Non linear light guides aid flexible design needs

The number and range of innovative lighting options for various design needs continues. These non-linear light guides can be integrated into a variety of products, from overhead lighting and wall sconces to automotive interior/exterior lighting such as dome lights, passenger compartment lighting, and daytime running lights, as well as white goods and consumer electronics devices.

Two developments led to these non-linear light guides. The first was the development of a thin film embossing process allowing light guides to be manufactured 0.25 mm or less in thickness. These flexible parts can be used in applications requiring flexible or mechanically curved product. The second was a change to the manufacturing process of the optical extraction features embedded in the light guides, allowing GLT to create the extraction features onto curved surfaces. This allowed thicker lightguides to be injection molded while having curved emission surfaces.

The curvature of the light guides can be custom designed for various applications. Typical sizes range from 0.25 mm to 4 mm thick and can be created in sizes greater than 24 in. in diagonal, depending on the application.

Global Lighting Technologies Inc.
www.glthome.com