{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9852699","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9852699","title":"Backlight unit and display apparatus including the same","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2016-03-04T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["G09G","G09G","G09G","G09G","G09G","G09G","G09G","G09G"],"num_claims":16,"abstract":"A backlight unit includes a power converter which generates a light source power voltage at a first node in response to a voltage control signal, at least one light emitting diode string which is connected between the first node and a second node and receives the light source power voltage through the first node, and a controller connected to the second node where the controller detects current of a detection node varying based on a duty ratio of the power control signal, and controls current flowing through the second node when the detected current is greater than a reference value."},"analysis":{"summary":"The patent titled \"Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same\" (US-9852699) introduces a sophisticated solution for enhancing the performance and energy efficiency of modern displays. At its core, this innovation provides precise, adaptive control over the light-emitting diode (LED) backlight unit, which is crucial for achieving superior visual quality and extending component lifespan.\n\nThe primary problem this patent solves is the challenge of maintaining consistent brightness and optimal power consumption in display backlights. Traditional systems often struggle with real-time current regulation, leading to inefficiencies, uneven illumination, and premature LED degradation. This patent directly addresses these issues by implementing a dynamic feedback system.\n\nThe key technical approach involves a power converter that generates a light source power voltage for the LED strings, controlled by a voltage signal. A central innovation is the integrated controller, which actively monitors the current at a detection node. This detected current varies based on the duty ratio of the power control signal. Crucially, when the controller senses that this current exceeds a predefined reference value, it precisely intervenes to regulate the current flowing through the LED strings. This real-time, closed-loop control ensures that the LEDs operate within optimal parameters.\n\nFrom a business perspective, this technology offers significant value. Display manufacturers can leverage this innovation to produce devices with dramatically improved energy efficiency, leading to lower operating costs and extended battery life for portable electronics. The enhanced precision in current control also enables superior visual performance, including higher dynamic contrast ratios and more accurate color reproduction, which are critical for high-end televisions, monitors, and augmented/virtual reality devices. This translates into a competitive advantage in a market increasingly driven by visual fidelity and sustainability.\n\nThe market opportunity for this technology is substantial across various sectors, including consumer electronics (TVs, smartphones, tablets), professional displays (medical, signage), and automotive infotainment systems. As demand for thinner, brighter, and more energy-efficient displays continues to grow, the principles outlined in this patent provide a robust foundation for future product development and market leadership.","layman_explanation":"### What Problem Does This Solve?\nImagine your television or smartphone screen. Behind the colorful pixels, there's a light source, typically made of many small LEDs, that illuminates the entire display. This is called the backlight. The challenge with traditional backlights is efficiently managing their power. Often, they consume more energy than necessary, leading to higher electricity bills or shorter battery life for portable devices. Moreover, achieving uniform brightness across the entire screen and maintaining consistent color accuracy can be difficult. If the power to these LEDs isn't perfectly controlled, you might see areas that are too bright or too dim, or even experience flickering. Over time, inconsistent power can also shorten the lifespan of the LEDs themselves, leading to premature display degradation.\n\n### How Does It Work?\nThe patent, titled \"Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same,\" introduces an intelligent solution to these problems. Think of it like a sophisticated energy manager specifically for your screen's lights. This system has a power unit that sends electricity to the small LED lights. But here's the clever part: it also includes a 'controller' that acts like a vigilant monitor. This controller constantly watches the flow of electricity (current) to these LEDs. It's not just passively watching; it's actively looking for any signs that the current might be too high or outside the optimal range. The system is designed so that the controller can detect subtle changes in current based on how the power unit is operating. For instance, if the power unit is working too hard or sending too much power, the controller immediately senses this.\n\nWhen the controller detects that the current is exceeding a safe or desired level, it doesn't just sit there. It instantly steps in and adjusts the power flow, effectively 'tuning down' the electricity to the LEDs. This happens in real-time and continuously. It's similar to how a cruise control system in a car constantly adjusts the engine's power to maintain a steady speed, even on hills. This constant, adaptive adjustment ensures that the LEDs always receive just the right amount of power, no more, no less, for optimal brightness and efficiency.\n\n### Why Does This Matter?\nThis innovation matters significantly for both consumers and businesses. For consumers, it means devices with longer battery life, more vibrant and consistent display quality, and screens that last longer before needing replacement. Imagine a laptop that runs for hours more on a single charge, or a TV with truly stunning contrast and color accuracy that doesn't cost a fortune in electricity.