WO2020206431A2

WO2020206431A2 - Compact optical processor

Info

Publication number: WO2020206431A2
Application number: PCT/US2020/026887
Authority: WO
Inventors: Scot Johnson
Original assignee: PhotonX TherapeutX, Inc.
Priority date: 2019-04-04
Filing date: 2020-04-06
Publication date: 2020-10-08
Also published as: WO2020206431A3

Abstract

An optical processing device including a first light source, a second light source and a third light source, each generating a light emission having particular characteristics. At least a first optical panel and second optical panel are disposed in the light emissions of the first, second and third light sources. The principal planes of the first and second optical panels intersect within the space wherein the light emissions of the light sources intersect.

Description

COMPACT OPTICAL PROCESSOR

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to devices and methods for processing light.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] The subject matter presented herein provides a compact optical processor useful for a wide variety of applications.

The optical processor employs multiple optical panels disposed in shared space, so as to increase the efficiency and reduce the volume of the processor.

[0003] In one embodiment of the disclosed concept, an optical processing device includes a first light source, a second light source and a third light source, each generating a light

emission of a particular wavelength. At least a first optical panel and second optical panel are disposed in the light

emissions of the first, second and third light sources.

[0004] According to a second embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a device for processing light incorporating an optical output having a primary optical axis. A first optical panel, having a front planar surface on a first side facing the optical output and a rear planar surface opposite but parallel to the front planar surface, is disposed approximately 45 degrees to the primary optical axis of the optical output. A second optical panel, comprising a front planar surface on a first side facing the optical output and a rear planar surface opposite but parallel to the front planar surface, is disposed orthogonally to the front planar surface of the first optical panel. The front planar surface of the first optical panel and the front planar surface of the second optical panel intersect one another along the primary optical axis of the optical output .

[ 0005 ] According to a third embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a device for processing light. Within the device, an optical output has a primary optical axis parallel to a first generally-planar surface. A first optical panel, comprising a front planar surface on a first side facing the optical output and a rear planar surface opposite but parallel to the front planar surface, is secured to the first generally- planar surface in such manner that the front planar surface of the first optical panel is orthogonal to the first generally- planar surface and approximately 45 degrees to the primary optical axis of the optical output. A second optical panel, comprising a front planar surface on a first side facing the optical output and a rear planar surface opposite but parallel to the front planar surface, is secured to the first generally- planar surface in such a manner that the front planar surface of the second optical panel is orthogonal to the first generally- planar surface and orthogonal to the front planar surface of the first optical panel. The first optical panel and the second optical panel intersect one another along the primary optical axis of the optical output.

[ 0006 ] According to a fourth embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a device for processing light. The device includes an optical output having a primary optical axis. A first optical panel, comprising a front planar surface on a first side facing the optical output, is disposed at

approximately 45 degrees to the primary optical axis of the optical output. A second optical panel, comprising a front planar surface on a first side facing the optical output, is disposed orthogonally to the front planar surface of the first optical panel. A third optical panel, comprising a front planar surface on a first side facing the optical output, is disposed at approximately 45 degrees to the primary optical axis of the optical output. A fourth optical panel, comprising a front planar surface on a first side facing the optical output, is disposed orthogonally to the front planar surface of the third optical panel. The front planar surface of the first optical panel and the front planar surface of the second optical panel intersect one another along the primary optical axis of the optical output. The front planar surface of the third optical panel and the front planar surface of the fourth optical panel intersect one another along the primary optical axis of the optical output.

[ 0007 ] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The foregoing disclosure will be best understood, and advantages thereof made most clearly apparent, when

consideration is given to the following detailed description in combination with the drawing figures presented. The detailed description below makes reference to the following drawing figures :

[0009] Fig. 1A is a three-dimensional view of a first light processing device according to the present disclosure;

[0010] Fig. IB is a top view of the light processing device of Fig. 1A;

[0011] Fig. 1C is a left end view of the light processing device of Figs. 1A and IB;

[0012] Fig. ID is a front view of the light processing device of Figs. 1A-1C;

[0013] Fig. IE is a right end view of the light processing device of Figs. 1A-1D;

[0014] Fig. IF is a bottom view of the light processing device of Figs. 1A-1E; [0015] Fig. 1G is an exploded view of the light processing device of Figs. 1A-1F;

[0016] Fig. 1H is an isometric view of the housing of the light processing device of Figs. 1A-1G;

[0017] Fig. 2A is a three-dimensional view of a second light processing device according to the present disclosure;

[0018] Fig. 2B is a top view of the light processing device of Fig. 2A;

[0019] Fig. 2C is a left end view of the light processing device of Figs. 2A and 2B;

