Display Module Proximity Sensor Integration

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing display modules in vehicles face errors in computing occupant proximity due to sensors being separate and distinct from the display, leading to inaccuracies in proximity sensing.

Innovation Solution

Integrating a sensor adjacent to or within the electronic display screen to detect radiation reflected from an object, improving proximity detection accuracy and reducing errors by minimizing the distance between the sensor and the object.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If sensors are positioned separately from the display, then the display module structure is simpler, but the proximity detection accuracy deteriorates due to increased distance between sensor and display surface

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproximity detection accuracyVSAvoidsensor integration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor is integrated directly into the display module structure, positioned in close proximity to the display screen. This merging of the sensor with the display assembly eliminates the need for separate sensor mounting and reduces the distance between the sensor and the display surface, thereby improving proximity detection accuracy while maintaining structural simplicity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The display module structure is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both the display assembly and the sensor housing. The display module housing incorporates the sensor within its structure, allowing the same component to fulfill both display and proximity sensing functions, thus reducing overall device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Area of stationary object

If multiple separate sensors are used, then coverage area is sufficient, but the number of components and system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor coverage areaVSAvoidnumber of sensors
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor is positioned to utilize the three-dimensional space around the display screen, detecting radiation from multiple angles and positions. By strategically placing the sensor within the display module housing, the system achieves comprehensive coverage of the display surface area without requiring multiple separate sensors, thus reducing component count while maintaining adequate detection coverage

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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

Enhances the accuracy of proximity detection and reduces the number of sensors required, while also lowering costs and mechanical complexity, thereby improving the overall performance of the display module.

Implementation Method 1

detect radiation reflected to a surface of the panel

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS9916014B2Display module with integrated proximity sensor
Publication Date: 2018.03.13 CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS INC
  • US9916014B2 patent drawing
  • US9916014B2 patent drawing
  • US9916014B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A display module includes an electronic display screen and a sensor operable to detect radiation reflected to a surface of the electronic display screen. A method of detecting an object is also disclosed.