Under-Display Distance Sensor Segmentation for Screen Reliability

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Solution Overview

Problem

The placement of a distance detection sensor under the screen in electronic devices compromises the screen-to-body ratio and reliability due to infrared emission interference.

Innovation Solution

An electronic device design featuring a first and second light emitting device and a light receiving device, where the first light emitting device emits a light signal through a light-permeable display region and the second light emitting device emits a signal through a gap between the display module and the frame, allowing for controlled light emission based on the display module's state to minimize interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If the distance detection sensor is placed under the screen, then the screen-to-body ratio is increased, but the reliability of the screen is reduced due to infrared emission interference

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescreen-to-body ratioVSAvoidscreen reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The light emitting device is divided into two separate devices: a first light emitting device positioned below the display module for use when the screen is off, and a second light emitting device positioned in the front cover for use when the screen is on. This segmentation allows each device to operate in its optimal position without interfering with screen reliability, while collectively maintaining distance detection functionality across all screen states.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Area of stationary object

If the distance detection sensor is placed under the screen, then the screen-to-body ratio is increased, but the design complexity increases due to needing multiple light emitting devices

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescreen-to-body ratioVSAvoidlight emitting device configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Both the first and second light emitting devices work together with the light receiving device to provide comprehensive distance detection functionality. The system universally handles both screen-on and screen-off states through two light emitting devices that are controlled based on the display module's state, ensuring distance detection is available in all operating conditions without requiring additional specialized components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If the second light emitting device is used when the screen is on, then the screen reliability is protected, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescreen reliabilityVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system monitors the working state of the display module and uses this feedback to determine which light emitting device should be activated. When the display module is in a light-on state, the system feedbacks to activate the second light emitting device; when the display module is in a light-off state, the system feedbacks to activate the first light emitting device. This feedback mechanism automates the selection process and manages complexity through intelligent control rather than hardware complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 solution reduces the impact of distance detection on the screen's reliability and screen-to-body ratio while ensuring accurate detection in various screen states, enhancing the device's performance and design.

Implementation Method 1

the first light emitting device emits a light signal to the outside through the light-permeable display region

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emission: Light Emitting Diode

Implementation Method 2

the second light emitting device emits a light signal to the outside through the gap

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emission: Light Emitting Diode

Implementation Method 3

a light receiving device are provided inside the electronic device, the first light emitting device and the light receiving device are both disposed below the display module

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight detection: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS11906662B2Electronic device and method for controlling electronic device
Publication Date: 2024.02.20 VIVO MOBILE COMM CO LTD
  • US11906662B2 patent drawing
  • US11906662B2 patent drawing
  • US11906662B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic device and a method for controlling an electronic device are provided. The electronic device includes a first side and a second side facing away from each other, where a frame is between the first side and the second side; the first side is provided with a display module that is at least partially light-permeable, and a gap is between the display module and the frame; a first light emitting device, a second light emitting device, and a light receiving device are inside the electronic device, the first light emitting device and the light receiving device are below the display module and corresponding to a light-permeable display region of display module, the first light emitting device emits a light signal to the outside through the light-permeable display region, and the second light emitting device emits a light signal to the outside through the gap.