Patent ID: 6915038
Filing Date: 2005-07-05
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
1. An optical system for directing light traveling through a first optical element into a second optical element positioned non-parallel to the first optical element, said system comprising: a reflecting element having a first bore for receiving an output end of said first optical element and adapted to receive light exiting from said output end of said first optical element, and for reflecting said light into an input end of said second optical element, the second optical element having said input end disposed in a second bore in said reflecting element; said reflecting element including an optically transparent portion having a curved outer surface, said curved outer surface having a curvature in accordance with a portion of an ellipsoid; said output end of said first optical element and said input end of said second optical element being arranged relative to a pair of focal planes of said ellipsoid such that Total Internal Reflection (TIR) of said light is produced by said curved outer surface, to thereby channel said light from said output end of said first optical element into said input end of said second optical element; and a support element disposed over said curved outer surface for supporting said reflecting element in a manner to create a sealed air gap between said curved outer surface and said support element.