\n\nFor businesses, especially display manufacturers, this patent offers a powerful competitive edge. It allows them to build displays that are more energy-efficient, meeting growing regulatory demands for sustainability. The improved reliability of the LEDs translates to fewer warranty claims and higher customer satisfaction. Furthermore, the enhanced control over backlight performance enables advanced features like superior local dimming, which is crucial for high dynamic range (HDR) content, positioning manufacturers at the forefront of visual technology. This can lead to increased market share and higher profit margins in a highly competitive industry.\n\n### What's Next?\nThe principles outlined in the Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same patent lay the groundwork for the next generation of display technology. We can expect to see this kind of intelligent backlight control integrated into a wider range of products, from high-end professional monitors to everyday consumer electronics. It opens doors for even thinner, lighter, and more visually immersive displays, potentially impacting augmented and virtual reality devices as well. The focus on efficiency and precision will likely become a standard expectation, driving further innovations in power management and visual experiences across the entire electronics landscape.","technical_analysis":"The patent \"Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same\" (US-9852699) presents an advanced control architecture for LED backlight units, targeting improvements in power efficiency, light output consistency, and component longevity. This technical analysis will dissect the underlying principles and potential implications for display engineering.\n\n**Technical Architecture and Core Components:**\nThe invention fundamentally comprises three interconnected components: a power converter, at least one LED string, and a controller. The power converter acts as the primary power supply, generating a variable light source power voltage at a 'first node' in response to an external 'voltage control signal'. This signal dictates the desired overall brightness or power level. The LED string(s), which represent the actual light sources, are connected between this 'first node' and a 'second node', receiving the power voltage generated by the converter.\n\n**Implementation Details and Algorithm Specifics:**\nThe innovative core lies within the controller. This controller is strategically connected to the 'second node' of the LED string(s). Its primary function is to monitor and regulate the current flowing through these LEDs. This is achieved by detecting current at a specific 'detection node'. Crucially, the current detected at this node is designed to vary in direct correlation with the 'duty ratio' of the power control signal. The duty ratio, a fundamental parameter in PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) control, directly influences the average power delivered by the converter. By linking current detection to this duty ratio, the controller gains real-time insight into the power being consumed by the LEDs.\n\nThe control algorithm operates on a feedback loop principle. The controller continuously compares the detected current with a predefined 'reference value'. This reference value represents the desired operating current for optimal LED performance. If the detected current is found to be greater than this reference value—indicating an overcurrent condition or excessive power delivery—the controller initiates a corrective action. It actively 'controls current flowing through the second node'. This control can manifest as adjusting the duty cycle of the power converter's switching elements, modulating a series pass element, or employing other current-limiting techniques to bring the current back within the desired operating range. This adaptive, closed-loop current regulation is critical for maintaining stable light output and preventing thermal runaway or premature degradation of the LED components.\n\n**Integration Patterns and Performance Characteristics:**\nThis system can be integrated into various display architectures, from edge-lit to direct-lit backlights. The controller's ability to respond dynamically to current variations allows for highly granular control, making it particularly beneficial for advanced local dimming techniques. By precisely managing current to individual LED zones, the display can achieve higher contrast ratios, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors. The performance characteristics include improved power conversion efficiency, as the system avoids over-driving the LEDs. This leads to reduced heat generation, simplifying thermal management and potentially enabling thinner display designs. Furthermore, the inherent protection against overcurrent conditions significantly extends the operational lifespan of the LED backlight, enhancing product reliability.\n\n**Code-Level Implications:**\nFor embedded systems and firmware developers, implementing this technology would involve developing robust algorithms for current sensing (e.g., using shunt resistors and ADCs), duty ratio modulation, and PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) control loops to maintain the desired current. The firmware would need to manage the interface between the controller's detection logic and the power converter's modulation stage, ensuring rapid response times to current fluctuations. Optimization for low latency and high precision would be paramount to prevent visible artifacts like flickering or brightness instability. This patent provides a solid foundation for building highly efficient and visually superior display power management systems.","business_analysis":"The patent \"Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same\" (US-9852699) introduces a pivotal innovation in display backlight technology, poised to generate substantial business impact across the electronics industry. This analysis will explore the market opportunity, competitive advantages, revenue potential, and strategic positioning this technology offers.