Light-emitting device and light-emitting module comprising same

A matrix-patterned light-emitting device with optimized electrode and insulating layer design addresses defects and stress issues, ensuring reliable operation and enhanced efficiency by uniform current distribution and reduced heat, while preventing moisture penetration and oxidation.

WO2026024043A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2026-01-29SEOUL VIOSYS CO LTD
View PDF 5 Cites 0 Cited by

Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/KR2025/010779
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2025-07-22
Filing Date
2025-07-22
Publication Date
2026-01-29

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing light-emitting devices face issues such as defective regions leading to non-operation, stress on insulating layers, moisture penetration, tilting, electrode breakage, oxidation of semiconductor layers, non-uniform current distribution, overheating, and reduced light extraction efficiency, among others.

Method used

The device includes a matrix-patterned arrangement of light-emitting cells surrounded by non-emitting regions, with electrodes designed to distribute current uniformly and reduce stress, and uses insulating layers with openings to prevent moisture and oxidation, while optimizing electrode widths to manage heat and resistance differences.

Benefits of technology

This design ensures normal operation even with defective cells, enhances light extraction efficiency, reduces stress and heat, prevents electrode breakage, and improves current distribution, resulting in improved performance and reliability.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

  • Figure KR2025010779_29012026_PF_FP_ABST
    Figure KR2025010779_29012026_PF_FP_ABST
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

The present invention provides a light-emitting device comprising: a plurality of light-emitting cells disposed to be spaced apart on a substrate; and a first electrode and a second electrode, which are connected to the plurality of light-emitting cells.
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

Light-emitting device and light-emitting module including the same

[0001] The present invention relates to a light-emitting device and a light-emitting module including the same.

[0002] A light-emitting diode (LED) is a type of light-emitting device that emits light when current is applied. Recently, LEDs have been widely used in various fields, such as display devices, vehicle lamps, and general lighting. Furthermore, LEDs boast long lifespans, low power consumption, and fast response times. Taking full advantage of these advantages, they are rapidly replacing existing light sources. For example, a display device utilizing LEDs can be obtained by forming structures of individually grown red (R), green (G), and blue (B) light-emitting diodes (LEDs) on a final substrate.

[0003] Specifically, a light-emitting diode is formed by growing epitaxial layers on a substrate, and includes an N-type semiconductor layer, a P-type semiconductor layer, and an active layer interposed therebetween. An N-electrode pad is formed on the N-type semiconductor layer, and a P-electrode pad is formed on the P-type semiconductor layer, so that the light-emitting diode is driven by being electrically connected to an external power source through the electrode pads. At this time, current can flow from the P-electrode pad through the semiconductor layers to the N-electrode pad, and light generated through recombination of electrons and holes in the active layer can be emitted.

[0004] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a light-emitting device capable of controlling a matrix-shaped light-emitting pattern and a light-emitting module including the same.

[0005] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a light-emitting device and a light-emitting module including the same, which form a plurality of light-emitting regions surrounded by non-light-emitting regions and enable the light-emitting device to operate normally even if some of the light-emitting regions are defective.

[0006] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a light-emitting device capable of preventing a light-emitting cell from breaking and not lighting up, and a light-emitting module including the same.

[0007] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a light-emitting device and a light-emitting module including the same, which can relieve stress applied to an insulating layer disposed on a light-emitting area, which is an upper surface area of ​​a light-emitting cell, and prevent moisture from penetrating due to peeling of the insulating layer.

[0008] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a light-emitting device and a light-emitting module including the same that can prevent the light-emitting cell from tilting due to the center of gravity of the light-emitting cell being shifted to one side of the light-emitting cell.

[0009] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a light-emitting device and a light-emitting module including the same that can prevent the finger electrode from breaking by increasing the flexibility of the finger electrode covering the light-emitting cell with respect to heat generated from the light-emitting cell.

[0010] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a light-emitting device capable of preventing a semiconductor layer of a light-emitting cell from being exposed and oxidized between an edge of a finger electrode covering a light-emitting area, which is an upper surface area of ​​a light-emitting cell, and an opening in an insulating layer, and a light-emitting module including the same.

[0011] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a light-emitting device and a light-emitting module including the same, which can prevent one side of a light-emitting device placed on a substrate from being excited by arranging the first electrode and the second electrode of the light-emitting device on opposite sides with respect to the light-emitting cells.

[0012] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a light-emitting device capable of preventing light intensity from being concentrated on a specific light-emitting cell by uniformly supplying current to a semiconductor layer of light-emitting cells, and a light-emitting module including the same.

[0013] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a light-emitting device and a light-emitting module including the same, which can reduce overheating of electrodes due to an increase in the difference in current injection amount caused by a difference in resistance by making the width of a second finger electrode connected to a first conductive semiconductor layer having a relatively low resistance smaller than the width of a first finger electrode connected to a second conductive semiconductor layer having a relatively high resistance.

[0014] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a light emitting device capable of increasing light extraction efficiency by light refraction by a side area of ​​a light emitting cell covered with a plurality of insulating materials, and a light emitting module including the same.

[0015] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a light-emitting device and a light-emitting module including the same, which can also perform the function of a lens that extracts light to the outside by making the width of the light-emitting cell gradually narrow in the thickness direction.

[0016] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a light-emitting device capable of reducing driving voltage and heat generation and a light-emitting module including the same.

[0017] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a light-emitting device and a light-emitting module including the same that can prevent an electrode electrically connected to a light-emitting cell from being short-circuited even when a substrate shrinks or expands.

[0018] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a light-emitting device capable of improving current diffusion to a light-emitting cell and a light-emitting module including the same.

[0019] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a light-emitting device and a light-emitting module including the same that can prevent excessive electron generation, thereby preventing leakage current generation and increasing resistance.

[0020] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a light-emitting device and a light-emitting module including the same that can reduce light loss, prevent light interference, and increase light extraction efficiency through light reflection, light refraction, and light path guide.

[0021] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a light-emitting device capable of increasing heat dissipation efficiency and heat dissipation performance and a light-emitting module including the same.

[0022] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a light-emitting device capable of preventing moisture penetration into light-emitting cells and increasing bonding strength between adjacent light-emitting cells, and a light-emitting module including the same.

[0023] A light-emitting device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of light-emitting cells spaced apart from each other on a substrate, and a first electrode and a second electrode connected to the plurality of light-emitting cells.

[0024] In one embodiment, the light-emitting cell may be a mesa comprising an active layer that generates light.

[0025] In one embodiment, the length of one side of the light-emitting region provided on the upper surface of the light-emitting cell may be 2 to 50 times the height of the light-emitting cell.

[0026] In one embodiment, the plurality of light-emitting cells are arranged in an M×N matrix pattern (M and N are natural numbers), and each may be surrounded by a non-light-emitting region.

[0027] In one embodiment, the device may further include a first insulating layer disposed on top of the plurality of light-emitting cells.

[0028] In one embodiment, the first insulating layer may include a first opening disposed on the light-emitting region.

[0029] In one embodiment, the first insulating layer may further include a second opening disposed on the non-luminescent region.

[0030] In one embodiment, the first electrode may pass over the upper portion of the light-emitting regions and be electrically connected to the light-emitting cell through the first opening.

[0031] In one embodiment, the second electrode can be electrically connected to the light-emitting cell through the second opening.

[0032] In one embodiment, the second electrode may include a second finger electrode extending between the light-emitting cells.

[0033] In one embodiment, the first finger electrode may extend in a first direction parallel to one side of the substrate on a plane.

[0034] In one embodiment, the second finger electrode may extend in a first direction parallel to one side of the substrate on a plane.

[0035] In one embodiment, the first finger electrode and the second finger electrode may be arranged alternately along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0036] In one embodiment, the first electrode may further include a first connection electrode disposed at one end of the first direction and connected to the first finger electrode.

[0037] In one embodiment, the second electrode may further include a second connecting electrode disposed at the first directional end and connected to the second finger electrode.

[0038] In one embodiment, the first opening may be formed at a position overlapping an intersection point where two diagonals connecting the vertices of the light-emitting area intersect.

[0039] In one embodiment, the width of the first finger electrode may be equal to or greater than the diameter of the first opening.

[0040] In one embodiment, the width of the first finger electrode may be 0.4 times or less of the width of the light-emitting region.

[0041] In one embodiment, the second insulating layer may further be disposed on top of the first insulating layer.

[0042] In one embodiment, the second insulating layer may include a first opening exposing a portion of the first electrode.

