A simple design approach of a micro-lens array for fiber optic applications

Abstract

The implementation of a freeform lens at the end of an optical fiber delivery line is an attractive method to make efficient use of the rapidly expanding light-emitting diode technology for illumination applications. Of particular interest for intelligent homes and extended smart lighting system usage is the design of a freeform lens for creating a uniform illumination pattern with various shapes. For this, first a collimating lens must be created for making the output rays collimated, and then a micro-lens array needs to be built at the lens exit surface by changing the angle of the incident ray in order to meet the light distribution requirements. We present a novel design of a uniform illumination lighting system consisting of a plastic optical fiber and a freeform lens. The resulting illumination pattern has about 91% uniformity on the target plane.