Colored Markings on Electronic Devices Using Laser-Formed Interference Pixels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional paint or ink markings on electronic device enclosures are prone to wear and may not provide durable color representation on exterior surfaces.
Innovation Solution
The use of colored pixels with a multilayer structure that produces color through optical interference, combined with a laser-based deposition process for precise layer control, to create durable and wear-resistant colored markings on electronic device enclosures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional paint or ink markings are used on the exterior surface of the housing, then the marking can be formed easily, but the marking is subject to wear and lacks durability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical application methods (paint or ink coating) with a laser-based deposition process. The laser-based technique deposits material layers directly onto the housing surface, creating a more durable marking that resists wear while maintaining ease of formation through precise digital control of the laser parameters
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a multilayer structure for the colored pixels, combining different materials with specific optical properties. This composite structure includes layers that work together to produce the desired color through optical interference, enhancing both the durability and visual quality of the marking
2Reliability
If a multilayer structure with optical interference is used to produce color, then the color representation is more durable, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent controls the thickness of each layer in the multilayer structure as a key parameter to achieve the desired optical interference and color effects. By precisely adjusting layer thicknesses during the laser-based deposition process, the system creates durable color representations without requiring complex mechanical or structural elements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a laser-based deposition process that is digitally controlled to deposit multiple thin layers with precise thickness control. This replaces complex mechanical assembly processes with a single automated deposition operation, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while achieving the desired multilayer structure
3Manufacturing precision
If a laser-based deposition process is used to deposit layers, then the positioning and dimension control is precise, but the process requires more energy
Solution Approach 1:
The laser-based deposition process uses pulsed or periodic laser activation to deposit material layers. This periodic action allows for precise control of energy delivery to the target area, achieving high positioning precision while minimizing overall energy consumption by applying energy only when and where needed
Solution Approach 2:
The system controls laser parameters such as pulse duration, intensity, and repetition rate to optimize the deposition process. By adjusting these parameters, the system achieves precise layer positioning and thin-layer deposition with controlled energy input, balancing manufacturing precision with energy efficiency
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
The described solution achieves a colored marking with sufficient wear resistance for use on exterior surfaces of electronic devices, maintaining color integrity and durability.
Implementation Method 1
The translucent layer may have a thickness that produces interference of light reflected from the base layer and the cover layer
Implementation Method 2
a laser-based deposition process may be used to deposit one or more layers of a color-producing feature
Data Source
AI summary
Electronic devices having a colored marking are described. The colored markings described herein may include colored pixels having a color-producing feature, which may be laser-formed. For example, the color of the color-producing feature may be due at least in part to interference of light. In some cases, the colored marking is a multicolor marking that includes pixels having different colors. The colored marking may include an array of the colored pixels and in some cases the colored marking may define an image.