Organic light-emitting device, method for manufacturing an organic light-emitting device and method for operating an organic light-emitting device

Abstract

Organic light-emitting component (1), with a metal layer structure (14) comprising a first electrode (20) and an antenna (42), an organic functional layer structure (22) above the first electrode (20), a second electrode (23) above the organic functional layer structure (22), an electronic circuit (44) which is at least electrically coupled to the antenna (42) and which is configured to apply a first electrical signal to the antenna (42) during operation of the organic light-emitting device (1), so that the antenna (42) emits a corresponding first electromagnetic signal, and / or to receive a second electrical signal from the antenna (42), which is generated on the basis of a second electromagnetic signal received by the antenna (42), wherein the antenna (42) serves as a current distribution structure for the uniform distribution of current via the first electrode (20) or the second electrode (23).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an organic light-emitting component, a method for manufacturing an organic light-emitting component and a method for operating an organic light-emitting component.

[0002] Organic light-emitting devices, also known as organic light-emitting devices, are finding increasingly widespread applications. For example, organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) are increasingly being used in general lighting, for instance as surface light sources.

[0003] An organic light-emitting device, such as an OLED, can have an anode and a cathode with an organic functional layer system between them. This organic functional layer system can include one or more emitter layers in which electromagnetic radiation is generated; a charge-generating layer (CGL) structure consisting of two or more CGLs for charge-generating cells; one or more hole-blocking layers (HTLs); and one or more electron-blocking layers (ETLs) to direct the current flow.

[0004] Regardless of current practices, determining a location within a building, for example for GPS-free navigation in enclosed spaces such as department stores, parking garages, subway stations, museums, industrial buildings, and / or warehouses, requires permanently installed radio transmitters. These transmitters regularly send out an identification number (ID) in the form of a radio signal, usually in the GHz range. This signal can be used by handheld devices, such as smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and / or robots or drones, for location determination.

[0005] These types of radio transmitters are nowadays also called beacons. Beacons are typically battery-powered radio transmitters that, for example, emit a Bluetooth signal. It is common practice to place beacons in light fixtures, in addition to lamps, to illuminate the building, particularly specific rooms. In this case, the beacon can draw power from the light fixture and does not require a battery. The word "beacon" is derived from the English term for "lighthouse" or "beacon" and alludes to its function as a signaling device.

[0006] Operating principle. Beacons are based on a transmitter-receiver principle. Several beacons are placed in space as signal transmitters, sending signals at fixed time intervals. When a receiver, such as a smartphone with an installed mobile app configured to receive iBeacon signals, comes within range of a beacon, the transmitter's ID can be identified and its signal strength measured. If at least three beacons are within range of the device, the receiver's position in two-dimensional space can be calculated, for example, using trilateration or fingerprinting. To determine a location in three-dimensional space, four beacons within range are required.

[0007] Even during the spatial planning phase, luminaires are arranged according to architectural grids, and defined positions are equipped with corresponding beacons. In conventional luminaires, the radio elements of the beacons are concealed inside the luminaire housing. To prevent shielding of the radio signal, plastic housings are used, or, in the case of a metal housing, the beacon antennas are routed out of the metal housing.

[0008] The development of the beacons, the arrangement of the beacons in the housings of the luminaires and / or the routing of the beacon antennas out of the housings is usually very costly and / or time-consuming.

[0009] Publication WO 2015 / 024633 A1 describes a lighting device and an electronic household appliance with such a lighting device.

[0010] The publication DE 10 2008 035 559 A1 describes an electroluminescence or photovoltaic source.

[0011] Publication EP 2 728 968 A1 describes a light-emitting element with wireless power supply and a light-emitting device.

[0012] The publication DE 10 2006 033 713 A1 describes an organic light-emitting component, a device with an organic light-emitting component and a lighting device as well as a method for producing an organic light-emitting component.

[0013] The publication DE 10 2013 207 998 A1 describes a security or valuable product with an electroluminescent security element and a method for manufacturing it.

[0014] Publication WO 2011 / 027280 A1 describes a wireless electroluminescence device.

[0015] Publication EP 1 519 545 B1 describes a foldable mobile communication device with an organic electroluminescent display device and a display method for it.

[0016] Document US 2011 / 0 227 800 A1 describes a display device with an antenna and a method for its manufacture.

