Concealed Input Region Using Microperforations and Backlighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional input devices for computing systems often lack flexibility and adaptability, and they permanently indicate the presence of the input device, which can be aesthetically unappealing and limit design options.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device with a concealed input region featuring an array of microperforations that are visually imperceptible when not illuminated, using a translucent layer and an opaque masking layer to propagate light and display symbols, allowing the input region to be hidden until activated, and a sensing element to detect inputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional input devices are used, then input functionality is provided, but the input device permanently indicates its presence which limits design flexibility and aesthetics
Solution Approach 1:
The input region transitions from a static, permanently visible state to a dynamic, selectively visible state. The microperforations remain hidden in the opaque masking layer until illuminated by the light source, at which point they become visible and functional. This dynamic appearance allows the input device to adapt between concealed and active states, providing design flexibility while maintaining input functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The input region utilizes optical property changes rather than color changes. The microperforations transition from being visually imperceptible (when the masking layer is opaque) to visible (when illuminated from behind). This optical transformation allows the input device to reveal or conceal its presence based on illumination conditions, resolving the contradiction between permanent indication and design flexibility.
2Illumination intensity
If the input region is always visible, then user interaction is straightforward, but the aesthetic appeal and design integration are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs optical property changes where the microperforations in the opaque masking layer transition from invisible to visible when illuminated. During normal conditions, the masking layer maintains a uniform opaque appearance that integrates aesthetically with the device surface. When the light source activates, the microperforations become visible, revealing the input region for user interaction. This resolves the contradiction by providing both aesthetic integration and visibility as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The microperforations are pre-configured in the opaque masking layer during manufacturing, but remain invisible until illumination occurs. The light source is positioned to illuminate specific patterns of microperforations to form visible symbols or indicators before user interaction is required. This preliminary configuration allows the aesthetic appearance to be maintained while the input functionality is prepared in advance.
3Shape
If microperforations are used to conceal the input region, then aesthetic integration is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes an array of microperforations created in the opaque masking layer to achieve the concealment effect. These microperforations form a porous structure that allows light to pass through when illuminated, revealing the input region beneath. The microperforations can be created using standard manufacturing techniques such as laser drilling, punching, or etching, which balance aesthetic integration with manufacturing feasibility without requiring extreme precision beyond conventional capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The pattern of microperforations is designed to replicate or copy the desired visible symbol or indicator when illuminated. Rather than requiring each microperforation to be precisely positioned with high tolerance, the overall pattern of multiple microperforations collectively forms the visible representation. This copying approach allows standard manufacturing processes to achieve the aesthetic integration goal without demanding excessive manufacturing precision.
4Use of energy by moving object
If a translucent layer is used to allow light propagation, then the input region can be illuminated, but the concealment effect is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the device structure into distinct functional layers: an opaque masking layer containing the microperforations, a translucent or transparent layer for light propagation, and the input region beneath. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function independently - the opaque masking layer provides concealment and pattern definition, the translucent layer enables light transmission, and the input region provides interaction capability. This layered segmentation resolves the contradiction by allowing both concealment and illumination to coexist through functional separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The translucent layer acts as an intermediary between the light source and the opaque masking layer. It allows light to propagate from the light source through to the microperforations while maintaining the concealment effect of the opaque layer when unilluminated. The translucent layer mediates the optical interaction, enabling light transmission during activation while preserving the aesthetic integration and concealment properties during normal states, thus resolving the contradiction between light propagation and concealment.
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 provides a flexible and adaptable input mechanism that can be seamlessly integrated into various device designs, offering a hidden input functionality that is only visible and functional when illuminated, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics.
Implementation Method 1
a light source positioned within the inner volume and configured to propagate light through the array of microperforations
Implementation Method 2
a sensing element positioned within the inner volume and configured to detect input received along the input region
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments are directed to an electronic device having a hidden or concealable input region. In one aspect, an embodiment includes an enclosure having a wall that defines an input region having an array of microperforations. A light source may be positioned within a volume defined by the enclosure and configured to propagate light through the array of microperforations. A sensing element may be coupled with the wall and configured to detect input received within the input region. The array of microperforations are configured to be visually imperceptible when not illuminated by the light source. When illuminated by the light source, the array of microperforations may display a symbol.