[0020] Fig. 2D is a front view of the light processing device of Figs. 2A-2C;

[0021] Fig. IE is a right end view of the light processing device of Figs. 2A-2D;

[0022] Fig. 2F is a bottom view of the light processing device of Figs. 2A-2E;

[0023] Fig. 2G is an exploded view of the light processing device of Figs. 2A-2F;

[0024] Fig. 2H is an isometric view of the housing of the light processing device of Figs. 2A-2G; [0025] Fig. 3A is an isometric view of an optical panel assembly according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0026] Fig. 3B is an exploded view of the optical panel assembly of Fig. 3A;

[0027] Fig. 4A is a top view of an optical panel frame according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0028] Fig. 4B is an isometric view of the optical panel frame of Fig. 4A;

[0029] Fig. 4C is a front view of the optical panel frame of Figs. 4A and 4B;

[0030] Fig. 4D is a right side view of the optical panel frame of Figs. 4A-4C;

[0031] Fig. 5A is a front schematic view showing the arrangement of two optical panels and three light sources according to the present disclosure;

[0032] Fig. 5B shows the path of a first light emission through the optical panel assembly shown in Fig. 5A;

[0033] Fig. 5C shows the path of a second light emission through the optical panel assembly shown in Figs. 5A and 5B; [0034] Fig. 5D shows the path of a third light emission through the optical panel assembly shown in Figs. 5A-5C;

[0035] Fig. 5E shows the path of the light emissions of Figs. 5B-5D passing through the optical panel assembly and combining into a single light output;

[0036] Fig. 6A shows a three-dimensional view of a optical panel assembly according to certain embodiments of the present

disclosure ;

[0037] Fig. 6B is an exploded view of the optical panel assembly of Fig. 6B;

[0038] Fig. 7A is a three-dimensional view of a single optical panel according to the present disclosure;

[0039] Fig. 7B is a front view of the optical panel shown in Fig. 7A;

[0040] Fig. 7C is a right side view of the optical panel shown in Figs. 7A and 7B;

[0041] Fig. 8A is a three-dimensional view of an optical panel assembly according to an alternate embodiment of the present disclosure ; [0042] Fig. 8B is an exploded view of the optical panel assembly of Fig. 8A;

[0043] Fig. 9A is a front view of a optical panel according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0044] Fig. 9B is a top view of the optical panel of Fig. 9A;

[0045] Fig. 9C is a rear view of the optical panel of Figs. 9A and 9B;

[0046] Fig. 9D is a right side view of the optical panel of Figs. 9A-9C;

[0047] Fig. 9E is a three-dimensional view of the optical panel shown in Figs. 9A-9D;

[0048] Fig. 9F is a side view of the optical panel shown in Figs. 9A-9E;

[0049] Fig. 10A is a front view of an optical panel according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0050] Fig. 10B is a top view of the optical panel of Fig. 10A;

[0051] Fig. IOC is a rear view of the optical panel of Figs. 10A and 9B; [0052] Fig. 10D is a right side view of the optical panel of Figs. 10A-10C;

[0053] Fig. 10E is a three-dimensional view of the optical panel shown in Figs. 10A-10D;

[0054] Fig. 11 is a schematic view of a light combiner;

[0055] Fig. 12 is a graph showing the light transmission of a dichroic mirror according to frequency;

[0056] Fig. 13 is a graph showing the light transmission of two dichroic mirrors according to frequency;

[0057] Fig. 14 is a schematic view of a second embodiment of a light combiner according to the present disclosure; and

[0058] Fig. 15 is a graph showing relative radiant power by wavelength for various light temperatures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] A device for light processing is provided herein. Light processed according to the teachings of the present disclosure can be provided for the purposes of photodynamic therapy, but is not limited to such use. The following detailed description provides certain specific embodiments of the subject matter disclosed herein. Although each embodiment represents a single combination of elements, the subject matter disclosed herein should be understood to include sub-combinations of the

disclosed elements. Thus, if one embodiment comprises elements A, B, and C, and a second embodiment comprises elements B and D, then the inventive subject matter is also intended to include other remaining combinations of A, B, C, or D, even if not explicitly disclosed herein.

[0060] Figs. 1A-1G show a single-stage light processing device 100 according to the present disclosure from various points of view. Light processing device 100 includes device housing 102 designed to locate, orient and secure the various operational components of device 100, including but not limited to optical panel assembly 104.

