U.S. patent application number 13/243609 was filed with the patent office on 2012-01-19 for light source having wavelength converter and wavelength separating member for reflecting converted light.
This patent application is currently assigned to Seiko Epson Corporation. Invention is credited to Shunji Kamijima.
Application Number | 20120014106 13/243609 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39872132 |
Filed Date | 2012-01-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120014106 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kamijima; Shunji |
January 19, 2012 |
Light Source Having Wavelength Converter and Wavelength Separating
Member for Reflecting Converted Light
Abstract
A light source includes a light source unit which supplies first
wavelength light, a wavelength converting unit which converts the
first wavelength light into second wavelength light different from
the first wavelength light, and a leakage preventing unit which
prevents leakage of the first wavelength light out of the light
source. The area where the light source unit and the wavelength
converting unit are disposed is optically separated from the area
where the leakage preventing unit is disposed.
Inventors: |
Kamijima; Shunji;
(Hana-mura, JP) |
Assignee: |
Seiko Epson Corporation
Tokyo
JP
|
Family ID: |
39872132 |
Appl. No.: |
13/243609 |
Filed: |
September 23, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
12060349 |
Apr 1, 2008 |
8052308 |
|
|
13243609 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
362/293 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H01S 3/109 20130101;
H01S 5/02469 20130101; H01S 5/4093 20130101; H01S 5/0078 20130101;
H01S 3/08059 20130101; H01S 5/02257 20210101; H01S 5/0064 20130101;
H01S 3/0815 20130101; H01S 5/02423 20130101; H01S 5/02255 20210101;
H01S 5/024 20130101; H01S 5/141 20130101; H01S 5/02325 20210101;
H01S 5/005 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
362/293 |
International
Class: |
F21V 9/00 20060101
F21V009/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Apr 18, 2007 |
JP |
2007-108979 |
Jan 25, 2008 |
JP |
2008-014563 |
Claims
1. A light source comprising: a light source unit which supplies
first wavelength light; a wavelength converting unit which converts
the first wavelength light into second wavelength light different
from the first wavelength light; and a leakage preventing unit
which prevents leakage of the first wavelength light out of the
light source, wherein the leakage preventing unit has a wavelength
separating member which transmits the second wavelength light and
reflects the first wavelength light, the wavelength separating
member being inclined to a plane perpendicular to the light, and a
light absorbing member which absorbs the first wavelength light
reflected by the wavelength separating member, the light absorbing
member being inclined to the plane perpendicular to the light in
the direction opposite to the wavelength separating member, and
specular reflection light of the first wavelength light produced by
an optical element contained in the leakage preventing unit does
not directly return to the area where the light source unit and the
wavelength converting unit are disposed.
Description
[0001] This is a Division of application Ser. No. 12/060,349 filed
Apr. 1, 2008. This application claims the benefit of Japanese
Patent Application No. 2007-108979, filed Apr. 18, 2007 and
Japanese Patent Application No. 2008-014563, filed Jan. 25, 2008.
The entire disclosures of the prior applications are hereby
incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Technical Field
[0003] The present invention relates to a light source, a lighting
device, a monitoring device, and a projector.
[0004] 2. Related Art
[0005] Currently, a light source which uses laser beam source and
supplies fundamental laser beam after converting its wavelength is
known. This light source uses second-harmonic generation (SHG)
element as a wavelength conversion element for converting
wavelength of fundamental laser beam, for example. By the function
of the SHG element, laser beam having desired wavelength can be
supplied from a general-purpose laser beam source. Moreover, a
structure which supplies a sufficient amount of laser beam can be
provided by using the SHG element. As an example of the light
source including the SHG element, JP-A-5-235441 discloses a light
source which contains the SHG element within a resonator structure
for resonating laser beam. In the resonator structure, fundamental
laser beam is resonated to convert its wavelength into a desired
wavelength, and the laser beam having the desired wavelength is
extracted and supplied with high wavelength conversion
efficiency.
[0006] According to the light source having the structure disclosed
in JP-A-5-235441, a mirror having wavelength selectivity is
provided within the resonator structure to reflect fundamental
laser beam. However, even when the mirror having wavelength
selectivity is provided, it is difficult to reflect all of the
fundamental laser beam. Thus, there is a possibility that a part of
the fundamental laser beam passes through the mirror and leaks out
of the light source. For example, when an image display apparatus
includes this light source and uses infrared light as the
fundamental laser beam, the infrared light having great light
energy has adverse effect on peripheral equipment such as a screen
on which images are displayed. In case of a system which returns
the infrared light toward the light source contained in an LD light
source package, the infrared light has adverse effect on a
temperature controller of the SHG element. In this case,
appropriate temperature control is difficult. When a light output
monitor is equipped, monitoring cannot be achieved in a normal
condition due to the effect of the returned infrared light.
SUMMARY
[0007] It is an advantage of some aspects of the invention to
provide a light source which converts wavelength of fundamental
laser beam before supplying the laser beam. This light source
prevents leakage of the fundamental laser beam having adverse
effect on peripheral equipment out of the light source, and
stabilizes temperature control within an LD light source package
and light source output. It is another advantage of some aspects of
the invention to provide a lighting device, a monitoring device,
and a projector including the light source.
[0008] A light source according to a first aspect of the invention
includes a light source unit which supplies first wavelength light,
a wavelength converting unit which converts the first wavelength
light into second wavelength light different from the first
wavelength light, and a leakage preventing unit which prevents
leakage of the first wavelength light out of the light source. The
area where the light source unit and the wavelength converting unit
are disposed is optically separated from the area where the leakage
preventing unit is disposed. The description "the area where the
light source unit and the wavelength converting unit are disposed
is optically separated from the area where the leakage preventing
unit is disposed" herein refers to the condition where specular
reflection light of the first wavelength light produced by an
optical element contained in the leakage preventing unit does not
directly return to the area where the light source unit and the
wavelength converting unit are disposed.
