Synchronized parameter optimization of the double freeform lenses illumination system used for the CF-LCoS pico-projectors

Abstract

A novel synchronized optimization method of multiple freeform surfaces is proposed and applied to double lenses illumination system design of CF-LCoS pico-projectors. Based on Snell's law and the energy conservation law, a series of first-order partial differential equations are derived for the multiple freeform surfaces of the initial system. By assigning the light deflection angle to each freeform surface, multiple surfaces can be obtained simultaneously by solving the corresponding equations, meanwhile the restricted angle on CF-LCoS is guaranteed. In order to improve the spatial uniformity, the multi-surfaces are synchronously optimized by using simplex algorithm for an extended LED source. Design example shows that the double lenses based illumination system, which employs a single 2mm×2mm LED chip and a CF-LCoS panel with a diagonal of 0.59inches satisfies the needs of pico-projector. Moreover, analytical result indicates that the design method represents substantial improvement and practical significance over traditional CF-LCoS projection system, which could offer outstanding performance with both portability and low cost. The synchronized optimization design method could not only realize collimating and uniform illumination, but also could be introduced to other specific light conditions.