[0061] Optical panel assembly 104 includes a first optical panel 106 and second optical panel 108, secured within panel frame 110. In certain embodiments, optical panels 106 and 108 are dichroic mirrors. In alternate embodiments, optical panels may include transparent panels, filters, full mirrors, half wave plates, liquid crystal panels, polarizers, digital micromirror devices or any combination thereof, as may be useful for the processing of light according to the requirements of a

particular application. Light entering device 100 is processed using optical panels 106 and 108. The processed light then exits device 100 via optical output 112.

[0062] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, device 100 incorporates an optical panel assembly 104 wherein both optical panels 106, 108 are dichroic mirrors. Light entering device 100 passes into optical panel assembly 104 and is then combined and directed through optical output 112.

The operation of this embodiment is discussed in further detail below .

[0063] Fig. 1G is an exploded view showing optical panel assembly 104 separated from device housing 102 in order to more clearly disclose the details of optical panel assembly 104 and device housing 102. In certain embodiments, device housing 102 and panel assembly 104 may be separate components. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1G, panel frame 110 is shaped and sized to fit into a mating cavity 120 formed in the body of device housing 102. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1G, panel frame

104 has an outside envelope approximating the shape of a cube. Accordingly, mating cavity 120 of housing 102 has a

corresponding internal profile approximating the shape of a cube. Alternate embodiments may employ varying geometries.

[0064] Device housing 102 and panel frame 104 may be

manufactured via any manufacturing processes known, including casting, injection molding, three-dimensional printing,

machining or other processes, and may include combinations of these processes. The materials from which housing 102 and panel frame 110 are constructed may vary by application, and may include metals, polymers and ceramics, as examples. In some embodiments, panel frame 110 may be formed as an integral part of device housing 102, with the entire combination being formed in one piece. In other embodiments, Device housing 102, panel frame 104, or both, may be constructed from multiple components.

[0065] Fig. 1H shows an isometric view of the device housing 102 of the light processing device 100 of Figs. 1A-1G. As seen in this figure, cavity 120 is generally-rectangular, incorporating vertical internal surfaces 122 and horizontal internal surfaces 124. Surfaces 122 and 124 are generally-planar, but may

incorporate ridges, grooves or apertures, as seen in Fig. 1H. Vertical surfaces 122 are parallel to one another. Horizontal surfaces are parallel to one another. Vertical surfaces 122 are orthogonal to horizontal surfaces 124.

[0066] An array of cylindrical apertures 126, 128, 130, 132 is disposed around cavity 120. Upper cylindrical aperture 126 passes into cavity 120 from the top of housing 102 along axis Y. Lower cylindrical aperture 128 passes into cavity 120 from the bottom of housing 102 along axis Y. Rear cylindrical aperture 130 passes into cavity 120 from the back of housing 102 along axis X. Front cylindrical aperture 132 passes into cavity 120 from the front of housing 102 along axis X. Although the particular embodiment shown in this figure incorporates

cylindrical apertures, alternate embodiments may employ

apertures having other profiles.

[0067] Figs. 2A-2G show a dual-stage light processing device 150 according to the present disclosure from various points of view. Light processing device 150 includes device housing 152 designed to locate, orient and secure the various operational components of device 150, including but not limited to optical panel assemblies 154 and 156.

[0068] Optical panel assembly 154 includes a first optical panel 162 and second optical panel 164, secured within panel frame 158. In certain embodiments, optical panels 162 and 164 are dichroic mirrors. In alternate embodiments, optical panels 162, 164 may include transparent panels, filters, full mirrors, half wave plates, liquid crystal panels, polarizers, digital

micromirror devices or any combination thereof, as may be useful for the processing of light according to the requirements of a particular application. Light entering device 150 from the left side of device 150 is first processed in panel assembly 154 using optical panels 162 and 164. The processed light exiting optical panel assembly 154 then passes into optical panel assemb1y 156.

[ 0069 ] Optical panel assembly 156 includes a third optical panel 166 and fourth optical panel 168, secured within panel frame 160. In certain embodiments, optical panels 166 and 168 are dichroic mirrors. In alternate embodiments, optical panels 166, 168 may include transparent panels, filters, full mirrors, half wave plates, liquid crystal panels, polarizers, digital

micromirror devices or any combination thereof, as may be useful for the processing of light according to the requirements of a particular application. Light entering panel assembly 156 from the panel assembly 154 is processed in panel assembly 156 using optical panels 166 and 168. The processed light exiting optical panel assembly 156 then passes into optical output 172.

[ 0070 ] Fig. 2G is an exploded view showing optical panel

assemblies 154, 156 separated from device housing 152 in order to more clearly disclose the details of optical panel assemblies

154, 156 and device housing 152. In certain embodiments, device housing 152 and panel assemblies 154, 156 may be separate components. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 2G, panel

assemblies 154, 156 are shaped and sized to fit into a mating cavity 170 formed in the body of device housing 152. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 2G, each of panel assemblies 154, 156 has an outside envelope approximating the shape of a cube.

