Flexible Display Object Approach Detection via Integrated Sensors

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current display technologies lack a flexible and intuitive user interface that can detect object approaches and adapt image display based on bending, limiting their interactive capabilities and versatility.

Innovation Solution

A flexible display apparatus with a deformable display unit and sensors that detect object approaches by transmitting and receiving sensing signals, allowing the system to determine object proximity and bending degree, and control image display accordingly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a flexible display apparatus uses bending as a user interface, then user interaction capability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional sensors and control mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser interaction capabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The flexible display apparatus integrates multiple functions into a single system: the display unit serves both as the visual output interface and as part of the sensing system when bent. The sensor system detects both the bending state and object approaches, eliminating the need for separate bending sensors and proximity sensors, thus reducing overall device complexity while maintaining multi-functionality

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the display unit structure with the bending detection functionality. The display unit itself becomes part of the sensing mechanism when bent, and the sensor system is integrated into the display apparatus structure. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate components needed, addressing the complexity issue while enabling rich user interaction through bending and proximity detection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If sensors are added to detect object approaches, then user interface interactivity is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser interface interactivityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor system is designed to perform multiple detection functions simultaneously: it detects both the bending state of the display apparatus and the approach of external objects. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate sensor systems, thereby lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining high user interface interactivity

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

Solution Approach 2:

The display apparatus uses its own structural components (display unit and integrated sensors) to perform detection functions that would otherwise require additional specialized components. The system leverages its inherent physical properties and integrated structure to enable sensing capabilities, reducing dependency on expensive external sensors

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If the display unit is made flexible and deformable, then adaptability is improved, but structural stability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidstructural stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The display apparatus is designed to dynamically transition between bent and unbent states while maintaining structural integrity in each state. The control unit manages the bending process and ensures the display unit returns to its original position, providing stability during operation while maintaining flexibility for adaptation to different usage scenarios

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates mechanisms to protect the flexible display unit from excessive or damaging bending. The control unit monitors and limits bending程度, and the structural design includes elements that prevent over-bending or improper deformation, thereby cushioning against potential structural damage while maintaining the flexibility needed for adaptability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

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

Enables a dynamic and interactive user interface through object detection and bending-based control, enhancing user interaction and adaptability of the display apparatus.

Implementation Method 1

The sensor may include: a transmitter for transmitting a sensing signal at a first edge region of the display unit; and a receiver for receiving the sensing signal at a second edge region facing the first edge region. The transmitter may receive a signal reflected by the object from the sensing signal.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS9223398B2Flexible display apparatus and method of operating the same
Publication Date: 2015.12.29 SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO LTD
  • US9223398B2 patent drawing
  • US9223398B2 patent drawing
  • US9223398B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided are a flexible display apparatus and a method of operating the same. The flexible display apparatus includes: a display unit that displays an image and is flexible; and a sensor for detecting an approach of an object to a bent space of the display unit while the display unit is bent. The flexible display apparatus may use a proximity touch as a user interface by detecting an approach of an object, by disposing a sensor in a region adjacent to a display unit or on the display unit.