Touch Display Support Reducing Bezel Size

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional manufacturing techniques for mobile computing devices result in a large bezel area around the touch display module, increasing the device size due to the use of reworkable connections that are costly and limit the size of the touch display module, especially when replacement is needed.

Innovation Solution

A support structure is used that secures the touch display module to an external enclosure with a non-reworkable connection for protection during shipping and a reworkable connection for easy removal, reducing the bezel size by relocating the reworkable connection away from the display module and using a support ring with a permanent adhesive for increased bonding strength.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of repair

If a reworkable connection is used to secure the touch display module to the external enclosure, then the touch display module can be removed for recycling or replacement, but the bezel area increases adding undesired size to the device

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveremovability of touch display moduleVSAvoidbezel area
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a separate support structure that is distinct from both the touch display module and the external enclosure. This support structure serves as an intermediary component that provides the reworkable connection, allowing the touch display module to be removed for recycling while minimizing the bezel area. The segmentation separates the connection function from the display module itself.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The support structure acts as an intermediary element between the touch display module and the external enclosure. It provides the reworkable connection interface, enabling easy removal and replacement of the expensive touch display module while maintaining a compact device form factor with reduced bezel area.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Strength

If a permanent connection is used to secure the touch display module, then the bonding strength increases, but the touch display module cannot be removed for recycling or replacement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebonding strengthVSAvoidremovability of touch display module
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies different connection characteristics to different parts of the assembly. The support structure uses a permanent connection (such as adhesive bonding) to attach to the external enclosure, providing strong fixation. Meanwhile, the interface between the support structure and the touch display module uses a reworkable connection, allowing for easy removal. This local differentiation of connection qualities resolves the contradiction between strength and removability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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

This approach reduces the bezel size, enhances connection strength, and minimizes manufacturing stresses, improving the form factor efficiency and product reliability by eliminating visual defects caused by assembly stresses.

Implementation Method 1

The support is secured to the external enclosure using a reworkable connection

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesive bonding: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentUS10585518B2Display module support
Publication Date: 2020.03.10 MICROSOFT TECHNOLOGY LICENSING LLC
  • US10585518B2 patent drawing
  • US10585518B2 patent drawing
  • US10585518B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Display module support techniques are described. In one or more implementations, an apparatus includes an external enclosure forming a cavity and a touch display module. The touch display module includes a touch panel assembly having one or more touch sensors and a display module to output a display through at least a portion of the touch panel assembly. The apparatus also includes a support that secures the touch display module to the external enclosure. The support is secured to the external enclosure using a reworkable connection.