Mikroprisma

Mikroprisma refers to a microprism element or array used to manipulate light at small scales. Typically consisting of glass or polymer, these components have dimensions from tens to hundreds of micrometers and can be a single prism, a tessellated facet pattern, or a thin prism sheet. Mikroprism structures are designed to redirect, split, or reshape light without requiring moving parts, enabling compact optical functionality in various systems.

Manufacturing methods for mikroprisma include precision molding or embossing for polymer versions, as well as fine glass machining, lithography, or etching for inorganic substrates. Coatings may be applied to tailor reflectivity, transmission, or spectral response. When used as an array, mikroprisms can be designed to control angular distribution, improve coupling efficiency, or homogenize illumination.

Common applications span display technology, imaging, and fiber optics. In displays, mikroprism sheets and arrays are employed to enhance viewing angles and brightness by redirecting light from backlight units. In imaging and sensing, microprisms assist in light collection, cover glass functionality, or calibration. In fiber-optic systems, they can aid in beam steering, mode coupling, or alignment tasks. Mikroprisms are also used in optical encoders and laser scanning setups where precise light direction is required within a compact form factor.

Advantages of mikroprisma include passive operation, small footprint, and potential cost savings at scale. Limitations can involve chromatic dispersion, surface roughness sensitivity, and mechanical fragility for certain glass versions. The term is used across languages, with German usage commonly appearing as mikroprisma.