Electro-Optic Display Under Crystal With Recessed Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Designing portable objects like wristwatches and smartphones with electro-optic display devices poses a challenge in concealing electrical connection elements while allowing both the electro-optic display device and any secondary display device beneath it to be visible, as existing solutions either obscure the secondary display or compromise aesthetic appeal.
Innovation Solution
An electro-optic display device is positioned beneath the crystal of a portable object with an opaque frame extending from the edges of the opening, concealing electrical connections and allowing a transparent area for viewing a secondary display device, such as a dial with moving hands, without obstructing the primary display.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the electro-optic display device is attached directly to the bottom surface of the crystal, then the display functionality is achieved, but the electrical connection elements become visible and compromise aesthetic appeal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a third dimension by creating a recess in the crystal that accommodates the display device and its electrical connections. This dimensional change allows the connections to be hidden within the recess while the display remains visible on the surface, resolving the contradiction between functional attachment and aesthetic appearance.
2Shape
If an opaque frame is added to conceal electrical connections, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but the area available for viewing the display and secondary display is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By moving the electrical connections into the recess (third dimension), the patent eliminates the need for an opaque frame that would block the viewing area. The viewing area is preserved because the connections are hidden depth-wise rather than width-wise, allowing both aesthetic appeal and maximum display visibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The recess acts as an intermediary structure that mediates between the electrical connections and the external environment. It provides a hiding place for the connections while maintaining optical access to the display, thus resolving the contradiction between concealment and visibility.
3Area of stationary object
If the crystal is made larger to accommodate both displays and connections, then all elements can be visible, but the overall device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The recess provides a vertical dimension for accommodating connections, allowing the crystal surface area to remain compact while still housing all necessary elements. This dimensional solution avoids the need to increase the overall device footprint.
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 enables a hybrid display where both digital and analogue information can be simultaneously viewed, maintaining aesthetic appeal by hiding electrical components and enhancing user experience with an original and innovative design.
Implementation Method 1
a display device comprising an optically active element whose optical properties can be modified by applying an electric current or voltage between at least one electrode and one corresponding auxiliary electrode
Data Source
AI summary
An object includes an electro-optic display device provided with an optically active element, the optical properties thereof can be modified by applying an electric voltage or current between at least one electrode and one corresponding auxiliary electrode, between which the optically active element is disposed. The object further includes a middle part which delimits an opening closed by a crystal including a bottom surface beneath which the electro-optic display device is arranged. The crystal is provided with an opaque frame which is made remotely from the edges of the opening and which covers the contour of the electro-optic display device so as to conceal electrical connection elements. The electro-optic display device defines an active display area which is confined by the opaque frame, such that, when the electro-optic display device is activated and displaying information, a transparent area remains between the opaque frame and the edges of the opening.