Integrated Sensing Display Merging Image Capture and Output

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional display systems lack the capability to simultaneously output images and input visual information without the need for external devices, limiting their functionality in applications like video conferencing and space-constrained portable devices.

Innovation Solution

An integrated sensing display that incorporates both display elements and image sensing elements, with each image element having a lens, allowing for simultaneous image capture and display without external equipment, utilizing a two-dimensional array within a display device like an LCD panel, and optionally featuring a housing for isolation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If display elements are arranged in a two-dimensional array to form display pixels, then image output capability is achieved, but the ability to capture visual information is lost due to lack of integrated sensing elements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedual functionality (display and capture)VSAvoidintegration of sensing and display elements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges display elements and image sensing elements into a single integrated array structure. Each sensing element is positioned to align with corresponding display elements, allowing the same physical structure to perform both image display and image capture functions simultaneously, thereby achieving dual functionality without requiring separate devices

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated array structure serves multiple functions: it can display images through the display elements and capture images through the sensing elements. This universal structure eliminates the need for separate display and camera devices, particularly beneficial for space-constrained applications like portable devices and video conferencing systems

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If external camera devices are used for image capture, then visual information input is achieved, but device complexity and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage capture capabilityVSAvoiddevice footprint
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the camera functionality directly into the display structure by integrating image sensing elements with display elements in the same array. This eliminates the need for separate external camera devices, significantly reducing the overall device footprint while maintaining full image capture capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The display device becomes universal by incorporating both display and camera functions in a single integrated unit. This multi-functional approach is particularly valuable for portable devices where space is limited, allowing users to have both display and imaging capabilities without requiring additional hardware

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

3Productivity

If image sensing elements are integrated into the display array, then simultaneous image capture and display is achieved, but interference between sensing and display elements may occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimultaneous operation efficiencyVSAvoidinterference between elements
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a housing structure as an intermediary element that provides isolation between image sensing elements and display elements. This housing prevents direct optical or electrical interference between the two types of elements while allowing them to function simultaneously in the same integrated array, thereby enabling simultaneous operation without harmful interactions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 the display device to function as both a display and a camera, facilitating applications such as video conferencing and image capture in limited spaces without the need for additional hardware, while maintaining image quality and allowing for adjustable lens configurations for focus and zoom.

Implementation Method 1

an array of image sensing elements, each image element having a lens... each image element being capable of capturing visual information from a source in front of the display area

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotodetection: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS7535468B2Integrated sensing display
Publication Date: 2009.05.19 APPLE INC
  • US7535468B2 patent drawing
  • US7535468B2 patent drawing
  • US7535468B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An integrated sensing display is disclosed. The sensing display includes display elements integrated with image sensing elements. As a result, the integrated sensing device can not only output images (e.g., as a display) but also input images (e.g., as a camera).