[0043] In one embodiment, the device may further include a first electrode pad connected to the first electrode through the first opening.

[0044] In one embodiment, the device may further include an ohmic electrode disposed above the light-emitting cell.

[0045] In one embodiment, the first finger electrode may be formed in a mesh shape passing over the upper portion of the light-emitting regions.

[0046] In one embodiment, the first electrode may include a plurality of first electrode pads connected to the first finger electrode.

[0047] In one embodiment, the first finger electrode may further include a blocking region for blocking electrical connection between adjacent light-emitting cells.

[0048] A light-emitting device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of light-emitting cells arranged spaced apart from each other; and a first electrode and a second electrode connected to the plurality of light-emitting cells, wherein the first electrode may include a blocking region for blocking electrical connection between adjacent light-emitting cells.

[0049] The present invention can provide a light-emitting device capable of controlling a matrix-shaped light-emitting pattern and a light-emitting module including the same.

[0050] The present invention can provide a light-emitting device and a light-emitting module including the same, which form a plurality of light-emitting regions surrounded by non-light-emitting regions and enable the light-emitting device to operate normally even if some of the light-emitting regions are defective.

[0051] The present invention can provide a light-emitting device capable of preventing a light-emitting cell from breaking and not lighting up, and a light-emitting module including the same.

[0052] The present invention can provide a light-emitting device and a light-emitting module including the same, which can relieve stress acting on an insulating layer disposed on a light-emitting area, which is an upper surface area of ​​a light-emitting cell, and prevent moisture from penetrating due to peeling of the insulating layer.

[0053] The present invention can provide a light-emitting device and a light-emitting module including the same that can prevent the light-emitting cell from tilting due to the center of gravity of the light-emitting cell being shifted to one side of the light-emitting cell.

[0054] The present invention can provide a light-emitting device and a light-emitting module including the same that can prevent the finger electrode from breaking by increasing the flexibility of the finger electrode covering the light-emitting cell with respect to heat generated from the light-emitting cell.

[0055] The present invention can provide a light-emitting device and a light-emitting module including the same that can prevent a semiconductor layer of a light-emitting cell from being exposed and oxidized between an edge of a finger electrode covering a light-emitting area, which is an upper surface area of ​​the light-emitting cell, and an opening in an insulating layer.

[0056] The present invention can provide a light-emitting device and a light-emitting module including the same, which can prevent one side of a light-emitting device placed on a substrate from being excited by arranging the first electrode and the second electrode of the light-emitting device on opposite sides with respect to light-emitting cells.

[0057] The present invention can provide a light-emitting device and a light-emitting module including the same that can prevent light intensity from being concentrated on a specific light-emitting cell by uniformly supplying current to a semiconductor layer of light-emitting cells.

[0058] The present invention provides a light-emitting device and a light-emitting module including the same, which can reduce overheating of electrodes due to an increase in the difference in current injection amount caused by a difference in resistance by making the width of a second finger electrode connected to a first conductive semiconductor layer having a relatively low resistance smaller than the width of a first finger electrode connected to a second conductive semiconductor layer having a relatively high resistance.

[0059] The present invention can provide a light emitting device capable of increasing light extraction efficiency by light refraction by a side area of ​​a light emitting cell covered with a plurality of insulating materials, and a light emitting module including the same.

[0060] The present invention can provide a light-emitting device and a light-emitting module including the same, which can also perform the function of a lens that extracts light to the outside by gradually narrowing the width of the light-emitting cell in the thickness direction.

[0061] The present invention can provide a light-emitting device capable of reducing driving voltage and heat generation and a light-emitting module including the same.

[0062] The present invention can provide a light-emitting device and a light-emitting module including the same that can prevent an electrode electrically connected to a light-emitting cell from being short-circuited even when a substrate shrinks or expands.

[0063] The present invention can provide a light-emitting device capable of improving current diffusion to a light-emitting cell and a light-emitting module including the same.

[0064] The present invention can provide a light-emitting device and a light-emitting module including the same that can prevent excessive electron generation, thereby preventing leakage current generation and increasing resistance.

[0065] The present invention can provide a light-emitting device and a light-emitting module including the same that can reduce light loss, prevent light interference, and increase light extraction efficiency through light reflection, light refraction, and light path guide.

[0066] The present invention can provide a light-emitting device capable of increasing heat dissipation efficiency and heat dissipation performance and a light-emitting module including the same.

[0067] The present invention can provide a light-emitting device and a light-emitting module including the same that can prevent moisture penetration into light-emitting cells and increase bonding strength between adjacent light-emitting cells.

[0068] FIG. 1 is a schematic plan view of a light-emitting module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Figure 2 is a plan view showing a light emitting device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 3 is a real image showing the light emitting device of Figure 2.

[0071] Figure 4a is a cross-sectional view taken along line Ⅰ-Ⅰ' of Figure 2.

[0072] Figure 4b is a conceptual drawing illustrating part of the configuration of Figure 4a.

[0073] Figure 4c is a plan view of Figure 4b.

[0074] Figure 5 is a modified example of Figure 4a.

[0075] FIG. 6a is a plan view showing a light emitting device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] FIG. 6b is a plan view showing a light emitting device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] Fig. 7a is a drawing showing a light-emitting device in which all light-emitting cells are capable of normal operation, and Fig. 7b is a drawing showing the light-emitting state of the light-emitting device.

[0078] Fig. 8a is a drawing showing a light-emitting device with some defective light-emitting cells, and Fig. 8b is a drawing showing the light-emitting state of the light-emitting device.

[0079] Fig. 9a is a drawing showing a light-emitting device with some defective light-emitting cells, and Fig. 9b is a drawing showing the light-emitting state of the light-emitting device.

[0080] FIG. 10 is a graph showing the luminous intensity spectrum of the light emitting devices of FIG. 7a, FIG. 8a, and FIG. 9a.

[0081] FIG. 11 is a graph showing the EQE of the light emitting devices of FIG. 7a, FIG. 8a, and FIG. 9a.

[0082] Fig. 12 is a plan view showing a light-emitting module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0083] Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line Ⅱ-Ⅱ' of Fig. 12.

[0084] Fig. 14 is a modified example of the light emitting device of Fig. 12.

[0085] Fig. 15 is a conceptual diagram explaining the electrode connection method of the light emitting device of Fig. 14.

[0086] Fig. 16 is a plan view showing a light-emitting module according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0087] Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the light emitting device of Fig. 16.

[0088] Fig. 18 is a top view of a light emitting device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line Ⅰ-Ⅰ' of Fig. 18.

[0090] Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line Ⅱ-Ⅱ' of Figure 18.

[0091] In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of various embodiments or implementations of the present disclosure. As used herein, the terms "embodiment" and "implementation" are interchangeable to refer to non-limiting examples of devices or methods that utilize one or more of the inventive concepts disclosed herein. However, it will be apparent that various embodiments may be practiced without utilizing these specific details or using one or more equivalent arrangements. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the various embodiments. Furthermore, while the various embodiments may vary from one another, they are not necessarily exclusive. For example, specific features, configurations, and characteristics of an embodiment may be utilized or implemented in other embodiments without departing from the scope of the inventive concepts.

[0092] Unless otherwise specified, the illustrated embodiments should be understood to provide exemplary features of varying details of some ways in which the concepts of the present invention may be practically implemented. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, the features, components, modules, layers, membranes, panels, regions, and / or aspects (hereinafter, individually or collectively referred to as "elements") of the various embodiments may be differently combined, separated, interchanged, and / or rearranged without departing from the scope of the concepts of the present invention.

[0093] The use of cross-hatching and / or shading in the accompanying drawings is generally provided to clarify boundaries between adjacent elements. As such, the presence or absence of cross-hatching or shading, unless expressly stated, does not imply or indicate any preference or requirement for any particular material, material properties, dimensions, proportions, commonality between the illustrated elements, and / or any other features, properties, or characteristics of the elements. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the dimensions and relative sizes of elements may be exaggerated for clarity and / or illustrative purposes. When embodiments are implemented differently, certain process sequences may be performed differently from the illustrated sequence. For example, two consecutively illustrated processes may be performed substantially simultaneously or in a reverse order from the illustrated sequence. Furthermore, like reference numerals designate like elements.

