Multimode Edge-Light Backlight for Tablet Sunlight Readability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing display backlights, particularly in ultra-thin formats like tablets, face challenges in providing sufficient brightness in varying environments, such as direct sunlight, and require compatibility with night vision imaging systems without compromising luminance or color uniformity.
Innovation Solution
A multimode edge-light system utilizing two sets of side-emitting LED modules, where one set is positioned adjacent to a light guide for efficient daylight operation and the other set, filtered to reduce infrared emissions, is offset for night vision compatibility, allowing for selective energization in different modes to achieve optimal brightness and uniformity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single LED backlight system is used in an ultra-thin tablet, then the device maintains a thin form factor, but it cannot provide sufficient brightness in direct sunlight nor compatibility with night vision imaging systems
Solution Approach 1:
The backlight system is segmented into two distinct LED modules: a first LED module for daylight operation and a second LED module for night vision compatibility. Each module can be independently controlled, allowing the system to adapt to different environmental conditions while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure suitable for ultra-thin tablets.
Solution Approach 2:
The backlight system achieves multi-functionality by integrating both daylight and night vision compatible LED modules within a single system. This universal design allows the tablet to operate effectively across diverse environmental conditions without requiring separate backlight systems, thereby improving environmental adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Illumination intensity
If the first LED module is positioned adjacent to the light guide for efficient light coupling, then daylight brightness is improved, but the second LED module cannot be positioned for night vision operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the positioning conflict by utilizing different spatial dimensions and orientations. The first LED module is positioned adjacent to the light guide for efficient coupling in daylight mode, while the second LED module is positioned at a different location and orientation optimized for night vision compatibility. This dimensional differentiation allows both modules to fulfill their respective functions without interfering with each other's performance.
3Illumination intensity
If both LED modules are operated simultaneously, then maximum brightness is achieved for sunlight readability, but battery life is depleted rapidly
Solution Approach 1:
The backlight system implements dynamic operation by selectively activating only the LED module appropriate for the current environmental conditions. The system can switch between the first LED module for daylight, the second LED module for night vision, or either module individually based on requirements. This dynamic control prevents simultaneous operation of both modules, thereby achieving maximum brightness when needed while conserving battery life during normal operation.
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 solution provides enhanced brightness and uniform illumination across a range of environments, including daylight and night vision compatibility, while maintaining a lightweight and compact design suitable for ruggedized and avionics applications.
Implementation Method 1
a filter configured for filtering light from only the second set of LED modules positioned on a surface of the support base
Implementation Method 2
a first set of light-emitting diode (LED) modules electronically connected to the support base, and a second set of LED modules electronically connected to the support base
Data Source
AI summary
A multimode edge-light configured for providing reduced depth and improved multimode edge uniformity is provided. The multimode edge-light may be suitable for sun light readability and use with night vision goggles. The multimode edge-light includes a support base and a first and second set of light-emitting diode (LED) modules electronically connected to the support base. The first set of LED modules is positioned adjacent to the light guide, and the second set of LED modules is positioned separate from the light guide. The multimode edge-light also includes an infrared filter configured for filtering light from only the second set of LED modules positioned on a surface of the support base. In operation of the multimode edge-light, at least a portion of the first set of LED modules and at least a portion of the second set of LED modules are selectively energized for providing a plurality of operation modes.