[0017] Document US 2012 / 0 019 419 A1 describes a flat screen with an integrated antenna.

[0018] The publication JP 2004 - 164 462 A describes an IC chip for a contactless data carrier, a contactless data carrier and a system for using the contactless data carrier.

[0019] The printed document JP 2010 - 182 098 A describes a map with an antenna.

[0020] One object of the invention is to provide an organic light-emitting component that has a radio transmitter and / or a radio receiver and that is easy, quick and / or inexpensive to manufacture.

[0021] One object of the invention is to provide a method for manufacturing an organic light-emitting component comprising a radio transmitter and / or a radio receiver, which is simple, fast and / or cost-effective.

[0022] One object of the invention is to provide a method for operating an organic light-emitting component comprising a radio transmitter and / or a radio receiver, which enables reliable transmission and / or reception of information in a simple and / or cost-effective manner.

[0023] One object of the invention is solved by an organic light-emitting device comprising: a metal layer structure having a first electrode and an antenna; an organic functional layer structure over the first electrode; a second electrode over the organic functional layer structure; and an electronic circuit which is at least electrically coupled to the antenna and which is configured to apply a first electrical signal to the antenna during operation of the organic light-emitting device, so that the antenna emits a corresponding first electromagnetic signal, and / or to receive a second electrical signal from the antenna, which is generated on the basis of a second electromagnetic signal received by the antenna.

[0024] The antenna consists of one or more active or passive antenna elements, such as parasitic antenna elements. The length of the antenna, particularly the antenna elements, and / or the spacing between the antenna elements depend on the desired transmit and / or receive frequency range. For example, for transmitting and / or receiving in the 2.4 GHz range, such as in the Bluetooth range, the antenna and / or antenna elements may be approximately 5 cm long. The metal layer structure, particularly the antenna and its antenna elements, consists of a conductive material, such as ITO, PEDOT:PSS, CrAlCr, Ag, Cu, or Au. The metal layer structure is a laterally structured surface, with the antenna and the first electrode being formed by the lateral structures.For the input or output of a signal, for example an RF signal, the antenna, in particular the antenna elements, is connected to one or more terminal elements of the electronic circuit. The antenna can be designed, for example, as a Yagi antenna or as a log-periodic antenna.

[0025] The organic light-emitting component, hereinafter also referred to as OLED, is a lamp and / or a light source that can be arranged in a luminaire, for example a ceiling light, a wall light and / or a floor lamp.

[0026] Integrating the antenna into the layered structure of the OLED, and thus directly into the lamp or light source, means that the antenna is always located on the front and / or on an outward-facing side of the housing containing the OLED. This is because lamps or light sources are generally positioned on an outward-facing side of the housing so that the light they produce can be emitted. This antenna positioning is particularly advantageous because the housing provides minimal, negligible, or even no electromagnetic shielding of the signal. This allows for the use of a metal housing for the lamp without having to extend the antenna beyond it.Furthermore, this contributes to exceptionally good transmission and / or reception performance. This, in turn, allows information to be reliably transmitted or received via the antenna with particularly low energy consumption, or with exceptionally high accuracy.

[0027] Integrating the antenna into the layer structure of the OLED, and thus integrating the antenna directly into the lamp or light source, also means that the manufacturing effort and costs can be kept particularly low, since the antenna and the corresponding lateral structures of the metal layer structure can be manufactured in the same process steps as other structures of the OLED, for example the first electrode, contact sections of the OLED or current distribution elements, for example busbars, of the OLED.

[0028] In addition to the main antenna, one, two, or more further antennas can be integrated into the layered structure of the OLED. Alternatively or additionally, each antenna can incorporate one, two, or more antenna elements. The antenna(s) can be interconnected to improve the radiation direction and reception. Alternatively, this can reduce the transmission power, thereby saving energy and / or reducing electromagnetic radiation. Furthermore, the redundancy provided by the other antennas or antenna elements could compensate for the failure of one antenna or antenna element.

[0029] According to a further development, the antenna is positioned laterally next to the first electrode. The first electrode, the organic functional layer structure, and the second electrode define a light-emitting area of ​​the OLED in the region where they overlap laterally. Positioning the antenna laterally next to the first electrode means that the antenna is located outside the light-emitting area. In other words, the conductive structure of the antenna is not located within the luminous area of ​​the OLED, which is configured, for example, as a planar light source. This allows for the selection of a non-transparent or opaque material for the antenna. However, a transparent or translucent material can also be chosen as an option.

