Spring Tensioning for Optical Sheet Durability in Thin LCD Assemblies

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Solution Overview

Problem

Thin liquid crystal display (LCD) assemblies face challenges in durability when exposed to direct sunlight, shock, and varying ambient temperatures while maintaining a bright, high-quality image over time.

Innovation Solution

A spring tensioning assembly for optical sheets using flat, extension, or torsion springs to secure and tension the optical sheet, enhancing its durability and stability within the LCD assembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of moving object

If thin LCD assemblies are used to reduce thickness and improve consumer appeal, then the overall assembly thickness is reduced and consumer appeal is improved, but the durability and ability to withstand environmental factors deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly thicknessVSAvoiddurability
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies this principle by using a thin optical sheet (film) that is tensioned within the assembly. The thin film structure maintains the reduced thickness requirement while the tensioning mechanism provides structural support and durability, allowing the thin component to withstand environmental factors without compromising the overall thin profile of the assembly

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies this principle by implementing a dynamic tensioning mechanism using springs that can adjust and maintain optimal tension on the optical sheet. This dynamic system allows the thin assembly to adapt to environmental changes (temperature, shock) while maintaining structural integrity and durability throughout operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Length of moving object

If thin optical sheets are used to achieve thinner assemblies, then the assembly thickness is reduced, but the stability and resistance to environmental degradation worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoptical sheet thicknessVSAvoidimage quality stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a thin optical sheet (film) that maintains image quality while being tensioned to provide structural stability. The thin film design achieves the desired thickness reduction while the tensioning system ensures the film remains stable and resistant to environmental degradation throughout its operational life

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies this principle by pre-tensioning the optical sheet during assembly using spring mechanisms. This preliminary action of tensioning the thin sheet before operation ensures it maintains proper tension and stability during use, preventing image quality degradation from slack or misalignment over time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 solution provides a durable and stable optical sheet assembly that maintains image quality and withstands environmental factors, ensuring long-term performance and reliability.

Implementation Method 1

A spring tensioning assembly for an optical sheet. In some embodiments the tensioning springs are provided as flat or leaf springs while in other embodiments the tensioning springs can be traditional extension springs or torsion springs.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11656498B2Optical sheet tensioning device
Publication Date: 2023.05.23 MANUFACTURING RESOURCES INTERNATIONAL INC
  • US11656498B2 patent drawing
  • US11656498B2 patent drawing
  • US11656498B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Assemblies for enhancing the optical quality of electronic images displayed at an electronic display layer are provided. An optical component is located adjacent to the electronic display layer within a housing for the electronic display layer and the optical component. At least one shock-absorbing subassembly is attached to a location along the housing and to said optical component.