OLED Display Flash System Subpixel Segmentation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional OLED displays face limitations in generating sufficient light for flash applications due to power constraints and unique performance characteristics of subpixels, which can lead to inadequate display quality and potential deterioration over time.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a display-implemented flash system that selectively energizes subpixels in OLED displays based on output profiles, taking into account characteristics of the target scene and image sensor, to generate precise color and energy levels, thereby overcoming power limitations and managing subpixel usage effectively.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Illumination intensity

If conventional OLED displays energize all subpixels for flash applications, then sufficient light output is achieved, but power consumption increases and display quality deteriorates over time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight outputVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the pixel structure into multiple subpixels (e.g., red, green, blue subpixels) that can be independently controlled. During flash operations, only specific subpixels are energized based on the required color output, rather than energizing all subpixels simultaneously. This segmentation allows the system to achieve sufficient light output for flash applications while significantly reducing overall power consumption and minimizing burn-in effects on unused subpixels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies different drive currents to different subpixels based on their specific requirements and the desired output color. Each subpixel receives a tailored current level rather than a uniform current, optimizing light generation efficiency for each subpixel while minimizing unnecessary energy consumption. This local quality approach ensures that each subpixel operates at its optimal efficiency point, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining adequate illumination intensity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Illumination intensity

If conventional OLED displays energize all subpixels for flash applications, then sufficient light output is achieved, but display quality and lifespan deteriorate due to burn-in

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight outputVSAvoiddisplay quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the pixel into independently controllable subpixels, the system can selectively activate only the subpixels needed for the current flash operation. This reduces the cumulative operating hours of each subpixel, thereby minimizing burn-in effects and maintaining display quality and reliability over time while still achieving sufficient light output when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements periodic monitoring and adjustment of subpixel drive currents based on usage patterns and environmental conditions. By periodically adapting the drive scheme, the system can distribute wear more evenly across subpixels and prevent any single subpixel from experiencing excessive stress, thereby maintaining display quality and reliability while achieving adequate illumination intensity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

3Use of energy by moving object

If OLED displays adjust subpixel drive currents dynamically, then light generation efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoidcontrol complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent dynamically adjusts the drive current parameters for different subpixels based on operating conditions such as ambient light levels, desired display brightness, and temperature. By changing these electrical parameters in response to environmental factors, the system optimizes energy efficiency across different operating scenarios. The complexity is managed through pre-characterization of subpixel responses and implementation of lookup tables or simplified control algorithms that map operating conditions to appropriate drive current settings.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 approach enhances light generation efficiency, reduces unnecessary burn-in, and extends the lifespan of OLED displays by optimizing subpixel usage and energy distribution, resulting in improved image capture quality and sustained display performance.

Implementation Method 1

OLEDs make use of thin organic films that emit light when voltage is applied across the device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectroluminescence: Electroluminescence

Implementation Method 2

One application for phosphorescent emissive molecules is a full color display

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhosphorescence: Phosphorescence

Data Source

PatentUS10027869B2Flash optimized using OLED display
Publication Date: 2018.07.17 UNIVERSAL DISPLAY CORP
  • US10027869B2 patent drawing
  • US10027869B2 patent drawing
  • US10027869B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An image processing system includes an image sensor, an OLED display, a profile selection processor configured to select an output profile from among a plurality of pre-stored output profiles based at least in part on a digital representation of a target scene captured by the image sensor, and an image driver configured to drive the OLED display to display an image based on the selected output profile during a capture of an image of the target scene with the image sensor.