Collimating light injectors for edge-lit backlights

摘要

Illumination devices whose function are to inject light into backlights, particularly into backlights that incorporate a recycling cavity formed by a front (50) and back (52) reflector, are described. In some embodiments, the device includes a light source (59) disposed proximate the back reflector, and first (42) and second (44) reflecting structures. The first reflecting structure includes an inner reflective surface (41b) at least a portion of which is inclined to form a wedge with the back reflector. The wedge partially collimates and directs light from the light source generally away from the recycling cavity. The second reflecting structure receives light exiting the wedge and redirects such light into an injection beam directed into the recycling cavity.

主权项

1. An illumination device for injecting light into a hollow light recycling cavity formed by a front and back reflector, the front reflector being partially transmissive to provide an extended output area, the device comprising:
a light source disposed proximate the back reflector; a first reflecting structure disposed between the front and back reflector, and having an inner reflective surface at least a portion of which is inclined relative to the back reflector to form a first wedge there between that partially collimates and directs light from the light source generally away from the recycling cavity; and a second reflecting structure that is offset laterally from the extended output area, and oriented to receive light exiting the first wedge and redirect such light into an injection beam directed into the recycling cavity.