Illumination Device Recess for Narrow Frame Camera Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a growing demand for electronic apparatuses with integrated cameras and displays, where the camera is positioned on the outer side of the display unit, requiring efficient space management and reduced frame width to accommodate both components effectively.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates an illumination device with a light guide, first and second light sources, and a recessed portion, allowing for a narrower frame by optimizing the placement of light sources and shielding the camera from direct illumination, while maintaining uniform brightness and reducing the frame width.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the camera is positioned on the outer side of the display unit, then the integration of camera and display is improved, but the frame width increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions light sources in the third dimension (depth direction) relative to the display unit, placing them between the display and the camera. This vertical stacking arrangement allows the camera to be positioned on the outer side while the light sources occupy the space in the depth direction, thereby reducing the required frame width without compromising the integrated design.
2Length of stationary object
If light sources are placed close to the display unit, then the frame width is reduced, but non-uniformity in illumination occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the illumination function into multiple segments by using multiple light sources arranged at different positions and orientations. Each light source emits light in a specific direction, and the combination of these segmented light paths ensures uniform illumination across the display unit while maintaining a compact frame width.
Solution Approach 2:
Different light sources are positioned at different locations and oriented at different angles to emit light in specific directions. This local differentiation of light source positions and orientations ensures that each region of the display unit receives appropriate illumination, achieving uniform overall illumination while keeping the frame width reduced.
3Illumination intensity
If multiple light sources are used, then illumination uniformity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the wiring functions by using a single wiring board to electrically connect all light sources. This consolidation of electrical connections simplifies the overall device structure and reduces the complexity that would otherwise arise from multiple separate wiring systems, while still maintaining the benefits of multiple light sources for uniform illumination.
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 narrower frame for the electronic apparatus, effectively integrates the camera and display, and reduces non-uniformity in illumination, while also reducing manufacturing costs by using a single wiring board for both light sources.
Implementation Method 1
a light guide having a first surface facing the liquid crystal panel
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, an electronic apparatus comprises a liquid crystal panel, and an illumination device that illuminates the liquid crystal panel, wherein the illumination device includes a light guide having a recess portion recessed from a first side surface toward a second side surface on the first side surface, and a third side surface exposed by the recess portion and opposed to the second side surface, a plurality of first light sources opposed to the first side surface, and a plurality of second light sources located in the recess portion and opposed to the third side surface, and each of the second light sources has a light-emitting surface smaller than that of each of the first light sources.