Beamshape transforming devices in high-efficiency projection systems

Benjamin A. Jacobson; Robert D. Gengelbach; John M. Ferri

doi:10.1117/12.290218

3 October 1997 Beam shape transforming devices in high-efficiency projection systems

Benjamin A. Jacobson, Robert D. Gengelbach, John M. Ferri

Proceedings Volume 3139, Nonimaging Optics: Maximum Efficiency Light Transfer IV; (1997) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.290218
Event: Optical Science, Engineering and Instrumentation '97, 1997, San Diego, CA, United States

Abstract

Beam-shape transformers are used in high-efficiency projectors to match round source beams to rectangular LCD targets. Two common alternative approaches use (1) light- pipes and (2) lenslet arrays. Both approaches outperform the simple overfilling used in simpler systems. We review the two approaches conceptually and develop simple theoretical models which elucidate each approach's trade-offs between uniformity, efficiency, etendue, and compactness. For the light-pipe approach, we develop a detailed analytical theory for idealized, uniform sources, and we compare the predictions to ray-trace results. Finally, we compare the two approaches and find that the light-pipe approach offers similar performance with higher compactness. The lens array approach, however, may be favored in complex systems where multiple elements already result in long optical trains, or in systems where etendue conservation is not a priority.

Citation Download Citation

Benjamin A. Jacobson, Robert D. Gengelbach, and John M. Ferri "Beam shape transforming devices in high-efficiency projection systems", Proc. SPIE 3139, Nonimaging Optics: Maximum Efficiency Light Transfer IV, (3 October 1997); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.290218

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