Projector Light Output Section Geometry for Fluorescence Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light source apparatuses for projectors face challenges in maximizing the efficiency of fluorescence utilization without using angle conversion members like CPCs, resulting in reduced light output on the screen.
Innovation Solution
A light source apparatus with a wavelength conversion member and an output section having specific geometric configurations, including inclined surfaces between 40° and 58°, which integrates a light emitter and a phosphor to enhance fluorescence extraction efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If an angle conversion member such as a CPC is provided at the end of the light guide, then the efficiency of light extraction from the light guide is improved, but the device complexity increases and the light output on the screen is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the wavelength conversion member and output section into an integrated structure where the output section serves dual purposes: extracting light from the wavelength conversion member and directing it toward the screen. This eliminates the need for separate angle conversion members like CPCs, reducing device complexity while maintaining light extraction efficiency through the optimized inclined surfaces (40°-58°) that naturally guide light at appropriate angles.
2Loss of energy
If an angle conversion member such as a CPC is provided at the end of the light guide, then the efficiency of light extraction from the light guide is improved, but the amount of light on the screen is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the output section, specifically the inclination angles of its surfaces (optimized between 40°-58°), to control light extraction and direction. This parameter optimization ensures that light is extracted efficiently from the wavelength conversion member while simultaneously directing sufficient light toward the screen, eliminating the trade-off present in conventional designs with CPCs.
3Productivity
If the cross-sectional area of the output section is optimized with specific inclination angles, then the fluorescence extraction efficiency is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies a practical range for inclination angles (40°-58°) that balances optical performance with manufacturability. This parameter range is wide enough to accommodate normal manufacturing tolerances while still achieving high fluorescence extraction efficiency, thus avoiding excessive manufacturing precision requirements.
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 apparatus achieves higher light output on the screen compared to systems with angle conversion members by optimizing the inclination angles and geometric shapes, thereby improving overall efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a wavelength conversion member that contains a fluorophore and converts the first light emitted from the light emitter into second light having a second wavelength band different from the first wavelength band
Data Source
AI summary
A light source apparatus according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a light emitter, a wavelength conversion member, and an output section. The output section includes a first end section having a first surface facing the wavelength conversion member, a second end section located at the side opposite from the first end section, and second, third, fourth, and fifth surfaces in contact with the first and second end sections. The cross-sectional area of the output section taken along a plane perpendicular to the center axis gradually decreases from the first end section toward the second end section. The second, third, fourth, and fifth surfaces each incline with respect to the first surface. The inclination angle of each of the second, third, fourth, and fifth surfaces with respect to the first surface is greater than or equal to 40° but smaller than or equal to 58°.