[0009] According to this structure, the light source unit supplies
the first wavelength light, and the wavelength converting unit
converts the first wavelength light into the second wavelength
light. The leakage preventing unit prevents leakage of the first
wavelength light to the outside. Since the area of the light source
unit and the wavelength converting unit is optically separated from
the area of the leakage preventing unit, returning of the first
wavelength light having entered the leakage preventing unit to the
area of the light source unit and the wavelength converting unit
can be easily prevented. Thus, leakage of infrared light as the
first wavelength light having adverse effect on the peripheral
equipment from the light source to the outside is avoided.
Accordingly, the problem caused by infrared light leakage can be
prevented, and stabilization of temperature control within the LD
light source package and the light source output can be
achieved.
[0010] It is preferable that the leakage preventing unit has a
wavelength separating member which reflects the second wavelength
light and transmits the first wavelength light, and a light
absorbing member which absorbs the first wavelength light having
passed through the wavelength separating member.
[0011] According to this structure, in the leakage preventing unit,
the wavelength separating member reflects the second wavelength
light and transmits the first wavelength light. The light absorbing
member absorbs the transmitted first wavelength light. When the
first wavelength light is infrared light, the infrared light passes
through the wavelength separating member to be absorbed by the
light absorbing member. Thus, when the first wavelength light is
infrared light, the infrared light does not return to the area of
the light source unit and the wavelength converting unit. As a
result, leakage of the infrared light having adverse effect on the
peripheral equipment from the light source to the outside is
avoided. Accordingly, stabilization of temperature control within
the LD light source package and the light source output is
achieved.
[0012] It is preferable that the light absorbing member has a light
diffusing section for diffusing the first wavelength light having
passed through the wavelength separating member.
[0013] According to this structure, the light diffusing section of
the light absorbing member diffuses the first wavelength light.
Thus, when the first wavelength light is infrared light, the
infrared light does not return to the area of the light source unit
and the wavelength converting unit. Accordingly, the adverse effect
of the infrared light on the peripheral equipment can be reduced by
decreasing the light energy of the infrared light, and
stabilization of temperature control within the LD light source
package and the light source output can be achieved.
[0014] It is preferable that the surface of the light diffusing
section through which the first wavelength light enters is inclined
to the optical axis of the entering first wavelength light.
[0015] According to this structure, the light diffusing section
inclines the entering first wavelength light in a direction
different from the entering direction by diffusion. Thus, when the
first wavelength light is infrared light, the infrared light does
not return to the area of the light source unit and the wavelength
converting unit. Accordingly, stabilization of temperature control
within the LD light source package and the light source output can
be achieved.
[0016] It is preferable that the light absorbing member has a
tapered surface whose diameter decreases toward the wavelength
separating member, and a light blocking section which blocks the
first wavelength light reflected by the tapered surface such that
the first wavelength light does not enter the wavelength separating
member.
[0017] According to this structure, the light absorbing member
reflects and absorbs the entering first wavelength light by the
tapered surface and the light blocking section such that the first
wavelength light does not return to the wavelength separating
member. Thus, when the first wavelength light is infrared light,
the infrared light does not return to the area of the light source
unit and the wavelength converting unit. Accordingly, stabilization
of temperature control within the LD light source package and the
light source output can be achieved.
[0018] It is preferable that the light absorbing member has a
tapered surface whose diameter increases toward the wavelength
separating member.
[0019] According to this structure, the light absorbing member
reflects and absorbs the entering first wavelength light by the
tapered surface of the light absorbing member such that the first
wavelength light does not return to the wavelength separating
member. Thus, when the first wavelength light is infrared light,
returning of the infrared light to the area of the light source
unit and the wavelength converting unit can be prevented.
Accordingly, stabilization of temperature control within the LD
light source package and the light source output can be
achieved.
[0020] It is preferable that the light absorbing member has a
radiating section.
[0021] According to this structure, heat generated within the light
source device by the first wavelength light having passed through
the wavelength separating member can be cooled by the radiating
section of the light absorbing member.
[0022] It is preferable that the light absorbing member has a
cooling section.
[0023] According to this structure, heat generated within the light
source device by the first wavelength light having passed through
the wavelength separating member can be cooled by the cooling
section of the light absorbing member.
[0024] It is preferable that the leakage preventing unit has a
wavelength separating member which transmits the second wavelength
light and reflects the first wavelength light, and a light
absorbing member which absorbs the first wavelength light reflected
by the wavelength separating member. In this case, it is preferable
that the light absorbing member has a light blocking section which
blocks the reflected first wavelength light such that the first
wavelength light does not enter the area where the wavelength
converting unit is disposed.
[0025] According to this structure, the wavelength separating
member of the leakage preventing unit transmits the second
wavelength light and reflects the first wavelength light. The light
absorbing member prevents entrance of the reflected first
wavelength light into the area of the wavelength converting unit by
using the light blocking section. When the first wavelength light
is infrared light, the infrared light is reflected by the
wavelength separating member to be absorbed without returning to
the area of the wavelength converting unit. Thus, leakage of the
infrared light having adverse effect on the peripheral equipment
from the light source to the outside can be prevented.
[0026] It is preferable that the light absorbing member has a light
detecting section which detects the quantity of the reflected first
wavelength light. In this case, it is preferable that the light
blocking section blocks the first wavelength light which contains
light reflected by the light detecting section such that the first
wavelength light does not enter the area where the wavelength
converting unit is disposed.
[0027] According to this structure, the light detecting section for
detecting the light quantity is provide on the light absorbing
member, and the light blocking section blocks light containing the
first wavelength light reflected by the light detecting section
such that the light does not enter the area of the wavelength
converting unit. Thus, leakage of the infrared light as the first
wavelength light having adverse effect on the peripheral equipment
from the light source to the outside can be prevented in the
structure having the light detecting section, and stabilization of
temperature control within the LD light source package and the
light source output can be achieved.
