Modular Function Expanding Modules for Compact Display Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Small-sized display devices used for controlling external apparatuses face challenges in expanding functions without increasing size, as the rear area is limited for mounting function expanding modules, leading to increased manufacturing costs and difficulty in adapting to changing requirements.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the preparation of multiple function expanding modules with built-in circuits that can be stacked and electrically connected to the display device, allowing for flexible expansion of functions without compromising the device's compact size, using bezels with expanding connectors to house and operate the display device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple function expanding modules are mounted to the rear part of a small-sized display device, then the functions of the display device can be expanded, but the number of modules is restricted due to limited rear area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nesting by placing function expanding modules inside a recessed portion of the rear housing. The modules are stored within the housing structure itself, nested within the display device body, allowing multiple modules to be accommodated without increasing the overall external dimensions of the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the recessed portion (depth dimension) of the rear housing to accommodate multiple function expanding modules. By exploiting the third dimension (depth) rather than only the surface area, the device can store multiple modules vertically or in layers within the available space.
2Adaptability or versatility
If function expanding modules are placed in other parts than the rear part of the display device, then more modules can be accommodated, but the advantage of being small in size is spoiled
Solution Approach 1:
The function expanding modules are nested within the recessed portion of the existing housing structure. This allows the modules to be integrated into the device body without adding external volume, maintaining the compact form factor while enabling function expansion.
Solution Approach 2:
The recessed portion of the rear housing serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the display device, acts as a mounting area for multiple function expanding modules, and maintains the compact external dimensions. This multi-functional use of space resolves the contradiction between expansion capability and size.
3Adaptability or versatility
If various types of small-sized display devices are prepared to meet changing requirements, then adaptability to different functions is improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal base display device with a standardized rear housing that can accommodate multiple types of function expanding modules. This single platform design allows the device to be adapted to different functions by simply changing the modules, eliminating the need to manufacture multiple specialized device types.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is segmented into a universal base display device and separate interchangeable function expanding modules. This segmentation allows independent development and optimization of each component, and enables flexible reconfiguration of functions without redesigning the entire device.
4Volume of moving object
If the display device is made small to maintain compact size, then portability is improved, but the ability to mount various functions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple function expanding modules are nested within the compact rear housing structure. The modules are stored inside the device body in a recessed portion, allowing the device to maintain its small external dimensions while accommodating multiple functional modules internally.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent exploits the depth dimension of the rear housing to accommodate multiple modules vertically or in layers. By utilizing the third dimension rather than expanding the surface area, the device maintains its compact footprint while providing extensive function expansion capability.
Data Source
AI summary
The function expanding method for a display device comprises: a step of preparing a plurality of types of function expanding modules; a step of selecting a function expanding module or modules from the plurality of types of function expanding modules; and a step of stacking the selected single or plurality of function expanding module(s) to a rear part of the display device at will, and connecting the module(s) by using expanding connector(s).