LED Array Battery Indicator with Diffusing Holes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional battery indicator structures in portable computers are unsightly and fail to convey sufficient information about the battery charge status effectively.
Innovation Solution
A portable computer with a metal housing featuring an array of holes and a light-emitting diode array mounted behind these holes, where the pattern of illuminated LEDs indicates the battery charge status, and light diffusing material is incorporated into the holes to enhance the appearance and clarity of the light emitted.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If conventional indicator lights are used, then the device structure is simple, but the aesthetic appearance and information conveyance are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator is segmented into multiple light-emitting diodes arranged in an array, where each LED can be independently controlled to display different battery charge status levels. This segmentation allows for more detailed information conveyance and improved aesthetic appearance through patterned illumination while maintaining reasonable structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-point indicator to a two-dimensional array of light-emitting diodes. This dimensional expansion enables more sophisticated visual patterns and information display capabilities, significantly improving aesthetic appearance and information conveyance while the added complexity is managed through systematic arrangement.
2Loss of information
If a single indicator light is used, then the device structure is simple, but sufficient battery charge status information cannot be conveyed
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator array is segmented into multiple independently controllable light-emitting diodes, allowing each LED to represent a specific charge status level or combination of levels. This enables comprehensive battery charge status information to be conveyed through different illumination patterns while managing structural complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides visual feedback to the user by illuminating specific patterns of light-emitting diodes that correspond to the current battery charge status. This feedback mechanism conveys detailed information about remaining charge levels, enabling users to make informed decisions about device usage or charging needs.
3Illumination intensity
If light-emitting diodes are mounted directly in holes, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the light appearance and diffusion are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
A diffuser element is introduced as an intermediary component between the light-emitting diodes and the external environment. This diffuser scatters and softens the light output, improving appearance and reducing harsh direct illumination. The addition of this intermediate layer enhances optical performance while the manufacturing complexity is managed through integration into the existing housing structure.
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
The solution provides an improved visual representation of battery charge status, enhancing user information and aesthetics by using a light-emitting diode array with diffusing material to create a more informative and visually appealing indicator.
Implementation Method 1
A light-emitting diode array may be mounted behind the holes. The pattern of light-emitting diodes in the array that are lit at any given time may be indicative of the battery charge status
Implementation Method 2
Light diffusing material may be incorporated into the holes of the opaque member to improve the appearance of the light emitted from the housing
Data Source
AI summary
A portable computer may include battery indicator light structures. Battery status information in the portable computer may be presented to a user using an array of light-emitting diodes or other light emitters. Light-emitting diodes may be mounted on a printed circuit board. A stiffener may provide the printed circuit board with rigidity. The printed circuit board may include a connector that allows the board to be connected to a main logic board. A switch on the printed circuit board may be actuated by a power button on the portable computer. An opaque member with an array of holes may be used to reduce light bleed between adjacent light-emitting diodes. Diffusing plastic may be mounted within the array of holes. Bumps in the diffusing plastic may mate with corresponding holes on a portable computer housing.