Light guide based optical engine for light-valve-projection

We present a new type of optical engine for projection displays. The optical engine is based on a light guide with embedded color filters. It is intended for three-panel projection displays with micro-display panels of the transmissive type. The light guide serves the purpose of integrating the light and guiding the light to each of the three panels. Proximity illumination is used to illuminate the micro-display panels: the exits of the light guide are in close contact with the entrance of the panel. The optical design considerations underlying the principle of using light guides are discussed. Among these considerations are measures required to prevent light leakage. We also discuss light guide based optical engines relying on the principle of color recycling and polarization recycling. The results of simulations and experiments on a prototype are discussed. It is shown that the use of light guides enables a very compact design. The lumen output of such a projector can be comparable to, or even better than that of conventional systems.