[0094] When an element, such as a layer, is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "joined to" another element or layer, the element may be directly on, connected to, or joined to the other element or layer, or there may be intervening elements or layers present. However, when an element or layer is referred to as being "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly joined to" another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. For this purpose, the term "connected" may refer to physical, electrical, and / or fluidic connections, with or without intervening elements. Furthermore, the DR1-axis, DR2-axis, and DR3-axis are not limited to the three axes of a Cartesian coordinate system, such as the x, y, and z-axes, and may be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the DR1-axis, DR2-axis, and DR3-axis may be perpendicular to one another, or may represent different directions that are not perpendicular to one another. For purposes of this disclosure, “at least one of X, Y, and Z” and “at least one selected from the group consisting of X, Y, and Z” may be interpreted as only X, only Y, only Z, or any combination of two or more of X, Y, and Z, such as, for example, XYZ, XYY, YZ, and ZZ. The term “and / or” as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0095] Although the terms "first," "second," and the like may be used herein to describe various types of elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element from another. Therefore, the first element discussed below may be referred to as the second element without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0096] Spatially relative terms such as "beneath," "beneath," "directly beneath," "lower," "above," "upper," "above," "higher than," "side" (as in, for example, a "side wall"), and the like may be used for descriptive purposes and thereby to describe the relationship of one element to other element(s) as depicted in the drawings. Spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use, operation, and / or manufacture in addition to the orientations depicted in the drawings. For example, if the device in the drawings were turned over, an element described as "beneath" or "beneath" another element or feature would then be oriented "above" the other element or feature. Therefore, the exemplary term "beneath" can encompass both orientations above and below. Furthermore, the device can be oriented differently (e.g., rotated 90° or oriented in other orientations), and thus the spatially relative descriptors used herein can also be interpreted accordingly.

[0097] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not limiting. The singular forms "a," "an," and "the" as used herein also include the plural forms unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Furthermore, the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," and / or "comprising" as used herein specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. Furthermore, the terms "substantially," "about," and other similar terms as used herein are used as terms of approximation rather than degrees, and as such, are used to describe inherent deviations from measured, calculated, and / or provided values ​​that would be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0098] Various embodiments are described below with reference to cross-sectional and / or exploded illustrations, which are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments and / or intermediate structures. As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrated drawings may be expected, for example, as a result of manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed herein should not necessarily be construed as limited to the shapes of specific illustrated regions, but should be construed to include, for example, deviations in shape resulting from manufacturing. In this way, the regions depicted in the drawings may be schematic in nature, and the shapes of these regions may not reflect the actual shapes of regions of the device, and as such, are not necessarily intended to have a limiting meaning.

[0099] As is conventional in the art, some embodiments may be illustrated and described in the accompanying drawings in terms of functional blocks, units, and / or modules. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that these blocks, units, and / or modules are physically implemented by electronic (or optical) circuits such as logic circuits, discrete components, microprocessors, wiring circuits, memory elements, and wiring connections formed using semiconductor-based or other manufacturing techniques. When the blocks, units, and / or modules are implemented by microprocessors or other similar hardware, they may be programmed and controlled using software (e.g., microcode) to perform the various functions discussed herein, and optionally, may be driven by firmware and / or software. Furthermore, each block, unit, and / or module may be implemented by dedicated hardware, or by a combination of dedicated hardware for performing some functions and processors (e.g., one or more programmed processors and associated circuitry) for performing other functions. Additionally, the blocks, units, and / or modules of some embodiments may be physically separated into two or more interacting and individual blocks, units, and / or modules without departing from the scope of the present invention. Additionally, the blocks, units, and / or modules of some embodiments may be physically combined into more complex blocks, units, and / or modules without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0100] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical or scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Terms defined in commonly used dictionaries, such as terms defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted to have a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and should not be interpreted in an idealistic or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0101] Hereinafter, the light emitting device of the present invention and the light emitting module including the same will be described in detail through drawings.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 1, the light emitting device (100) of the present invention may be provided in one or more numbers to form one light emitting module (1000).

[0103] Specifically, the light-emitting module (1000) may include a substrate (1010) and a plurality of light-emitting devices (100) arranged on the substrate (1010). The substrate (1010) may be a circuit board, a light-transmitting substrate, a glass substrate, a TFT substrate, a polymer substrate, a flexible substrate, a polyimide substrate, etc., and is not limited to a specific substrate. The substrate (1010) may be formed with a larger area than the light-emitting device (100).

[0104] The above light emitting device (100) may be formed in a polygonal shape on a plane, for example, may be formed in a square shape. The length of one side of the light emitting device (100) may be 200 μm or less. The area of ​​the light emitting device (100) may be 40,000 μm2 or less.

[0105] The above light emitting device (100) may be provided in plurality, and the plurality of light emitting devices (100) may be grouped to form one group (PX). One group (PX) may emit light having a single color or a single peak wavelength. Alternatively, one group (PX) may emit light having multiple colors or multiple peak wavelengths. Light having multiple colors or multiple peak wavelengths may be formed by making the peak wavelengths of lights emitted from the plurality of light emitting devices (100) different from each other, or by arranging a wavelength conversion material on the upper portion of the light emitting device (100).

[0106] The above light-emitting device (100) may include a plurality of light-emitting cells (130) spaced apart from each other on a substrate (110), and a first electrode (160) and a second electrode (170) connected to the plurality of light-emitting cells (130).

[0107] The substrate (110) is not limited to a specific substrate on which the light-emitting cells (130) are arranged. For example, the substrate (110) may include a heterogeneous substrate such as a sapphire substrate, a gallium arsenide substrate, a silicon substrate, a silicon carbide substrate, or a spinel substrate, and may also include a homogeneous substrate such as a gallium nitride substrate, an aluminum nitride substrate, or the like. The substrate (110) may include a conductive pattern, and the conductive pattern may be arranged on the upper portion of the substrate (110), or may be arranged inside the substrate (110), or may penetrate the substrate (110).

[0108] The light emitting device (100) may further include a first conductive semiconductor layer (120) disposed on a substrate (110). The first conductive semiconductor layer (120) may include a phosphide or nitride semiconductor such as (Al, Ga, In)P or (Al, Ga, In)N, and may be disposed on the substrate using a method such as MOCVD, MBE, or HVPE. In addition, the first conductive semiconductor layer (120) may be doped to be n-type by including one or more impurities such as Si, C, Ge, Sn, Te, or Pb. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the first conductive semiconductor layer (120) may also be doped to be of the opposite conductive type by including a p-type dopant.

[0109] The above light-emitting cells (130) may be light-emitting structures spaced apart from each other on the substrate (110). The above light-emitting cells (130) may be mesas that are formed protrudingly on the substrate (110).

[0110] The above light-emitting cell (130) may include a first conductive semiconductor layer (120), an active layer (121), and a second conductive semiconductor layer (123).

[0111] A portion of the first conductive semiconductor layer (120) disposed on the substrate (110) may be included in the mesa of the light-emitting cell (130).

[0112] The active layer (121) may be a light-emitting layer disposed on the first conductive semiconductor layer (120). The active layer (121) is a light-emitting layer formed on the first conductive semiconductor layer (120), and may include a phosphide or nitride semiconductor such as (Al, Ga, In)P or (Al, Ga, In)N, and may be grown on the first conductive semiconductor layer (120) using a technique such as MOCVD, MBE, or HVPE. In addition, the active layer (121) may include a quantum well structure (QW) including at least two barrier layers and at least one well layer, and further may include a multiple quantum well structure (MQW) including a plurality of barrier layers and a plurality of well layers. The wavelength of light emitted from the active layer (121) may be controlled by controlling the composition ratio of the material constituting the well layers.

[0113] The second conductive semiconductor layer (123) may be a semiconductor layer disposed on the active layer (121). The second conductive semiconductor layer (123) may include a phosphide-based or nitride-based semiconductor such as (Al, Ga, In)P or (Al, Ga, In)N, and may be grown using a technique such as MOCVD, MBE, or HVPE. The second conductive semiconductor layer (123) may be doped with a conductive type opposite to that of the first conductive semiconductor layer (120). For example, the second conductive semiconductor layer (123) may be doped with a p-type by including an impurity such as Mg.

[0114] Referring to FIGS. 4b and 4c, the light-emitting cell (130) may be a mesa having a height (H1) and may have a light-emitting region (ER) provided on its upper surface. The corners of the light-emitting cell (130) may have a curvature. Accordingly, light may be prevented from being concentrated at the corners of the light-emitting cell (130), thereby allowing light to be uniformly emitted from the entire light-emitting cell (130).

