Invisible Sensor Apertures via White Mask Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices with light-colored housings face aesthetic issues due to visible sensor apertures, which can be addressed by creating invisible sensor apertures that maintain sensor performance without compromising the device's appearance.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a display stack with multiple layers of white and black ink, where the sensor aperture is formed in the black ink layer and covered by white mask layers, ensuring the aperture is not visible while maintaining sensor functionality through optimal light transmission and scattering properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sensor apertures are made visible on light-colored device faces, then sensor functionality is ensured, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A white mask layer is introduced as an intermediary between the black ink layer containing the aperture and the external environment. This mask layer conceals the aperture from view while allowing light to pass through to the sensor, thus mediating between the conflicting requirements of aesthetic appearance and sensor functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The white mask layer is applied selectively only in the region of the sensor aperture rather than across the entire device face. This localized application maintains the light-colored aesthetic appearance of the device while providing concealment specifically where needed at the aperture location
2Shape
If white mask layers are added to cover sensor apertures, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The white mask layer is integrated into the existing display stack structure, merging the concealment function with the existing layers. Rather than adding a separate independent component, the mask layer is combined with the black ink layer and cover glass to form a unified display assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The white mask layer serves multiple functions simultaneously: it conceals the aperture for aesthetic purposes, acts as a structural element within the display stack, and maintains the light-colored appearance of the device face. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components
3Use of energy by moving object
If apertures are formed in black ink layer, then light transmission to sensor is optimized, but aperture visibility increases
Solution Approach 1:
The white mask layer serves as a mediator that decouples the optical function from the visual appearance. The black ink layer handles light transmission optimization while the white mask layer handles visual concealment, allowing each layer to specialize in its respective function without compromise
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 enhances the aesthetic appeal of light-colored devices by hiding sensor apertures while improving sensor performance and reducing light leakage, ensuring accurate ambient light detection across various lighting conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The light-colored ink may include particles distributed throughout the ink, and therefore distributed throughout the first ink layer. The particle size and/or concentration of the titanium oxide may impact the light scattering profile.
Implementation Method 2
The first ink layer may have a thickness and/or composition that scatters incident light, such that a scattering profile of the ink layer conforms to a Lambertian scatter distribution function.
Implementation Method 3
The fourth ink layer may include a dark-colored ink, such as a gray or black colored ink.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for providing invisible sensor aperture for electronic devices. In one embodiment, an example device may have a display that includes a cover layer, a first layer disposed on the cover layer, the first layer having a substantially white ink that is translucent, a second layer disposed on the first layer, the second layer having the substantially white ink, a third layer disposed on the second layer, the third layer having the substantially white ink, and a fourth layer comprising a dark-colored ink, wherein the fourth layer includes a first aperture aligned with a sensor of the device located beneath the fourth layer.