[0030] According to a further development, the antenna is electrically isolated from the first electrode. This ensures that the first signal radiated by the antenna, or the second signal received by the antenna, is not affected by any current or voltage flowing through or present at the first electrode during the OLED's illumination operation.

[0031] According to a further development approach, the antenna is positioned vertically above or below the first electrode. In other words, the antenna is located within the OLED's light-emitting surface. This can minimize the need for antenna shielding due to other OLED materials or the housing of a luminaire containing the OLED, since the light-emitting surface of a light source in a luminaire is generally not shielded, or only minimally. Furthermore, this design allows for considerable flexibility in choosing the size and / or shape of the antenna, as OLED light-emitting surfaces are generally quite large, providing ample space within the surface for antennas of various sizes and shapes. Finally, this design enables the antenna to be used to distribute the current required to power the OLED's light output.

[0032] According to further training, the antenna is in direct physical contact with the first electrode. In other words, the conductive lateral structures of the antenna are in direct physical contact with the first electrode within the luminous surface. This means that a current flowing through the first electrode also flows through the antenna, and the antenna thus contributes to conducting and / or distributing the current across the luminous surface.

[0033] According to a further development approach, the antenna is positioned vertically above or below the second electrode. In simpler terms, the antenna is located within the OLED's light-emitting surface. This can minimize the need for antenna shielding due to other OLED materials or the housing of a luminaire containing the OLED, since the light-emitting surface of a light source in a luminaire is generally not shielded, or only minimally. Furthermore, this design allows for considerable flexibility in choosing the size and / or shape of the antenna, as OLED light-emitting surfaces are generally quite large, providing ample space within the surface for antennas of various sizes and shapes. Finally, this design enables the antenna to be used to distribute the current required to power the OLED's light output.

[0034] According to further training, the antenna is in direct physical contact with the second electrode. In other words, the conductive lateral structures of the antenna are in direct physical contact with the second electrode within the luminous surface. This means that a current flowing through the second electrode also flows through the antenna, and the antenna thus contributes to conducting and / or distributing the current across the luminous surface.

[0035] The antenna serves as a current distribution structure for the even distribution of current across the first and second electrodes. The lateral structures of the antenna thus serve both for transmitting and / or receiving information, particularly data, and for current distribution, for example, current spreading. In this context, the antenna can also be referred to as a current distribution element or busbar. The electronic circuit separates the current used for the lighting function, for example, a direct current, from the first and second signals, which may be in the RF range. The system, consisting of the light source and the transmitter / receiver, is then operated with a modulated electrical signal.

[0036] According to further training, the antenna is embedded in the organic functional layer structure. In other words, the antenna is surrounded by the material of the organic functional layer structure in two or three spatial directions. Optionally, an electrically insulating material, such as an electrically insulating varnish, can be formed between the antenna and the material of the organic functional layer structure.

[0037] According to further training, the antenna is designed for transmitting and / or receiving frequencies in the GHz range. For example, the antenna and / or antenna elements each have a length of approximately 5 cm. Alternatively, frequencies in the 5G mobile network can be transmitted and / or received, for example, between 6000 MHz and 18000 MHz, with an antenna and / or antenna element length of 0.4 cm to 1.5 cm. Alternatively, frequencies in the WLAN range can be received and / or transmitted, for example, between 2400 MHz and 5000 MHz, with an antenna and / or antenna element length of 1.4 cm to 14 cm. Alternatively, frequencies in the radio beacon range can be received and / or transmitted, for example, at approximately 2400 MHz, with an antenna and / or antenna element length of approximately 3 cm.Alternatively, frequencies can be received and / or transmitted in the Generation 4 mobile network (LTE), for example at approximately 2100 MHz, for example with an antenna and / or antenna element length of 3 cm to 20 cm.

[0038] One object of the invention is solved by a method for manufacturing the organic light-emitting device, in which: the metal layer structure comprising the first electrode and the antenna is formed; the organic functional layer structure is formed over the first electrode; the second electrode is formed over the organic functional layer structure; the electronic circuit is electrically coupled to the antenna and is configured to apply the first electrical signal to the antenna during operation of the organic light-emitting device, so that the antenna emits the corresponding first electromagnetic signal, and / or to receive the second electrical signal from the antenna, which is generated on the basis of the second electromagnetic signal received by the antenna.

