Concealed Display with Interlayer Diffuser for Seamless Masking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electro-optic displays with mask layers exhibit high contrast between the display and the mask layer, leading to visibility issues when the display is in an off state due to discontinuity in the polarizing layer visibility.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device configuration with a cover substrate, an electro-optic element, and a polarizer, where a concealment layer is positioned between the polarizer and the electro-optic element's surface, and a diffuser is used to reduce the reflectance difference between the viewing area and the framed area, creating a monolithic appearance when the display is inactive.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a mask layer is disposed over a polarizing layer on the electro-optic display, then the construction of the display is effectively hidden, but high contrast between the display and the mask layer occurs due to discontinuity in the visibility of the polarizing layer
Solution Approach 1:
A diffuser layer is introduced as an intermediary component between the polarizing layer and the mask layer. This diffuser scatters light to eliminate the sharp discontinuity at the mask boundary, allowing the mask to remain aesthetically effective while reducing its visibility when the display is off. The diffuser acts as a mediator that softens the optical transition between displayed and masked regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes optical filtering and light scattering properties to modify the apparent color and brightness characteristics of the mask region. By controlling how light interacts with the diffuser and mask layer combination, the visual contrast between the mask and display areas is reduced, making the mask less noticeable while maintaining its concealing function.
2Shape
If a concealment layer is positioned between the polarizer and the electro-optic element, then the interface between the mask layer and display is minimized, but the reflectance difference between viewing area and framed area must be controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different optical properties to different regions: the diffuser layer has specific scattering characteristics in the viewing area while the concealment layer has different reflectance properties in the framed area. By carefully engineering these local optical qualities, the reflectance difference between regions is controlled to maintain a seamless appearance without creating excessive visual contrast.
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 solution effectively reduces the noticeable difference in reflection and color between the concealment layer and the viewing area, providing a seamless appearance by minimizing the apparent interface between the mask layer and the display, even when the display is off.
Implementation Method 1
A polarizer is disposed between the second surface of the cover substrate and the third surface of the electro-optic element
Implementation Method 2
A diffuser positioned between the first polarizer and the third surface of the liquid crystal element is coupled with a liquid crystal element
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes a cover substrate defining a first surface and a second surface. A polarizer is coupled to the second surface of the cover substrate and an electro-optic element. A light source is coupled to the electro-optic element. A concealment layer extends proximate a perimeter of the electro-optic element. The concealment layer is positioned between the polarizer and the electro-optic element.