Integrated Optical Sensor for Fingerprint and Proximity Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fingerprint and proximity sensing systems in mobile devices require separate components for fingerprint recognition and proximity sensing, occupying additional space and increasing costs, as they need two distinct observation holes and devices for different functions.
Innovation Solution
A fingerprint and proximity sensing apparatus that integrates a display panel, a fingerprint sensor with an optical sensing array, and a proximity sensing light emitting diode, where the optical sensing array receives light from the display panel and the proximity sensing light emitting diode at different time periods, allowing for simultaneous fingerprint recognition and proximity sensing without the need for separate devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate components are used for fingerprint recognition and proximity sensing, then each function can be performed independently, but the device occupies more space and increases cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the fingerprint sensor and proximity sensor into a single integrated component. The optical sensing array serves dual purposes: detecting fingerprint patterns when the finger is on the screen and detecting proximity when the finger is near the screen. This merging eliminates the need for separate observation holes and reduces device space occupation.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical sensing array is designed to perform multiple functions: fingerprint recognition and proximity sensing. By using the same hardware component for both functions, the patent reduces the number of components needed while maintaining independent operational capability for each function through software control and timing mechanisms.
2Reliability
If two separate observation holes are used for emitting and receiving light, then light paths are established for both functions, but the display screen area is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the light emission and reception functions into a single integrated sensor unit. The optical sensing array both emits light (through the display screen) and receives reflected light, eliminating the need for separate emission and reception holes. This reduces the total area occupied on the display screen while maintaining functional light paths.
3Productivity
If the proximity sensing LED and display panel are turned on simultaneously, then both components operate independently, but light interference occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements time-division multiplexing where the display panel and proximity sensing LED operate in alternating time periods. During fingerprint recognition, the display panel emits light while the proximity LED remains off. During proximity sensing, the proximity LED emits light while the display panel is dimmed or turned off. This periodic operation eliminates light interference while maintaining productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system preemptively controls the timing of light emission from different sources. Before proximity sensing begins, the display panel is turned off or dimmed to prevent interference. Before fingerprint recognition begins, the proximity LED is turned off. This preliminary action prevents harmful light interference before it can occur.
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 integration reduces the space required for displaying images by eliminating the need for a separate proximity sensor, saves costs by using a single circuit for both sensing arrays, and prevents the proximity sensing light emitting diode and display panel from being turned on simultaneously, enhancing the efficiency and usability of mobile device sensors.
Implementation Method 1
The optical sensing array is configured to receive a first light emitted from the display panel and a second light emitted from the proximity sensing light emitting diode at different time periods
Implementation Method 2
The proximity sensing light emitting diode is an infrared light emitting diode, and the second light emitted from the proximity sensing light emitting diode comprises an infrared light
Implementation Method 3
the second light is emitted from the proximity sensing light emitting diode and then is reflected by the second object to the optical sensing array for proximity sensing
Implementation Method 4
the first light is emitted from the display panel and then is reflected by the object to the optical sensing array for fingerprint recognition
Data Source
AI summary
A fingerprint and proximity sensing apparatus for fingerprint recognizing and proximity sensing is provided. The fingerprint and proximity sensing apparatus includes a display panel, a fingerprint sensor, and at least one proximity sensing light emitting diode. The fingerprint sensor has an optical sensing array. The optical sensing array is configured to receive a first light emitted from the display panel and a second light emitted from the at least one proximity sensing light emitting diode at different time periods. The first light and the second light have different ranges of wave length. A sensing process is also provided.