[0039] Integrating the antenna into the layer structure of the OLED, and thus integrating the antenna directly into the lamp or light source, also means that the manufacturing effort and costs can be kept particularly low, since the antenna and the corresponding lateral structures of the metal layer structure can be manufactured in the same process steps as other structures of the OLED, for example the first electrode, contact sections of the OLED or current distribution elements, for example busbars, of the OLED.

[0040] In addition to the main antenna, one, two, or more additional antennas can be integrated into the OLED's layered structure. Alternatively, or additionally, the antenna(s) can each comprise one, two, or more antenna elements. The antenna(s) can be interconnected to improve the radiation direction and reception. Alternatively, this can reduce the transmission power, thereby saving energy and / or reducing electromagnetic radiation. Furthermore, the redundancy provided by the other antennas or antenna elements could compensate for the failure of one antenna or antenna element.

[0041] One object of the invention is solved by a method for operating the organic light-emitting device, which comprises the antenna integrated into the layered structure of the organic light-emitting device and the electronic circuit, in which, depending on the first information, the first electrical signal is generated by means of the electronic circuit and the first electrical signal is applied to the antenna, so that the antenna emits the corresponding first electromagnetic signal; and / or the second electromagnetic signal, which is representative of the second information and which generates the second electrical signal in the antenna, is received by means of the antenna, and in which, by means of the electronic circuit, the second electrical signal is received from the antenna.

[0042] The advantages and / or further developments of the organic light-emitting device mentioned above can readily be applied to the method for operating the organic light-emitting device. Therefore, a repetition of these advantages and further developments is omitted here.

[0043] According to a further development, to effect the illumination of the organic light-emitting component, an electric current is applied to the antenna and the first electrical signal is generated by modulating the electric current by means of the electronic circuit corresponding to the first information, whereby the antenna is directly physically connected to one of the electrodes of the organic light-emitting component and is designed as the current distribution structure of the organic light-emitting component.

[0044] According to further training, the electric current required to cause the organic light-emitting component to light up is a direct current.

[0045] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the figures and are explained in more detail below.

[0046] They show: Fig. 1 a lateral sectional view of an embodiment of an organic light-emitting component; Fig. 2 a top view of an embodiment of an organic light-emitting component; Fig. 3 a top view of an embodiment of an organic light-emitting component; Fig. 4 a top view of an embodiment of an organic light-emitting component; Fig. 5 a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a light fixture; Fig. 6 a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of an electronic circuit; Fig. 7. An example of a time-voltage diagram.

[0047] The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings, which form part of this description and show specific embodiments in which the invention can be implemented. Since components of embodiments can be positioned in a number of different orientations, the directional terminology is for illustrative purposes only and is in no way restrictive. It is understood that other embodiments may be used and structural or logical modifications may be made without deviating from the scope of protection of the present invention. It is understood that the features of the various embodiments described herein may be combined with one another unless specifically stated otherwise.The following detailed description is therefore not to be interpreted in a restrictive sense, and the scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the appended claims. In the figures, identical or similar elements are provided with identical reference numerals where appropriate.

[0048] A luminaire can have one, two, or more lamps, which are the light sources, and a housing in which the lamps or light sources are arranged. One, two, or more of the lamps or light sources are organic light-emitting devices. An organic light-emitting device can, in various embodiments, be an organic light-emitting semiconductor device and / or be designed as an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) or as an organic light-emitting transistor.

[0049] Fig. Figure 1 shows an embodiment of an organic light-emitting device 1. The organic light-emitting device 1 has a support 12. The support 12 can be translucent or transparent. The support 12 serves as a substrate for electronic elements or layers, for example, light-emitting elements. The support 12 can, for example, be made of or comprise a plastic, metal, glass, quartz, and / or a semiconductor material. Furthermore, the support 12 can be made of or comprise a plastic film or a laminate with one or more plastic films. The support 12 can be mechanically rigid or mechanically flexible.

[0050] An optoelectronic layer structure is formed on the support 12. This optoelectronic layer structure comprises a metal layer structure 14, which includes a first contact section 16, a second contact section 18, and a first electrode 20. The support 12 with the metal layer structure 14 can also be referred to as the substrate. A first barrier layer (not shown), for example, a first barrier thin film, can be formed between the support 12 and the metal layer structure 14.