[0115] The height (H1) of the above light-emitting cell (130) may be 1 to 2 μm.

[0116] The above-mentioned light-emitting region (ER) may be formed in a polygonal shape on a plane, and for example, may be formed in a square shape. The length (W1 or W2) of one side of the light-emitting region (ER) may be 2 to 50 times the height (H1) of the light-emitting cell (130). That is, H1:W1 or H1:W2 may have a ratio of a:b. When a is 1, b may be 2 or more and 50 or less. Accordingly, by forming the center of gravity of the light-emitting cell (130) low, even if the area of ​​the light-emitting region (ER) is reduced, the light-emitting cell (130) can be prevented from breaking and not turning on.

[0117] Table 1 below shows the defect rate (%) and EQE (%) when the length of one side (W1 or W2) of the light-emitting area (ER) is changed with respect to the height (H1) of the light-emitting cell (130).

[0118] H1(μm)W1 or W2 (μm)a:bDefect rate(%)EQE(%)10.51:0.5239.1111:12010.4121:2912.5151:51212.41101:101012.61201:201112.81301:30912.71401:401212.81501:501012.61601:60189.51701:70307.81801:80486.91901:90575.311001:100634.1

[0119] When the length (W1 or W2) of one side of the above-mentioned light-emitting region (ER) is in the range of 2 to 50 times the height (H1) of the light-emitting cell (130), it can be seen that the defect rate (%) is maintained at a low level, being 10% or less. In addition, it can be seen that when the length (W1 or W2) of one side of the above-mentioned light-emitting region (ER) is in the range of 2 to 50 times the height (H1) of the light-emitting cell (130), the EQE (External Quantum Efficiency) is maintained at a relatively high level, being able to increase the light efficiency.

[0120] The above-described plurality of light-emitting cells (130) are arranged in an M×N matrix pattern (M and N are natural numbers), and each may be surrounded by at least a portion of a non-light-emitting region. Here, the non-light-emitting region may be an area excluding the light-emitting region (ER), which is the upper surface area of ​​the light-emitting cells (130) on a plane.

[0121] For example, FIG. 2 illustrates an example in which six light-emitting cells (130) are arranged in a 2×3 matrix pattern on a plane parallel to a first direction and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The number or arrangement pattern of the light-emitting cells (130) is not limited thereto. For example, an example in which 28 light-emitting cells (130) are arranged in a 4×7 matrix pattern as in FIG. 6a, or an example in which 9 light-emitting cells (130) are arranged in a 3×3 matrix pattern as in FIG. 6b, are also possible.

[0122] The above light emitting device (100) may further include an ohmic electrode (140) placed above the light emitting cell (130).

[0123] The above ohmic electrode (140) is a layer formed in a size corresponding to or smaller than the light-emitting area (ER), and can distinguish the light-emitting area (ER). The ohmic electrode (140) can be arranged on the upper surface of each light-emitting cell (130) and spaced apart from each other. Accordingly, the ohmic electrodes (140) can also be arranged in an M×N matrix pattern (M and N are natural numbers).

[0124] The above light emitting device (100) may further include a first insulating layer (150) disposed above the plurality of light emitting cells (130).

[0125] The first insulating layer (150) is an insulating layer covering the light-emitting region (ER) and the non-light-emitting region, and may be placed on top of the ohmic electrode (140). The first insulating layer (150) may include a first opening (152) placed on the light-emitting region (ER).

[0126] The above first opening (152) may be arranged in at least one number per light-emitting area (ER). A portion of the ohmic electrode (140) may be exposed through the first opening (152).

[0127] The above first opening (152) can be formed in various shapes and can be different from the shape of the light-emitting area (ER). Accordingly, the distance of the first insulating layer (150) from the boundary of the light-emitting area (ER) to the first opening (152) can be varied, thereby alleviating stress applied to the first insulating layer (150), and preventing the first insulating layer (150) from peeling off near the first opening (152) and moisture from penetrating.

[0128] For example, the first opening (152) may be a circular opening as illustrated in FIG. 2. The diameter (Da) of the first opening (152) may be formed in various sizes, but may be less than or equal to the length (W1 or W2) of one side of the light-emitting region (ER). More preferably, the diameter (Da) of the first opening (152) may be less than or equal to 0.5 times the length (W1 or W2) of one side of the light-emitting region (ER).

[0129] Referring to FIG. 4c, the first opening (152) may be formed at a position overlapping with an intersection (CR) where two diagonals (L1, L2) connecting the vertices of the light-emitting region (ER) intersect. Accordingly, the center of gravity of the light-emitting cell (130) may be shifted to one side of the light-emitting cell (130), thereby preventing the light-emitting cell (130) from tilting.

[0130] The center point of the first opening (152) may coincide with or be spaced apart from the intersection point (CR).

[0131] Since the first opening (152) forms a region with low light absorption, the light emission efficiency can be increased at the center of the light emission region (ER). In addition, current can be uniformly injected into the light emission region (ER) through the first opening (152).

[0132] The first insulating layer (150) may further include a second opening (154) disposed on a non-emitting region. The first conductive semiconductor layer (120) on the non-emitting region may be exposed through the second opening (154).

[0133] The first electrode (160) and the second electrode (170) may be electrodes connected to a plurality of light-emitting cells (130).

[0134] First, the first electrode (160) is placed on the first insulating layer (150) and can be connected to the second conductive semiconductor layer (123) of the light-emitting cell (130) through the first opening (152).

[0135] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the first electrode (160) may include a first finger electrode (164) that passes over the upper portion of the light-emitting regions (ER) and is electrically connected to the light-emitting cell (130) through the first opening (152).

[0136] The first finger electrode (164) may be an extension electrode extending in a first direction parallel to one side of the substrate (110) on a plane. The extension direction of the first finger electrode (164) may coincide with the first direction in which the light-emitting cells (130) covered by the first finger electrode (164) are arranged.

[0137] The first finger electrode (164) may be formed as a single unit, or, when the light-emitting cells (130) are arranged in multiple rows, the first finger electrode (164) may also be provided in multiple units. The multiple finger electrodes (164) may be arranged in parallel along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0138] The above first finger electrode (164) may extend past the upper surface of the light-emitting cell (130) to another adjacent light-emitting cell (130) and may have a width (W3) perpendicular to the extension direction (second direction length).

[0139] The first finger electrode (164) is an electrode that passes over the upper surface of the light-emitting cells (130). A part of the first finger electrode (164) may cover the upper surface of the light-emitting cells (130), and another part may cover the side surface of the light-emitting cells (130) along the first direction of the light-emitting cells (130). Therefore, the side surface where the light-emitting cells (130) are arranged in the first direction is supported by the first finger electrode (164), so that the light-emitting cells (130) can be prevented from being tilted in the first direction and short-circuited.

[0140] The width (W3) of the first finger electrode (164) may be 0.4 times or less than the width (W1) of the light-emitting region (ER). In addition, the first finger electrode (164) may be formed with a thin thickness. Accordingly, the first finger electrode (164) may be easily extended and formed in a close contact state, and the flexibility of the first finger electrode (164) may be increased against heat generated from the light-emitting cell (130), thereby preventing the first finger electrode (164) from being broken.

[0141] In addition, the width (W3) of the first finger electrode (164) may be equal to or greater than the diameter (Da) of the first opening (152). Accordingly, the second conductive semiconductor layer (123) may be prevented from being exposed and oxidized between the edge of the first finger electrode (164) and the first opening (152).

[0142] The first electrode (160) may further include a first connection electrode (162) disposed at one end of the first direction and connected to the first finger electrode (164). The first connection electrode (162) may be a main electrode and a center electrode connected to the first finger electrodes (164). The first electrode (160) is disposed on the opposite side of the second electrode (170) and the light-emitting cells (130) to be described later, thereby maintaining balance, thereby preventing one side of the light-emitting device (100) disposed on the substrate (1010) of the light-emitting module (1000) from being lifted.

[0143] The second electrode (170) can be electrically connected to the light-emitting cell (130) through the second opening (154). The second electrode (170) can be connected to the first conductive semiconductor layer (120) exposed through the second opening (154) of the first insulating layer (150).

[0144] The second electrode (170) may include a second finger electrode (174) extending between the light-emitting cells (130).