[0028] It is preferable that the first wavelength light released
from the wavelength converting unit and reflected by the leakage
preventing unit does not directly enter the area where the
wavelength converting unit is disposed.
[0029] According to this structure, the first wavelength light
released from the wavelength converting unit and reflected by the
leakage preventing unit does not directly enter the area of the
wavelength converting unit. Thus, leakage of infrared light as the
first wavelength light having adverse effect on the peripheral
equipment from the light source to the outside is avoided.
Accordingly, the problem caused by infrared light leakage can be
prevented, and stabilization of temperature control within the LD
light source package and the light source output can be
achieved.
[0030] It is preferable that the light source further includes a
housing which covers the light source unit, the wavelength
converting unit, and the leakage preventing unit, and has an
opening through which the second wavelength light is emitted, and a
window provided on the opening. In this case, it is preferable that
the leakage preventing unit is disposed such that the first
wavelength light released from the leakage preventing unit and
reflected by the window does not directly enter the area where the
wavelength converting unit is disposed.
[0031] According to this structure, the first wavelength light
released from the leakage preventing unit and reflected by the
window does not directly enter the area of the wavelength
converting unit. Thus, leakage of infrared light as the first
wavelength light having adverse effect on the peripheral equipment
from the light source to the outside is avoided. Accordingly, the
problem caused by infrared light leakage can be prevented, and
stabilization of temperature control within the LD light source
package and the light source output can be achieved.
[0032] A lighting device according to a second aspect of the
invention includes the light source described above.
[0033] According to the lighting device of the second aspect of the
invention, leakage of infrared light as the first wavelength light
having adverse effect on the peripheral equipment from the lighting
device to the outside is avoided. Accordingly, the problem caused
by infrared light leakage can be prevented, and stabilization of
temperature control within the LD light source package and the
light source output can be achieved.
[0034] A monitoring device according to a third aspect of the
invention includes the light source described above, and an image
pickup unit which picks up an image of a subject receiving light
from the light source.
[0035] According to the monitoring device of the third aspect of
the invention, leakage of infrared light as the first wavelength
light having adverse effect on the peripheral equipment from the
monitoring device to the outside is avoided. Accordingly, the
problem caused by infrared light leakage can be prevented, and
stabilization of temperature control within the LD light source
package and the light source output can be achieved.
[0036] A projector according to a fourth aspect of the invention
includes the light source described above, and an image forming
device which displays an image having a desired size on a display
surface by using light emitted from the light source.
[0037] According to the projector of the fourth aspect of the
invention, leakage of infrared light as the first wavelength light
having adverse effect on the peripheral equipment from the
projector to the outside is avoided. Accordingly, the problem
caused by infrared light leakage can be prevented, and
stabilization of temperature control within the LD light source
package and the light source output can be achieved.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0038] The invention will be described with reference to the
accompanying drawings, wherein like numbers reference like
elements.
[0039] FIG. 1 illustrates a general structure of a light source
according to a first embodiment of the invention.
[0040] FIG. 2 illustrates a general structure of a light source
according to a second embodiment of the invention.
[0041] FIG. 3 illustrates a general structure of a light source
according to a third embodiment of the invention.
[0042] FIG. 4 illustrates a general structure of a light source
according to a fourth embodiment of the invention.
[0043] FIG. 5 illustrates a general structure of a light source
according to a fifth embodiment of the invention.
[0044] FIG. 6 illustrates a light source according to a modified
example of the fifth embodiment of the invention.
[0045] FIG. 7 illustrates a general structure of a lighting device
according to a sixth embodiment of the invention.
[0046] FIG. 8 illustrates a general structure of a monitoring
device according to a seventh embodiment of the invention.
[0047] FIG. 9 illustrates a general structure of a projector
according to an eighth embodiment of the invention.
DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0048] First Embodiment
[0049] A light source according to a first embodiment of the
invention is now described with reference to the drawings.
[0050] FIG. 1 illustrates a general structure of a light source
according to the first embodiment of the invention. As illustrated
in the figure, a light source 1 includes a laser beam source 11, an
optical path changing prism 12, an SHG element 13, an external
resonator 14, a wavelength selection mirror 15, an IR absorber 16,
and an IR absorbing window 17.
[0051] The laser beam source 11 supplies fundamental laser beam
constituted by one or a plurality of infrared lights as a light
source unit. The laser beam source 11 has a light emission element
which emits infrared light substantially in the vertical direction
with respect to the light emission surface of the light emission
element. Infrared light emitted from the laser beam source 11
enters the optical path changing prism 12. The laser beam source 11
is a semiconductor laser or a solid laser, for example.
[0052] According to this embodiment, infrared light is first
wavelength light having wavelength longer than about 830 nm.
Visible light is second wavelength light having wavelength in the
range from about 360 nm to about 830 nm. Thus, infrared light is
included in the range of non-visible light out of the range of
visible light.
[0053] The optical path changing prism 12 optically refracts or
reflects entering laser beam. Infrared light emitted from the laser
beam source 11 is reflected by the optical path changing prism 12
such that the optical path of the infrared light is bended
approximately at 90 degrees, and then enters the SHG element 13.
The optical path changing prism 12 is a component having a metal
reflection film such as aluminum on a base such as glass, or a
total reflection prism, for example.
[0054] The SHG element 13 is a wavelength conversion element which
converts wavelength of laser beam into approximately half of the
original wavelength as a wavelength converting unit. The infrared
light emitted from the laser beam source 11 via the optical path
changing prism 12 is converted into visible light while passing
through the SHG element 13. The conversion efficiency of the SHG
element 13 in this conversion is approximately 40% to 50%. Thus,
the laser beam released from the SHG element 13 and entering the
external resonator 14 includes both infrared light and visible
light. The SHG element 13 is non-linear optical crystal, for
example.