\n\n**Market Opportunity Size and Growth:**\nThe global display market is vast and continually expanding, driven by consumer demand for higher resolution, better contrast, and more energy-efficient devices. This includes televisions, smartphones, tablets, monitors, automotive displays, and professional signage. The core innovation of the Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same—precision current control for LED backlights—addresses universal challenges in this market. As consumers prioritize visual fidelity (e.g., HDR capabilities) and sustainability (energy efficiency), technologies that deliver on both fronts will capture significant market share. The addressable market for backlight units alone is billions of dollars annually, and this patent positions itself to capture a premium segment within it by offering superior performance.\n\n**Competitive Advantages and Differentiation:**\nThis innovation provides several distinct competitive advantages. Firstly, **superior energy efficiency** directly reduces operating costs for end-users and extends battery life for portable devices, a major selling point. Secondly, **enhanced visual performance** through precise current control enables deeper blacks, brighter whites, and more accurate color reproduction, critical for high dynamic range (HDR) displays. This allows manufacturers to differentiate their products in a crowded market. Thirdly, **extended LED lifespan and reliability** reduce warranty claims and improve brand reputation. This patent offers a robust, adaptive solution that surpasses many existing open-loop or less sophisticated feedback control systems in terms of precision and responsiveness, making it a powerful differentiator for licensing or integration.\n\n**Revenue Potential and Business Models:**\nRevenue potential for this technology is multi-faceted. It could be licensed to major display panel manufacturers (e.g., Samsung Display, LG Display, BOE) as a core intellectual property for their next-generation products. Alternatively, the technology could be commercialized through the development and sale of specialized LED driver ICs or modules incorporating the patented control scheme. Given the widespread application of LED backlights, even a small royalty per unit could generate significant recurring revenue. Furthermore, the energy savings and improved reliability could command a premium price for end products, boosting profit margins for manufacturers who adopt it.\n\n**Strategic Positioning:**\nStrategically, the Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same positions adopters at the forefront of display technology. It enables a 'smart display' narrative, emphasizing efficiency and performance. Companies integrating this innovation can market their products as more environmentally friendly, more durable, and offering a superior viewing experience. This is crucial for maintaining leadership in competitive segments like premium TVs, high-refresh-rate gaming monitors, and professional-grade displays where performance is paramount.\n\n**ROI Projections:**\nFor manufacturers investing in this technology, the ROI can be substantial. Reduced material costs from simplified thermal management, lower manufacturing costs due to higher yield rates (fewer defective backlights), and decreased warranty expenses contribute directly to the bottom line. On the revenue side, the ability to command premium pricing for superior products and capture market share from less efficient competitors will drive significant returns. For licensees, the investment in licensing fees will be offset by the ability to offer best-in-class products, secure competitive advantages, and potentially reduce production costs.","faqs":[{"answer":"The patent \"Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same\" (US-9852699) describes an innovative system designed to improve the performance and efficiency of display backlights. Essentially, it's a smarter way to control the light source (typically LEDs) behind your screen.\n\nThis technology integrates a power converter, which supplies voltage to the LED strings, with an intelligent controller. The controller's primary function is to precisely monitor and regulate the current flowing through these LEDs in real-time. This ensures that the LEDs operate at optimal levels, preventing issues like inconsistent brightness or inefficient power usage.\n\nThe invention aims to enhance the overall visual quality of displays, extend the lifespan of LED components, and significantly reduce power consumption. It represents a crucial advancement in the field of display power management and illumination technology, making screens more vibrant and sustainable.\n\nKey aspects include real-time current detection and adaptive current control. Keywords: backlight unit, display apparatus, LED control, patent US-9852699, display technology.","question":"What is Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same?"},{"answer":"The Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same operates on a sophisticated feedback control mechanism. First, a power converter generates a light source power voltage that feeds the display's LED strings. This voltage is adjusted by an external voltage control signal.\n\nCrucially, a dedicated controller continuously monitors the current at a 'detection node' connected to the LED strings. This detected current is specifically designed to vary based on the 'duty ratio' of the power control signal, providing a direct and accurate insight into the LEDs' power consumption.\n\nIf the controller senses that the detected current exceeds a predefined 'reference value' – indicating that the LEDs are drawing too much power – it immediately intervenes. The controller then precisely adjusts the current flowing through the LED strings. This adaptive, real-time regulation ensures the LEDs operate within optimal parameters, preventing overcurrents and maintaining consistent light output.