Modular Display Interface for Cost-Effective Monitor Upgrades

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The high cost and complexity of replacing or upgrading display monitors, especially in all-in-one computer systems, where the entire system must be replaced if a single component fails, and the expense of upgrading standalone monitors due to their integrated complex circuitry, lead to significant capital and operational expenses for businesses and individuals.

Innovation Solution

A modular design that allows for interchangeable display screens, where the display panel can be disconnected and replaced independently of the computer system, using a docking module that houses essential components like the power supply and scaler board, enabling the use of universal components that work with multiple display panels of various sizes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If displays are made larger and higher resolution, then display capability is improved, but cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay resolutionVSAvoiddisplay cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The display system is divided into separate modules: the display panel and the computer system are independent components that can be replaced separately. This segmentation allows upgrading only the display panel to higher resolution without replacing the entire computer system, thereby improving display capability while controlling costs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The computer system is designed with universal interfaces and connectors that can work with multiple display panels of various sizes and resolutions. This universality enables the same computer system to support different display configurations, allowing users to upgrade displays without investing in new computer systems.

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

2Area of moving object

If all-in-one systems are used, then integration is improved, but upgradeability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem integrationVSAvoidmonitor upgradeability
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The all-in-one system is segmented into replaceable modules, specifically the display panel can be detached and replaced independently from the computer system. This modular approach maintains the integrated appearance and functionality of an all-in-one system while enabling easy upgrades by simply replacing the display panel without affecting other components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If monitors are integrated with complex circuitry, then functionality is improved, but replacement cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemonitor functionalityVSAvoidreplacement cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The complex circuitry and interface board are extracted from the display panel and placed in the computer system. This extraction allows the display panel to be a simpler, cheaper component that can be replaced without replacing the expensive circuitry, while the computer system retains all necessary functional capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The computer system is designed as a universal platform with integrated circuitry that can support multiple different display panels. This universality means the same computer system can work with various display configurations, reducing the need to purchase new equipment when upgrading displays.

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

4Reliability

If entire systems are replaced for monitor upgrades, then reliability is improved, but loss of time and resources increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem reliabilityVSAvoidreplacement time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system is segmented into replaceable modules where only the display panel needs to be replaced for monitor upgrades. This segmentation dramatically reduces replacement time and resources compared to replacing entire computer systems, while maintaining system reliability through proper modular connections and interfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS9880586B2Modular display system interface
Publication Date: 2018.01.30 LENOVO SWITZERLAND INTERNATIONAL GMBH
  • US9880586B2 patent drawing
  • US9880586B2 patent drawing
  • US9880586B2 patent drawing

AI summary

One embodiment provides a system, including: an image display device with a recessed display connector; and an apparatus, the apparatus comprising: a housing, comprising: a base and an upper element; the upper element comprising a groove running lengthwise and open at both ends; a protruding display connector disposed substantially centrally within the groove; and an interface board, within the housing and operatively coupled to the display connector; wherein the image display device is attached to the groove of the apparatus via the recessed and protruding display connector. Other aspects are described and claimed.