[0051] The first electrode 20 is electrically isolated from the first contact section 16 by means of an insulating barrier 21. The second contact section 18 is electrically coupled to the first electrode 20 of the optoelectronic layer structure. The first electrode 20 can be configured as an anode or as a cathode. The first electrode 20 can be translucent or transparent. The first electrode 20 comprises an electrically conductive material, for example, a metal and / or a transparent conductive oxide (TCO), or a stack of multiple layers comprising metals or TCOs. The first electrode 20 can, for example, comprise a stack of layers combining a layer of a metal on a layer of a TCO, or vice versa. An example is a silver layer deposited on an indium tin oxide (ITO) layer (Ag on ITO) or ITO-Ag-ITO multilayers.The first electrode 20 can alternatively or additionally comprise: networks of metallic nanowires and particles, for example made of Ag, networks of carbon nanotubes, graphene particles and layers and / or networks of semiconducting nanowires.

[0052] Above the first electrode 20, an organic functional layer structure 22 of the optoelectronic layer structure is formed. The organic functional layer structure 22 can, for example, have one, two, or more sublayers. For example, the organic functional layer structure 22 can have a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, an emitter layer, an electron transport layer, and / or an electron injection layer. The hole injection layer serves to reduce the band gap between the first electrode and the hole transport layer. In the hole transport layer, the hole conductivity is greater than the electron conductivity. The hole transport layer serves to transport the holes. In the electron transport layer, the electron conductivity is greater than the hole conductivity. The electron transport layer serves to transport the electrons.The electron injection layer serves to reduce the band gap between the second electrode and the electron transport layer. Furthermore, the organic functional layer structure 22 can comprise one, two, or more functional layer structure units, each of which includes the aforementioned sublayers and / or further intermediate layers.

[0053] A second electrode 23 of the optoelectronic layer structure is formed above the organic functional layer structure 22 and is electrically coupled to the first contact section 16. The second electrode 23 can be configured according to one of the embodiments of the first electrode 20, whereby the first electrode 20 and the second electrode 23 can be identical or different. The first electrode 20 serves, for example, as the anode or cathode of the optoelectronic layer structure. Correspondingly to the first electrode, the second electrode 23 serves as the cathode or anode of the optoelectronic layer structure.

[0054] The optoelectronic layer structure is an electrically and / or optically active region. The active region is, for example, the area of ​​the organic light-emitting device 1 in which electric current flows to operate the organic light-emitting device 1 and / or in which electromagnetic radiation is generated or absorbed. A getter structure (not shown) can be arranged on or above the active region. The getter layer can be translucent, transparent, or opaque. The getter layer can comprise or be formed from a material that absorbs and binds substances that are harmful to the active region.

[0055] An encapsulation layer 24 of the optoelectronic layer structure is formed over the second electrode 23 and partially over the first contact section 16 and partially over the second contact section 18. This encapsulation layer 24 encapsulates the optoelectronic layer structure. The encapsulation layer 24 can be configured as a second barrier layer, for example, as a second barrier thin film. The encapsulation layer 24 can also be referred to as thin-film encapsulation. The encapsulation layer 24 forms a barrier against chemical impurities and atmospheric substances, particularly water (moisture) and oxygen. The encapsulation layer 24 can be configured as a single layer, a stack of layers, or a layered structure.The encapsulation layer 24 can comprise or be formed from: aluminum oxide, zinc oxide, zirconium oxide, titanium oxide, hafnium oxide, tantalum oxide, lanthanum oxide, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, indium tin oxide, indium zinc oxide, aluminum-doped zinc oxide, poly(p-phenylene terephthalamide), nylon 66, as well as mixtures and alloys thereof. Optionally, the first barrier layer on the support 12 can be configured corresponding to an embodiment of the encapsulation layer 24.

[0056] In the encapsulation layer 24, a first recess is formed above the first contact section 16, and a second recess is formed above the second contact section 18. A first contact area 32 is exposed in the first recess, and a second contact area 34 is exposed in the second recess. The first contact area 32 serves to electrically contact the first contact section 16, and the second contact area 34 serves to electrically contact the second contact section 18.

[0057] An adhesive layer 36 is formed above the encapsulation layer 24. The adhesive layer 36 contains, for example, an adhesive,

[0058] For example, a laminating adhesive, a varnish and / or a resin. The adhesive layer 36 may, for example, contain particles that scatter electromagnetic radiation, such as light-scattering particles.

