Reflective Display Backplane Layout for Thin EMR Pen Input

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing reflective displays compatible with pen input based on the EMR system require a position detection sensor on the lower side of the backplane, increasing overall thickness and necessitating a reduction in height.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating electromagnetic induction sensor electrodes in the backplane, either as separate lines or shared with data lines, to detect pen position without increasing thickness.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a position detection sensor is arranged on the lower side of the backplane for EMR-based pen input, then pen input compatibility is achieved, but the overall thickness increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepen input compatibilityVSAvoidoverall thickness
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the position detection sensor electrodes with existing structural elements of the reflective display. Specifically, the sensor electrodes are integrated into the backplane structure, sharing the same space and structural framework, thereby achieving EMR-based pen input detection without increasing the overall thickness of the display device

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The backplane structure is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides structural support for the reflective display elements and simultaneously houses the position detection sensor electrodes for EMR-based pen input detection. This multi-functionality allows the same structural element to contribute to both display operation and input detection, eliminating the need for additional thickness

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Length of stationary object

If sensor electrodes are integrated within the backplane structure, then overall height is reduced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoverall heightVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The backplane is segmented into distinct functional regions: areas containing pixel electrodes for display control and areas containing sensor electrodes for position detection. This segmentation allows each region to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining integration within the unified backplane structure, reducing overall complexity through clear functional separation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

Enables a reflective display that is compatible with pen input while reducing its overall height by integrating sensor electrodes within the backplane structure.

Implementation Method 1

a plurality of first electromagnetic induction sensor electrodes each extending along the first direction. The plurality of first electromagnetic induction sensor electrodes are used for detecting a position of the position indicator in the operation surface by generating electromagnetic induction action with the inductor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20260111091A1Reflective display
Publication Date: 2026.04.23 WACOM CO LTD
  • US20260111091A1 patent drawing
  • US20260111091A1 patent drawing
  • US20260111091A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A reflective display includes a cover layer that has an operation surface on which a position indicator including an inductor is operated, a reflective display layer that includes a plurality of reflective elements each of which reflects, with a set gradation, light incident from the cover layer, a backplane that is provided at a position farther than the reflective display layer as viewed from the operation surface, and a common electrode layer that includes a common electrode provided between the cover layer and the reflective display layer. The backplane has, in a display area, a plurality of pixel electrodes, a plurality of data lines, and a plurality of first electromagnetic induction sensor electrodes. The plurality of first electromagnetic induction sensor electrodes are used for detecting the position of the position indicator in the operation surface by generating electromagnetic induction action with the inductor.