Opaque Member Placement for Sensor Area in Display Panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices face limitations in expanding the display area on their front face due to the presence of various sensors, which occupy space that could be used for the screen.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a display panel with a sensor area and a pixel area where the pixel area surrounds the sensor area, and using opaque members between the sensor and the window to maximize screen space while allowing sensor functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sensors are placed on the front face of the electronic device, then sensor functionality is enabled, but the display area is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The front face of the display device is divided into distinct functional zones: a sensor area for housing sensors and a pixel area for displaying content. This segmentation allows both sensors and display pixels to coexist on the front face without interfering with each other, thereby enabling both sensor functionality and maximizing display area.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the front face are assigned different optical properties. The sensor area is configured to be transparent or translucent to allow sensor operation, while the pixel area surrounding it is designed for light emission and display. This local differentiation of optical quality enables both functions to operate simultaneously with minimal compromise to display area.
2Area of stationary object
If the display area is maximized to cover the entire front face, then screen real estate is increased, but sensor placement becomes limited
Solution Approach 1:
The front face is segmented into a sensor area and a pixel area, allowing sensors to be placed in specific designated zones without compromising the overall display area. This segmentation provides flexibility in sensor placement while maintaining maximum display coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The display device front face is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: the sensor area accommodates various types of sensors (touch sensors, proximity sensors, etc.), while the pixel area provides display functionality. This multi-functional design allows the same surface to support both sensing and display operations.
3Area of stationary object
If pixels are arranged to surround the sensor area, then display area is expanded, but the sensor area must be clearly defined and separated
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel array is segmented to form a pixel area that surrounds the sensor area. This segmentation creates a clear spatial relationship where pixels are positioned around the sensor region, maximizing display area while maintaining a relatively simple structural arrangement through the surrounding configuration.
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 the maximum expansion of the display area on the electronic device's front face by optimizing the placement of sensors and display pixels, ensuring efficient use of space while maintaining sensor functionality.
Implementation Method 1
an optically clear adhesive layer disposed between the display panel and the window
Implementation Method 2
one or more opaque members disposed between the sensor and the window and along an edge of the sensor area
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device according to certain embodiments may include: a sensor, a display panel including a sensor area overlaying or underlying the sensor and a pixel area including at least one pixel and a drive wiring line configured to drive the at least one pixel while surrounding the sensor area, a window disposed over the display panel, and one or more opaque members disposed between the sensor and the window and along an edge of the sensor area.