Lensless Optical Module With Infrared Mask Layer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bidirectional displays face challenges in integrating camera functionality without distorting the displayed image, as traditional optics solutions increase device thickness, require complex processing, or obscure the visual information.
Innovation Solution
A lensless optical module comprising a display with light-emitting elements, an infra-red light-sensitive image sensor layer, and a mask layer that blocks infra-red light while allowing visible light to pass, preventing optical distortion and maintaining a thin form factor suitable for portable devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If refractive optics are placed below the display between the display and image sensor, then image capture is enabled, but device thickness is increased and focus is limited to fixed distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the refractive optics (lenses) from the optical module, extracting the image capture function to rely instead on the display substrate itself acting as the imaging plane. This eliminates the need for thick lens structures while maintaining image capture capability through the display's own pixel structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The display substrate is made to serve dual functions: as the display surface for visible light emission and as the image sensor plane for infrared light detection. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate optical components, reducing device thickness while enabling image capture.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a mask is placed at the display surface, then infrared light blocking is achieved, but the display is partially obscured
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of a uniform mask covering the entire display, the patent applies infrared-blocking properties locally at the pixel level through the display substrate's inherent characteristics or selective filtering at specific locations, allowing visible light to pass through while blocking infrared wavelengths without obscuring the overall display.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes wavelength-selective filtering properties that differentiate between visible and infrared wavelengths, effectively changing the optical characteristics at different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum. This allows the same structure to be transparent to visible light while blocking infrared light.
3Adaptability or versatility
If LCD displays alternate between masking and displaying modes, then bidirectional functionality is achieved, but complex processing is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the optical functionality by wavelength rather than by operational mode. The display substrate simultaneously handles both display and image capture functions for different wavelengths (visible and infrared) without requiring temporal alternation or complex switching processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the approach from temporal parameter changes (alternating modes) to spectral parameter differentiation (wavelength-specific functionality). The system maintains bidirectional capability by responding to different wavelengths simultaneously rather than switching between modes.
4Reliability
If small apertures are integrated on sub-pixels, then camera functionality is enabled, but production cost and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the display pixel structure with the image sensor structure, using the same pixel array for both visible light emission and infrared light detection. This integration eliminates the need for separate aperture structures and reduces manufacturing steps while maintaining camera functionality.
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 effective image capture without obscuring the displayed information, reducing device thickness, and simplifying production, while maintaining image quality and user interaction capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a mask layer configured to block infra-red light having a wavelength in one or more portions of the infra-red optical spectrum and pass visible light
Implementation Method 2
an image sensor layer comprising infra-red light sensitive elements
Data Source
AI summary
An optical module includes a display including light emitting elements that emit visible light. The optical module also includes an image sensor layer including infra-red light sensitive elements. The optical module further includes a mask layer configured to block infra-red light having a wavelength in one or more portions of the infra-red optical spectrum and pass visible light. The optical module is lensless.