[0059] A cover body 38 is formed above the adhesive layer 36. The adhesive layer 36 serves to attach the cover body 38 to the encapsulation layer 24. The cover body 38 comprises, for example, plastic, glass, and / or metal. For example, the cover body 38 can be made primarily of glass and have a thin metal layer, such as a metal foil, and / or a graphite layer, such as a graphite laminate, on the glass body. The cover body 38 serves to protect the organic light-emitting component 1, for example, from external mechanical forces. Furthermore, the cover body 38 can serve to distribute and / or dissipate heat generated in the organic light-emitting component 1.For example, the glass of the cover body 38 can serve as protection against external influences and the metal layer of the cover body 38 can serve to distribute and / or dissipate the heat generated during the operation of the organic light-emitting component 1.

[0060] The organic light-emitting device 1 is hereinafter also referred to as OLED. As an alternative to the one in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the OLED 1 can have a monolithic structure in which the cover body 38 and the carrier 12 are flush at their lateral edges and the contacting of the contact areas 32, 34 is effected via corresponding recesses in the cover body 38 and / or the carrier 12. Furthermore, as an alternative to the one shown in Figure 1, the following can be used: Fig. In the embodiments shown in Figure 1, the OLED 1 has a cavity encapsulation.

[0061] The OLED 1 can be a top emitter, in which the generated light is emitted through the cover body 38, a bottom emitter, in which the generated light is emitted through the carrier 12, or a double-sided emitting device, in which the generated light is emitted through the carrier 12 and the cover body 38.

[0062] Fig. Figure 2 shows a top view of an embodiment of an organic light-emitting component 1, for example the one described in Fig. Figure 1 shows an organic light-emitting device 1. The OLED 1 has a luminescent area 40. The luminescent area 40 is formed by a laterally extending overlap region in which the first electrode 20, the organic functional layer structure 22, and the second electrode 23 overlap. The luminescent area 40 is the region of the OLED 1 in which the OLED 1 emits light during its luminescent operation.

[0063] Outside the light-emitting area 40, the OLED 1 has an antenna 42. The antenna 42 has two antenna elements 43 arranged at right angles to each other. Alternatively, the antenna 42 can have only one antenna element 43 or more than two antenna elements 43. Furthermore, the OLED 1 can have two or more antennas 42 with corresponding antenna elements 43. The antenna 42, and in particular the antenna elements 43, is formed by the metal layer structure 14. In other words, the metal layer structure 14 is structured in the lateral direction such that parts of this structure form the antenna elements 43. Other structures of the metal layer structure 14 form the first electrode 20, the first contact section 16 and the second contact section 18. The antenna 42, in particular the antenna elements 43, can be formed from one of the materials mentioned above in connection with the first electrode 20.The antenna 42, in particular the antenna elements 43, can be made of the same or a different material as the first electrode 20. The antenna 42, in particular the antenna elements 43, can, for example, comprise ITO, PEDOT:PSS, CrAlCr, Ag, Cu and / or Au.

[0064] The OLED 1 features an electronic circuit 44, which is located in Fig. 2 is shown next to the carrier 12 for clarity. Preferably, the electronic circuit 44 is formed above the carrier 12. The electronic circuit 44 is electrically connected to the antenna 42 and, in particular, to the antenna elements 43. If the antenna 42 is used to transmit information, for example, data, the electronic circuit 44 is configured to generate a first electrical signal depending on the information or data and to apply the first electrical signal to the antenna 42, in particular to the antenna elements 43. In response, the antenna 42 emits a first electromagnetic signal that is representative of the information or data.If the antenna 42 is used to receive information, for example data, the electronic circuit 44 is configured to receive a second electrical signal from the antenna 42, which is generated in the antenna 42 as a result of a second electromagnetic signal received by the antenna 42.

[0065] The antenna 42, in particular the antenna elements 43, can be configured, for example, to be suitable for transmitting and / or receiving signals in the kHz or GHz range. The antenna 42, in particular the antenna elements 43, can each have a length in a range of, for example, 1 mm to 20 cm, 1 cm to 10 cm, or approximately 5 cm. The antenna 42, in particular the antenna elements 43, can be configured, for example, to be suitable for transmitting and / or receiving Bluetooth signals.

