eInk display on the backside [answered]

asked 2014-11-28 17:05:40 +0200

-JJ
71 ●2 ●2 ●5

updated 2015-01-16 14:42:26 +0200

eric
12967 ●88 ●133 ●123

https://twitter.com/erkki...

PROBLEM

Reading eBooks on a back-lit LCD screen has its downsides:

• causes eye-fatigue
• drains battery
• hassle blocking interrupting notifications and screen blanking

An eInk display on the other hand is ideal for reading:

• easy on eyes
• readable in bright sunlight
• uses battery only when "turning the page"

But eInk alone has it's shortcomings:

• slow response is not ideal for tasks like managing the bookshelf or searching
• color photos (not to mention videos) cannot be displayed on monochrome eInk (or even with some colors

SOLUTION

To get the better of both worlds, why not have a tablet back cover (TOH or otherwise) with an eInk display.

The LCD display would be used for:

• managing bookshelves
• searches
• displaying photos/videos embedded in the book

The eInk display would be used for reading the text.

To turn the page one could swipe on the back (the blanked touch-screen side) with the middle-finger up or down. (optionally there could be a slide-button or swipe-surface on the eInk side)

Since the eInk preserves the image without using energy, it could serve other purposes as well:

• hold bar-code tickets handy when traveling, entering concerts etc.
• show a shopping list or other memo for quick referral without the need to unlock your device