[0055] The external resonator 14 is a mirror having wavelength
selectivity. The external resonator 14 reflects the infrared light
contained in the entering laser beam toward the SHG element 13, and
transmits the visible light of the laser beam. The reflected laser
beam is repeatedly reflected on the optical path between the
external resonator 14 and the laser beam source 11 to be amplified.
The visible light of the amplified laser beam having wavelength
converted by the SHG element 13 is released from the external
resonator 14. However, the external resonator 14 does not reflect
all the laser beam having predetermined wavelength (infrared
light), but transmits a part (about 1% to 2%) of the laser beam.
Thus, the laser beam released from the external resonator 14
contains infrared light as well as visible light. The laser beam
released from the external resonator 14 enters the wavelength
selection mirror 15. The external resonator 14 is an optical
element such as hologram having periodic grating, for example.
[0056] The visible light of the laser beam having been reflected by
the external resonator 14 and passed through the SHG element 13
toward the optical path changing prism 12 is refracted by the
optical path changing prism 12 to enter the wavelength selection
mirror 15. At this time, the visible light does not pass the
components of the SHG element 13 and the external resonator 14 but
directly enters the wavelength selection mirror 15.
[0057] The wavelength selection mirror 15 reflects laser beam
having predetermined wavelength of entering laser beam and
transmits laser beam having other wavelength as a wavelength
separating member. In this embodiment, the wavelength selection
mirror 15 reflects visible light contained in laser beam and
transmits infrared light of the laser beam. The wavelength
selection mirror 15 is inclined approximately at 45 degrees to a
plane perpendicular to the light entering from the external
resonator 14 in the traveling direction of the entering light.
Thus, the visible light reflected by the wavelength selection
mirror 15 changes its optical path through approximately 90
degrees, and enters the IR absorbing window 17. Also, the infrared
light having passed through the wavelength selection mirror 15
enters the IR absorber 16 without directional change. The
wavelength selection mirror 15 is a parallel flat plate made of
glass or the like having wavelength selection layer such as
dielectric multilayer film on the entrance surface of the flat
plate, for example.
[0058] The IR absorber 16 absorbs entering infrared light as a
component of a light absorbing member 25. The IR absorber 16 has a
diffusing surface 21 as a light diffusing section for diffusing
laser beam so as to diffuse infrared light not absorbed. The IR
absorber 16 is inclined approximately at 30 degrees to the plane
perpendicular to the light entering from the wavelength selection
mirror 15 in the direction opposite to the traveling direction of
the entering light. Thus, infrared light is diffused slightly
downward by the diffusing surface 21. The IR absorber 16 is made of
infrared light absorbing material like metal such as anodized black
aluminum plate, molded magnesium die casting structure, and
titanium frame, for example. The diffusing surface 21 is a rough
surface of the material formed by etching or machining, for
example.
[0059] The wavelength selection mirror 15 and the IR absorber 16
are included in the structure of the leakage preventing unit for
preventing leakage of infrared light out of the light source 1. As
illustrated in FIG. 1, the area where the wavelength selection
mirror 15 and the IR absorber 16 are disposed is different from the
area where the laser light source 11, the optical path changing
prism 12, the SHG element 13, and the external resonator 14
(hereinafter referred to as laser light source 11 through external
resonator 14) are disposed. Thus, arrangement is determined such
that the specular reflection light of infrared light reflected by
the wavelength selection mirror 15 and the IR absorber 16 does not
directly return to the area where the laser light source 11 through
the external resonator 14 are disposed. In this arrangement, these
two areas are optically separated.
[0060] The IR absorbing window 17 absorbs infrared light to reduce
transmission of infrared light. Visible light entering the IR
absorbing window 17 transmits the IR absorbing window 17 to be
released out of the light source 1. The IR absorbing window 17 is
provided in such a condition as to completely close an opening 20
formed on a housing 19. There is a possibility that the light
reflected by the wavelength selection mirror 15 and entering the IR
absorbing window 17 contains a part of infrared light. In this
case, the IR absorbing window 17 absorbs the contained infrared
light, and reflects the infrared light not absorbed toward the
wavelength selection mirror 15. The infrared light reflected by the
IR absorbing window 17 (indicated by broken arrows) passes through
the wavelength selection mirror 15. At this time, a part of the
infrared light changes its optical path approximately through 90
degrees by the function of the wavelength selection mirror 15 and
returns to the external resonator 14 with considerably decreased
light energy. The IR absorbing window 17 is a glass flat plate
containing SiO.sub.2 and coated with IR cut film, or IR absorbing
glass for absorbing infrared light, for example.
[0061] The laser light source 11 through the external resonator 14
are disposed on a base plate 18. The base plate 18 has a flat
attachment surface. The base plate 18 is made of heat conductive
material capable of conducting heat, for example. The housing 19,
made of material which does not transmit infrared light, for
example, is provided in such a condition as to cover optical
elements disposed within the light source 1.
[0062] According to the light source 1 in this embodiment, laser
beam entering the wavelength selection mirror 15 contains infrared
light as well as visible light as discussed above. The wavelength
selection mirror 15 reflects visible light in the emission
direction out of the light source 1 and transmits infrared light
for wavelength separation in the entered laser beam. The infrared
light having passed through the wavelength selection mirror 15 is
absorbed by the IR absorber 16. The infrared light not absorbed at
this time is diffused by the diffusing surface 21 of the IR
absorber 16 so that light energy of the infrared light can be
decreased. Since the area of the laser light source 11 through the
external resonator 14 is optically separated from the area of the
wavelength selection mirror 15 and the IR absorber 16, the infrared
light having passed through the wavelength selection mirror 15 does
not return to the area of the laser light source 11 through the
external resonator 14. Accordingly, leakage of infrared light
having adverse effect on the peripheral equipment out of the light
source 1 is prevented.