[0145] The second finger electrode (174) may be an extension electrode extending in a first direction parallel to one side of the substrate (110) on a plane. The first direction may be parallel to a first direction in which the light-emitting cells (130) connected to one first finger electrode (164) are arranged. Therefore, by making the side surfaces of the light-emitting cells (130) and the second finger electrode (174) parallel, current can be uniformly supplied to the first conductive semiconductor layer (120) included in the light-emitting cells (130), thereby preventing light intensity from being concentrated on a specific light-emitting cell (130).

[0146] When the above light-emitting cells (130) are arranged in multiple rows, the second finger electrodes (174) may also be provided in multiple rows. The plurality of second finger electrodes (174) may be arranged in parallel along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0147] The above second finger electrode (174) can extend in the first direction between adjacent light-emitting cells (130) and can have a width (w4) perpendicular to the extension direction.

[0148] The second finger electrode (174) is an electrode that crosses between the light-emitting cells (130) arranged in the first direction, and a part of the second finger electrode (174) can be placed between the light-emitting cells (130) arranged in the second direction.

[0149] The width (w4) of the second finger electrode (174) may be smaller than the width (W3) of the first finger electrode (164). By making the width (W4) of the second finger electrode (174) electrically connected to the first conductive semiconductor layer (120) having lower resistance smaller than the width (W3) of the first finger electrode (164) electrically connected to the second conductive semiconductor layer (123) having relatively higher resistance, it is possible to reduce overheating of the electrode due to a difference in the amount of current injected increasing due to a difference in resistance.

[0150] The second finger electrode (174) is an electrode placed in a non-luminous region, and when not lit in the luminous region (ER), the rows in which the luminous cells (130) are placed can be clearly distinguished by the second finger electrode (174).

[0151] The width (w4) of the second finger electrode (174) in the second direction perpendicular to the first direction may be less than half of one side length (W1 or W2) of the light-emitting region (ER). Accordingly, when the light-emitting region (ER) is turned on, the boundary between the light-emitting regions (ER) may not be clearly visible, and a plurality of light-emitting regions (ER) may appear as one light-emitting region.

[0152] The end of the second finger electrode (174) may extend to the same line as the boundary of the light-emitting cell (130) arranged at the outermost part on the substrate (110), or may extend beyond the boundary of the light-emitting cell (130). Through this, current can be supplied evenly to each light-emitting cell (130), and current can be prevented from being excessively concentrated in a specific area.

[0153] Additionally, the first finger electrode (164) and the second finger electrode (174) may be arranged alternately along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0154] The first finger electrode (164) and the second finger electrode (174) can increase light extraction efficiency by reflecting light when the light-emitting region (ER) is turned on.

[0155] The second electrode (170) may further include a second connection electrode (172) that is positioned at the first directional end and connected to the second finger electrode (174). The second connection electrode (172) may be a central electrode that is connected to the second finger electrodes (174) as a main electrode.

[0156] The second connecting electrode (172) may be placed at an end facing the first connecting electrode (162) with the light emitting cells (130) interposed therebetween. Accordingly, the phenomenon of one side of the light emitting device (100) placed on the substrate (1010) in the light emitting module (1000) being lifted can be prevented.

[0157] That is, the first connecting electrode (162) may be placed at one end in the first direction and the second connecting electrode (172) may be placed at the other end in the first direction, but this is only an example and the first connecting electrode (162) and the second connecting electrode (172) may be placed at various positions on the non-emitting region.

[0158] The above light emitting device (100) may further include a second insulating layer (180) disposed on top of the first insulating layer (150).

[0159] The second insulating layer (180) may be an insulating layer covering the first electrode (160) and the second electrode (170). The second insulating layer (180) may include a first opening (182) exposing a portion of the first electrode (160).

[0160] The first opening (182) of the second insulating layer (180) may be formed on the first connection electrode (162) of the first electrode (160). A portion of the first connection electrode (162) may be exposed through the first opening (182). By arranging the first opening (182) at a position spaced apart from the light-emitting cell (130), the area of ​​the side surface of the light-emitting cell (130) covered with an insulating material may be increased, and the light extraction efficiency may be increased by light refraction by the side surface area of ​​the light-emitting cell (130) covered with a plurality of insulating materials.

[0161] The light emitting device (100) may further include a first electrode pad (192) electrically connected to the first electrode (160) through the first opening (182). The light emitting device (100) may be electrically connected to a substrate (1010) through the first electrode pad (192).

[0162] The second insulating layer (180) may include a second opening (184) that exposes a portion of the second electrode (170).

[0163] The second opening (184) of the second insulating layer (180) may be formed on the second connecting electrode (172) of the second electrode (170). A portion of the second connecting electrode (172) may be exposed through the second opening (184).

[0164] The light emitting device (100) may further include a second electrode pad (194) that is electrically connected to the second electrode (170) through the second opening (184). The light emitting device (100) may be electrically connected to the substrate (1010) through the second electrode pad (194).

[0165] Next, FIG. 5 is a modified example of the light emitting device (100) of FIGS. 2 to 4c, which may be configured identically or similarly to the light emitting device (100) of FIGS. 2 to 4c, except that the first conductive semiconductor layer (120) is an isolated structure for each light emitting cell (130).

[0166] In the case of the light emitting device (100) of FIGS. 2 to 4c, a first conductive semiconductor layer (120) is formed thickly on a substrate (110) and light emitting cells (130) of a mesa structure are arranged on the first conductive semiconductor layer (120). In contrast, in the light emitting device (100) of FIG. 5, the first conductive semiconductor layer (120) may be etched between the light emitting cells (130) so that the upper surface of the substrate (110) may be exposed. Accordingly, the light generated from each light emitting cell (130) may be distinguished from each other, so that the light emitting pattern may be viewed in a matrix form.

[0167] Next, FIG. 6a is a light emitting device (200) according to another embodiment, which can be configured identically or similarly to the light emitting device (100) of FIGS. 2 to 4c except for the number and arrangement of light emitting cells (130).

[0168] The light emitting device (200) of FIG. 6A includes a larger number of light emitting cells (130), and the light emitting cells (130) can be arranged in a 4×7 matrix pattern. The number of rows and columns in the matrix pattern is not limited, and the light emitting cells (130) can be arranged in an M×N (M and N are 1 or more) matrix pattern.

[0169] Next, Fig. 6b is a light emitting device (300) according to another embodiment, and the differences from the light emitting device (100) of Figs. 2 to 4c will be described.

[0170] In the light-emitting cell (300) of the above light-emitting device (300), the light-emitting region (ER) may be configured in a rectangular shape in which the first direction length is longer than the second direction length perpendicular to the first direction. This is exemplary, and it is obvious that the light-emitting region (ER) may also be configured in a rectangular shape in which the first direction length is shorter than the second direction length perpendicular to the first direction.

[0171] In addition, in the light-emitting device (300), the second electrode (170) may include only one second finger electrode (174). That is, the second finger electrodes (174) do not need to be provided in multiple numbers, and it is sufficient to provide at least one. The second finger electrodes (174) may be arranged at the outermost part of the non-light-emitting region or may be arranged between neighboring first finger electrodes (164).

[0172] FIG. 7a is a real photograph showing the light emitting device (100) of FIGS. 2 to 4c, in which the light emitting area (ER) of each light emitting cell (130) is depicted separately in a non-illuminated state of the light emitting device (100).

[0173] Fig. 7b is a drawing showing the light-emitting device (100) of Fig. 7a in a lit state, and it can be seen that each light-emitting cell (130) is separated and a matrix-shaped light-emitting pattern appears from one light-emitting cell (130).

[0174] Since a single light-emitting device (100) includes a plurality of light-emitting cells (130), some of the light-emitting cells (130) can be controlled not to light up, thereby controlling a matrix-shaped light-emitting pattern. For example, some of the light-emitting cells (130) can be turned off to change the light-emitting pattern so that only the light-emitting cells (130) that the user wants to light up are turned on. Alternatively, some of the light-emitting cells (130) can be turned off to control the current density or voltage applied to the light-emitting cells (130).

[0175] Or, at least one light-emitting cell (130) may not light up normally due to a defect, and as a result, the operation of other light-emitting cells (130) may be affected, making it impossible to use the entire light-emitting device (100) as a good product. In other words, even if only some of the light-emitting cells (130) are defective, the entire light-emitting device (100) must be replaced, which may be very inefficient in terms of production cost and time. Therefore, the light-emitting device (100) according to the present invention can greatly improve productivity by ensuring that the entire light-emitting device (100) can operate normally even if some of the light-emitting cells (130) are defective.

[0176] Specifically, the first finger electrode (164) of the light emitting device (100) may include a blocking area (LC) for blocking electrical connection between adjacent light emitting cells (130).