Accordingly, mating cavity 170 of housing 152 has a rectangular internal profile shaped and sized to fit the two panel

assemblies 154, 156 side-by-side. Alternate embodiments may employ varying geometries.

[ 0071 ] As with the components of device 100 described above, device housing 152 and panel frames 158, 160 may be manufactured via any manufacturing processes known, including casting, injection molding, three-dimensional printing, machining or other processes, and may include combinations of these

processes. The materials from which housing 152 and panel frames 158, 160 are constructed may vary by application, and may include metals, polymers and ceramics, as examples. In some embodiments, either or both of panel frames 158, 160 may be formed as an integral part of device housing 152, with the entire combination being formed in one piece. In other embodiments, device housing 152 and panel frames 158, 160 may be constructed from multiple components.

[ 0072 ] Fig. 2H shows an isometric view of device housing 152 of the light processing device 150 of Figs. 2A-2G. As seen in this figure, cavity 170 is generally-rectangular, incorporating vertical internal surfaces 180 and horizontal internal surfaces 182. Surfaces 180 and 182 are generally-planar, but may

incorporate ridges, grooves or apertures, as seen in Fig. 2H. Vertical surfaces 180 are parallel to one another. Horizontal surfaces 182 are parallel to one another. Vertical surfaces 180 are orthogonal to horizontal surfaces 182.

[ 0073 ] An array of cylindrical apertures 184, 186, 188, 190, 192 is disposed around cavity 170. Apertures 184, 186, 188 are disposed around the rear portion of cavity 170. Rear

cylindrical aperture 184 passes into cavity 170 from the back of housing 152 along axis XI. Rear upper cylindrical aperture 186 passes into cavity 170 from the top of housing 152 along axis Y1. Rear lower cylindrical aperture 188 passes into cavity 170 from the bottom of housing 152 along axis Y1. Together,

cylindrical apertures 184, 186, 188 provide for emission paths into the rear portion of cavity 170, where panel assembly 154 is disposed . [ 0074 ] Apertures 190, 192, 194 are disposed around the front portion of cavity 170. Front upper cylindrical aperture 190 passes into cavity 170 from the top of housing 152 along axis Y2. Front lower cylindrical aperture 192 passes into cavity 170 from the bottom of housing 152 along axis Y2. Front cylindrical aperture 194 passes into cavity 170 from the front of housing 152 along axis XI. As with housing 102 described above, although the particular embodiment shown in these figures incorporates cylindrical apertures, alternate embodiments may employ apertures having other profiles.

[ 0075 ] Figs. 3A and 3B show an assembled and exploded view, respectively, of an optical panel assembly 104 according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure. Panel assembly 104 includes a first optical panel 106 and a second optical panel 108 retained within a panel frame 110. Assembled as shown, panel frame 110 retains optical panels 106, 108 in a mutually-nested configuration, orthogonal to one another and at 45-degree angles to the vertical and horizontal planes.

Although the optical panel assembly shown in Figs. 3A and 3B is identified as optical panel assembly 104, optical panel

assemblies 154, 156 have the same construction. The details of optical panels 106, 108 and panel frame 110 are described in further detail below. [0076] Figs. 4A-4D show top, isometric, front and side views, respectively, of an optical panel frame 110 according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure. Optical panel frame 110 has a frame body 200 having a generally-rectangular outer envelope. Frame body 200, in turn, has a generally-planar rear surface 202, a generally-planar upper surface 204, a generally- planar lower surface 206, a generally-planar left side surface 208, a generally-planar right side surface 201 and a generally- planar interior front surface 212.

[0077] Rear and front surfaces 202 and 212 are generally- parallel to one another, as are upper and lower surfaces 204 and 206, and left and right side surfaces 208 and 210. Top and bottom surfaces 204 and 206, as well as left and right side surfaces 208 and 210 are all generally-orthogonal to rear and front surfaces 202 and 212. Left and right side surfaces 208 and 210 are generally-orthogonal to top and bottom surfaces 204 and 206.

[0078] Frame body 200 incorporates an array of generally- rectangular channels 214, 216, 218, 220 for retention and orientation of optical panels within optical panel frame 110. These channels are disposed at 45 degrees to the horizontal and vertical surfaces, in order to properly orient the optical panels disposed within frame body 200. Channels 214 and 216 are shaped and sized to secure and orient a first optical panel, while channels 218 and 220 are shaped and sized to secure and orient a second optical panel orthogonally to the first optical panel .

