Meta-Surface Layer Redirects Light for Narrow-Frame Displays

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Solution Overview

Problem

The development of large-sized display panels is limited by the presence of frames, which restricts the achievement of narrow frame designs.

Innovation Solution

A display panel design that incorporates a meta-surface structure layer on the counterpart substrate in the peripheral display area, deflecting light emitted from this area into the non-display area, thereby increasing the display area without the need for a traditional frame.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of moving object

If a traditional frame structure is used to install and protect the display panel, then the structural integrity and protection are ensured, but the display area is restricted and narrow frame design cannot be achieved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay areaVSAvoidframe structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent removes the traditional frame structure from the display panel assembly. By extracting the frame component, the display area can be extended to the edges of the panel without structural restrictions, achieving a borderless or narrow-frame design while maintaining protection through alternative means such as edge sealing or mounting brackets that do not interfere with the display area

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a two-dimensional frame boundary to a three-dimensional edge protection approach. Instead of using a frame that creates a visible border around the display, the protection is achieved through edge treatments, thin mounting structures, or integration with the display panel's own structural elements, effectively moving the protection function to the edges and corners without compromising the display area

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Area of moving object

If the display panel is designed without a frame to achieve narrow frame effect, then the display area is enlarged, but the installation and protection functions are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay areaVSAvoidinstallation and protection
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates multiple functions into the display panel structure itself. The edge of the display panel serves both as the boundary of the display area and as the mounting surface for installation. Protective elements are integrated into the panel design, such as reinforced edges, built-in mounting holes, or coordination with the backlight module structure, allowing the frameless design to maintain installation and protection capabilities

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the display panel with the backlight module and mounting structure. The backlight module serves dual purposes as both the light source and a structural element that provides support and protection. The display panel is directly mounted to the backlight assembly, eliminating the need for a separate frame while maintaining structural integrity through the integrated design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 design enhances the display area by redirecting light from the peripheral display area into the non-display area, effectively overcoming the limitations imposed by frames and achieving a narrow-frame/narrow-bezel display panel.

Implementation Method 1

at least part of light emitted from the peripheral display area is deflected by the meta-surface structure layer and then emerges from the non-display area

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight deflection: Refraction

Data Source

PatentUS12259618B1Display panel and display module having meta structure layer in peripheral display area
Publication Date: 2025.03.25 SHENZHEN CHINA STAR OPTOELECTRONICS SEMICON DISPLAY TECH CO LTD
  • US12259618B1 patent drawing
  • US12259618B1 patent drawing
  • US12259618B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A display panel and a display module are provided. The display panel includes a non-display area, a central display area, and a peripheral display area arranged between the two areas. A counterpart substrate is arranged opposite to an array substrate, with a liquid crystal layer positioned between the array substrate and the counterpart substrate. A meta-surface structure layer of the counterpart substrate is arranged in the peripheral display area. Light emitted from the peripheral display area is at least partially deflected by the meta-surface structure layer and then emerges from the non-display area. The meta-surface structure layer in the peripheral display area alters the propagation path of light, allowing at least part of the light emitted from the peripheral display area to enter the non-display area. This approach overcomes the limitations imposed by a frame, enlarges the display area of the display panel, and achieves a narrow-frame display panel.