Fluorescent backlighting unit
First Claim
1. Flat panel type display unit in which an optically passive active matrix display panel provides a display by means of changes in light transmissivity patterns on the panel, and further including a light source located behind the display panel, in which the light display selectively transmits light from the light source in order to provide a visual display of information, characterized by:
- (a) the light source including at least one fluorescent lamp;
(b) the fluorescent lamp being embedded in a substantially transparent potting material;
(c) a conductive backplane located in close proximity to the fluorescent lamp; and
(d) at least one light diffusion substrate being intraposed between the fluorescent lamp and the display panel.
1 Assignment
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
A lighting unit (11) for providing diffused light is particularly useful for back illumination of a flat panel active matrix display (21). The unit (11) includes one or more fluorescent lamp tubes (13,15) which are embedded in RTV rubber or other transparent potting material (29). A pair of diffusing layers (31,35) cause the light output from the unit (11) to be evenly distributed. A ground plane (27) acts as a reflector, a heat sink and permits partial-power operation. Advantages include reduced flicker and an ability to withstand rough service.
61 Citations
13 Claims
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1. Flat panel type display unit in which an optically passive active matrix display panel provides a display by means of changes in light transmissivity patterns on the panel, and further including a light source located behind the display panel, in which the light display selectively transmits light from the light source in order to provide a visual display of information, characterized by:
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(a) the light source including at least one fluorescent lamp; (b) the fluorescent lamp being embedded in a substantially transparent potting material; (c) a conductive backplane located in close proximity to the fluorescent lamp; and (d) at least one light diffusion substrate being intraposed between the fluorescent lamp and the display panel. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9)
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10. Diffused light source having a front exterior surface characterized by:
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(a) the light source including at least one fluorescent lamp; (b) the fluorescent lamp being embedded in a substantially transparent potting material; (c) a conductive backplane located in close proximity to the fluorescent lamp; (d) at least one light diffusion substrate being intraposed between the fluorescent lamp and the front exterior surface; and (e) at least one additional light diffusing layer, the additional light diffusing layer being embedded in the potting material. - View Dependent Claims (11, 12, 13)
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Specification