Flexible system for linearly distributed illumination

摘要

Linearly distributed illumination systems based on flexible optical waveguides or optical fibers are described for both high brightness and low brightness applications. Light illumination at preselected locations is accomplished by transferring light from the light carrying core region to the outer layers of the waveguide/fiber structure. A curled waveguide, typically having a rectangular band-like core cross section and cut at an angle facing the light source, serves to optically couple light with simplicity and high efficiency into the waveguide for high brightness applications. Grooves into sides of the band waveguide, in either the small or large dimension, provide a means for removing light from the core to illuminate preselected regions along the length of the band waveguide. Complex systems comprising a bundle of band waveguides and an optical feedback means for automatic control of illumination brightness are also described. For low brightness applications an illuminating system comprising a flexible band covered with a fluorescent material in sites along the length of the waveguide where illumination is required for a specific application.