Switchable Diffuser with Light Redirecting Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical systems require adjustable light output distributions without the need for physical reconfiguration, and existing diffusers often cause backscattering, reducing efficiency.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a switchable diffuser with light redirecting structures and a low-absorbing optical component to increase the full width at half-maximum (FWHM) of the light output, allowing for electronic adjustment of light distribution while minimizing backscattering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a traditional diffuser is used to improve light output uniformity, then the uniformity of light output is improved, but backscattering increases which reduces system efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by switching the diffuser between two states: a first state with high haze (high scattering) for improved uniformity, and a second state with low haze (low scattering) for reduced backscattering loss. This dynamic parameter change allows the system to optimize between uniformity and efficiency based on operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by using a switchable diffuser that can transition between different optical states. The diffuser's scattering properties are made dynamic rather than static, allowing real-time adjustment of the balance between light uniformity and scattering loss through electrical or mechanical control.
2Area of stationary object
If the FWHM of light output is increased to broaden light distribution, then light distribution coverage is improved, but the optical system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated optical component. The diffuser simultaneously performs light scattering for uniformity, FWHM adjustment for distribution control, and acts as a switchable element for dynamic reconfiguration. This consolidation achieves broad light distribution without proportionally increasing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The switchable diffuser serves multiple functions: it controls light scattering (haze), adjusts FWHM (angular distribution), and enables dynamic reconfiguration of the optical system. This multi-functionality allows a single component to achieve broad light distribution coverage while minimizing the number of separate elements required.
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 solution provides an unexpectedly high degree of forward scattering relative to backscattering, offering efficient and adjustable light output with increased FWHM, enhancing the optical system's performance.
Implementation Method 1
a switchable diffuser, which may include a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) layer, can be used for this purpose
Implementation Method 2
the light redirecting structures are configured to increase the full width at half-maximum (FWHM) of the light output of the optical system in at least one direction by at least 5 degrees
Implementation Method 3
a low absorbing optical component in optical communication with the lighting component and in optical communication with the switchable diffuser
Data Source
AI summary
An optical system including a lighting component and a switchable diffuser in optical communication with the lighting component. The optical system may further include a low absorbing optical component. At least one outer surface of the switchable diffuser and/or the low absorbing optical component includes light redirecting structures. When the switchable diffuser is in a first state and the optical system produces a light output, the light redirecting structures are configured to increase the full width at half-maximum (FWHM) of the light output of the optical system in at least one direction by at least 5 degrees relative to that of an otherwise equivalent optical system that does not include the light redirecting structures.