Under-Display Sensor Optic for Light Capture Through Pixel Gaps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Under-display image sensors in electronic devices receive less external light due to being positioned underneath the display, resulting in inferior image quality compared to image sensors not under the display.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device with a display that defines a transparent region between adjacent pixels, featuring an image sensor aligned with this region and an optic positioned over the transparent region to direct external light into it.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the image sensor is positioned underneath the display, then the display area is maximized and device design is simplified, but the image quality deteriorates due to reduced external light reaching the sensor
Solution Approach 1:
The display is segmented into light-blocking regions (pixels) and light-transmissive regions (transparent region between pixels). This segmentation allows the image sensor to receive external light through the transparent region while the pixels remain intact for display functions, resolving the contradiction between maximizing display area and maintaining image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
An optic structure is introduced as an intermediary element positioned over the transparent region to redirect and focus external light onto the image sensor. This intermediary component enables the under-display sensor to capture sufficient light for high-quality images while maintaining the display's integrity.
2Illumination intensity
If a transparent region is created between pixels, then light transmission to the sensor is improved, but the display structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The optic structure serves multiple functions: it acts as a lens to focus light, a structural element defining the transparent region, and an integration layer connecting the display and sensor systems. This multi-functionality improves light transmission while minimizing the addition of separate components, thereby limiting the increase in structural complexity.
3Illumination intensity
If the optic is positioned over the transparent region, then external light is directed effectively to the sensor, but the alignment precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The optic structure is merged with the display structure, forming an integrated assembly where the optic is positioned within or as part of the display's layered structure. This merging reduces the number of separate alignment operations required and allows for more robust mechanical integration, thereby managing alignment precision requirements while maintaining effective light direction.
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 improves the quality of images obtained by the under-display image sensor by providing a direct path for external light to reach the sensor, especially when the display is off.
Implementation Method 1
an optic positioned on the display and over the transparent region defined by the display. The optic is configured to direct external light into the transparent region of the display.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a display having a plurality of pixels. The display defines a transparent region positioned between a first pixel of the plurality of pixels and a second pixel of the plurality of pixels. The electronic device includes an image sensor positioned underneath the display. The image sensor is aligned with the transparent region defined by the display. The electronic device further includes an optic positioned on the display and over the transparent region defined by the display. The optic is configured to direct external light into the transparent region of the display.