[0177] The above blocking area (LC) is configured to block the current path through the first finger electrode (164), and various configurations are possible. For example, the blocking area (LC) may be an open area where the first finger electrode (164) is disconnected. The blocking area (LC) may be formed by removing a portion of the first finger electrode (164) using a laser or other physical means.

[0178] A single light emitting device (100) may include one blocking area (LC) or may include multiple blocking areas (LC) in different forms.

[0179] Referring to Fig. 7c, since the blocking area (LC) is configured to block current movement through the first finger electrode (164), current can flow from the first connection electrode (162) to the blocking area (LC), but current cannot flow from the blocking area (LC) to the end of the first finger electrode (164). Accordingly, the blocking area (LC) can block the light-emitting cell (130) positioned after the blocking area (LC) from being turned on.

[0180] A blocking region (LC) can be placed between one light-emitting cell (130) and an adjacent light-emitting cell (130). Therefore, metal particles that may exist in the blocking region (LC) can be prevented from moving to the lit light-emitting cell (130) and increasing the voltage of the light-emitting cell (130). In addition, damage to the light-emitting cell (130) can be prevented during the process of forming the blocking region (LC).

[0181] For example, Fig. 8a is a real photograph showing an example in which one blocking area (LC) is formed on the first finger electrode (164). In the case where one light-emitting cell (130) is arranged from the blocking area (LC) to the end of the first finger electrode (164), referring to Fig. 8b, it can be confirmed that when the light-emitting device (100) is turned on, the corresponding light-emitting cell (130) is not turned on and the other light-emitting cells (130) operate normally. Even if one light-emitting cell (130) among a total of six light-emitting cells (130) is not turned on, since the size of the light-emitting area (ER) that one light-emitting cell (130) is small, the decrease rate of the entire light-emitting area is small, and only the remaining light-emitting cells (130) are turned on to operate within a normal range, thereby preventing a rapid decrease in light emission intensity.

[0182] In addition, if a specific light-emitting cell (130) is defective or has a defect, productivity can be improved and manufacturing costs can be greatly reduced by preventing only the defective light-emitting cell (130) from being lit through a blocking area (LC) rather than replacing the entire light-emitting device (100).

[0183] Fig. 9a is a real photograph showing an example in which one blocking area (LC) is formed on the first finger electrode (164). In this case, two light-emitting cells (130) are arranged from the blocking area (LC) to the end of the first finger electrode (164). Referring to Fig. 9b, it can be confirmed that when the light-emitting device (100) is turned on, the two light-emitting cells (130) are not turned on and the other light-emitting cells (130) operate normally.

[0184] When at least one of the light emitting devices (100) arranged in the light emitting module (1000) includes a blocking region (LC), the external quantum efficiency (EQE) of the light emitting device (100) that does not include the blocking region (LC) and the light emitting device (100) that has the blocking region (LC) may be different.

[0185] Or, when the same current (A) is applied, the current density (A / cm) of the light emitting device (100) that does not include the blocking area (LC) 2 ) is the current density (A / cm) of the light emitting device (100) having a blocking region (LC) 2 ) can be higher. Here, the current density (A / cm 2 ) may be the sum of the areas of the light-emitting cells (130).

[0186] Alternatively, the value of the current density (A / cm2) divided by the number of light-emitting cells (130) contributing to lighting may have a smaller value in a light-emitting device (100) that does not include a blocking area (LC) than in a light-emitting device (100) that includes a blocking area (LC).

[0187] When FIGS. 7a and 7b are Case 1 in which all light-emitting cells (130) are turned on, FIGS. 8a and 8b are Case 2 in which one light-emitting cell (130) is not turned on, and FIGS. 9a and 9b are Case 3 in which two light-emitting cells (130) are not turned on, FIG. 10 illustrates the luminous intensity spectra for Cases 1, 2, and 3. The peak wavelengths of light emitted from the light-emitting cells (130) in Cases 1, 2, and 3 are substantially similar.

[0188] Referring to Fig. 10, when the same current or voltage is applied, it can be seen that the luminous intensity (W / nm) is the largest in case 1, followed by case 2, and finally case 3, in that order.

[0189] Fig. 11 is a graph showing EQE (External quantum efficiency) according to current density (A / cm2) for Cases 1, 2, and 3. As the number of light-emitting cells (130) that are turned on decreases based on the same current density (A / cm2), EQE decreases. As the number of light-emitting cells (130) that are not turned on in a light-emitting device (100) increases, the current density (A / cm2) applied to each single light-emitting cell (130) may increase.

[0190] Meanwhile, the above-described light emitting device (100, 200, 300) and light emitting module (1000) can be modified in various ways.

[0191] As an example, FIG. 12 shows a light emitting module (2000) according to another embodiment of the present invention, which may include a plurality of light emitting devices (400). At this time, the light emitting module (2000) may include a substrate (2010) and a plurality of light emitting devices (400) arranged on an upper side of the substrate (2010). The light emitting module (2000) may further include a cover layer (401) covering the plurality of light emitting devices (400).

[0192] The above light emitting device (400) may be configured identically or similarly to the above-described light emitting devices (100, 200, 300) except for the arrangement of the second electrode (170).

[0193] Referring to FIG. 13, the second electrode (170) may be disposed between the substrate (110) and the first conductive semiconductor layer (120). That is, the second electrode (170) may not be disposed on the upper side of the first conductive semiconductor layer (120), but may be disposed below the first conductive semiconductor layer (120) and connected to the second electrode pad (194). The second electrode (170) may be connected to the second electrode pad (194) through an open hole (402) formed in the cover layer (401).

[0194] The above second electrode pad (194) may be a common electrode pad connected to all of the plurality of light emitting devices (400).

[0195] The light emitting device (400) of Fig. 12 can also be modified in various ways. For example, Fig. 14 illustrates a modified example of the light emitting device (500) of Fig. 12, which is a light emitting device (400). The light emitting device (500) can be configured identically or similarly to other light emitting devices (100, 200, 300, 400) except for the shape and arrangement of the first electrode (160) and the first electrode pad (192).

[0196] In Fig. 14, the first electrode (160) of the light-emitting device (500) may be formed in a mesh shape passing through the light-emitting cells (130). Specifically, the first finger electrode (164) may be formed in a mesh shape passing through the upper portions of the light-emitting regions (ER).

[0197] In FIGS. 12 and 13, the second electrode (170) is formed under the first conductive semiconductor layer (120), so that the first finger electrode (164) of the first electrode (160) can be formed in a mesh shape crossing a plurality of light-emitting regions (ER).

[0198] Unlike other light-emitting elements (100, 200, 300, 400) in which the first finger electrode (164) is formed to extend only in the first direction, the first finger electrode (164) of the light-emitting device (500) of FIG. 14 is formed in a mesh shape across the upper portions of the light-emitting cells (130), so that even if a blocking area (LC) is formed, a path for the current to bypass can be secured, and the electrical connection to the light-emitting cells (130) to be lit can be prevented from being blocked.

[0199] In the case of the light-emitting element (500) of Fig. 14, since the first finger electrode (164) is formed in a mesh shape and crosses the light-emitting cells (130), a blocking area (LC) can be formed to block electrical connection only to a specific light-emitting cell (130) with a defect. Specifically, in Fig. 14, when electrical blocking of the sixth light-emitting cell (130f) among the first to sixth light-emitting cells (130a to 130f) is required, the blocking area (LC) can be formed in the areas connected to the sixth light-emitting cell (130f) among the first finger electrodes (164). Accordingly, only the lighting of the sixth light-emitting cell (130f) can be blocked without affecting the lighting operation of the other first to fifth light-emitting cells (130a to 130e).

[0200] At this time, the first electrode (160) may include a plurality of first electrode pads (192) connected to the first finger electrode (164).

[0201] As the first finger electrode (164) is formed in a mesh shape, a plurality of first connection electrodes (162a, 162b) are also provided, so that the difference in the length of the current path to each light-emitting cell (130) can be compensated for. For example, when the sixth light-emitting cell (130f) is blocked, the fifth light-emitting cell (130e) adjacent to the sixth light-emitting cell (130f) can receive current through another first connection electrode (162a) adjacent to the fifth light-emitting cell (130e).

[0202] The first electrode pad (192) may be commonly connected to the first connection electrodes (162a, 162b) or may be provided for each of the first connection electrodes (162a, 162b). That is, the first electrode pads (192) may also be provided in multiples. The first electrode pads (192) may be arranged on adjacent sides of the light emitting device (500) or may be arranged on opposite sides.

