Analytic design of light extraction array for light guide plate based on extended sources.

Light extraction array, comprised of millions of discrete scattering dots randomly distributed on edge-lit light guide plates (LGPs), determines both the light efficiency and spatial uniformity of liquid crystal displays. However, it is hard to define by a specific mathematical expression. Here, we propose a novel analytic design for light extraction array based on geometrical optical principles. This design method consists of three successive procedures evolving from point- and line-source approximations to extended surface-source computation. Three procedures are demonstrated via both simulation and experiment, and the key factors influencing the performance of the light extraction array are also discussed. Our approach with high accuracy and reduced complexity will have broad prospect for illumination design.