Abstract: A light guide (1) formed from an unclad flexible polyurethane fiber produces significant side scattering (2) over distances of up to several meters. The polyurethane fiber is in the form of a solid fiber or a tube and may comprise light scattering particles. The polyurethane fiber may comprise a transparent flexible polyurethane UV resistant outer cladding. Embodiments include illuminated shoe laces, a power cord safety indicator, an illuminated dental suction tube and a dental curing tip.

Abstract: An optical illumination device (20) comprises a light guide (10) formed from an unclad flexible polyurethane fibre (12), which comprises a transparent polyurethane region (14) and an adjacent coloured polyurethane region (16). The device comprises at least one illumination module (22) coupled to at least one end of the light guide and the illumination module comprises at least one light source (24) for illuminating the light guide.

Abstract: The invention relates to side-scattering light guides that generally comprise a core of transparent optically homogenous material seeded with diffuser particles. The light guide also comprises an optically transmitting sheath, having a lower refractive index than the core, surrounding and in contact with the sides of the core to prevent any light being transmitted along the core from escaping through the core's sides. In general, the diffuser particles impart only a small deviation to light rays incident upon them, and are distributed to scatter light being transmitted along the core so that at least some of the scattered light exits the sides of the core. A diffusing jacket is arranged to intercept scattered light exiting the sides of the core.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing light guide by filling a polymer tube with a monomeric mixture then pressurising and heating the full length of the polymer tube to initiate and maintain polymerisation in the tube. An apparatus for performing the method is also described in which the polymer tube is placed in a reaction vessel and a temperature controlled fluid is circulated to regulate the temperature in the vessel.