Terminal Outer Frame Light-Transmitting Member

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Solution Overview

Problem

It is challenging to integrate a photosensor module into a terminal's outer frame due to the need for light-transmitting holes, which can compromise mechanical stability and manufacturing complexity, especially in thin devices where space is limited.

Innovation Solution

An outer frame with a light-transmitting structure and member that allows light to pass through while maintaining structural integrity, using a light-transmitting and shielding layer to absorb or reflect light, reducing the need for open pores and enhancing shielding properties.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If light-transmitting holes are formed in the outer frame to integrate photosensor modules, then photosensor functionality is achieved, but mechanical stability and structural integrity are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvephotosensor integrationVSAvoidmechanical stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a 2D surface opening (light-transmitting hole) to a 3D integrated structure where the light-transmitting member is embedded within the outer frame's thickness. This dimensional change allows light transmission while maintaining the outer frame's structural integrity by utilizing the third dimension (depth) rather than creating surface openings.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The light-transmitting member is nested within the outer frame structure, with the outer frame enclosing the light-transmitting member. This nesting arrangement allows the photosensor module to be integrated while the outer frame continues to provide mechanical support and stability, as the light-transmitting member is contained within rather than removing material from the frame.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Adaptability or versatility

If open pore structures are used in the outer frame for light transmission, then photosensor operation is enabled, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight transmission capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a light-transmitting member with open pore structures that allow light to pass through while maintaining structural integrity. These porous materials provide the necessary light transmission capability for photosensor operation without requiring complex manufacturing processes to create the pores, as the porosity is inherent to the material structure rather than requiring post-processing operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #31Porous materials

3Illumination intensity

If the outer frame uses transparent materials for light transmission, then photosensor functionality is achieved, but shielding performance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight transmissionVSAvoidlight shielding
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The outer frame is designed with spatially varying optical properties: the light-transmitting member region allows light transmission for photosensor operation, while other regions of the outer frame maintain shielding properties. This local differentiation of material properties enables simultaneous light transmission where needed and light blocking where required, without compromising overall device performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The outer frame structure combines different material types with complementary properties: transparent or light-transmitting materials in regions requiring light passage, and opaque or light-blocking materials in regions requiring shielding. This composite construction allows the frame to simultaneously provide both light transmission and light shielding functions in different locations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

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 ensures the photosensor operates effectively while maintaining the outer frame's structural stability and manufacturing simplicity, providing a seamless and water-resistant design with enhanced shielding and aesthetic appeal.

Implementation Method 1

the light-transmitting member absorbs or reflects light such that a luminous flux of light passing through the light-transmitting member is less than that of incident light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAbsorption (EM radiation): Absorption (EM radiation)

Implementation Method 2

the light-transmitting member absorbs or reflects light such that a luminous flux of light passing through the light-transmitting member is less than that of incident light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection (EM radiation): Reflection

Implementation Method 3

the light-transmitting and shielding layer absorbs or reflects light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAbsorption (EM radiation): Absorption (EM radiation)

Implementation Method 4

the light-transmitting and shielding layer absorbs or reflects light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection (EM radiation): Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS11419183B2Outer frame, terminal housing and terminal
Publication Date: 2022.08.16 BEIJING XIAOMI MOBILE SOFTWARE CO LTD
  • US11419183B2 patent drawing
  • US11419183B2 patent drawing
  • US11419183B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An outer frame of a terminal, and belongs to terminal technologies includes a light-transmitting structure; and a light-transmitting member disposed corresponding to the light-transmitting structure; wherein the light-transmitting member absorbs or reflects light such that a luminous flux of light passing through the light-transmitting member is less than that of an incident light.