Light Pipe Homogenizing Rods
Light pipe homogenizing rods are specialized optics that use principles of TIR (total internal reflection) to transmit light, homogenizing radiation from very non-uniform light sources. They are sometimes also known as integrator rods, homogenizing rods, light guides, light funnels, or waveguides.
The image below (Figure 1) shows how the total internal reflection enables a light pipe homogenizing rod to transmit light. In Figure 2, smaller incident angles lead to more reflections than larger incident angles.
At Avantier, we produce custom light pipe homogenizing rod solutions in both square and hexagonal configurations. While a square configuration is standard, a hexagonal configuration has the potential to provide 35% less light loss than a comparable square configuration. We can provide shorter pipes for homogenizing the output of high NA (numerical aperture) sources, or longer light pipes for use with low numerical aperture sources. We also offer tapered light pipe homogenizing rods.
Applications of Light Pipe Homogenizing Rods
Light pipe homogenizing rods are found in aircraft instrumentation, biomedical devices, illumination equipment, and communication systems. They are easy to install,flexible, and perform in a uniform, reliable way, making them a desirable option for many optical systems.
We do not recommend using light pipes with collimated laser sources. If you have a collimated laser beam that needs homogenizing, we can help you with custom microlens arrays or beam shapers.
If you have a non laser application that requires homogenized light, a light pipe may be a good option. For instance, tapered light pipe homogenizing pipes are suitable for applications based on LED sources, and N-BK7 light pipes are a good choice when dealing with OEM illumination. UV fused silica light pipes are ideal for use with UV light, and are also a go-to option for homogenizing many types of nonuniform light, such as the confluence of light from several light sources with different spectral characteristics.
Custom Light Pipe Homogenizing Rods
Specializing in custom optics enables our team to help you get the exact component that you need, just the way you need it. Rather than design your optical system around parts that are only almost right, we enable you to design an ideal system with the exact square and hexagonal light pipes and other optical components that work best for your application.
With six decades of experience in optical design, we have the expertise you need. We can provide you with precisely drawn plans of the physical optics you require and help you identify the ideal substrate for your application and determine which coatings would be best. Our extensive manufacturing capabilities mean that almost any custom part can be produced in-house with state-of-the-art machinery. We can also help you with custom mounts for simple integration into your optical systems. Let us know when you’re ready to schedule an initial consultation or would like to discuss how our team can partner with you.
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