[0066] Fig. Figure 3 shows a top view of an embodiment of an organic light-emitting component 1, for example, the one associated with Fig. 1. Organic light-emitting component explained. 1. The OLED 1 can, for example, largely be related to Fig. 2 correspond to the OLED 1 described above, wherein the antenna elements 43 are formed along a straight line and on the same side of the OLED 1.

[0067] The antenna 42, in particular the antenna elements 43, can be configured, for example, to be suitable for transmitting and / or receiving signals in the kHz or GHz range. The antenna 42, in particular the antenna elements 43, can each have a length in a range of, for example, 1 mm to 20 cm, 1 cm to 10 cm, or approximately 5 cm. The antenna 42, in particular the antenna elements 43, can be configured, for example, to be suitable for transmitting and / or receiving Bluetooth signals.

[0068] Fig. Figure 4 shows a top view of an embodiment of an organic light-emitting component 1, for example, the one associated with Fig. 1. Organic light-emitting device explained. 1. The OLED 1 can, for example, largely be the one related to Fig. The antenna 42 and / or antenna elements 43 correspond to the OLED 1 described in Figure 2, wherein the antenna 42 and / or the antenna elements 43 are arranged vertically above or below the first electrode 20 or vertically above or below the second electrode 23. For example, the antenna 42 and / or the antenna elements 43 are arranged within the luminescent area of ​​the OLED 1. In particular, the antenna 42 or the antenna elements 43 can be in direct physical contact with the first electrode 20 or the second electrode 23. In this case, the antenna 42 and the antenna elements 43 contribute to distributing a current applied to the respective electrode 20, 23 across the respective electrode 20, 23. In other words, the antenna 42 or the antenna elements 43 serve as current distribution elements and can, for example, be referred to as busbars.

[0069] The antenna 42, in particular the antenna elements 43, can be configured, for example, to be suitable for transmitting and / or receiving signals in the kHz or GHz range. The antenna 42, in particular the antenna elements 43, can each have a length in a range of, for example, 1 mm to 20 cm, 1 cm to 10 cm, or approximately 5 cm. The antenna 42, in particular the antenna elements 43, can be configured, for example, to be suitable for transmitting and / or receiving Bluetooth signals.

[0070] Fig. Figure 5 shows a side view of an embodiment of a luminaire 46, which has two OLEDs 1. The OLEDs 1 can each be configured according to one of the OLEDs 1 described above. The OLEDs 1 are each attached to the luminaire 46 on one of their sides and serve as the light source of the luminaire 46. The OLEDs 1 can, for example, be aligned with each other such that a directional radio signal can be emitted by means of the antennas 42 and / or antenna elements 43 integrated into their layer structure, and / or that the reception quality of radio signals can be particularly good.

[0071] Fig. Figure 6 shows a block diagram of an embodiment of an electronic circuit, for example, the electronic circuit 44 of one of the OLEDs 1 described above. The electronic circuit 44 comprises a processor 52, for example, a microprocessor. The processor 52 is coupled to a modulator 54. The modulator 54 is coupled to an amplifier 56, for example, a high-frequency amplifier. The amplifier 56 is coupled to a capacitor 58. The capacitor 58 is electrically coupled at a node on one side to the organic functional layer structure 22, for example, via the first electrode 20 or the second electrode 23, and on the other side to the antenna 42 or the antenna elements 43.

[0072] The processor 52 serves to generate an initial electrical signal based on initial information or initial data representing that initial information. This initial signal is provided to the modulator 54. The modulator 54 modulates the initial signal. The modulated initial signal is amplified by the amplifier 56. The amplified modulated signal is applied to the capacitor 58. The modulated, amplified initial signal is fed into the antenna 42, 43 at the junction via the capacitor 58. For example, a direct current can be modulated using the modulated initial signal, which flows through one of the electrodes 20, 23 and is used to generate the illumination of the OLED 1.

[0073] Fig. Figure 7 shows an example of a time-voltage diagram. The time-voltage diagram shows a first curve 70 of an example of the first signal and a second curve 72 of a DC voltage V_Bias, which causes the DC current to generate the illumination of the OLED 1.

