patents OLED embedded sensors to improve iPhone display

OLED is all the rage in display technology (just ask ). By emitting their own light, they serve the purpose of a L screen while permitting thinner, lighter devices. Naturally, would be interested in such technology.However, a new patent filed by suggests the iPhone maker wants to tackle a couple issues with OLEDs, namely light-sensitivity and the persistence of s, which might fade over time.In a patent appliion published Thursday by the U.S. Patent and Trademark , ’s technology is entitled ‘Organic light diode having photodiodes’. Using sensors arrayed alongside the OLEDs, ’s invention hopes to save battery life while offering a of other benefits…In part, thepatent filingdescribes a way to employ photodiode sensors to more accurately detect when portions of a screen are shaded and requires less power. The sensors would also detect color fluctuations from an aging OLED, boosting power to compensate.Along with grter accuracy of light and color, the photodiodes coupled with OLEDs could replace ambient light sensing, proximity sensing or to compensate for aging OLEDs.From the patent abstract:In some embodiments, the photodetectors may be disposed throughout the display in zones containing OLEDs. The photodetectors are used to control the display brightness and color for the OLEDs in ars around ch photodetector based on ambient light, aging, and/or nrby objects.A controller makes driving strength adjustments to the OLEDs in ch zone independent of other zones. Photodetectors disposed throughout the display may improve proximity sensing and provide additional functionality to the device.Currently, proximity sensors are used to detect when the handset moves nr the r, turning off the display to save power. Having OLEDs do double duty would allow more room to add components in the incrsingly-complex smartphone.The patent appliion describing an OLED screen with photodiodes was first filed in 2012. has hired an OLED display expertfrom Display so this patent may be another indiion that the firm continues to seek ways to incorporate OLED technology in volume across its iOS device lineup.