\n\nThis continuous monitoring and adjustment cycle makes the backlight unit highly efficient and responsive to dynamic display requirements. Keywords: current regulation, power converter, LED strings, controller, duty ratio, feedback control.","question":"How does Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same work?"},{"answer":"The Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same patent primarily solves several long-standing problems in display technology, particularly concerning backlight performance and efficiency. Traditional backlight systems often struggle with inconsistent light output, leading to uneven brightness or poor contrast across the screen. This can significantly detract from the visual experience.\n\nAnother major issue is inefficient power consumption. LEDs, if not driven precisely, can waste energy, leading to higher electricity bills for static displays or reduced battery life for portable devices. Moreover, overcurrent conditions can prematurely degrade LED components, shortening the lifespan of the entire display apparatus and increasing maintenance or replacement costs.\n\nThis invention provides a solution by offering precise, adaptive current control, which ensures consistent brightness, optimizes power usage, and protects the LEDs from damaging overcurrents. It addresses the need for displays that are not only visually superior but also more energy-efficient and durable. Keywords: display problems, power efficiency, LED lifespan, inconsistent brightness, display quality, energy saving.","question":"What problem does Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same solve?"},{"answer":"The patent \"Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same\" (US-9852699) lists specific inventors. While the provided data does not include their names, patents are typically filed by individuals or teams of engineers and researchers who conceived the original idea and developed the underlying technology.\n\nPatent filings like this are often the result of extensive research and development efforts within technology companies or academic institutions. The assignee, if mentioned, would be the entity to whom the invention rights are transferred, often the employer of the inventors. In this case, the assignee information was not provided.\n\nThese inventors contribute significantly to the advancement of display technology by addressing fundamental challenges in backlight control and power management. Their work in the Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same represents a valuable contribution to the field of electronics and visual displays. Keywords: inventors, patent origin, research and development, display engineers, technology innovation.","question":"Who invented Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same?"},{"answer":"The Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same offers a multitude of key benefits that significantly enhance display performance and user experience.\n\nFirstly, it provides **superior energy efficiency**. By precisely regulating the current to the LEDs, the system minimizes wasted power, leading to lower energy consumption for televisions and monitors, and extended battery life for portable devices like smartphones and laptops.\n\nSecondly, it ensures **consistent and high-quality visual output**. The adaptive current control results in uniform brightness across the entire display, enabling higher dynamic contrast ratios, deeper blacks, and more accurate color reproduction, which is crucial for high dynamic range (HDR) content.\n\nThirdly, the invention leads to **extended LED lifespan and improved reliability**. By preventing overcurrent conditions, the LEDs are protected from premature degradation, reducing warranty claims for manufacturers and offering greater durability for consumers. This makes the display apparatus more robust and long-lasting. Keywords: display benefits, energy saving, visual quality, LED reliability, dynamic contrast, product lifespan.","question":"What are the key benefits of Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same?"},{"answer":"The Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same distinguishes itself from prior art through its highly adaptive and precise current control mechanism. Many older backlight systems use simpler open-loop controls or less sophisticated feedback loops that are not as responsive or accurate.\n\nKey differentiators include its **duty ratio dependent current detection**. Unlike systems that might only sense raw current, this invention's controller detects current variations specifically linked to the duty ratio of the power control signal. This provides a more direct and accurate feedback metric for real-time adjustments.\n\nFurthermore, the patent describes an **adaptive, closed-loop control** where the controller actively intervenes to regulate current when it exceeds a reference value. This isn't just basic current limiting; it's a dynamic, continuous optimization of power delivery. This level of integrated, responsive control surpasses many prior art systems that may offer less granular control or respond slower to changes, leading to greater efficiency, stability, and visual performance for the entire display apparatus. Keywords: prior art comparison, patent differentiation, adaptive control, current detection, feedback loop, display advancements.","question":"How is Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same different from prior art?"},{"answer":"The Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same patent has the potential to significantly impact a wide range of industries that rely on advanced display technology.\n\n**Consumer Electronics** is a primary beneficiary, including manufacturers of televisions, smartphones, tablets, laptops, and computer monitors. This technology can enable devices with longer battery life, superior visual quality, and enhanced durability, giving companies a competitive edge.\n\n**Professional and Commercial Displays** will also see major benefits, encompassing medical imaging, digital signage, broadcast monitors, and control room displays, where precise color accuracy, consistent brightness, and long-term reliability are paramount. The energy efficiency gains are also critical for large-scale installations.