Patent ID: 6407833
Filing Date: 2002-06-18
Classification: G03H

Abstract:
A system for displaying an edge-lit hologram comprising:a plinth formed from material which allows transmission of light therethrough; the plinth having a first surface and a second surface disposed generally parallel with each other; the plinth having a first edge and a second edge disposed generally parallel with each other and extending between the first surface and the second surface; an image hologram mounted on the first surface; a first holographic optical element attached to and extending along the first edge; a first source of illuminating light disposed on the second edge, the holographic optical element formed to collimate and reflect light from the illuminating source to strike the image hologram disposed on the first surface at appropriate angles to make the image hologram visible from the second surface of the plinth; a second illuminating source of light disposed on the first edge of the plinth; a second holographic optical element disposed on the second edge of the plinth; the first holographic optical element formed from material which will collimate and reflect light from the first illuminating source and will be substantially transparent with respect to light from the second illuminating source; and the second holographic optical element formed from material which will generally collimate and reflect light from the second illuminating source and will be substantially transparent with respect to light from the first illuminating source.