[0063] The IR absorber 16 is inclined approximately at 30 degrees
in the direction opposite to the traveling direction of the
entering light, and the infrared light is diffused slightly
downward by the diffusing surface 21. In this case, returning of
the diffused infrared light to the area of the laser light source
11 through the external resonator 14 is further prevented, and thus
stabilization of temperature control within the LD light source
package and light source output can be achieved. Moreover,
transmission of infrared light to the outside through the IR
absorbing window 17 can be further prevented.
[0064] Second Embodiment
[0065] A light source according to a second embodiment of the
invention is now described with reference to the drawings.
[0066] FIG. 2 illustrates a general structure of the light source
according to the second embodiment of the invention. As illustrated
in the figure, a light source 2 includes the laser light source 11
through the external resonator 14, the wavelength selection mirror
15, and the IR absorbing window 17 similarly to the light source 1
in the first embodiment. The light source 2 has IR absorbers 26 and
27 having shapes different from that of the IR absorber 16 in the
first embodiment on the emission side of light passing the
wavelength selection mirror 15. The laser light source 11 through
the external resonator 14 and the IR absorbing window 17 have
functions and structures similar to those in the light source 1 of
the first embodiment, and the same explanation is not repeated.
[0067] The wavelength selection mirror 15 and the IR absorbers 26
and 27 are disposed in the traveling direction of light released
from the external resonator 14, and included in the structure of
the leakage preventing unit. The wavelength selection mirror 15 has
a function similar to that of the wavelength selection mirror 15 in
the first embodiment, but is inclined at approximately 50 degrees,
which is an angle different from the angle in the first embodiment,
with respect to the plane perpendicular to the light entering from
the external resonator 14. Thus, the angle of the light reflected
by the wavelength selection mirror 15 changes, and the positions of
the opening 20 and the IR absorbing window 17 on the housing 19 are
slightly shifted in the light emission direction from the external
resonator 14 from the corresponding positions in the first
embodiment. As a result, difference between the emission direction
of visible light and reflection direction of infrared light
reflected by the IR absorber 26 increases, and thus leakage of
infrared light to the outside can be more easily prevented. The
inclination angle of the wavelength selection mirror 15 is
determined such that the infrared light reflected by the IR
absorber 26 does not pass through the wavelength selection mirror
15 but is reflected by the wavelength selection mirror 15 when the
infrared light reaches the mirror 15.
[0068] The IR absorbers 26 and 27 absorb entering infrared light as
components of the light absorbing member 25. The IR absorber 26 of
the pair of the IR absorbers 26 and 27 has a tapered surface 28
whose diameter increases toward the wavelength selection mirror 15.
The tapered surface 28 reflects infrared light not absorbed by the
IR absorber 26. The angle of the tapered surface 28 is determined
such that the infrared light reflected by the tapered surface 28
does not return to the wavelength selection mirror 15 with large
light energy maintained. Thus, infrared light can be absorbed by
both absorption and multi-reflection. The IR absorbers 26 and 27
are made of metal or ABS resin for absorbing infrared light, for
example.
[0069] The position of the IR absorbing window 17 is slightly
shifted in the emission direction of light released from the
external resonator 14 from the corresponding position in the first
embodiment. Thus, the infrared light reflected by the IR absorbing
window 17 (indicated by broken arrows) enters the IR absorber 26.
The infrared light having entered the IR absorber 26 is absorbed by
the IR absorber 26. Accordingly, the infrared light does not return
toward the external resonator 14.
[0070] According to the light source 2 in this embodiment, infrared
light having passed through the wavelength selection mirror 15
enters the IR absorber 26 to be absorbed as discussed above. The
infrared light not absorbed at this time is reflected by the
tapered surface 28 of the IR absorber 26, and then absorbed by the
IR absorbers 26 and 27. Accordingly, leakage of infrared light
having adverse effect on the peripheral equipment out of the light
source 2 can be prevented, and stabilization of temperature control
within the LD light source package and the light source output can
be achieved.
[0071] Third Embodiment
[0072] A light source according to a third embodiment of the
invention is now described with reference to the drawings.
[0073] FIG. 3 illustrates the light source according to the third
embodiment of the invention. As illustrated in the figure, a light
source 3 includes the laser light source 11 through the external
resonator 14, the wavelength selection mirror 15, and the IR
absorbing window 17 similarly to the light source 1 in the first
embodiment. The light source 3 has an aperture 31 and a heat sink
32 on the emission side of light having passed through the
wavelength selection mirror 15 instead of the corresponding part of
the light source 1 in the first embodiment. The laser light source
11 through the external resonator 14 and the IR absorbing window 17
have functions and structures similar to those in the light source
1 of the first embodiment, and the same explanation is not
repeated.
[0074] The wavelength selection mirror 15, the aperture 31, and the
heat sink 32 are disposed in the traveling direction of light
released from the external resonator 14 and included in the
structure of the leakage preventing unit. The wavelength selection
mirror 15 has a function similar to that of the wavelength
selection mirror 15 in the first embodiment, but is inclined at
approximately 40 degrees, which is an angle different from the
angle in the first embodiment, with respect to the plane
perpendicular to the light entering from the external resonator 14.
Thus, the angle of the light reflected by the wavelength selection
mirror 15 changes, and the positions of the opening 20 and the IR
absorbing window 17 on the housing 19 are slightly shifted from
those positions in the first embodiment toward the external
resonator 14. As a result, difference between the direction of
visible light reflected by the wavelength selection mirror 15 and
the direction of infrared light passing through the wavelength
selection mirror 15 increases, and thus leakage of infrared light
to the outside can be more easily prevented. Moreover, the IR
absorbing window 17 has a wider range of light transmission, which
increases the quantity of absorbed infrared light.
[0075] The aperture 31 as a blocking section blocks infrared light
having passed through the wavelength selection mirror 15 and
entered the heat sink 32 such that the infrared light does not
again return to the wavelength selection mirror 15 by reflection.