[0203] Fig. 15 is a conceptual diagram illustrating electrical connections for light-emitting cells (130a to 130f) of the light-emitting device (500) of Fig. 14. Since each light-emitting cell (130a to 130f) is connected to a first electrode pad (192) and a second electrode pad (194) along independent electrical connection lines, even if a blocking area (LC) is formed in some section of the first finger electrode (164), the light-emitting cells (130) that are not related to the blocking area (LC) can be turned on.

[0204] The light emitting device (500) of Fig. 14 can also be modified in various ways, and as shown in Fig. 16, it can be provided in multiple numbers to form a light emitting module (3000).

[0205] Fig. 16 illustrates a light-emitting module (3000) according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the light-emitting module (3000) may include a substrate (3010) and a plurality of light-emitting devices (600) arranged on the substrate (3010). The light-emitting module (3000) may further include a cover layer (601) covering the plurality of light-emitting devices (600).

[0206] The above light emitting device (600) may be configured identically or similarly to the light emitting device (500) of FIG. 14, except for the shape and arrangement of the second electrode (170) and the second electrode pad (194).

[0207] In Fig. 16, the second electrode pad (192) may be a common electrode pad connected to the first conductive semiconductor layer (120) of all light emitting devices (600).

[0208] Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the light emitting device (600) of Fig. 16, wherein the second electrode (170) can be connected to the first conductive semiconductor layer (120) exposed through the second opening (154, 184) of the first insulating layer (150) and the second insulating layer (180). The second electrode (170) can be connected to the second electrode pad (194) through the hole of the cover layer (601).

[0209] Fig. 18 is a top view showing a light emitting device (700) according to another embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line I-I' of Fig. 18, and Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line II-II' of Fig. 18.

[0210] The above light emitting device (700) may include a plurality of light emitting cells (130) spaced apart from each other on a substrate (110), and a first electrode (160) and a second electrode (170) connected to the plurality of light emitting cells (130).

[0211] The substrate (110) is a substrate on which light-emitting cells (130) are arranged, and is not limited to a specific substrate. For example, the substrate (110) may include a heterogeneous substrate such as a sapphire substrate, a gallium arsenide substrate, a silicon substrate, a silicon carbide substrate, a spinel substrate, a TFT, a circuit board, an IC substrate, and may also include a homogeneous substrate such as a gallium nitride substrate, an aluminum nitride substrate, and the like. The substrate (110) may include a conductive pattern, and the conductive pattern may be arranged on the upper portion of the substrate (110), or may be arranged inside the substrate (110), or may penetrate the substrate (110).

[0212] The above light-emitting cells (130) may be light-emitting structures arranged spaced apart from each other on the substrate (110). The above light-emitting cells (130) may be arranged in multiple numbers, and may be arranged in an M×N matrix pattern (M and N are natural numbers) on the substrate (110).

[0213] The above light-emitting cell (130) may be formed protrudingly on the substrate (110). The above light-emitting cell (130) may include a first conductive semiconductor layer (131), an active layer (132), and a second conductive semiconductor layer (133).

[0214] In one light-emitting cell (130), the first conductive semiconductor layer (131) may have a form in which the width is variable in the thickness direction. For example, the first conductive semiconductor layer (131) may have a form in which the width gradually narrows as it moves away from the active layer (132).

[0215] An active layer (132) may be placed between the first conductive semiconductor layer (131) and the substrate (110). Light generated in the active layer (132) may pass through the first conductive semiconductor layer (131) and be emitted to the outside.

[0216] A second conductive semiconductor layer (133) may be arranged between the active layer (132) and the substrate (110). The second conductive semiconductor layer (133) may have a variable width in the thickness direction. For example, the second conductive semiconductor layer (133) may have a width that gradually narrows as it approaches the active layer (132). Accordingly, the light-emitting cell (130) may not only generate light, but also additionally function as a lens that extracts light to the outside, thereby improving light extraction efficiency.

[0217] In Fig. 19, the maximum width (A1) of the second conductive semiconductor layer (133) may be greater than the maximum width (A2) of the first conductive semiconductor layer (131). In addition, the maximum thickness (B1) of the second conductive semiconductor layer (133) may be smaller than the maximum thickness (B2) of the first conductive semiconductor layer (131). Accordingly, the resistance of the second conductive semiconductor layer (133) may be lowered, thereby reducing the driving voltage and heat generation.

[0218] The first electrode (160) may be disposed on the first conductive semiconductor layer (131) and may be electrically connected to the first conductive semiconductor layer (131). The first electrode (160) may be a conductive transparent electrode, for example, at least one of ITO, ZnO, or IZO. Or, it may be a metal material, and may be at least one of Au, Ni, Ti, Ag, Pt, Sn, Cu, or Al. The first electrode (160) may cover the light-emitting cell (130) and extend outside the light-emitting cell (130) to cover a non-light-emitting region between the light-emitting cell (130) and an adjacent light-emitting cell (130), and may cover the adjacent light-emitting cell (130). Therefore, one light-emitting cell (130) and an adjacent light-emitting cell (130) may be electrically connected through the first electrode (160).

[0219] The position of the lower surface of the first electrode (160) between one light-emitting cell (130) and an adjacent light-emitting cell (130) can be positioned lower than the position of the lower surface of the light-emitting cell (130). Accordingly, since the length of the first electrode (160) increases, even if the substrate (110) contracts and expands, the first electrode (160) can be prevented from being short-circuited.

[0220] The second electrode (170) may be disposed below the second conductive semiconductor layer (133) and may be electrically connected to the second conductive semiconductor layer (133). Furthermore, the second electrode (170) may be disposed between the second conductive semiconductor layer (133) and a second electrode pad (194) to be described later.

[0221] The second electrode (170) may be a conductive transparent electrode, and may be, for example, at least one of ITO, ZnO, or IZO. Alternatively, the second electrode (170) may be a metal material, and may be at least one of Au, Ni, Ti, Ag, Pt, Sn, Cu, or Al.

[0222] The maximum width (A3) of the second electrode (170) may be greater than the maximum width (A1) of the second conductive semiconductor layer (133). Therefore, both ends of the second electrode (170) may be arranged to extend outward from the light-emitting cell (130). Accordingly, current diffusion may be improved.

[0223] The second electrode (170) may include the same material as the first electrode (160).

[0224] Meanwhile, a first insulating layer (150) may be placed between the first electrode (160) and the light-emitting cell (130). The first insulating layer (150) may cover the light-emitting cell (130) and extend to the outside of the light-emitting cell (130) to cover the non-light-emitting region between the light-emitting cell (130) and an adjacent light-emitting cell (130), and may cover the adjacent light-emitting cell (130).

[0225] The first insulating layer (150) may include a first opening (152) exposing a portion of the light-emitting cells (130). The first openings (152) may be positioned at positions corresponding to each light-emitting cell (130), and the number of the first openings (152) exposing each light-emitting cell (130) may be equal to the number of light-emitting cells (130). The first insulating layer (150) may be an insulating material such as SiO2, TiO2, SiNx, Al2O3, or the like.

[0226] In one light-emitting cell (130), the width (A4) of the exposure area of ​​the light-emitting cell (130) exposed by the first opening (152) may be smaller than the maximum width (A5) of the light-emitting cell (130). The maximum width (A5) of the light-emitting cell (130) may be 2.1 to 2.9 times the width (A4) of the exposure area of ​​the light-emitting cell (130) exposed by the first opening (152). Therefore, excessive electron generation can be prevented, thereby preventing leakage current generation and preventing resistance from increasing.

[0227] Meanwhile, the light emitting device (700) may further include a first electrode pad (192).

[0228] The first electrode pad (192) is electrically connected to the first electrode (160) and may be electrically connected to the first conductive semiconductor layer (131). The first electrode pad (192) may be electrically connected to a plurality of light-emitting cells (130). The first electrode pad (192) may be a metal material and may include at least one of Au, Ni, Ti, Ag, Pt, Sn, Cu, or Al.

[0229] The above first electrode pad (192) may be placed in a non-luminous area between the light-emitting cells (120) and may have a mesh shape when viewed from above.

