Portable Device Optical Module Protrusion for Light Reception
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Solution Overview
Problem
The light receiving efficiency of optical communication modules in portable electronic devices is limited by the device casing, leading to increased size and weight, which hinders the development of thinner and more lightweight designs.
Innovation Solution
The light emitting and receiving modules are disposed in the apparatus body and protrude from its surface, covered by transparent covers, with a structural design that maximizes light reception area and minimizes interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the area of the optical communication module is enlarged to increase light receiving area, then light receiving efficiency is improved, but the size of the portable electronic device is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by making the optical communication module protrude from the device surface, transitioning from a planar arrangement to a three-dimensional configuration. This allows the light receiving area to be enlarged in the vertical dimension without increasing the device's footprint area, thereby improving light receiving efficiency while maintaining a compact device size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a transparent cover with a curved surface (spheroidal or domed shape) over the optical communication module. This curved structure increases the effective light receiving area by capturing light from multiple angles and directing it toward the photodetector, thereby improving light receiving efficiency without requiring a larger device footprint.
2Reliability
If the area of the optical communication module is enlarged, then light receiving efficiency is improved, but the device becomes thicker and heavier
Solution Approach 1:
The optical communication module is positioned to protrude vertically from the device surface rather than expanding horizontally. This dimensional transition allows the light receiving area to be increased without proportionally increasing device volume or weight, as the protrusion utilizes the vertical space more efficiently.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a thin transparent cover (such as a curved protective window) to enclose the optical communication module. This thin-film structure provides the necessary protection and optical function while adding minimal weight to the device, allowing the light receiving area to be enlarged without significant weight penalty.
3Reliability
If the area of the optical communication module is enlarged, then light receiving efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the transparent cover as part of the device casing structure, merging the protective function and the optical function into a single integrated component. This reduces the number of separate parts and assembly steps, thereby minimizing device complexity while still achieving the enlarged light receiving area through the curved surface design.
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
Improves light emitting and receiving efficiencies without increasing the device size, allowing for a more comfortable grip and reduced thickness.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one transparent cover covers the light emitting module and the light receiving module
Implementation Method 2
a light receiving module, wherein the light emitting module and the light receiving module are disposed at the apparatus body and protrude from a surface of the apparatus body
Data Source
AI summary
A portable electronic device includes an apparatus body, a light emitting module, a light receiving module, and at least one transparent cover. The light emitting module and the light receiving module are disposed at the apparatus body and protrude from a surface of the apparatus body. The at least one transparent cover covers the light emitting module and the light receiving module.