Display Device with Integrated Photovoltaic Cells and Lenticular Array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing backlit display screens face challenges in integrating photovoltaic cells without degrading luminosity and resolution, as the space for photovoltaic cells is limited to avoid impacting imaging characteristics, and previous integration methods require precise positioning of lenses and do not allow for direct integration of the light source into the substrate.
Innovation Solution
A digital display screen with integrated photovoltaic cells, comprising an array of pixels, a plurality of photovoltaic cells, and a lenticular array of lenses, where the lenses are positioned between the image zones and photovoltaic cells to focus light into orifices between the cells, maximizing internal optical transmission and maintaining high luminosity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If photovoltaic cells are integrated into the display screen surface, then the energy conversion area is increased, but the luminosity and resolution of the screen are degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The display surface is segmented into alternating regions: photovoltaic cell regions for energy conversion and pixel regions for light emission. This segmentation allows both functions to coexist without significant interference, as each region serves its primary purpose independently.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the display have different optical properties: photovoltaic regions are designed to absorb light for energy conversion, while pixel regions are optimized for light transmission and emission. This local differentiation allows the system to maintain high luminosity in pixel areas while maximizing photovoltaic conversion in dedicated regions.
2Quantity of substance
If photovoltaic cells are made larger to increase energy conversion, then the energy conversion efficiency is improved, but the space between pixels must be increased, degrading resolution
Solution Approach 1:
The display is divided into distinct photovoltaic strips and pixel regions, allowing photovoltaic cells to be maximized in width within their dedicated zones without encroaching on pixel spacing. This segmentation enables large photovoltaic surface area while maintaining fine pixel pitch for high resolution.
3Quantity of substance
If lenses are positioned between the light source and photovoltaic cells to focus light, then the photovoltaic conversion efficiency is improved, but the positioning precision requirements become extremely strict
Solution Approach 1:
A lenticular array serves as an intermediary optical element between the pixel layer and photovoltaic cells. The lenses in this array focus light from pixels onto the photovoltaic cells, improving conversion efficiency while the array structure itself provides mechanical alignment references that reduce positioning precision requirements.
4Device complexity
If the light source is integrated directly into the substrate, then the device complexity is reduced, but the positioning and integration precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The photovoltaic cells, lenticular array, and pixel control substrate are merged into a single integrated structure. The photovoltaic cells are formed directly on the substrate in alternating regions with pixels, and the lenticular array is integrated on top, eliminating the need for separate positioning and assembly steps while maintaining optical performance.
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 achieves a high proportion of photovoltaically active surface area with high luminosity, allowing for significant photovoltaic conversion while minimizing impact on image quality and resolution, and can be integrated into existing screen designs without substantial modifications.
Implementation Method 1
a lenticular array making it possible to focus the light emitted by said image zones into the orifice between two neighboring photovoltaic cells
Implementation Method 2
photocells have been integrated into these portable devices, which produce part of the current required for the operation of said device
Data Source
AI summary
A display device, in particular digital display screen, with integrated photovoltaic cells, including (a) an array of image zones emitting light or backlit by a light source placed behind the array of image zones, (b) an array formed by a plurality of photovoltaic cells and a plurality of orifices, in which array two neighboring photovoltaic cells form an orifice, and (c) a lenticular array making it possible to focus the light emitted by the image zones into the orifice between two neighboring photovoltaic cells. The lenticular array of the display device is positioned between the array of image zones and the array of photovoltaic cells.