Liquid Crystal Pixel Structure for Optical Input

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Solution Overview

Problem

Liquid crystal devices capable of optical input require a complex structure with multiple transistors and a pin diode per pixel, leading to reduced aperture ratio and deteriorated image quality with lowered contrast.

Innovation Solution

A liquid crystal device with a simplified pixel structure, utilizing a first and second scan line, a signal line, and transistors with a light-shielding film to create an off current for optical input detection, allowing for improved image quality and reduced component count.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple transistors and a pin diode are used per pixel for optical input capability, then the device can capture optical input, but the pixel structure becomes complicated and aperture ratio decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoptical input capabilityVSAvoidpixel structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the optical input detection function with the existing pixel structure by using the transistor's off current (leakage current) as the detection signal. This merges the display function and optical input function into a single integrated pixel structure, eliminating the need for separate photoelectric conversion elements like pin diodes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes the transistor's inherent off current (a normally unwanted leakage current) and converts it into a useful signal for optical input detection. By making the transistor serve dual purposes (switching control and optical detection), the system achieves optical input capability without adding extra components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple transistors and a pin diode are used per pixel for optical input capability, then the device can capture optical input, but the aperture ratio is reduced and image quality deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoptical input capabilityVSAvoidaperture ratio and image brightness
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the optical input detection function with the existing pixel structure by using the transistor's off current (leakage current) as the detection signal. This merges the display function and optical input function into a single integrated pixel structure, eliminating the need for separate photoelectric conversion elements like pin diodes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple transistors and a pin diode are used per pixel for optical input capability, then the device can capture optical input, but the contrast and overall image quality are lowered

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoptical input capabilityVSAvoidimage quality and contrast
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes the transistor's inherent off current (a normally unwanted leakage current) and converts it into a useful signal for optical input detection. By making the transistor serve dual purposes (switching control and optical detection), the system achieves optical input capability without adding extra components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 device achieves enhanced image quality and simplified pixel configuration by detecting off currents to enable optical input while maintaining image display functionality.

Implementation Method 1

an off current is created because the first transistor is exposed to light. Using this current, the first transistor is in an off state while the second transistor is in an on state. By detecting the location of the off current, the position and size of the first transistor may be detected

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS7755711B2Liquid crystal device and electronic apparatus
Publication Date: 2010.07.13 138 EAST LCD ADVANCEMENTS LTD
  • US7755711B2 patent drawing
  • US7755711B2 patent drawing
  • US7755711B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A liquid crystal device includes: a first scan line, a second scan line parallel to first scan line, a signal line intersecting the first scan line, a pixel arranged in a matrix; and a first light-shielding film. The pixel includes: a first transistor having a gate coupled to the first scan line, a source, and a drain, wherein either the source or drain is coupled to the signal line; a pixel electrode coupled to remaining source or drain of the first transistor; a common electrode disposed facing the pixel electrode; a liquid crystal layer disposed between the pixel electrode and common electrode; a second transistor having a gate coupled to the second scan line, wherein a source or drain of the second transistor is coupled to a source or drain of the first transistor, and the other source or drain is coupled to a power source line.