Switchable Reflective Layer for Display Mirror Mode
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional display apparatuses face challenges in maintaining image contrast and functionality as mirrors, as reflective layers often reflect light in display modes, deteriorating image quality and failing to switch effectively between display and mirror modes.
Innovation Solution
A display apparatus with a substrate, a display layer, an encapsulation layer, a reflective layer that transmits light in display mode and reflects light in mirror mode, and a light-absorbing layer that absorbs light in display mode, utilizing a switchable reflective layer made of magnesium alloy and a catalyst layer for reversible operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a reflective layer is added to enable mirror function, then the apparatus can function as a mirror, but light reflection in display mode deteriorates image contrast
Solution Approach 1:
The reflective layer is designed to dynamically change its optical properties between transmission and reflection modes. By applying a driving voltage, the layer transitions from allowing light transmission (display mode) to reflecting light (mirror mode), enabling the display apparatus to adapt between different functional states without compromising image quality in either mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical parameters of the reflective layer are changed through electrical control. The layer's reflectivity and transmissivity are adjusted by changing its electrical state, allowing it to switch between being transparent for display purposes and reflective for mirror purposes, thus resolving the contradiction between maintaining image contrast and enabling mirror function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a reflective layer is used for mirror mode, then mirror functionality is achieved, but the layer interferes with light emission in display mode
Solution Approach 1:
The reflective layer dynamically adjusts its optical state based on operational requirements. In display mode, it maintains a transparent state that allows light from the display panel to pass through without interference. When switched to mirror mode, it transitions to a reflective state, eliminating light interference issues by controlling the layer's optical properties in real-time.
Solution Approach 2:
The harmful light interference effect is extracted and controlled through the switchable reflective layer. By separating the mirror function from the display function through this controllable layer, the system eliminates the conflict where the reflective layer would continuously interfere with display light emission, allowing each function to operate independently when activated.
3Illumination intensity
If the reflective layer transmits light in display mode, then image quality is maintained, but the apparatus cannot function as a mirror
Solution Approach 1:
The reflective layer provides multi-functionality by serving dual purposes: acting as a transparent layer for high-quality display operation and as a reflective layer for mirror mode operation. This single component enables the display apparatus to perform both display and mirror functions effectively, resolving the contradiction between maintaining image quality and enabling mirror capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The layer's optical properties are dynamically controlled to match operational requirements. When the apparatus operates in display mode, the layer transmits light to preserve image quality. When switched to mirror mode, the same layer transitions to reflect light, enabling mirror functionality without requiring separate components for each function.
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 enhances image contrast in display mode by preventing light reflection and allows the apparatus to function as a mirror in mirror mode, improving visibility and functionality by ensuring the reflective layer does not interfere with image emission.
Implementation Method 1
a catalyst layer to perform hydrogenation or dehydrogenation in the switching layer
Implementation Method 2
the reflective layer to transmit light in a first mode and to reflect light in a second mode different from the first mode
Implementation Method 3
a light-absorbing layer on the encapsulation layer, wherein the light-absorbing layer includes a second opening that corresponds to the emission area and a light-absorbing area adjacent the second opening and that corresponds to the non-emission area
Data Source
AI summary
A display apparatus includes a display layer, an encapsulation layer, and a reflective layer. The display layer is on a substrate and includes a non-emission area adjacent to an emission area. The encapsulation layer is over the display layer. The reflective layer is on the encapsulation layer and includes a first opening corresponding to the emission area and a reflecting area adjacent the first opening and corresponding to the non-emission area. The reflective layer transmits light in a first mode and reflects light in a second mode different from the first mode.