Backlighting Indicator Structures in Electronic Device Covers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrated backlighting in electronic device cover assemblies increases bulkiness and compromises the robustness and durability of the devices, as existing solutions often require separate lighting devices and light guides, leading to increased complexity and component count.
Innovation Solution
A translucent optical matrix layer with embedded lighting devices, positioned laterally offset from indicator structures, provides backlighting while being obscured by the cover member, reducing the need for separate light guides and allowing for a more compact and robust design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If integrated backlighting devices are included in the cover assembly, then indicator illumination is achieved, but the cover assembly becomes bulkier and less robust
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the backlighting devices directly into the cover assembly structure, integrating the lighting function with the cover itself. The cover member includes translucent indicator regions with backlighting devices positioned behind them, eliminating the need for separate light guides and reducing overall structural complexity while maintaining illumination functionality.
2Illumination intensity
If separate lighting devices and light guides are used, then indicator illumination is achieved, but component count and structural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple components (cover member, backlighting devices, and light guides) into a single integrated cover assembly. The cover member itself serves as both the structural element and the indicator display medium, with backlighting devices embedded or positioned within the cover structure, thereby reducing the total number of separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover member performs multiple functions: it provides structural protection, displays indicator information through translucent regions, and houses or positions the backlighting devices. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
3Illumination intensity
If integrated backlighting devices are included in the cover assembly, then indicator illumination is achieved, but robustness and durability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the backlighting devices into the cover assembly structure itself, the patent creates a more unified and robust construction. The cover member and lighting components work as an integrated unit, reducing potential failure points from interfaces between separate components and improving overall durability.
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 achieves a slim, robust, and cost-effective backlighting system that saves space within the electronic device, reduces component complexity, and enhances durability by eliminating the need for separate light guides and positioning LEDs within the cover structure.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of lighting devices embedded in the optical matrix layer... each peripheral lighting device being configured to provide backlighting illumination for the associated indicator structure
Implementation Method 2
each indicator structure being substantially translucent to allow passage of backlighting illumination across the thickness dimension of the cover member
Data Source
AI summary
A composite laminate assembly for an electronic device provides integrated backlighting for one or more indicator shapes defined by the assembly. The assembly includes a substantially opaque cover member to obscure at least parts of the electronic device. Translucent indicator structures in the cover member define respective indicator shapes to allow backlighting to pass through the cover member. An optical matrix layer of an optically conductive material is attached to an inner face of the cover member, with a plurality of lighting devices embedded in the optical matrix layer and laterally offset from associated indicator structures. The plurality of lighting devices may be connected to an electric circuit carried on the inner face of the cover member.