In addition, the aperture 31 absorbs entering infrared light after
reflection. The aperture 31 is formed integrally with the housing
19 and disposed in the vertical direction (as viewed in FIG. 3)
with respect to the optical path of infrared light passing through
the wavelength selection mirror 15. The aperture 31 is made of
material for absorbing infrared light, for example.
[0076] The heat sink 32 has radiation fins 33 projecting to the
right of the housing 19 (as viewed in FIG. 3) as a radiating
section. The radiation fins 33 achieve cooling by radiating heat
generated within the light source 3 by the infrared light having
passed through the wavelength selection mirror 15. The heat sink 32
has another function of absorbing received infrared light. The heat
sink 32 has a tapered surface 34 whose diameter decreases toward
the wavelength selection mirror 15. The tapered surface 34 reflects
infrared light not absorbed by the heat sink 32. The taper angle of
the tapered surface 34 and the aperture 31 are determined such that
the infrared light reflected by the tapered surface 34 does not
return to the wavelength selection mirror 15. The heat sink 32 and
the aperture 31 are included in the structure of the light
absorbing member 25. The heat sink 32 is made of heat conductive
material such as metal, for example. The tapered surface 34 is made
of metal material or resin material for absorbing infrared light,
for example.
[0077] Since the position of the IR absorbing window 17 is slightly
shifted toward the external resonator 14 from the corresponding
position in the first embodiment, the infrared light reflected by
the IR absorbing window 17 (indicated by broken arrows) returns
toward the external resonator 14. However, the light energy of the
infrared light at this time is considerably decreased. It is
possible to provide a light blocking section which prevents
returning of the infrared light reflected by the IR absorbing
window 17 toward the external resonator 14. In this embodiment, the
specular reflection light released from the laser light source 11
through the external resonator 14 and reflected by the wavelength
selection mirror 15 and the IR absorber 16 does not directly return
toward the external resonator 14 similarly to the first
embodiment.
[0078] According to the light source 3 in this embodiment, infrared
light having passed through the wavelength selection mirror 15
enters the tapered surface 34 of the heat sink 32 to be absorbed as
discussed above. The infrared light not absorbed in this step is
repeatedly reflected by the inner wall of the housing 19, the
aperture 31, and the tapered surface 34, to be finally absorbed.
Thus, leakage of infrared light having adverse effect on the
peripheral equipment out of the light source 3 can be prevented,
and stabilization of temperature control within the LD light source
package and the light source output can be achieved. Moreover, heat
generated within the light source 3 by infrared light can be
efficiently cooled by the radiation fins 33 on the heat sink
32.
[0079] Fourth Embodiment
[0080] A light source according to a fourth embodiment of the
invention is now described with reference to the drawings.
[0081] FIG. 4 illustrates the light source according to the fourth
embodiment of the invention. As illustrated in the figure, a light
source 4 includes the laser light source 11 through the external
resonator 14, the wavelength selection mirror 15, and the IR
absorbing window 17 similarly to the light source 1 in the first
embodiment. The light source 4 has only a heat sink 41 on the exit
side of light having passed through the wavelength selection mirror
15 instead of the corresponding part of the light source 1 in the
first embodiment. The laser light source 11 through the external
resonator 14 and the IR absorbing window 17 have functions and
structures similar to those in the light source 1 of the first
embodiment, and the same explanation is not repeated.
[0082] The wavelength selection mirror 15 and the heat sink 41 are
disposed in the traveling direction of light released from the
external resonator 14, and included in the structure of the leakage
preventing unit. The wavelength selection mirror 15 is inclined
approximately at 50 degrees to the plane perpendicular to the
entering light from the external resonator 14 similarly to the
second embodiment. Thus, the position of the IR absorbing window 17
is slightly shifted in the emission direction of light released
from the external resonator 14 from the corresponding position in
the first embodiment.
[0083] The heat sink 41 has two pairs of the radiation fins 33
projecting to the right and to above from the housing 19 (as viewed
in FIG. 4). A liquid flow path 42 as a cooling section is provided
within the heat sink 41. A heat insulation structure 44 is further
provided on a base 46 for supporting the heat sink 41. Heat
generated within the heat sink 41 or the like by infrared light
having passed through the wavelength selection mirror 15 is cooled
by radiation via the radiation fins 33, and is further cooled by
cooling liquid flowing through the liquid flow path 42. The heat
insulation structure 44 insulates heat generated within the heat
sink 41 or the like such that the heat is not conducted from the
housing 19 to the entire structure of the light source 4.
[0084] The heat sink 41 has a function of absorbing received
infrared light as well. The heat sink 41 is included in the
structure of the light absorbing member 25. The heat sink 41 has a
diffusing surface 43 as a light diffusing section for diffusing
laser beam, and diffuses infrared light not absorbed. It is
possible to slightly incline the diffusing surface 43 in the
direction opposite to the traveling direction of entering light
similarly to the IR absorber 16 in the first embodiment. The heat
sink 41 is made of heat conductive material such as metal. The
diffusing surface 43 is made of material for absorbing infrared
light, for example, and formed by etching or by other method. The
heat insulation structure 44 of the base 46 is made of resin
material, or formed by a hollow structure or vacuum structure, for
example.
[0085] Since the position of the IR absorbing window 17 is slightly
shifted in the emission direction of the light released from the
external resonator 14 from the corresponding position in the first
embodiment, the infrared light reflected by the IR absorbing window
17 (indicated by broken arrows) enters the wavelength selection
mirror 15. The infrared light having entered the mirror 15 is
absorbed by the heat sink 41. Thus, the infrared light does not
return toward the external resonator 14.