[ 0079 ] Frame body 200 incorporates a set of radiused surfaces 222, 224, 226, 228, having generally-cylindrical profiles centered on axes X3 and Y3. Radiused surfaces 222 and 224 are centered on vertical axis Y3, while radiused surfaces 226 and 228 are centered on horizontal axis X3. These radiused surfaces 222, 224, 226, 228 provide a clear path for light emissions through optical panel 110 and reduce blockage and interference of such emissions.

[ 0080 ] Figs. 5A-5E show side schematic views of certain

embodiments of a light processing device 250 according to the present disclosure. These figures present a schematic

functional representation of the physical devices and structures disclosed above. Device 250 comprises optical panel assembly 252, which in turn comprises first optical panel 254 and second optical panel 256. Light processing device 250 further

comprises light sources 258, 260 and 262, each paired with one of lenses 264, 266 and 268. Light combiners have generally required a single optical panel for each light source being combined. Using unique optical panels for each stage requires physical space, increases component cost, reduces efficiency, and can give rise to assembly and alignment errors. Thus, device 250 combines two optical panels 254, 256 into a single assemb1y 252.

[0081] Fig. 5B shows the combiner 250 with light source 258 energized. Light emission El from light source 258 passes through lens 266 and on to optical panel assembly 252. The wavelength of emission El is such that optical panels 254 and 256 are completely transparent to emission El. Accordingly, emission El passes through optical panels 254 and 256. As emission El passes through the optical panels 254, 256, the light is refracted at the interfaces between the air and the optical panel material, owing to the differences in the speed of light in the materials. As a general matter, the light is refracted and offset by a certain amount passing through one optical panel, then refracted and offset by a certain amount passing through a second optical panel. So long as the optical panels are made of the same material and are the same thickness, the refractive offset in the second optical panel is equal to the refractive offset in the second optical panel, but in the opposite direction. Accordingly, the dual-optical panel design shown in Figs. 5A-5E naturally eliminates the refractive offset. [0082] Fig. 5C shows combiner 250 with light source 262 energized. Light emission E2 from light source 262 passes through lens 268 and into optical panel assembly 252. The wavelength of emission E2 is such that optical panel 256 is 100% transparent to emission E2, but optical panel 254 is 100% reflective to emission E2. This type of optical panel is known as a dichroic mirror. Accordingly, emission E2 passes through optical panel 256, but is reflected by optical panel 254 at a right angle.

[0083] Fig. 5D shows combiner 250 with light source 260

energized. Light emission E3 from light source 260 passes through lens 264 and into optical panel assembly 252. The wavelength of emission E3 is such that optical panel 254 is 100% transparent to emission E3, but optical panel 256 is 100% reflective to emission E3. Accordingly, emission E3 passes through optical panel 254, but is reflected by optical panel 256 at a right angle.

[0084] Fig. 5E shows combiner 250 with all three light sources 258, 260, 262 energized. In this state, the emissions El, E2,

E3 from light sources 258, 260, 262 behave as described above. Accordingly, the three emissions El, E2, E3 are combined

together into combined emission Eout . [0085] Fig. 6A is a three-dimensional view of the dichroic optical panel assembly 252 of Figs. 5A-5E, while Fig. 6B is an exploded view of the assembly of Fig. 6A. Fig. 6B reveals notches 270 and 272, which enable optical panels 254 and 256 to be mutually nested into the assembly shown in Fig. 6A. The orthogonal nature of the notches 270, 272 force a mating of the two optical panels 254, 256 to be substantially orthogonal, in so much as the minimal notch 270, 272 gap width previously described preserves. In one preferred embodiment, the physical dimensions of optical panels 254, 256 are identical, having a length of 17.6 mm, height of 12.5 mm, and a thickness of 1.0 mm.

[0086] In one embodiment, the dichroic coatings have an angle of incidence (AOI) equivalent to 45 degrees. As will be disclosed herein, this nested optical panel relationship has the advantage of nullifying refractive effects which otherwise interfere with the photonic emissions trajectory from light source 258,

incident upon the aperture of whatever optics, if any, are present at the output side of the housing disclosed herein.

This presents a distinct advantage over configurations employing single optical panels placed in series, in which successive refractive offsets of the central axis of the photonic emission of the light source furthest from the central axis of the optical output of the housing, relative to said central axis of the optical output, must be accounted for during design of such serial panel configurations. Assuming the material composition of the two optical panels 254, 256 are the same, such that the refractive index of the materials of the two panels 254, 256 is identical, that the photonic emissions of the light source 258 are well-collimated, that the AOI of the dichroic coatings of optical panels 254, 256 are specified as 45 degrees, and that the mirrors 254, 256 are joined orthogonally, then the

refractive offsets incurred by the photonic emissions from the rear-most light source 258 cancel each other out after passing through the entire assembly 252.

