Embedded Sensor Pixels in Display Panel for Fingerprint Recognition
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing design of fingerprint sensors in smartphones restricts screen size expansion and increases manufacturing costs due to the need for a separate fingerprint sensor module, which complicates the assembly process and reduces yield.
Innovation Solution
A display device with embedded sensor pixels in the display panel allows for fingerprint recognition without a separate sensor module, enabling full-screen displays by integrating sensor functionality directly into the panel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate fingerprint sensor module is disposed below the screen, then fingerprint recognition function is achieved, but the screen size cannot be enlarged and the device thickness is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the fingerprint sensor pixels with the display pixels into a single integrated pixel array. The sensor pixels are embedded within the display panel structure, sharing the same substrate and circuitry, thereby eliminating the need for a separate fingerprint sensor module and enabling full-screen display implementation
2Reliability
If a separate fingerprint sensor module is disposed below the screen, then fingerprint recognition function is achieved, but the assembly process becomes more complex and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fingerprint sensor pixels are integrated into the display panel's pixel array, sharing common circuitry, substrates, and manufacturing processes. This merger eliminates the need for separate assembly of a fingerprint sensor module, thereby simplifying the assembly process and reducing manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The pixel array serves dual functions: display pixels for visual output and sensor pixels for fingerprint recognition. This multi-functionality is achieved through a unified structure that performs both display and sensing operations, eliminating the need for separate dedicated fingerprint sensor components
3Reliability
If a separate fingerprint sensor module is disposed below the screen, then fingerprint recognition function is achieved, but the manufacturing yield is decreased
Solution Approach 1:
The fingerprint sensor pixels are fabricated together with the display pixels in the same manufacturing process using identical materials and techniques. This integrated fabrication approach eliminates separate assembly steps and reduces the risk of assembly-related defects, thereby improving manufacturing yield
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 solution eliminates the need for a separate fingerprint sensor module, simplifying the assembly process, reducing manufacturing costs, and enabling larger screen sizes while maintaining accurate fingerprint recognition.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor pixels in the first sensing area may generate an electric current according to light reflected from a fingerprint in a fingerprint recognition mode
Implementation Method 2
The display pixels of the display area and the display pixels of the first sensing area may emit light by receiving a data voltage of an input image in a display mode
Data Source
AI summary
A display device and a mobile terminal device including the same are provided, wherein the display device includes a display panel including a display area in which a plurality of display pixels are disposed, and a sensing area in which a plurality of display pixels and a plurality of sensor pixels are disposed. The display pixels of the display area and the display pixels of the first sensing area emit light by receiving a data voltage of an input image in a display mode. The sensor pixels in the first sensing area generate an electric currents according to light reflected from a fingerprint in a fingerprint recognition mode. A resolution of the display pixel is lower than a resolution of the sensor pixel in the first sensing area.