Display Panel Aperture Routing for Edge-to-Edge Screens
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile computing devices face a challenge in extending the display area towards the edges without increasing the overall dimensions, as the space allocated for other devices like cameras and light sensors limits the display's expansion.
Innovation Solution
The display panel is configured with smaller apertures and routing areas that allow pixel data lines to reroute around these apertures, enabling the display to extend towards the edges while allowing partially obstructed light to pass through for devices that can operate with it, thereby reducing the non-emissive area required for rerouting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a large aperture is used in the display panel for light devices, then light transmission to devices is improved, but the non-emissive area increases and display area cannot be extended towards edges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a single large aperture into multiple smaller apertures arranged in an array. This segmentation allows light to reach light devices through multiple small openings while reducing the total non-emissive area compared to one large aperture. The segmented aperture array enables the display area to extend closer to the edges of the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates different optical properties in different regions of the display panel. The aperture regions allow light transmission for light devices, while the routing areas between apertures have controlled transparency to provide partially obstructed light. This local differentiation enables simultaneous satisfaction of light transmission requirements and display area extension.
2Area of stationary object
If display area is extended towards edges, then display area increases, but space for other devices is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional layout where display and light devices compete for space to a three-dimensional arrangement. Light devices are positioned behind the display panel, and light is routed through the display panel structure itself via apertures and routing areas. This dimensional change allows the display area to extend to the edges while light devices maintain their functionality through the panel.
Solution Approach 2:
The display panel structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the display area for visual output, contains apertures for unobstructed light transmission to light devices, and includes routing areas for partially obstructed light transmission. This multi-functionality allows the same structure to accommodate both extended display area and light device requirements.
3Area of stationary object
If non-emissive area is reduced, then display area can be extended, but routing space for pixel data lines is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a porous-like structure in the display panel with an array of apertures distributed throughout. These apertures and the routing areas between them provide multiple pathways for pixel data lines to route signals while maintaining a compact non-emissive area. The distributed aperture pattern creates sufficient routing space without requiring large contiguous non-emissive regions.
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 allows for a larger display area without enlarging the device, accommodating both unobstructed and partially obstructed light requirements of various devices, enhancing user experience with a more extensive viewing area without increasing the device's size.
Implementation Method 1
The emissive portion includes an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display structuring having (i) a matrix of OLEDs
Implementation Method 2
The non-emissive portion is configured to permit light transmitted or received by at least one light device positioned behind the display panel to pass through the non-emissive portion
Data Source
AI summary
A display configuration to extend the light emitting and touch sensitive portion of a display panel into areas normally reserved for other light devices is disclosed. In the configuration, light devices and the display panel are configured to operate together. The display panel may include an aperture through the display panel to provide an unobstructed light path to a light device. The display panel may also include a routing area to provide space for data lines feeding pixels to be rerouted around the aperture. The routing area is partially obstructed by data lines but otherwise transparent. Accordingly, some display devices may be positioned behind the routing area and still operate.