Backlight Module Circuit Integration and Light Reflection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional backlight modules for electronic devices have a complex structure and volume due to the presence of multiple layers, which complicates assembly and reduces light utilization efficiency, especially with silver paste circuits that absorb light and cause chromatic issues.

Innovation Solution

A simplified backlight module design where the lower thin film layer is removed, and circuits are directly installed on the light guide unit, with a reflection layer between the silver paste circuit and the light guide unit to enhance light reflection and reduce absorption, and the light source is positioned to project light into the light guide unit's lateral side, optimizing light output and assembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If a conventional multi-layer structure with lower thin film layer is used, then the circuit can be installed separately, but the assembly process becomes complex and volume increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly processVSAvoidstructure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the lower thin film layer with the light guide unit into a single integrated component. The circuit that was previously installed on the separate lower thin film layer is now directly mounted on the light guide unit itself, eliminating the need for the separate lower thin film layer and reducing assembly steps

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The light guide unit is given multiple functions: it serves both as the light guiding component and as the mounting substrate for the circuit. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for the separate lower thin film layer that previously served only as a circuit mounting surface

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of manufacture

If silver paste circuit is directly installed on light guide unit, then assembly is simplified, but light absorption increases and chromatic issues occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly processVSAvoidlight absorption
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a reflection layer as an intermediary between the silver paste circuit and the light guide unit. This reflection layer prevents direct contact between the light-absorbing silver paste and the light path, while still allowing the circuit to be mounted on the light guide unit. The reflection layer reflects light that would otherwise be absorbed by the circuit back into the light guide unit

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent converts the harmful light-absorbing property of the silver paste circuit into a beneficial reflection mechanism. By placing a reflection layer behind the circuit, the circuit's presence is compensated for by the reflected light, turning the potential harm (light absorption) into a benefit (enhanced light output through reflection)

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

3Volume of stationary object

If light source is installed at lateral side, then volume is reduced, but light output efficiency may be affected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice volumeVSAvoidlight output efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of stationary objectVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a conventional top-mounted light source configuration to a lateral-side mounted light source configuration. This dimensional change in light source positioning reduces the overall device volume while the reflection layer ensures that light is efficiently directed through the light guide unit, maintaining output efficiency despite the compact arrangement

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This design simplifies the assembly process, reduces the device's volume, increases light reflection and utilization, and improves the quality of output light by minimizing absorption and chromatic effects, resulting in enhanced brightness and efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

a reflection layer formed with a first pattern and installed on the light output surface of the light guide unit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS8858052B2Backlight module
Publication Date: 2014.10.14 GLOBAL LIGHTING TECHNOLOGIES (TAIWAN) INC
  • US8858052B2 patent drawing
  • US8858052B2 patent drawing
  • US8858052B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a backlight module and a manufacturing method thereof. The backlight module comprises a thin film unit, a light guide unit, an insulation layer and at least a light source. The thin film unit is installed with a first circuit. The light guide unit is installed with a second circuit. The insulation layer is installed between the thin film unit and the light guide unit. The light source is electrically connected to the first circuit, and the light thereof projects into the light guide unit.