Multi-Layer Wavelength Converter for Fluorescence Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light source apparatuses face inefficiencies in fluorescence extraction, leading to a decrease in overall efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A wavelength converter with a substrate, first and second optical members, and wavelength conversion layers that incline to reflect and transmit light, enhancing fluorescence extraction efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a reflective phosphor wheel is used to generate illumination light, then the light source can produce fluorescence, but the fluorescence extraction efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The phosphor wheel is divided into multiple phosphor layers (first phosphor layer and second phosphor layer) with different wavelength conversion characteristics. Each layer is positioned at different distances from the excitation light source, allowing selective extraction of fluorescence from different layers through the transparent optical member, thereby improving overall fluorescence extraction efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a traditional reflective phosphor wheel configuration to a multi-layer phosphor structure with a transparent optical member. The phosphor layers are arranged at different depths and positions, creating a three-dimensional light extraction path that enhances fluorescence extraction efficiency by allowing light to be extracted from multiple dimensions rather than relying solely on surface reflection.
2Loss of energy
If multiple wavelength conversion layers are added to improve fluorescence extraction, then light conversion efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple phosphor layers with different wavelength conversion characteristics are merged into a single integrated structure with a transparent optical member. The first and second phosphor layers are positioned at different locations within the same optical assembly, allowing simultaneous wavelength conversion and fluorescence extraction without requiring separate devices or complex multi-stage systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The transparent optical member serves multiple functions: it acts as a substrate for mounting phosphor layers, provides a medium for light transmission, enables fluorescence extraction from multiple phosphor layers at different positions, and maintains structural integrity. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
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 improves fluorescence extraction efficiency by optimizing the path of light through multiple layers, allowing efficient output and cooling of phosphor layers, thereby enhancing the overall performance of the light source apparatus.
Implementation Method 1
a first wavelength conversion layer disposed at the support surface and including a light incident surface on which the first light emitted from the first optical layer is incident, the first wavelength conversion layer being configured to convert the first light into second light having a second wavelength band different from the first wavelength band
Implementation Method 2
a second wavelength conversion layer disposed at a first wavelength conversion layer side with respect to the first optical layer and configured to convert the first light into third light having a third wavelength band different from the first wavelength band
Implementation Method 3
The first optical layer inclines with respect to the light incident surface and reflects the second and third lights
Implementation Method 4
a second optical member disposed at the light emitting part and including a second optical layer that reflects the first light and transmits the second and third lights
Data Source
AI summary
A wavelength converter includes a substrate having a support surface, a first optical member including a first optical layer that transmits first light, a first wavelength conversion layer that is disposed at the support surface and converts the first light into second light, a second wavelength conversion layer that is disposed at a first wavelength conversion layer side with respect to the first optical layer and converts the first light into third light, a light emitting part that is formed by at least the substrate and the first optical member and emits light, and a second optical member that includes a second optical layer that reflects the first light and transmits the second and third lights and is disposed in the light emitting part. The first optical layer reflects the second and third lights. The second wavelength conversion layer converts part of the first light into the third light.