to some implementations the proximal end of the light diffusing optical fiber is butt-coupled to the light emitting diode with there being no gap between the proximal end of the fiber and the light emitting side of the light emitting diode.