METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR LIGHT HARVESTING IN DISPLAYS

摘要

Methods and apparatuses for harvesting light from displays. In one embodiment, the invention relates to a substrate having a first and a second surface, an edge and a luminescent dye. A photovoltaic transducer is positioned adjacent the substrate. Light passing through both the first and second surfaces of the substrate is polarized and light constrained within and traveling through the substrate interacts with the photovoltaic transducer to produce electric current. In one embodiment, the method of harvesting light from an illuminated electronic display including the steps of providing a light source, providing a substrate having a first and a second surface and an edge; and a luminescent dye; and providing a photovoltaic transducer positioned adjacent the substrate. Light passing through both the first and second surfaces of the substrate is polarized, and light constrained within and traveling through the substrate interacts with the photovoltaic transducer to produce electric current.

主权项

1. A light harvesting electronic display comprising:
a light concentrator comprising:
a substrate having a first surface and a second surface and an edge; anda luminescent dye; and a photovoltaic transducer positioned adjacent the substrate of the light concentrator, wherein the index of refraction of the substrate is greater than the refractive index of air, wherein light passing through both the first and second surfaces of the substrate is polarized, and wherein light constrained within and traveling through the substrate of the light concentrator interacts with the photovoltaic transducer to produce electric current.