Light Guide Deadfront Structure for Hidden Display Edges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Achieving a seamless transition between display and non-display areas in vehicle interiors to create a unified aesthetic while ensuring high-quality display visibility when active, is challenging due to visibility of display edges even when turned off.
Innovation Solution
A light guide-based deadfront article using a glass light guide layer with a reflector and light extraction layer, combined with a colored ink layer, which blocks visibility of display components when off and allows graphics to be visible when the light source is on, while being suitable for curved shapes and various display applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a glass or plastic cover surface is used for the display, then the display is protected and has a smooth surface, but the edge of the display becomes visible even when turned off, breaking the seamless appearance
Solution Approach 1:
A deadfront layer is introduced as an intermediary component between the display and the cover surface. This deadfront layer matches the appearance of surrounding non-display areas and blocks the view of the display edge, creating a seamless transition while the cover surface continues to provide protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover surface is segmented into a display area and a deadfront area. The deadfront area is specifically designed to match the surrounding materials and block display visibility when off, while the display area maintains its protective function. This segmentation allows each zone to serve its specific purpose without compromising the overall seamless appearance.
2Shape
If a deadfront structure is added to hide the display edge when off, then the seamless appearance is improved, but the display quality and visibility when on may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The deadfront layer incorporates dynamic optical properties that change based on display operation. When the display is off, the deadfront blocks visibility to maintain seamless appearance. When the display is on, the deadfront becomes transparent or translucent, allowing full display visibility. This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction between aesthetic appearance and display quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical parameters of the deadfront layer are changed based on display state. The material properties (such as transparency, refractive index, or light absorption characteristics) are adjusted to block light when the display is off and transmit light when the display is on, thereby maintaining both seamless appearance and display quality under different operating conditions.
3Shape
If the display surface is made to match surrounding materials for a unified look, then the aesthetic appearance is improved, but the transition area becomes visible and breaks the seamless effect
Solution Approach 1:
The deadfront layer is designed with local quality variations to match specific surrounding materials in different areas. Each region of the deadfront can be customized to match the local surrounding materials (such as wood grain, leather, or metal textures), creating a seamless integration. This local matching approach eliminates visible transitions while maintaining aesthetic appearance.
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 high-quality deadfront appearance when the display is off and high contrast, visible graphics when on, with the ability to match surrounding materials, and is suitable for complex curved surfaces, enhancing user experience in vehicle interiors.
Implementation Method 1
a light guide-based deadfront article utilizing a glass light guide layer
Implementation Method 2
a light guide-based deadfront article utilizing a glass light guide layer with a reflector and light extraction layer
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of a deadfront article for a display are disclosed herein. The deadfront article includes a cover structure having: an inner surface; an outer surface opposite the inner surface; a glass layer located between the inner surface and the outer surface; and a first layer of light transmitting ink or pigment located between the inner surface of the cover structure and the glass layer. The deadfront article also includes a light guide layer having: an inner surface; and an outer surface facing toward the inner surface of the cover structure. A light extraction layer located on at least one of the inner surface and the outer surface of the light guide layer.