Optical Element with Reflective Lenses and Scattering Pattern
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Solution Overview
Problem
Liquid crystal displays (LCDs) face challenges in achieving uniform illumination, which is crucial for display quality, due to variations in light distribution from backlight units (BLUs), particularly in edge-type BLUs where LEDs are disposed on the side faces of light guide plates, leading to non-uniform light emission towards the liquid crystal panel.
Innovation Solution
An optical element comprising a light transmitting substrate with protruding reflective lenses and a scattering pattern formed between them, which is integrated into the backlight unit to enhance illumination uniformity by controlling light distribution and reflection, thereby eliminating the need for additional diffusion sheets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If additional diffusion sheets are used to improve illumination uniformity, then illumination uniformity is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical functions (diffusion, reflection, and light distribution control) into a single integrated optical element. This optical element includes a light transmitting substrate with reflective lenses and scattering patterns formed directly on it, eliminating the need for separate diffusion sheets and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining illumination uniformity
Solution Approach 2:
The optical element uses composite structural design combining transparent substrate material with integrated scattering patterns and reflective lens structures. This composite approach allows the single element to perform multiple optical functions that previously required separate components, improving illumination uniformity without increasing device complexity
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple separate optical components are used to control light distribution, then light control precision is improved, but manufacturing complexity and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates diffusion patterns, reflective lens structures, and light distribution control features into a single optical element manufactured as one piece. This is achieved by forming scattering patterns and reflective lenses on a light transmitting substrate using techniques like injection molding or embossing, thereby maintaining precise light control while simplifying manufacturing and assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The optical element is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it diffuses light, reflects light at specific angles, and controls light distribution patterns. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple specialized components, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining the precision needed for uniform illumination
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 ensures uniform illumination across the liquid crystal panel by scattering light effectively, maintaining consistent brightness without additional diffusion sheets, thus improving the overall display quality and reducing manufacturing complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of reflective lenses formed to protrude from the one face of the light transmitting substrate
Implementation Method 2
a scattering pattern formed on the one face of the light transmitting substrate and in an area between the plurality of reflective lenses
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are an optical element and a backlight unit including the same. The optical element includes a light transmitting substrate including one face and the other face, a plurality of reflective lenses formed to protrude from the one face of the light transmitting substrate, and a scattering pattern which is formed on the one face of the light transmitting substrate and in an area between the plurality of reflective lenses.