OLED Panel Underlying Proximity Sensor Layout
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Solution Overview
Problem
The integration of a proximity sensor in electronic devices, such as smartphones, often requires a larger bezel area, reducing the display space due to the need for a separate region for the light receiving IC and LED, which compromises the display area.
Innovation Solution
The light receiving IC and LED are configured under an OLED panel, allowing them to be covered by the panel, thus eliminating the need for additional bezel space and enabling an expanded display area by utilizing the panel's light transmittance properties for infrared light detection and emission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the proximity sensor is arranged in the bezel area, then the proximity sensing function is achieved, but the display area is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The light receiving IC and LED are moved from the traditional bezel area (2D surface arrangement) to the space underneath the OLED panel (3D spatial arrangement). This dimensional transition allows the proximity sensor components to be positioned in the Z-direction rather than consuming lateral display area, effectively resolving the contradiction between maintaining sensing function and maximizing display area.
Solution Approach 2:
The proximity sensor components (light receiving IC and LED) are nested within the OLED panel structure by placing them underneath the panel. The OLED panel itself serves as a cover that encloses these components, creating a nested configuration where the sensing function is integrated within the display structure rather than occupying separate bezel space.
2Reliability
If a separate region is provided for the light receiving IC and LED, then the proximity sensor function is achieved, but the bezel area is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The light receiving IC and LED are merged into a single integrated module that is positioned together underneath the OLED panel. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate regions for each component in the bezel area, and the combined module is housed within the panel structure, thereby reducing the required bezel area while maintaining full proximity sensing functionality.
3Area of stationary object
If the display area is maximized, then the bezel area is reduced, but the proximity sensor cannot be properly arranged
Solution Approach 1:
By transitioning the proximity sensor arrangement from the 2D bezel plane to the 3D space underneath the OLED panel, the invention enables both maximum display area and proper sensor arrangement to coexist. The vertical positioning beneath the panel provides adequate space for the light receiving IC and LED to function properly without consuming any lateral display or bezel area.
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 configuration allows for an increased display area in electronic devices by reducing the bezel size, while maintaining effective proximity sensing capabilities through the use of multiple LEDs and strategic placement under the OLED panel.
Implementation Method 1
The light receiving IC and LED are disposed in a region that is under the OLED panel and is covered by the OLED panel
Implementation Method 2
a driving portion, driving an LED (Light-Emitting Diode) that emits light
Implementation Method 3
a light receiving element, detecting reflected light
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure describes a light receiving IC, a proximity sensor and an electronic machine capable of expanding a display area of an electronic machine having a proximity sensor. A light receiving IC includes: a driving portion, driving an LED that emits light; and a light receiving element, detecting reflected light. The light receiving IC is disposed in a region that is under an OLED panel and is covered by the OLED panel.