Polymer optical fibre bundle illuminating e.g. notice panel

摘要

Adjacent optical fibers (L) are assembled onto a band or sheet (6). In specific areas corresponding to characters or graphics (10), the fibre surfaces are marked by roughening. Light released at these areas, illuminates the markings. Preferred features: In a variation, fibers are formed into strips attached to narrow sides of a conventional information-carrying transparent panel, to illuminate it. A covering of each fibre is removed in places where the fibre itself is to be roughened. Roughening covers less than half the fibre circumference. The surface is cut away during roughening, and may be coated white or colored. The fibers are situated between two light sources, coupled at both ends. Optical diodes form the sources. The band or sheet has protective covering over the illuminated areas at least. The panel is plastic or glass, the fibre strips attached on both sides, to illuminate the embedded text or graphics by reflection. A number of panels may be joined together, carrying the same, or different text or graphics.