Integrated TIR prism and lens element

Details Integrated TIR prism and lens element Integrated TIR prism and lens element

2005-11-01

2005-11-01

Dunn, Drew A. (Department: 2872)

Optical: systems and elements

Prism

With reflecting surface

C359S837000, C359S709000

Reexamination Certificate

active

06961194

ABSTRACT:
Disclosed is an optical component, which comprises a prism element adjacent to a lens element, where the two elements are separated by a small air gap. In disclosed embodiments, the elements have adjacent and parallel surfaces which are substantially planar and which, with the small air gap, operate through Total Internal Reflection (“TIR”) to direct light beams that strike the planar surfaces. Light beams that strike at less than the critical angle are internally reflected, while light beams which strike at greater than the critical angle pass through. The TIR surfaces thereby separate the desired optical signals from the spurious ones. The combined TIR prism lens operates as a single and integrated component which directs desired light beams to a reflective optical processing element such as a Spatial Light Modulator and which focuses the processed light beams as they leave the combined TIR prism lens.

REFERENCES:
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patent: 5327413 (1994-07-01), Fritz
patent: 5552922 (1996-09-01), Magarill
patent: 5604624 (1997-02-01), Magarill
patent: 5629808 (1997-05-01), Powell
patent: 5675401 (1997-10-01), Wangler et al.
patent: 5905545 (1999-05-01), Poradish et al.
patent: 6185051 (2001-02-01), Chen et al.
patent: 6452662 (2002-09-01), Mulkens et al.

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