Slim waveguide coupling apparatus and method

摘要

In various embodiments, an illumination structure includes a discrete light source disposed proximate a bottom surface of a waveguide and below a depression in a top surface thereof. A top mirror may be disposed above the discrete light source to convert modes of light emitted from the discrete light source into trapped modes, thereby increasing the coupling efficiency of the illumination structure.

主权项

1. An illumination structure comprising:
a waveguide having (i) top and bottom opposed surfaces, (ii) an in-coupling region for receiving light, (iii) an out-coupling region for emitting light from the waveguide, and (iv) a depression in the top surface thereof; a discrete light source disposed proximate the waveguide and positioned to emit light into the in-coupling region; disposed over and/or at least partially within the depression, a mirror for reflecting light from the discrete light source into the out-coupling region; and a phosphor layer for converting a wavelength of light emitted by the discrete light source to a different wavelength.