Will 'flat' optic fiber reduce LCD cost?

The technology promises to transmit better quality light, use less power and it can be molded into nearly any shape.

Oree is developing a type of optical sandwich using elastic polymers. The core layer is covered by two clad layers. Instead of light entering from one end of a cable and exiting the other, it enters the core layer from one edge, spreading evenly through the core. The light then uniformly breaks through the clad using Oree's proprietary technology.

The technology channels light through the layer via micron-sized granular material. The sheet becomes a light source suitable for back lighting in flat screens.

According to Oree's CEO Eran Fine, "Our technology doesn’t want to replace the LED, but to make it much more efficient." He added that LEDs are expected to replace the light source for LCD screens within 20 years.

"The problem is that current screens have trouble uniformly transmitting light from LEDs to every part of the screen to create a uniform picture. LEDs also require considerable energy and their efficiency is low."

Oree's technology is based on a different structure for the LCD's plastic sheet used to separate display components, a new location for the LED and unique methods for dispersing the light within the plastic.

First, the sheet in which the light is dispersed is built in the form of a three-ply fiber optic device made from flexible polymers. The LED is placed parallel to the sheet, instead of behind it.

Most importantly, the LED is placed within the sheet, rather than outside it. Hence, light passes only through one layer (between the LED and the clad) to disperse within the sheet. The approach cuts energy consumption in the sheet by as much as half.

Oree is considering building the LED directly inside the sheet, which would act as its own clad, further reducing energy consumption. This method could also shorten production steps for screens, further cutting costs.

Installing an LED within the sheet, reducing the number of LEDs needed and less energy sources should also make thinner screens possible.

Another advantage of fiber optics is its flexibility. The LED is placed inside the fiber optic device, and the light disperses uniformly without depending at the angle of the sheet. Consequently, the sheet can be folded or rolled, the light still dispersing through the clad.

The technique promises to make LCD screens in any shape, including shapes suitable to be placed on clothing.

Fine said Oree intends to manufacture a component that manufacturers can install in screens during production without having to redesign them.