Patent ID: 6344263
Filing Date: 2002-02-05
Classification: G03B,Y10S,Y10T

Abstract:
A filter for transmitting light with a selected angular dispersion, comprising:a layer of optically transparent material having a support surface; a plurality of beads of optically transmitting material having a selected shape and refractive index and arranged in a single-layer array on the support surface, each bead at least partially disposed within the layer of optically transparent material to produce an interface therewith, the interface defining a clear exit aperture; and a layer of light absorbing material having a selected thickness and being affixed to the layer of optically transparent material, for controlling ambient light rejection of the light filter and to reduce light transmission through interstices formed by the plurality of beads; wherein penetration depth of at least one of the beads into the layer of optically transparent material is selected to substantially maximize transmission of light through the filter while maintaining film contrast for the maximum light transmission.