Multi-Layer Screen Protector for Ultrasonic Fingerprint Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional screen protectors are not compatible with mobile devices that have embedded fingerprint sensors, as they create interference due to air gaps, use non-transparent materials, or are too thick, hindering ultrasonic or optical fingerprint detection.

Innovation Solution

A multi-layer screen protector comprising a clear rigid top layer, a film middle layer, and a fingerprint conduit bottom layer that contacts the mobile device, eliminating air gaps and ensuring transparency and thinness for accurate ultrasonic fingerprint detection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional screen protectors are used, then screen protection is provided, but ultrasonic fingerprint detection is interfered with due to air gaps and material opacity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefingerprint detection reliabilityVSAvoidinterference with ultrasonic detection

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The screen protector is divided into multiple layers: a first layer made of clear rigid material, a second layer made of film material, and a third layer configured to contact the mobile device. This segmentation allows each layer to be optimized for specific functions while collectively solving the interference problem with ultrasonic fingerprint detection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies different material properties to different regions and layers of the screen protector. The first layer uses clear rigid material for structural integrity and optical clarity, the second layer uses film material for flexibility and acoustic transparency, and the third layer is designed for direct contact with the device. This local differentiation of material qualities enables the screen protector to maintain both protective function and fingerprint detection compatibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Strength

If conventional screen protectors are used, then screen protection is provided, but the protector is too thick to reliably perform ultrasonic fingerprint detection

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvescreen protection strengthVSAvoidscreen protector thickness

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs thin film materials for the second layer and uses a multi-layer construction that prioritizes acoustic transparency. The combination of clear rigid material and film material creates a protective structure that is sufficiently thin to allow ultrasonic waves to pass through while maintaining adequate mechanical strength for screen protection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The screen protector uses composite material construction with at least two different materials: clear rigid material for the first layer and film material for the second layer. This composite approach allows the integration of structural strength from the rigid material with the acoustic transparency and flexibility of the film material, achieving both protection and detection compatibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

3Reliability

If conventional screen protectors are used, then screen protection is provided, but materials are not sufficiently transparent to accurately emit and detect sound waves

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefingerprint detection accuracyVSAvoidmaterial transparency requirement

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent specifies particular material parameters for the screen protector layers, particularly focusing on acoustic transparency and optical clarity. The clear rigid material and film material are selected based on their acoustic transmission properties, ensuring that ultrasonic waves can pass through with minimal attenuation. This parameter-based material selection ensures accurate fingerprint detection while maintaining manufacturability.

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

The screen protector ensures uninterrupted ultrasonic fingerprint detection by eliminating interference, using transparent materials, and maintaining a thin profile to facilitate reliable in-screen fingerprint detection.

Implementation Method 1

The third layer includes a fingerprint conduit configured to facilitate the in-screen fingerprint detection

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectUltrasonic wave transmission: Ultrasound

Data Source

PatentUS11567531B2Fingerprint sensor compatible screen protector

Publication Date: 2023.01.31 SUPERIOR COMMUNICATIONS INC

AI summary

Systems, devices, and methods that ensures that an ultrasonic fingerprint detection process is not interfered with by using a screen protector. An example screen protector for a mobile device is disclosed that is capable of an in-screen fingerprint detection. The screen protector includes a first layer made of a clear rigid material and configured to be touched by a user. The screen protector also includes a second layer beneath the first layer and made of a film. Additionally, the screen protector includes a third layer beneath the second layer and configured to contact the mobile device. The third layer includes a fingerprint conduit configured to facilitate the in-screen fingerprint detection.