3m Innovative Properties Company

Eric Schmuck

David M Rudek

Joerg R Purfuerst

Werner R Schwarz

Tilo Remhof

Hans-Gerd Vollmers

Thomas Keller

Norbert Schumann

Manfred Bosler

David Rudek

A connector adapted for use in an illumination system comprising at least one optical element, such as an optical fiber. is disclosed. The connector comprises a housing dimensioned so that internally it retains at least one end portion of at least one optical element, and externally substantially follows the shape of the end portion(s) of the optical element(s). This forms a join between the ends of the optical element(s). A light source is also contained within the housing and positioned so as to illuminate the end portions of at least one optical element. Electrical connection means adapted to connect the light source to an external power supply are provided. The electrical connection means being moveable relative to the housing. The electrical connection means may be carried by a flexible substrate, or may be formed by slideable contacts within a light guide rail.

Connector

The present invention provides in one aspect a light device having a light guide. The light guide () has at least one major side defining a light extraction side (). The light device further has at least one fibrous layer (), typically a non-woven or woven fibrous layer, disposed on the major side of said light guide defining said light extraction side. At the light extraction side, the light device has a plurality of discrete bonding areas () at which the at least one fibrous layer is bonded to the major side of said light guide. In a particular aspect, the bonding areas define light extraction elements on the light extraction side. Such an arrangement typically provides for an easy, reliable and cost-effective light device useful for a variety of applications including, for example, illuminating the interior of a vehicle.

Light device

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Düsseldorf, Germany

Eric Schmuck