Transparent Housing Structure for Optical I/O in Electronics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic device housings often hinder the operation of input-output devices due to unsightly or obstructive materials, and may not effectively gather user input or provide desired output.
Innovation Solution
The use of transparent materials such as glass or clear polymer for the housing, which allows for the integration of optical components and other electronic devices, enabling improved user interaction and output through the incorporation of sensors, displays, and wireless circuitry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional opaque materials are used for housing, then structural strength and aesthetics are improved, but input-output device operation is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is constructed with different material properties in different regions: transparent materials (glass, clear polymer) in areas where input-output devices need to operate (front wall for display, rear wall for optical components), and opaque materials in areas where structural strength and aesthetics are priorities. This local differentiation allows each region to fulfill its specific functional requirements without compromising the overall housing integrity.
2Ease of operation
If transparent materials are used for housing, then input-output device operation is improved, but structural strength and aesthetics may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The housing employs composite construction combining transparent materials (glass, clear polymer) with opaque materials. This composite approach allows the transparent portions to enable input-output device operation while the opaque portions provide structural reinforcement and aesthetic appeal, creating a synergistic structure that achieves both functional and structural requirements.
3Illumination intensity
If transparent materials are used for housing, then output visualization is improved, but protection of internal components is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The housing uses transparent materials strategically in areas where visibility is required (front wall for display viewing, rear wall for optical component operation) while maintaining structural integrity. The transparent walls allow users to view displays and operate optical components, while the overall housing structure still provides environmental protection against dust, moisture, and physical damage.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device may have input-output devices such as sensors, displays, wireless circuitry, and other electronic components mounted within a housing. The housing may have opposing front and rear walls. A display may be formed on a front side of the device and may be overlapped by a front housing wall such as a glass layer. Sensors and other components may be formed on a rear side of the device and may be overlapped by a rear housing wall. The rear housing wall may have a glass portion or other transparent structure through which projectors project images onto nearby surfaces and through which image sensors and other optical sensors receive light. The housing may be supported by a stand. An electrical component in the stand may interact with an electronic device on the stand. Wireless circuitry in an external item may wirelessly couple to wireless circuitry within the housing.