[0074] For example, the implementation examples can be combined with each other. For example, the ones in the Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4 to Fig. 5 OLEDs shown 1 den in Fig. 1. The layer structure shown is shown. Furthermore, a single OLED 1 can have antennas 42 and / or antenna elements 43, as shown in the Fig. 2, Fig. 3 and / or 4 are shown. Furthermore, the OLEDs one, their luminescent surfaces 40, their antennas 42 and / or their antenna elements 43 may have different shapes and structures than those shown in the figures. REFERENCE MARK LIST 1 organic light-emitting component 12 carriers 14 metal layer structure 16 first contact section 18 second contact section 20 first electrode 21 Insulation barrier 22 organic functional layer structure 23 second electrode 24 Encapsulation layer 32 first contact area 34 second contact area 36 Adhesive layer 38 cover bodies 40 illuminated area 42 Antenna 44 electronic circuit 46 light 52 microprocessor 54 Modulator 56 amplifiers 58 Capacitor 60 Ground connection 70 Signal average 72 modulated signal V_Bias DC

Claims

Organic light-emitting device (1), comprising a metal layer structure (14) having a first electrode (20) and an antenna (42), an organic functional layer structure (22) over the first electrode (20), a second electrode (23) over the organic functional layer structure (22), an electronic circuit (44) which is electrically coupled at least to the antenna (42) and which is configured to apply a first electrical signal to the antenna (42) during operation of the organic light-emitting device (1), so that the antenna (42) emits a corresponding first electromagnetic signal, and / or to receive a second electrical signal from the antenna (42), which is generated on the basis of a second electromagnetic signal received by the antenna (42), wherein the antenna (42) serves as a current distribution structure for the uniform distribution of current over the first electrode (20) or the second electrode (23).the second electrode (23) serves. Organic light-emitting device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the antenna (42) is formed laterally next to the first electrode (20). Organic light-emitting device (1) according to claim 2, wherein the antenna (42) is electrically insulated from the first electrode (20). Organic light-emitting device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the antenna (42) is formed vertically above or below the first electrode (20). Organic light-emitting device (1) according to claim 4, wherein the antenna (42) is in direct physical contact with the first electrode (20). Organic light-emitting device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the antenna (42) is formed vertically above or below the second electrode (23). Organic light-emitting device (1) according to claim 6, wherein the antenna (42) is in direct physical contact with the second electrode (23). Organic light-emitting device (1) according to one of claims 5 or 7, wherein the antenna (42) is embedded in the organic functional layer structure (22). Organic light-emitting device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the antenna (42) is configured for transmitting and / or receiving frequencies in the GHz range. Method for producing an organic light-emitting device (1) in which a metal layer structure (14) comprising a first electrode (20) and an antenna (42) is formed, an organic functional layer structure (22) is formed over the first electrode (20), a second electrode (23) is formed over the organic functional layer structure (22), an electronic circuit (44) is electrically coupled to the antenna (42) and is configured to apply a first electrical signal to the antenna (42) during operation of the organic light-emitting device (1), such that the antenna (42) emits a corresponding first electromagnetic signal, and / or to receive a second electrical signal from the antenna (42), which is generated on the basis of a second electromagnetic signal received by the antenna (42).wherein the antenna (42) serves as a current distribution structure for the uniform distribution of current via the first electrode (20) or the second electrode (23). Method for operating an organic light-emitting device (1) comprising an antenna (42) integrated into the layered structure of the organic light-emitting device (1) and an electronic circuit (44), wherein, depending on a first piece of information, a first electrical signal is generated by means of the electronic circuit (44), the first electrical signal is applied to the antenna (42) so that the antenna (42) emits a corresponding first electromagnetic signal, and / or a second electromagnetic signal, which is representative of a second piece of information and which generates a second electrical signal in the antenna (42), is received by means of the antenna (42), and the second electrical signal is received by means of the electronic circuit (44), wherein the antenna (42) serves as a current distribution structure for the uniform distribution of current over the first electrode (20) orthe second electrode (23) serves. Method according to claim 11, in which an electric current is applied to the antenna (42) to cause the organic light-emitting component (1) to light up and the first electrical signal is generated by modulating the electric current by means of the electronic circuit (44) corresponding to the first information, wherein the antenna (42) is directly physically connected to an electrode (20, 23) of the organic light-emitting component (1) and is designed as a current distribution structure of the organic light-emitting component (1). Method according to claim 12, wherein the electric current for causing the luminous operation of the organic light-emitting component (1) is a direct current.

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