Backside Camera Illumination for Narrow Frame Displays
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a challenge in designing electronic devices with integrated cameras and displays where reducing the frame width outside the display unit is desired while maintaining clear picture quality and sufficient space for the camera.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves an illumination device comprising a first and second light guide, light sources, and a wavelength conversion element, which illuminates a liquid crystal panel by converting the wavelength of light emitted by the light sources, allowing for efficient light distribution and reduced frame width by integrating the light receiving element, such as a camera, on the backside of the panel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If the camera is provided outside the display unit, then the camera function can be secured, but the frame width outside the display unit increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the camera from the traditional front-facing position (outside the display unit) to the backside of the liquid crystal panel, utilizing the z-dimension (depth) rather than the x-y plane. This dimensional transition allows the camera to be integrated within the device thickness without increasing the front frame width, effectively resolving the contradiction between minimizing frame width and maintaining camera installation space.
2Area of stationary object
If the frame width is reduced, then the aesthetic appearance is improved, but the space for installing the camera is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds the camera within the liquid crystal panel structure itself, nesting the camera in the backside space of the panel. This nesting approach allows the camera to be housed within the existing device volume without requiring additional external space, thereby maintaining a reduced frame width while providing sufficient installation space for the camera.
3Area of stationary object
If the light receiving element is integrated on the backside of the panel, then the frame width is reduced, but the light distribution efficiency may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a light guide as an intermediary component between the light source and the liquid crystal panel. The light guide efficiently distributes light from the light source to the display area, ensuring uniform illumination despite the camera's integration on the backside of the panel. This intermediary structure maintains light distribution efficiency while allowing the camera to be positioned in the backside space.
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 configuration enables clear image capture and display while minimizing the frame width outside the display unit, as the light receiving element can be placed on the backside of the liquid crystal panel without obstructing the display area, thus enhancing the device's aesthetic and functional capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a wavelength conversion element located between the side surface and the light emitting surface, and configured to convert a wavelength of light from the second light source
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, an electronic device includes a liquid crystal panel and an illumination device. The illumination device includes a first light guide having a first opening and facing the liquid crystal panel, a first light source facing the first light guide, a second light guide provided in the first opening and having a first main surface facing the liquid crystal panel, a second main surface, and a side surface, a second light source having a light emitting surface facing the side surface, and a wavelength conversion element located between the side surface and the light emitting surface, and configured to convert a wavelength of light from the second light source.