Under-display Sensor Placement for Expanded Active Area
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge is to extend the active area of a display in electronic devices while accommodating sensors and camera modules on the front side, as increasing the number of these components limits the display's active area and causes visual discomfort due to increased black matrix areas and openings.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves creating a display with distinct areas of different pixel densities, where a first area with lower pixel density has a transparent electrode and interconnection wires for light transmittance, allowing sensors to be placed below, and a second area with higher pixel density for improved resolution, with sensors obtaining image data through openings in the display panel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If sensors and camera modules are arranged on the front side of the electronic device, then functional requirements are met, but the active area of the display decreases and black matrix area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves sensors from the front side to the rear side of the display, utilizing the z-dimension (depth) rather than consuming front surface area. This allows the front display area to be fully utilized while sensors remain functional through rear-side light reception or alternative sensing mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The display is divided into distinct regions: a first display area with first sensors below it for normal operation, and a second area with a second sensor for specific functions. This segmentation allows different sensing strategies in different zones, optimizing both display area and sensor functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the number of sensors mounted on the front side increases, then diversification of functions is achieved, but the number of openings and black matrix area increase causing visual discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
Sensors are relocated to the rear side of the display structure, eliminating the need for front-side openings. This dimensional relocation allows multiple sensors to be accommodated without compromising the visual integrity of the front display surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The first display area is designed to serve multiple functions: visual display, light transmission for rear-side sensors, and housing for first sensors. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate openings and components, thereby minimizing visual disruption.
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 enhances design aesthetics, user convenience, and reduces visual discomfort by increasing the active display area and minimizing the number of openings, thereby providing better visibility and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a first area with lower pixel density has a transparent electrode and interconnection wires for light transmittance, allowing sensors to be placed below
Data Source
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AI summary
An electronic device includes a display that includes a first area having a plurality of first pixels arranged with a first density and a second area having a plurality of second pixels arranged with a second density, wherein the display includes at least one layer having an opening formed in at least part of the first area and in at least part of the second area, a first sensor configured to detect incident light through at least part of the first area, and a second sensor configured to generate image data using incident light received through the opening.