Auxiliary Pixels for Seamless Sensor Integration in Displays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern display apparatuses face challenges in integrating sensors seamlessly within the display area, as traditional methods result in noticeable cutouts or notches, affecting aesthetics and functionality.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating auxiliary pixels driven by passive matrix driving within the sensor area, which are integrated with main pixels driven by active matrix driving, allowing for a seamless integration of sensors while maintaining image display capabilities, using a substrate with a non-display area surrounding the sensor area and a display area that partially or fully encompasses it.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If sensors are disposed within the bezel area, then sensor functionality is provided, but the bezel area increases and display area decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves sensors from the traditional bezel area (2D plane outside display) into the display area itself (utilizing the third dimension of screen real estate). By placing sensors within pixels of the display panel, the design transforms the spatial arrangement from external bezel mounting to integrated pixel-level incorporation, effectively using the display area as the new dimension for sensor placement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges sensor functionality with display pixels by integrating sensors within the pixel structure. Each pixel contains both display elements and sensor elements, combining two previously separate functions (image display and sensing) into a unified pixel unit. This merging eliminates the need for separate bezel area for sensors.
2Area of stationary object
If sensors are moved to the display area, then bezel area decreases, but visible cutouts or notches appear affecting aesthetics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making individual pixels within the sensor area have different functional characteristics than display pixels. Sensor pixels contain both display and sensor elements, while display pixels contain only display elements. This local differentiation allows the sensor area to be visually integrated into the display while maintaining distinct sensing functionality at the pixel level.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates universal pixels that can serve dual purposes - display and sensing. The sensor pixels are designed to perform both functions simultaneously, making the display area multi-functional. This universality allows the same pixel structure to contribute to both image display and sensor operations, eliminating visible cutouts.
3Adaptability or versatility
If auxiliary pixels are integrated with main pixels, then sensor integration is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the pixel structure into distinct functional components - display elements and sensor elements - within each pixel. By dividing the pixel into separable functional units, the design allows independent optimization of display and sensing functions while maintaining overall pixel integration. This segmentation reduces complexity by making the multi-functional pixel manageable through modular component design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent resolves complexity by transitioning to a three-dimensional pixel structure where display and sensor elements are arranged in different spatial layers or positions within the same pixel footprint. This dimensional reorganization allows multiple functions to coexist without increasing planar complexity, as elements are stacked or positioned in the third dimension rather than requiring separate lateral space.
Data Source
AI summary
A display apparatus includes a substrate that includes a sensor area, a first non-display area at least partially surrounding the sensor area, and a display area at least partially surrounding the first non-display area. A plurality of auxiliary pixels is disposed in the sensor area. The plurality of auxiliary pixels is configured for passive matrix driving. A plurality of main pixels is disposed in the main display area and is configured for active matrix driving.