Segmented Metal Layer Around Display Openings for Light Blocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing display devices face challenges in integrating additional functions while maintaining a thin and lightweight design, particularly in preventing external light reflection from internal wiring that compromises aesthetics and functionality.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a metal layer with spaced segments around the display device's opening area to block external light reflection, combined with an input sensing layer featuring sensing electrodes arranged in different directions, and signal wiring integrated within non-display areas to enhance functionality and aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a metal layer is added to block light reflection from internal wiring, then the aesthetic appearance is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the light-blocking metal layer with the input sensing layer by forming the metal layer on the sensing electrodes, allowing the same structure to serve dual purposes: blocking light reflection and providing touch sensing functionality. This merging reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The metal layer is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it blocks external light reflection to improve aesthetics, provides a surface for the input sensing layer, and can serve as part of the touch sensing electrode structure. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity by eliminating the need for separate light-blocking and sensing components.
2Weight of moving object
If the display device is made thinner and lighter, then portability is improved, but the space for integrating additional functions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the light-blocking function with the input sensing layer by forming the metal layer on the sensing electrodes. This integration allows additional functionality to be added without increasing the display device's footprint or weight, as the metal layer serves dual purposes within the existing thin structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the vertical dimension by forming the metal layer on the sensing electrodes in the same planar layer, allowing the light-blocking function to be integrated without increasing the horizontal footprint. This dimensional approach enables functionality integration while maintaining a thin profile.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the metal layer is formed as continuous, then light blocking is effective, but it interferes with touch sensing functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the metal layer into portions that are formed on the sensing electrodes, creating a discontinuous metal structure. This segmentation allows the metal layer to block light reflection in the non-display areas while maintaining electrical connectivity and functionality in the display areas where touch sensing is required.
Solution Approach 2:
The metal layer is applied locally only where needed for light blocking (in non-display areas) while being omitted or modified in display areas where touch sensing functionality is required. This local quality approach ensures that the metal layer provides light blocking where it should and maintains sensing functionality where it should not.
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 visible light reflection from internal wiring, enhances display device functionality by integrating additional components like sensors, and maintains a sleek appearance.
Implementation Method 1
The metal layer may include a metal having a light-blocking characteristic
Data Source
AI summary
A display device includes a substrate including an opening defined therein, a display area adjacent to the opening, and a non-display area extended along the opening to be disposed between the opening and the display area; a display element with which an image is displayed, on the substrate in the display area thereof; and a metal layer including a plurality of segments spaced apart from each other, each segment disposed in the non-display area of the substrate.