[0086] According to the light source 4 in this embodiment, infrared
light having passed through the wavelength selection mirror 15
enters the diffusing surface 43 of the heat sink 41 to be absorbed
as discussed above. Infrared light not absorbed in this step is
diffused by the diffusing surface 43, and the light energy of the
infrared light is thus decreased. Accordingly, leakage of infrared
light having adverse effect on the peripheral equipment out of the
light source 4 can be prevented, and stabilization of temperature
control within the LD light source package and the light source
output can be achieved. Moreover, heat generated within the light
source 4 by infrared light can be more efficiently cooled by the
two pairs of the radiation fins 33, the liquid flow path 42, and
the like provided on the heat sink 41.
[0087] Fifth Embodiment
[0088] A light source according to a fifth embodiment of the
invention is now described with reference to the drawings.
[0089] FIG. 5 illustrates a general structure of the light source
according to the fifth embodiment of the invention. As illustrated
in the figure, the light source 5 includes the laser beam source
11, the SHG element 13, the external resonator 14, a wavelength
selection mirror 61, an aperture 62 formed between the laser beam
source 11 and the SHG element 13, and an aperture 63 formed between
the external resonator 14 and the wavelength selection mirror 61.
The radiation fins 33 projecting to the right (as viewed in FIG. 5)
from the housing 19 are provided between the aperture 63 and the
wavelength selection mirror 61. The laser light source 11, the SHG
element 13, and the external resonator 14 have functions and
structures similar to those in the light source 1 of the first
embodiment, and the same explanation is not repeated.
[0090] Infrared light emitted from the laser beam source 11 is not
reflected as in the light source 1 in the first embodiment, but
directly enters the SHG element 13. Then, a part of the infrared
light is converted into visible light by the SHG element 13. The
laser beam having passed through the SHG element 13 is repeatedly
reflected on the optical path between the external resonator 14 and
the laser beam source 11 to be amplified, and is released from the
external resonator 14. The laser beam released from the external
resonator 14 in this step contains infrared light as well as
visible light. The laser beam from the external resonator 14 enters
the wavelength selection mirror 61. It is possible to use the
structure of the laser beam source 11 through the external
resonator 14 employed in the light source 1 in the first embodiment
instead of the structure of the laser beam source 11, the SHG
element 13, and the external resonator 14 employed in this
embodiment.
[0091] The aperture 63 and the wavelength selection mirror 61 are
disposed above the external resonator 14 (as viewed in FIG. 5), and
included in the structure of the leakage preventing unit. The
wavelength selection mirror 61 as a wavelength separating member
transmits visible light of the entering laser beam and reflects
infrared light of the laser beam unlike the wavelength selection
mirror in the first embodiment. Each of the apertures 62 and 63 is
formed integrally with the housing 19 on the left and right of the
optical path of the laser beam (as viewed in FIG. 5). The aperture
62 absorbs and reflects radially extending infrared light of the
infrared light emitted from the laser beam source 11 to prevent
diffusion of infrared light toward the area above the aperture 62
(as viewed in FIG. 5) within the housing 19. The aperture 63
absorbs and reflects in multiple the infrared light reflected by
the wavelength selection mirror 61 to block the infrared light such
that the infrared light does not return to the area below the
aperture 63 (as viewed in FIG. 5) within the housing 19. The
aperture 63 as a blocking section is included in the structure of
the light absorbing member 25. The apertures 62 and 63 are made of
material for absorbing infrared light, for example.
[0092] According to the light source 5 in this embodiment, laser
beam entering the wavelength selection mirror 61 contains infrared
light as well as visible light as discussed above. The wavelength
selection mirror 61 achieves wavelength separation of the entering
laser beam by transmitting visible light out of the light source 5
and reflecting infrared light. The infrared light reflected by the
wavelength selection mirror 61 is absorbed by the aperture 63. The
infrared light not absorbed at this time is repeatedly reflected by
the inner wall of the housing 19, the aperture 63, and the
wavelength selection mirror 61 to be absorbed. Thus, leakage of
infrared light having adverse effect on the peripheral equipment
out of the light source 5 can be prevented.
[0093] FIG. 6 illustrates a modified example of the light source
according to the fifth embodiment of the invention. As illustrated
in the figure, a light source 6 has a light detector 65 for
detecting quantity of infrared light and an aperture 66 for
absorbing and reflecting infrared light within the light absorbing
member 25. Laser beam entering the wavelength selection mirror 61
enters in a slightly oblique direction from the left, which is a
different direction from that of the laser beam in FIG. 5. The
angle of the aperture 66 is determined such that the infrared light
reflected by the inner wall of the housing 19, the aperture 66, and
the wavelength selection mirror 61 does not return to the area of
the SHG element 13 and the external resonator 14.
[0094] According to the light source 6 in this embodiment, infrared
light reflected by the components such as the light detector 65
provided within the light absorbing member 25 does not return to
the area of the SHG element 13 and the external resonator 14 as
discussed above. Thus, in the structure which controls the quantity
of the laser beam by using the light detector 65, leakage of
infrared light having adverse effect on the peripheral equipment
out of the light source 6 can be prevented, and stabilization of
temperature control within the LD light source package and the
light source output can be achieved.
[0095] Sixth Embodiment
[0096] Lighting Device
[0097] Initially, a general structure of a lighting device
according to a sixth embodiment of the invention is described.
[0098] FIG. 7 illustrates a general structure of a lighting device
according to the sixth embodiment of the invention. As illustrated
in the figure, a lighting device 300 in this embodiment includes a
light source 100, and a diffusing element 310 for diffusing laser
beam emitted from the light source 100. The light source 100 is
constituted by any of the light sources 1 through 6. The figure
shows only the laser beam source 11, the SHG element 13, and the
external resonator 14 constituting the light source 100, and not
the rest of the constituent elements.
[0099] The lighting device 300 having this structure can prevent
leakage of infrared light contained in laser beam emitted from the
light source 100 with high wavelength conversion efficiency out of
the light source 100 via the diffusing element 310. Accordingly,
the adverse effect of infrared light on the peripheral equipment of
the lighting device 300 is prevented, and stabilization of
temperature control within the LD light source package and the
light source output is achieved.
