Patent ID: 6535334
Filing Date: 2003-03-18
Classification: G02B,G02F

Abstract:
A polarization conversion device for converting a non-polarized beam of light into a beam of more uniform polarization, comprising;a support frame for supporting and positioning a plurality of light polarizing elements in predetermined positions relative to the non-polarized beam of light for converting said non-polarized beam of light into a beam of light having a more uniform polarization; said support frame having pre-formed portions for receiving and positioning each one said plurality of light polarizing elements in said predetermined positions; said pre-formed portions of said support frame comprising slots formed therein to position each of said plurality of light polarizing elements at substantially a 45 degree angle relative to the beam of non-polarized light; a plurality of light polarizing elements adapted to be received and positioned in said pre-formed portions of said support frame; support frame cover means a fluid tight enclosure about said support frame; a fluid contained within said fluid tight enclosure having a refractive index substantially equal to the refractive index of said light polarizing elements; and said plurality of light polarizing elements comprising glass plates having opposite parallel faces of a light beam splitting surface and a light beam reflecting surface, wherein said light polarizing elements are positioned so that each said light beam splitting surface is paired with a light beam reflecting surface adjacent and parallel thereto.