Liquid Crystal Panel Light Sensor Black Matrix Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

The complexity and bulkiness of traditional LCD devices due to the inclusion of multiple components in the backlight module, such as a plastic frame, metal bottom plate, and optical films, complicate the structure and increase the device's size, necessitating a more streamlined approach for ambient light detection and brightness adjustment.

Innovation Solution

Integration of a light sensor directly onto the liquid crystal panel with a black matrix that includes a semi-transparent film and a thin film transistor (TFT) array, allowing for ambient light detection and simplified manufacturing, while the black matrix's design minimizes light leakage and protects the auxiliary circuit from excessive light exposure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a traditional backlight module with multiple components (plastic frame, metal bottom plate, optical films) is used for ambient light detection, then the detection function is achieved, but the device structure becomes complicated and the bulk increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveambient light detectionVSAvoidbacklight module structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the light sensor with the black matrix layer, integrating the detection function into the existing panel structure. The black matrix is formed with a light-shielding layer and a semi-transparent film, where the semi-transparent film allows ambient light to reach the photodiode while the light-shielding layer blocks excessive light. This merging eliminates the need for separate backlight module components, reducing structural complexity while maintaining detection functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Measurement precision

If a traditional backlight module with multiple components is used for ambient light detection, then the detection function is achieved, but the device bulk increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveambient light detectionVSAvoiddevice bulk
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The light sensor is integrated into the black matrix layer of the liquid crystal panel, combining detection functionality with an existing structural element. This integration eliminates the need for additional bulky components in the backlight module, thereby reducing the overall device volume while maintaining ambient light detection capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The black matrix layer serves dual functions: it blocks light to prevent leakage in traditional displays, and it houses the light sensor for ambient light detection. The semi-transparent film within the black matrix allows selective light transmission for detection while the light-shielding layer maintains the light-blocking function. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby reducing device bulk.

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

3Reliability

If the black matrix uses a light-shielding layer to block excessive light, then the auxiliary circuit is protected from light exposure, but light leakage may occur if the layer is too thick

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecircuit protectionVSAvoidlight leakage
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The black matrix is designed with different regions having different light-transmission properties. The light-shielding layer provides strong light blocking in areas where circuit protection is needed, while the semi-transparent film allows controlled light transmission in areas where detection is required. This local differentiation of optical properties enables simultaneous achievement of circuit protection and prevention of light leakage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces costs, and effectively adjusts the backlight's brightness to match ambient conditions without increasing the device's bulk, while maintaining efficient light detection and minimizing unwanted light leakage.

Implementation Method 1

a light sensor 204 integrated into the liquid crystal panel 200... The light sensor 204 includes a light-sensing unit 205... detecting ambient light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric effect: Photoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 2

a black matrix 207... including a semi-transparent film 208... minimizes light leakage and protects the auxiliary circuit from excessive light exposure

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight absorption and transmission: Absorption (EM radiation)

Data Source

PatentUS8363005B2Liquid crystal panel with light sensor and liquid crystal display device using the same
Publication Date: 2013.01.29 INNOLUX CORP
  • US8363005B2 patent drawing
  • US8363005B2 patent drawing
  • US8363005B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An exemplary liquid crystal panel includes a first substrate, a second substrate opposite to the first substrate, a light sensor disposed at an inner side of the first substrate, and a black matrix disposed at an inner side of the second substrate. The light sensor includes a light-sensing unit, and the black matrix includes a semi-transparent film corresponding to the light-sensing unit. A liquid crystal display device employing the liquid crystal panel is also provided.