[0100] Seventh Embodiment
[0101] Monitoring Device
[0102] A general structure of a monitoring device according to a
seventh embodiment of the invention is now described.
[0103] FIG. 8 illustrates a general structure of a monitoring
device according to the seventh embodiment of the invention. As
illustrated in the figure, a monitoring device 400 includes a
device main body 410, and a light transmitting unit 420. The device
main body 410 has the light source 100 in the sixth embodiment.
[0104] The light transmitting unit 420 has two light guides 422 and
424 on the light emitting side and light receiving side. Each of
the light guides 422 and 424 is formed by combining a number of
optical fibers to supply laser beam to a distant place. The light
source 100 is disposed on the light entrance side of the light
emitting side light guide 422, and a diffusing plate 426 is
provided on the light exit side of the light guide 422. Laser beam
emitted from the light source 100 is supplied to the diffusing
plate 426 provided at the end of the light transmitting unit 420
through the light guide 422, and the laser beam diffused by the
diffusing plate 426 illuminates a subject.
[0105] An image forming lens 428 is also provided at the end of the
light transmitting unit 420, and reflection light from the subject
is received by the image forming lens 428. The received reflection
light is transmitted via the receiving side light guide 424 to a
camera 430 as an image pickup unit provided within the device main
body 410. Thus, an image corresponding to reflection light obtained
by illumination of the subject by using laser beam emitted from the
light source 100 can be picked up by the camera 430.
[0106] According to the monitoring device 400 having this
structure, leakage of infrared light contained in laser beam
emitted from the light source 100 with high wavelength conversion
efficiency out of the light source 100 via the light transmitting
unit 420 is prevented. Thus, the adverse effect of infrared light
on the peripheral equipment of the monitoring device 400 is
prevented, and stabilization of temperature control within the LD
light source package and the light source output is achieved.
[0107] Eighth Embodiment
[0108] Projector
[0109] A general structure of a projector according to an eighth
embodiment of the invention is now described.
[0110] FIG. 9 illustrates a general structure of the projector
according to the eight embodiment of the invention. In FIG. 9, a
housing of a projector 500 is eliminated for simplifying the
explanation. The projector 500 is a front projection type projector
which supplies light onto a screen 510 for producing reflection
light reflected by the screen 510 to be observed as an image.
[0111] As illustrated in FIG. 9, the projector 500 includes a red
lighting device 512R for emitting red light, a green lighting
device 512G for emitting green light, and a blue lighting device
512B for emitting blue light. Each of the red lighting device 512R,
the green lighting device 512G, and the blue lighting device 512B
has the same structure as that of the lighting device 300 in the
sixth embodiment, respectively. Each of the red lighting device
512R, the green lighting device 512G, and the blue lighting device
5128 has the SHG element 13 (see FIG. 7). The SHG element 13
provided on the red lighting device 512R converts infrared light
into red light by wavelength conversion. The SHG element 13
provided on the green lighting device 512G converts infrared light
into green light by wavelength conversion. The SHG element 13
provided on the blue lighting device 512B converts infrared light
into blue light by wavelength conversion. It is possible to include
components which directly emit laser beams in red, green and blue
from the laser beam source instead of using the SHG elements.
[0112] The projector 500 includes liquid crystal light valves 514R,
514G, and 514B which modulate illumination lights emitted from the
red lighting device 512R, the green lighting device 512G, and blue
lighting device 512B according to image signals received from a
personal computer or the like. The projector 500 further includes a
cross dichroic prism 518 which combines the lights released from
the liquid crystal light valves 514R, 514G, and 514B and guides the
combined light to a projection lens 516. The projector 500 further
includes the projection lens 516 which enlarges an image formed by
the liquid crystal light valves 514R, 514G, and 514B and projects
the enlarged image on the screen 510.
[0113] The three color lights modulated by the liquid crystal light
valves 514R, 514G, and 514B enter the cross dichroic prism 518.
This prism is formed by affixing four rectangular prisms, and a
dielectric multilayer film for reflecting red light and a
dielectric multilayer film for reflecting blue light are disposed
in cross shape on the inner surfaces of the prism. These dielectric
multilayer films combine the three color lights to produce light
representing a color image. The combined light is received by an
image forming device, and projected on the screen 510 as a display
surface via the projection lens 516 as a projection system such
that an enlarged image having desired size can be formed.
[0114] The projector 500 having this structure can prevent leakage
of infrared light contained in laser beam emitted from the red
lighting device 512R, the green lighting device 512G, and the blue
lighting device 512B with high wavelength conversion efficiency out
of the projection lens 516. Thus, the adverse effect of infrared
light on the peripheral equipment of the projector 500 is
prevented, and stabilization of temperature control within the LD
light source package and the light source output is achieved.
[0115] While the projector 500 in this embodiment is a so-called
triple plate type liquid crystal projector, the projector may be a
single plate type liquid crystal projector capable of displaying
color images by using only one light valve which receives each of
color lights from a laser beam source by time division system.
[0116] Also, the projector may be of a type having a scanning unit
corresponding to an image forming device which displays an image
having desired size on a display surface by laser beam scan given
onto a screen from a laser beam source containing any one of the
light sources 1 through 6. Furthermore, the projector may be a
so-called rear projector which supplies light to one surface of a
screen to produce light emitted to the other surface of the screen
to be observed as an image. The spatial light modulation device is
not limited to the transmission type liquid crystal display device,
but may be a reflection type liquid crystal display device (liquid
crystal on silicon; LCOS), digital mirror device, GLV (grating
light valve), or the like.
[0117] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described
herein, but may be practiced otherwise without departing from the
scope of the invention.
[0118] The entire disclosure of Japanese Patent Application Nos.
2007-108979, filed Apr. 18, 2007 and 2008-014563, filed Jan. 25,
2008 are expressly incorporated by reference herein.
* * * * *