Light guides increase flexibility of designs

A non-linear curved light extraction technology enables the design of more complex light guides. 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.

The light guide capability was made possible by the development of a thin film embossing process allowing light guides to be manufactured with 0.25- to 4-mm thickness and by a change to the manufacturing process of the optical extraction features embedded in the light guides. The changes allow for thicker lightguides to be injection-molded and have curved emission surfaces. These flexible parts can be used in applications requiring flexible or mechanically curved products. The light guides can be created in sizes greater than 24-in. diagonal.