Viscoelastic Lightguide Layer for Uniform Light Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lightguides lack flexibility and adaptability in distributing light uniformly and efficiently across large areas, requiring additional adhesives for assembly and being inflexible in application, which limits their use in various lighting forms and constructions.
Innovation Solution
An optical device comprising a light source and a lightguide with a viscoelastic layer that allows for efficient light extraction and distribution through total internal reflection, enabling flexible and adaptable lighting solutions without the need for separate adhesives, and allowing for easy repositioning and customization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional lightguides are used, then light distribution function is provided, but flexibility and adaptability are poor, and additional adhesives are required for assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the lightguide function with adhesive functionality by integrating a viscoelastic layer directly onto the lightguide surface. This merging eliminates the need for separate adhesive components and simplifies assembly, while the viscoelastic properties provide flexibility and adaptability in positioning and conforming to different surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The viscoelastic layer serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as an adhesive for mounting the lightguide, provides flexibility for positioning adjustments, and enables conformability to various surfaces. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed and improves overall adaptability.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional lightguides are used, then light distribution is achieved, but material costs and assembly complexity increase due to required adhesives
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the adhesive layer with the lightguide structure through the viscoelastic layer, the patent eliminates the need for separate adhesive materials. This reduction in material quantity directly lowers costs while the integrated design simplifies the assembly process, making manufacturing easier.
3Productivity
If conventional lightguides are used, then light transport by total internal reflection is achieved, but light extraction efficiency is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality changes by introducing a viscoelastic layer with specific optical properties at the lightguide output surface. This layer creates localized variations in refractive index that enhance light extraction efficiency at critical positions without compromising the overall total internal reflection mechanism for light transport.
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 device provides flexible, adaptable, and efficient light distribution across various areas, reducing material costs and assembly complexity, while enabling portable and customizable lighting solutions for diverse applications.
Implementation Method 1
light emitted by the light source enters the lightguide and is transported within the lightguide by total internal reflection
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is an optical device including a light source and an optical article. The optical article includes a lightguide and a viscoelastic layer disposed on the lightguide. Light emitted by the light source enters the lightguide and is transported within the lightguide by total internal reflection. The viscoelastic layer manages light, for example, at least about 50%, or less than about 10%, of light that enters the lightguide may be extracted. The optical device can be used in a variety of constructions for signs, markings, display devices, keypad assemblies, tail light assemblies and illumination devices.