High efficiency linear light source

摘要

A linear light source for a film scanner is disclosed which includes an elongated light integrating cavity, formed within a solid illumination body, having diffusely reflective walls. Light is introduced into the cavity through an input port, and an output beam of diffuse light is produced through a slot which is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the integrating cavity. In order to increase the efficiency of the light source, light is introduced into the cavity through a high collection non-imaging optical device formed as a hollow bore within the illumination body.