An Investigation into full color Edge-lit Holographic Optical Elements

Edge-illuminated spectrally selective HOE's (holographic optical elements) in silver halide and photopolymer materials create diffraction structures that have significant impact on effective recording performance. Typical off-axis holographic recording regimes as well as holographic directional diffusers are analyzed to establish a performance baseline for comparison of edge-illuminated or TIR (total internal reflection) holographic HOE performance. Material design and processing chemistries have been investigated to identify optimal conditions for high diffraction efficiency for these materials in both off-axis as well as TIR recording geometries. The results have been coupled with newly emerging LED (light emitting diode) illumination to identify application to novel energy efficient lighting unit designs.