Display-Integrated Microphone and Piezoelectric Array for Thin Bezel Audio
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile computing devices, such as laptops and notebooks, have limited audio capabilities due to the restricted placement and number of microphones, which hinders far-field audio detection and aesthetics, while integrating more microphones into the bezel increases complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating microphones and piezoelectric elements into the display substrate within the display area, allowing for a reduced bezel width, enhanced audio detection, and improved haptic feedback by utilizing the unused space in pixels and enabling rear-facing microphones for closed device functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If more microphones are integrated into the bezel to enhance audio detection capabilities, then audio detection performance is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple microphones and audio processing components into a single integrated array within the display bezel, merging previously separate components (microphones, audio processors, wiring) into one unified structure that reduces overall system complexity while enhancing audio detection capabilities through multiple sensing elements
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated audio array serves multiple functions simultaneously: it performs far-field audio detection, near-field audio capture, noise reduction, and speakerphone functionality, allowing a single component structure to replace multiple dedicated components and thereby reduce device complexity
2Measurement precision
If more microphones are integrated into the bezel to enhance audio detection capabilities, then audio detection performance is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple microphones and audio processing components into a single integrated array, the patent reduces the total number of discrete parts that need to be sourced, assembled, and tested, thereby lowering manufacturing costs despite incorporating multiple sensing elements
Solution Approach 2:
The audio array is designed as a modular integrated component that can be manufactured as a single unit and then installed as one assembly into the display bezel, simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing labor costs compared to installing multiple separate microphone components
3Measurement precision
If microphones are placed in the bezel to improve audio capabilities, then audio detection is enhanced, but bezel width must be increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from placing microphones only at the bottom bezel to distributing them across the entire bezel area in an array configuration, utilizing two-dimensional space efficiently to accommodate multiple sensing elements without proportionally increasing overall bezel dimensions
4Reliability
If discrete microphones with dedicated substrates and wires are used, then audio processing is reliable, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the microphone sensing elements, substrates, and audio processing components into a single integrated array structure with consolidated wiring, eliminating the need for separate discrete connections and reducing system complexity while maintaining reliable audio processing through integrated signal pathways
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 approach enhances audio detection capabilities, reduces noise, and provides localized haptic feedback, improving user experience while maintaining device aesthetics and reducing system complexity and cost.
Implementation Method 1
the display comprises a piezoelectric element located on the back side of the display substrate
Data Source
AI summary
Microphones are located between pixel display elements (e.g., micro-LEDs and OLEDs) in a display. Display-integrated microphones allow displays to have thinner bezels. Audio processing components can also be incorporated into the display and allow audio processing offloading from processors external to the display. Arrays of microphones allow for the beamforming of received audio signals to enhance the detection of sound from remote audio sources. Piezoelectric elements can also be integrated into a display to allow for localized haptic feedback. Integrated piezoelectric elements can act as speakers and beamforming techniques can be used to activate sets of piezoelectric elements in coordination to direct sound to a specific location external to the display. Piezoelectric elements can aid in display thermal management by creating acoustic waves to move heated air within a display to create a more uniform thermal profile within the display or to remove excess heat from the display.