[0230] The first electrode pad (192) may include an opening that exposes the light-emitting cell (130), and the minimum width (A6) of the opening may be greater than the maximum width (A1) of the light-emitting cell (130). Accordingly, loss of emitted light may be reduced. The width of the opening of the first electrode pad (192) may become wider in the thickness direction. Accordingly, the side surface of the opening of the first electrode pad (192) may reflect light and guide the path of light, thereby increasing light extraction efficiency. A portion of the first electrode pad (192) disposed between the light-emitting cell (130) and adjacent light-emitting cells (130) may include a concave portion that is concave in the central axis.

[0231] The position of the highest point of the first electrode pad (192) may be positioned higher than the position of the highest point of the light-emitting cell (130). In addition, the position of the lowest point of the first electrode pad (192) may be positioned lower than the position of the lowest point of the light-emitting cell (130). Accordingly, the emission efficiency of light emitted from the side of the light-emitting cell (130) is increased, and light interference between the light-emitting cells (130) can be prevented.

[0232] The above light emitting device (700) may further include a second electrode pad (194). The second electrode pad (194) is electrically connected to the second electrode (170) and may be electrically connected to the second conductive semiconductor layer (133).

[0233] The second electrode pads (194) may be plural in number, and each second electrode pad (194) may be electrically connected to each light-emitting cell (130). The second electrode pad (194) may be disposed between the light-emitting cell (130) and the substrate (110), and further, the second electrode pad (194) may be disposed between the second electrode (170) and the substrate (110).

[0234] The second electrode pad (194) may be a metal material and may include at least one of Au, Ni, Ti, Ag, Pt, Sn, Cu, or Al. When viewed in cross-section, the width of the second electrode pad (194) may gradually decrease in the thickness direction. That is, the width (A7) of the lower surface of the second electrode pad (194) facing the substrate (110) may be larger than the width (A8) of the upper surface of the second electrode pad (194) facing the light-emitting cell (130). The thickness of the second electrode pad (194) may be thicker than the thickness of the second electrode (170). Therefore, the heat capacity of the second electrode pad (194) in the lower surface direction of the second electrode pad (192) may increase, thereby increasing heat dissipation performance.

[0235] A second insulating layer (180) may be disposed below the second electrode (170). A portion of the lower surface of the second electrode (170) may be in contact with the second insulating layer (180), and a portion of the lower surface of the second electrode (170) may be in contact with a conductive material. Accordingly, the light-emitting cell (130) may be electrically connected to a control device such as an external power source or a controller such as an IC chip. The second insulating layer (180) may include an insulating material such as SiO2, TiO2, SiNx, Al2O3, etc.

[0236] The lower surface of the second electrode (170) may be positioned lower than the lower surface of the first electrode (160). In addition, the upper surface of the second electrode (170) may be positioned higher than the lower surface of the first electrode (160). Accordingly, by arranging the conductive materials to overlap horizontally, heat dissipation efficiency can be increased.

[0237] The first insulating layer (180) can extend from the lower surface of one light-emitting cell (130) to the lower surface of an adjacent light-emitting cell (130). Therefore, the bonding strength between the light-emitting cells (130) can be increased.

[0238] The above light emitting device (700) may further include a cover layer (701). The cover layer may be placed on top of the light emitting cell (130) and may cover a plurality of light emitting cells (130).

[0239] The above cover layer (701) can cover the upper surface of the substrate (110). In addition, the first electrode (160), the first electrode pad (192), the second electrode (170), and the second electrode pad (194) can be covered by the cover layer (401).

[0240] The first electrode (160) may be placed between the first insulating layer (150) and the cover layer (701). Therefore, by placing the first electrode (160) having a relatively low refractive index between the first insulating layer (150) and the cover layer (701) having a relatively high refractive index, total reflection can be reduced, thereby increasing light extraction.

[0241] The cover layer (701) may have a shape in which the width gradually decreases in the thickness direction, and the upper surface of the cover layer (701) may be curved. In addition, the horizontal width (A9) in the curved area of ​​the cover layer (701) may be greater than the maximum width (A1) of the second conductive semiconductor layer (133). Furthermore, the horizontal width (A9) of the curved area of ​​the cover layer (701) may be greater than the width (A7) of the lower surface of the second electrode pad (194). Therefore, the light refraction and light emission efficiency by the cover layer (701) can be increased.

[0242] The thickness of the above cover layer (701) may be greater than the thickness of the light-emitting cell (130). The thickness of the cover layer (701) may be 2.2 to 3.4 times the thickness of the light-emitting cell (130). Therefore, moisture penetration into the light-emitting cell (130) can be prevented by the thick cover layer (701).

[0243] The above cover layer (701) can fill the concave portion of the first electrode pad (192). Therefore, the bonding strength between the cover layer (701) and the first electrode pad (192) can be increased, thereby preventing the cover layer (701) from falling off.

[0244]

[0245] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to preferred embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art or having ordinary knowledge in the art that various modifications and changes to the present invention can be made without departing from the spirit and technical scope of the present invention as set forth in the claims to be described below.

[0246] Therefore, the technical scope of the present invention should not be limited to the contents described in the detailed description of the specification, but should be defined by the patent claims.

Claims

1. A plurality of light-emitting cells arranged spaced apart from each other on a substrate; and a first electrode and a second electrode connected to the plurality of light-emitting cells, The above light-emitting cell is a mesa including an active layer that generates light, A light-emitting device in which the length of one side (W1 or W2) of a light-emitting area provided on the upper surface of the light-emitting cell is 2 to 50 times the height of the light-emitting cell.

2. In claim 1, A light-emitting device in which the above plurality of light-emitting cells are arranged in an M×N matrix pattern (M and N are natural numbers), and each area is surrounded by at least a portion of a non-light-emitting area.

3. In claim 1, It further includes a first insulating layer disposed on top of the plurality of light-emitting cells, A light emitting device wherein the first insulating layer includes a first opening disposed on the light emitting area.

4. In claim 2, A light emitting device wherein the first insulating layer further includes a second opening disposed on the non-light emitting region.

5. In claim 3, A light emitting device including a first finger electrode that passes over the upper portion of the light emitting regions and is electrically connected to the light emitting cell through the first opening.

6. In claim 4, A light emitting device in which the second electrode is electrically connected to the light emitting cell through the second opening.

7. In claim 6, A light emitting device wherein the second electrode includes a second finger electrode extending between the light emitting cells.

8. In claim 5, The above first finger electrode is a light emitting device extending in a first direction parallel to one side of the substrate (110) on a plane.

9. In claim 8, The second finger electrode extends in a first direction parallel to one side of the substrate on a plane, A light emitting device in which the first finger electrode and the second finger electrode are alternately arranged along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

10. In claim 9, The first electrode further includes a first connection electrode disposed at one end of the first direction and connected to the first finger electrode, A light emitting device further comprising a second connecting electrode, wherein the second electrode is disposed at the first directional other end and is connected to the second finger electrode.

11. In claim 5, A light emitting device in which the above first opening is formed at a position overlapping with the intersection point where two diagonals connecting the vertices of the above light emitting area intersect.

12. In claim 11, A light emitting device in which the width (W3) of the first finger electrode is equal to or greater than the diameter of the first opening.

13. In claim 5, A light emitting device in which the width of the first finger electrode is 0.4 times or less than the width of the light emitting area.

14. In claim 5, It further includes a second insulating layer disposed on top of the first insulating layer, A light emitting device wherein the second insulating layer includes a first opening exposing a portion of the first electrode.

15. In claim 14, A light emitting device further comprising a first electrode pad connected to the first electrode through the first opening.

16. In claim 3, A light-emitting device further comprising an ohmic electrode disposed on the upper portion of the light-emitting cell.

17. In claim 5, A light emitting device in which the first finger electrode is formed in a mesh shape passing over the upper portion of the light emitting areas.

18. In claim 17, A light emitting device including a plurality of first electrode pads connected to the first finger electrode, wherein the first electrode is a first electrode.

19. In claim 5, A light emitting device in which the first finger electrode includes a blocking region for blocking electrical connection between adjacent light emitting cells.

20. A plurality of light-emitting cells arranged spaced apart from each other; and a first electrode and a second electrode connected to the plurality of light-emitting cells, A light emitting device wherein the first electrode includes a blocking region for blocking electrical connection between adjacent light emitting cells.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Light-emitting diode and manufacturing method of the same

    JP2013128072A

  • Light emitting device

    KR101897003B1

  • Light emitting device

    KR1020130054034A

  • Chip scale packaged light emitting diode

    KR1020180050929A

  • Linear Motion Guide and Display Apparatus with the Same

    KR102526472B1