[0087] Figs. 7A-7C show an optical panel 254 according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure. Optical panel 254 has a notch 272 disposed generally in the center of optical panel 254. Notch 272 passes from front generally-planar surface 274 through to rear generally-planar surface 276, which is generally-parallel to front generally-planar surface 274.

Optical panel 254 has a beveled surface 278 at the top of front surface 274, for aid in orientation and proper assembly.

[0088] Fig. 8A is a three-quarters view of a second embodiment of a dichroic optical panel assembly 290 according to the present disclosure. Fig. 8B is an exploded view of Fig. 8A. Optical panel assembly 290 incorporates first optical panel 292 and second optical panel 294 mutually nested together. Optical panels 292 and 294 differ from the above-disclosed embodiments in that the mating notches are offset from the center of the optical panels 292 and 294.

[ 0089 ] Figs. 9A-9F provide various views of one embodiment of an optical panel 292 according to the present disclosure. Optical panel 292 has generally-planar rear surface 300 and a generally- planar front surface 302 parallel to but opposite from surface 300. Bottom surface 304, top surface 306, left side surface 308 and right side surface 310 extend orthogonally from rear surface 300 toward front surface 302. Beveled surface 312 extends from top surface 306 to front surface 302. Notch 314 extends from rear surface 300 to front surface 302. As can be clearly seen in Figs. 9A-9E, notch 314 is not centered in optical panel 292, but is notably offset toward right side surface 310. The materials from which optical panels may be manufactured may vary depending on the application. In one embodiment, optical panel 292 is a dichroic mirror manufactured from fused silica grade 0- C, with an anti-reflective coating on surface 300 and a dichroic coating on the surface 302. In certain embodiments, the surface finish is within 2 waves accuracy.

[ 0090 ] Figs. 10A-10E provide various views of one embodiment of optical panel 294 according to the present disclosure. Optical panel 294 has generally-planar rear surface 320 and a generally- planar front surface 322 parallel to but opposite from surface 320. Bottom surface 324, top surface 326, left side surface 328 and right side surface 330 extend orthogonally from rear surface 320 toward front surface 322. Beveled surface 332 extends from top surface 326 to front surface 322. Notch 334 extends from rear surface 320 to front surface 322. As can be clearly seen in Figs. 10A-10E, notch 314 is not centered in optical panel 294, but is notably offset toward left side surface 328. The range of materials and tolerances for optical panel 294 is similar to that described above in connection with optical panel 292.

[ 0091 ] It should be expressly noted that the above description of Figs. 9A-9E and Figs. 10A-10E presents certain materials, dimensions and tolerances for particular embodiments shown in these figures. These materials, dimensions and tolerances are provided only as examples and those of skill in the art will understand that various embodiments of the present disclosure may employ other materials, dimensions and tolerances without departing from the core concepts disclosed herein.

[ 0092 ] Fig. 11 is a side view of a simplified light combiner 350 showing the path of light through such a device. Combiner 350 comprises optical panel 352 receiving light emissions 362 and 364 from first light source 354 and second light source 356 through lenses 358 and 360. In this embodiment, optical panel 352 exhibits dichroic behavior. Optical panel 352 is 100% transparent to light emission 362 owing to the frequency of light emission 362. Optical panel 352 is 100% reflective to light emission 364 owing to the frequency of light emission 364. Accordingly, light emission 362 and light emission 364 combine into light emission 366.

[ 0093 ] Figure 11 shows light source 356 and lens 360 positioned below dichroic mirror 352, the central axis of the well- collimated emissions from light source 356 being perpendicular to the point at which the central axis of lens 368 intersects the front surface of optical panel 352. In one embodiment of the present invention, output lens 368 is a plano-convex lens with a clear aperture at least as large as the largest lens among those shown in Figure 5A, and is intended to focus the well-collimated photonic emissions from one or more of the light sources 354, 356 onto the face of an optical waveguide.

[ 0094 ] Rear light source 354 and lens 358 are positioned behind optical panel 352, with the central axis of light source 258 being offset from the central axis of lens 368. This is to account for refraction through optical panel 352. According to

Snell's Law, as emission 362 from light source 354 and lens 358 passes through the backside of optical panel 352, its trajectory is modified as determined by the index of refraction of the initial transit medium nl (e.g., normal air) and the refractive index n2 of the optical panel substrate (e.g. fused quartz) .

