Microfabricated Light Collimating Screen Using High Aspect Ratio Columns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional light collimating screens are limited to collimating light in only a single direction, requiring two screens layered and oriented perpendicular to each other to achieve collimation in multiple directions, which is not practical for many applications.
Innovation Solution
A microfabricated light collimating screen comprising a substrate with high aspect ratio transparent columns and a light absorbing material between them, covered by a transparent layer, allowing for simultaneous collimation in two dimensions, using photopolymer materials like SU-8 and techniques such as photolithography and etching to achieve high aspect ratios and low-cost large-area fabrication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional light collimating screens with microlouvers are used, then light can be collimated in a single direction, but collimation in multiple directions requires two screens layered perpendicular to each other
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from conventional 2D microlouver structures to 3D high aspect ratio transparent columns. This dimensional change allows light to be collimated in multiple directions simultaneously by utilizing the vertical dimension, eliminating the need for layered perpendicular screens while achieving multi-directional collimation
2Ease of manufacture
If high aspect ratio transparent columns are fabricated using photopolymer materials, then large-area fabrication at lower costs is achieved, but manufacturing precision must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes photopolymer materials and photolithography processes that enable precise control of column dimensions through parameter optimization. By adjusting exposure time, photopolymer composition, and etching parameters, high aspect ratio columns can be fabricated with controlled precision over large areas at reduced cost compared to conventional methods
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 effective collimation of light in multiple directions, improving fabrication methods for large-area production at lower costs, suitable for applications like glare reduction, privacy viewing, and precise light direction control in displays and image rendering devices.
Implementation Method 1
a light collimating screen comprises a substrate, a plurality of transparent high aspect ratio columns formed on the substrate
Data Source
AI summary
A microfabricated light collimating screen is provided. A microfabricated screen, in one form, is made from a photopolymer such as SU-8 material. It is able to collimate light in two dimensions and for improved degrees of collimation. It may also be directly patterned onto image sensors or light sources in order to achieve direct collimation. The fabrication method is large-area compatible and inexpensive. The proposed screens may be useful for position detection of objects, such as in the paper mover, in printers and copy machines.