Abstract: We present optical systems suitable for focusing two substantially collimated beams or sheets of light propagating in different directions onto a common focal point. In some embodiments the optical systems comprise separate focusing elements for each beam or sheet of light, while in other embodiments the optical systems comprise a focusing element and a redirection element. The optical systems have particular application in the receive optics of infrared touch screens, where they enable the detection of additional light paths that assist in the determination of two or more simultaneous touch events.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for transmitting, collimating and redirecting light from a point-like source to produce a collimated optical signal in a substantially planar form are provided. In one embodiment, the apparatus is manufactured as a unitary transmissive body comprising a collimation element and a redirection element, and optionally a transmissive element. In another embodiment, the apparatus is assembled from one or more components. The apparatus and method are useful for providing sensing light for an optical touch input device or for providing illumination for a display.

Abstract: In infrared touch input devices that detect and locate a touch object from the blocking of light paths propagating along the X,Y axes, an ambiguity arises when two touch objects are present. This ambiguity can be resolved by the provision of additional light paths angled to the X,Y axes. The present invention provides projection systems that include a light splitting element for splitting collimated sheet of light into two or more sets of beam paths, thereby providing the additional light paths for resolving the double touch ambiguity. In preferred embodiments the light splitting element is in the form of a prism film.

Abstract: We present optical systems suitable for focusing two substantially collimated beams or sheets of light propagating in different directions onto a common focal point. In some embodiments the optical systems comprise separate focusing elements for each beam or sheet of light, while in other embodiments the optical systems comprise a focusing element and a redirection element. The optical systems have particular application in the receive optics of infrared touch screens, where they enable the detection of additional light paths that assist in the determination of two or more simultaneous touch events.

Abstract: In infrared touch input devices that detect and locate a touch object from the blocking of light paths propagating along the X,Y axes, an ambiguity arises when two touch objects are present. This ambiguity can be resolved by the provision of additional light paths angled to the X,Y axes. The present invention provides projection systems that include a light splitting element for splitting collimated sheet of light into two or more sets of beam paths, thereby providing the additional light paths for resolving the double touch ambiguity. In preferred embodiments the light splitting element is in the form of a prism film.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for transmitting, collimating and redirecting light from a point-like source to produce a collimated optical signal in a substantially planar form are provided. In one embodiment the apparatus is manufactured as a unitary transmissive body comprising a collimation element and a redirection element, and optionally a transmissive element. In another embodiment the apparatus is assembled from one or more components. The apparatus and method are useful for providing sensing light for an optical touch input device.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for transmitting, collimating and redirecting light from a point-like source to produce a collimated optical signal in a substantially planar form are provided. In one embodiment, the apparatus is manufactured as a unitary transmissive body comprising a collimation element and a redirection element, and optionally a transmissive element. In another embodiment, the apparatus is assembled from one or more components. The apparatus and method are useful for providing sensing light for an optical touch input device or for providing illumination for a display.