[ 0095 ] Examination of Snell's Law reveals that when the emission 366 emerges on the other side of optical panel 352, its

trajectory is again modified due to refractive index

differences. Because the refractive index on the emergent side of optical panel 352 is identical to that of the air on the entry-side of optical panel 352, the resultant photonic emission trajectory on the emergent side of optical panel 352 is parallel to the original trajectory of the emission prior to transit through the optical panel 352. The emission is, however, shifted downward by some amount, which for purposes of

discussion in the present disclosure is referred to as the refractive offset distance. Accordingly, it can be seen in Fig.

11 that the central axis of lens 368 is offset by an equivalent amount to properly align to emission 366.

[ 0096 ] Optical panel 352 is fully-reflective to the light frequency emitted by light source 356. Accordingly, light emission 364 from light source 356 does not pass into optical panel 352 and is not refracted thereby. Thus, the central axis of emission 364 is optimally aligned to the point of intersection between the central axis of output lens 368 and the front surface of optical panel 352, so that the reflection of emission 364 is aligned with emission 366.

[ 0097 ] Fig. 12 is a graph showing the transmission of light incident at 45° angle (AOI) by a dichroic optical panel

according to wavelength. The characteristics of the dichroic coating define the key characteristics of the dichroic optical panel. It can be seen in this graph that the dichroic optical panel is 100% transparent to light emissions having a wavelength below wavelength FI . Conversely, it can be seen that the dichroic optical panel is 100% reflective to light emissions having a wavelength above wavelength F2.

[ 0098 ] Fig. 13 is a graph showing the light transmission of two dichroic optical panels according to wavelength. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the numbers reflected in Fig. 13 are provided only as examples of one implementation. Alternate applications may employ a variety of optical panels operable with a variety of wavelengths.

[ 0099 ] Fig. 14 is a schematic view of a dual-stage light combiner according to the present disclosure. This is a

schematic view of optical processing device 150 described above in connection with Figs. 2A-2H. This embodiment employs a multi-stage architecture to combine additional light emissions in a compact space. Using the stacked approach shown in Fig.

14, two dual panel assemblies can combine five light sources, three dual panel assemblies can combine seven light sources and four dual panel assemblies can combine nine light sources.

[ 00100 ] With the benefit of the above disclosure, those of skill in the art will recognize a wide variety of implementations and embodiments. As an example, while the above has been described in connection with combining light, the above device can also be used to separate light from a light source into multiple beams. Fig. 15 is a graph of relative radiant power by wavelength for various light temperatures. In reverse operation, such a device can be used to detect R / G / B values from an input light source, to facilitate adjustable white light illumination.

[ 00101 ] In an embodiment of the present disclosure used for light measurement, the colored light sources (red, green, and blue) would be replaced with photodiodes. White light comes in as an input, and is separated into red / blue / green components by the optical panels. Each of the red / blue / green wavelength regions is directed towards their respective photodiodes and measured, to determine RGB values and / or "color temperature." Such an apparatus could be used in real-time to adjust color temperature of an RGB light source. This could provide a way to evaluate the RGB values from an input light source for adjustment of color temperature. It can also provide a manner by which to illuminate and evaluate fluorescence in scientific experiments .

[00102] The teachings above could also employ white light as an input. White LED development is extremely well-funded and driven by massive industry demand. This has resulted in incredibly efficient, stunningly powerful white LEDs with an RGB

characteristic. These LEDs are impressively small, and small enough to be used in a compact multi-stage light engine. Such LEDs consume little power and provide high optical output from compact, long-life light sources.

[00103] A variety of optical panels can be employed in connection with the above disclosure. In one embodiment, a green dichroic optical panel coating reflects green light 100% between 475nm and 575nm. All other wavelengths pass through such a coating.

A blue dichroic optical panel coating reflects blue light 100% below 450nm. All other wavelengths pass through such a coating. These are presented only as examples. A variety of other optical panels could be employed for various implementations.

[00104] The advantages of the present disclosure should be readily apparent to those of skill in the art. The combination of two optical panels in a common space allows for double the number of reflective and transmissive surfaces in the same physical space. The architecture allows for potential reduction in assembly and alignment error, improvement in efficiency, output stability, optical output power and a reduction in thermal load and input power requirements. The devices

disclosed herein use known manufacturing techniques. They can reduce the overall required physical space, and thus overall device size and cost, required for combining and separating the light output from multiple light sources.

[00105] Owing to the space-efficient design of the disclosed devices, it is possible to double the number of reflective and transmissive surfaces per unit of volume occupied by the traditional optical panel placement. They can reduce assembly and alignment error, and thus improve efficiency, further achieving lower input energy for the same optical output power. These advantages can result in lower loss to heat for the same optical power output, improved light source lifetime and output power stability, reduction in spectral content, wavelength drift, and thermal management complexity. The devices disclosed herein can be manufactured using techniques well known to industry, such that the device is cost effective.

