Image Sensor Fingerprint Detection Using Display Openings
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices face challenges in miniaturizing biometric authentication systems while maintaining high security and convenience, particularly in integrating effective fingerprint recognition methods that can function within limited spaces of mobile communication terminals.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device incorporating an image sensor with a plurality of photodiodes and a display featuring patterned openings, where the processor acquires a first image using overlapping incident light beams, applies a transfer function to restore a subject image, and extracts biometric information for user authentication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a prism-based optical structure is used for fingerprint detection, then detection capability is improved, but device size increases making it difficult to mount in miniaturized electronic devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the light guiding function from a traditional prism structure and implements it through a simplified optical path using the display's existing openings and an image sensor positioned adjacent to the display. This removes the bulky prism component while maintaining the core functionality of guiding light for fingerprint detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the optical structure with the display component itself by utilizing the display's patterned openings as part of the light guiding mechanism. The image sensor is positioned to work in conjunction with the display openings, combining multiple functions into integrated components rather than separate elements.
2Volume of moving object
If a pinhole array optical structure is used, then device size is reduced for easy mounting, but sufficient subject information cannot be detected due to spacing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The display's patterned openings serve multiple functions: they act as pixel structures for display purposes and simultaneously function as the optical aperture array for fingerprint detection. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate pinhole arrays while maintaining compact dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the display's existing pixel pattern as a template for the detection aperture pattern. By copying the display's structural pattern for optical purposes, the system achieves effective detection without requiring additional spacing or separate optical components.
3Volume of moving object
If a liquid crystal cell array or micro lens array is used, then device size is reduced for easy mounting, but detection of sufficient subject information becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes complex optical elements like liquid crystal cells and micro lenses from the system. Instead, it extracts only the essential light guiding and detection functions, implementing them through the display openings and a straightforward image sensor arrangement, thereby eliminating unnecessary complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical optical systems (lenses, liquid crystal cells) with a simpler optical arrangement using the display's inherent structure and direct light paths. This substitution maintains detection capability while significantly reducing device complexity and size.
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 miniaturization of electronic devices capable of secure biometric authentication by effectively identifying fingerprints through overlapping light beams and transfer function processing, enhancing user convenience and security.
Implementation Method 1
a method of detecting a fingerprint image of a user from the light or ultrasound reflected from the user fingerprint by irradiating the user fingerprint with illumination or ultrasound
Implementation Method 2
An optical structure for detecting a subject (e.g., a user fingerprint) image may include various types of structures for guiding and aligning light incident on a sensor layer
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device according to various embodiments may include an image sensor including a plurality of photodiodes, a display including a plurality of patterned openings, and a processor. The processor may be configured to control the electronic device to: acquire, through the image sensor, a first image using a plurality of incident light beams for a subject which pass through at least one of the plurality of openings, at least some of the plurality of incident light beams overlapping each other; acquire a second image representing the subject from the first image using a transfer function corresponding to the plurality of openings; and acquire information on the subject using the second image.