Energy-Collecting Display Layout Using Sub-Pixel Spacing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional display modules in devices like smartwatches and GPS navigation devices face challenges in integrating solar energy harvesting without obscuring the display, as existing semitransparent solar panels degrade visibility.
Innovation Solution
An integrated energy-collecting display module is designed with a base substrate and sub-pixels arranged in a regular pattern, where photovoltaic regions are placed within sub-pixel spacing regions to minimize obstruction of the display, allowing for solar energy collection without compromising visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a semitransparent solar panel is positioned on top of the display, then solar energy collection is improved, but display visibility is degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The display is divided into active sub-pixel regions and spacing regions. The photovoltaic material is segmented and positioned only in the spacing regions between sub-pixels, allowing the display areas to remain transparent for visibility while the spacing regions generate solar energy.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the display module are assigned different functions: sub-pixel regions are optimized for light transmission and display visibility, while spacing regions are optimized for photovoltaic energy collection. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction by ensuring each region performs its primary function effectively.
2Use of energy by moving object
If photovoltaic material is placed in sub-pixel spacing regions, then solar energy harvesting is enabled, but display area is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The display module area is segmented into functional zones: active display sub-pixels and photovoltaic spacing regions. This segmentation allows the spacing regions to be utilized for energy harvesting without impacting the sub-pixel display areas, thus enabling solar energy collection while preserving the display area.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacing regions, which would otherwise be non-functional or wasted space between sub-pixels, are repurposed to perform the additional function of solar energy collection. This multi-functional use of spacing regions enables energy harvesting without encroaching on the display area.
3Illumination intensity
If photovoltaic region minimally obscures sub-pixel viewing cone region, then display visibility is maintained, but energy collection efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The photovoltaic material is placed partially in the spacing regions with minimal intrusion into the sub-pixel viewing cone regions. This partial placement is sufficient to capture ambient light for energy collection while maintaining adequate visibility through the sub-pixel regions, accepting moderate energy collection in exchange for preserved display quality.
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 enables efficient solar energy harvesting while maintaining unobstructed display visibility, thereby extending battery life without degrading user experience.
Implementation Method 1
a photovoltaic region disposed within the sub-pixel spacing regions
Data Source
AI summary
Energy-collecting display modules are disclosed. The modules include a base substrate with a plurality of sub-pixels, which are laid out in a substantially regular sub-pixel pattern. The sub-pixels are dispersed along the base substrate with sub-pixel spacing regions between individual sub-pixels. The modules also include a photovoltaic region disposed within the sub-pixel spacing regions such that the photovoltaic region minimally obscures a subpixel viewing cone region.