[00106] It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many more modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of the appended claims. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Where the specification claims refers to at least one of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C .... and N, the text should be

interpreted as requiring only one element from the group, not A plus N, or B plus N, etc.

Claims

1. A device for processing light, comprising: an optical output having a primary optical axis; a first optical panel comprising a front planar surface on a first side facing the optical output and a rear planar surface opposite but parallel to the front planar surface, disposed approximately 45 degrees to the primary optical axis of the optical output; and a second optical panel comprising a front planar surface on a first side facing the optical output and a rear planar surface opposite but parallel to the front planar surface, disposed orthogonal to the front planar surface of the first optical panel ; wherein the front planar surface of the first optical panel and the front planar surface of the second optical panel

intersect one another along the primary optical axis of the optical output.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the first optical panel is a dichroic mirror.

3. The device of claim 1, wherein the second optical panel is a dichroic mirror.

4. The device of claim 1, further comprising a first light source having a primary optical axis aligned to the primary optical axis of the optical output.

5. The device of claim 1, further comprising a housing, and wherein the optical output, first optical panel and second optical panel are secured to the housing.

6. The device of claim 1, further comprising an upper light source having a primary optical axis orthogonal to the primary optical axis of the optical output, emitting light on the front planar surface of the first optical panel.

7. The device of claim 1, further comprising a lower light source having a primary optical axis orthogonal to the primary optical axis of the optical output, emitting light on the front planar surface of the second optical panel.

8. A device for processing light, comprising: an optical output having a primary optical axis parallel to a first generally-planar surface; a first optical panel comprising a front planar surface on a first side facing the optical output and a rear planar surface opposite but parallel to the front planar surface, secured to the first generally-planar surface in such manner that the front planar surface of the first optical panel is orthogonal to the first generally-planar surface and approximately 45 degrees to the primary optical axis of the optical output; and a second optical panel comprising a front planar surface on a first side facing the optical output and a rear planar surface opposite but parallel to the front planar surface, secured to the first generally-planar surface in such a manner that the front planar surface of the second optical panel is orthogonal to the first generally-planar surface and orthogonal to the front planar surface of the first optical panel; wherein the first optical panel and the second optical panel intersect one another along the primary optical axis of the optical output.

9. The device of claim 8, wherein the first optical panel is a dichroic mirror.

10. The device of claim 8, wherein the second optical panel is a dichroic mirror.

11. The device of claim 8, further comprising a first light source having a primary optical axis aligned to the primary optical axis of the optical output.

12. The device of claim 8, further comprising a housing, and wherein the optical output, first optical panel and second optical panel are secured to the housing.

13. The device of claim 8, further comprising an upper light source having a primary optical axis orthogonal to the primary optical axis of the optical output, emitting light on the front planar surface of the first optical panel.

14. The device of claim 8, further comprising a lower light source having a primary optical axis orthogonal to the primary optical axis of the optical output, emitting light on the front planar surface of the second optical panel.

15. A device for processing light, comprising: an optical output having a primary optical axis; a first optical panel comprising a front planar surface on a first side facing the optical output disposed at approximately 45 degrees to the primary optical axis of the optical output; and a second optical panel comprising a front planar surface on a first side facing the optical output disposed orthogonally to the front planar surface of the first optical panel; a third optical panel comprising a front planar surface on a first side facing the optical output disposed at approximately 45 degrees to the primary optical axis of the optical output; and a fourth optical panel comprising a front planar surface on a first side facing the optical output disposed orthogonally to the front planar surface of the third optical panel; wherein the front planar surface of the first optical panel and the front planar surface of the second optical panel

intersect one another along the primary optical axis of the optical output; and wherein the front planar surface of the third optical panel and the front planar surface of the fourth optical panel

intersect one another along the primary optical axis of the optical output.

16. The device of claim 15, wherein at least one of the first, second, third and fourth optical panels is a dichroic mirror .

17. The device of claim 15, wherein the first, second, third and fourth optical panels are dichroic mirrors.

18. The device of claim 15, further comprising a first light source having a primary optical axis aligned to the primary optical axis of the optical output.

19. The device of claim 15, further comprising a housing, and wherein the optical output, first optical panel and second optical panel are secured to the housing.

20. The device of claim 15, further comprising an upper light source having a primary optical axis orthogonal to the primary optical axis of the optical output, emitting light on the front planar surface of the first optical panel and a lower light source having a primary optical axis orthogonal to the primary optical axis of the optical output, emitting light on the front planar surface of the second optical panel.