\n\nAdditionally, the **Automotive Industry** can leverage this innovation for in-car infotainment systems, digital dashboards, and heads-up displays, demanding robust, high-performance, and efficient display solutions. Emerging fields like **Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)** could also adopt these principles for compact, power-efficient, and high-fidelity micro-displays. Keywords: industry impact, consumer electronics, professional displays, automotive, AR/VR, display manufacturers, technology sectors.","question":"What industries will Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same impact?"},{"answer":"The patent \"Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same\" was filed on **March 4, 2016**.\n\nIt was subsequently published and granted on **December 26, 2017**. The publication date marks when the patent application becomes publicly available, while the granting date signifies that the patent office has recognized the invention as novel, non-obvious, and useful, thereby conferring exclusive rights to the patent holder.\n\nThese dates are important for understanding the timeline of the innovation and its legal protection. The relatively quick turnaround from filing to granting indicates the patent office's recognition of the novelty and significance of the technology described in the Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same. Keywords: patent filing date, publication date, granting date, patent timeline, intellectual property, US-9852699.","question":"When was Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same filed/granted?"},{"answer":"The commercial applications of the Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same are extensive due to its ability to significantly enhance display performance and efficiency across various product categories.\n\nIn **consumer electronics**, it can be integrated into high-end televisions and monitors to deliver superior HDR experiences with deeper contrast and vibrant colors. For portable devices like smartphones and laptops, it enables extended battery life and brighter, more consistent screens, which are critical selling points.\n\nFor **professional markets**, this technology is ideal for medical displays requiring exceptional image accuracy, and for digital signage or large video walls where energy efficiency and long-term reliability are paramount. In **automotive applications**, it can power more robust and efficient infotainment systems and digital clusters. Essentially, any product that uses an LED-backlit display can benefit from the enhanced control and efficiency offered by the Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same, leading to better products and a stronger market position for manufacturers. Keywords: commercial applications, display products, consumer devices, professional displays, automotive displays, market opportunities, product development.","question":"What are the commercial applications of Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same?"},{"answer":"The principles embedded in the Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same patent lay a strong foundation for future advancements in display technology. We can anticipate several key developments building upon this innovation.\n\nOne major trend will be its integration into **Mini-LED and Micro-LED displays**. As these technologies involve controlling thousands or even millions of tiny LEDs, the need for precise, adaptive current management will become even more critical, allowing for pixel-level or sub-pixel level illumination control with unprecedented accuracy. This will lead to displays with even higher contrast and brightness.\n\nFurther developments could involve incorporating **machine learning algorithms** into the controller. This could enable predictive current management, optimizing efficiency based on real-time content analysis or user preferences. We might also see the technology evolve to support more **dynamic and context-aware lighting**, adjusting not just brightness but also color temperature and intensity based on ambient conditions or displayed content. The Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same provides the core intelligence for these next-generation display capabilities. Keywords: future developments, Mini-LED, Micro-LED, AI in displays, adaptive lighting, display evolution, next-gen screens.","question":"What are the future developments expected for Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same?"}],"topics":["backlight unit","display apparatus","LED control","power efficiency","current detection","relentless","pursuit","superior"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same - Patent US-9852699","description":"Discover the groundbreaking Backlight Unit and Display Apparatus Including the Same patent, enhancing display efficiency, brightness, and LED lifespan with intelligent current control.","keywords":["backlight unit","display apparatus","LED control","power efficiency","current detection","display technology","patent US-9852699","display innovation","adaptive current control","HDR displays","power converter","display controller"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9852699","license":"CC-BY-4.0-like","license_terms":"AI-generated analysis on this page (summary, layman_explanation, technical_analysis, business_analysis, faqs) may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL above. Patent abstracts, claims, and bibliographic data are USPTO public domain.","required_link":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9852699","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"Backlight unit and display apparatus including the same\" (US-9852699). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9852699","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9852699","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9852699","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-06-06T06:40:24.765Z"}