Display Electrode Contact Structure With Insulating Steps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing display devices face challenges in improving the contact between light emitting elements and their contact electrodes, leading to potential short circuits and defects due to process errors.
Innovation Solution
A display device design featuring a first and second contact electrode with a stepped portion covered by insulating patterns, where the first contact electrode has a reduced thickness under the insulating pattern, and the second contact electrode partially covers a third insulating layer, enhancing contact area and preventing short circuits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If contact electrodes are placed close to light emitting elements to reduce distance, then electrical connection efficiency improves, but risk of short circuits and process errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces insulating patterns as intermediary elements positioned between adjacent contact electrodes. These insulating patterns act as mediators that prevent direct contact between electrodes, eliminating short circuit risks while maintaining close proximity for efficient electrical connection. The insulating patterns are strategically placed at critical locations where electrode proximity could cause harmful interactions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the contact electrode structure by dividing it into multiple parts separated by insulating patterns. Instead of using a single continuous electrode, the design creates discrete electrode segments that are electrically isolated from each other by insulating material, allowing close spacing without compromising electrical safety.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If insulating patterns are added between contact electrodes to prevent short circuits, then electrical safety improves, but device structure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the insulating patterns with existing structural elements of the display device, such as integrating them with electrode support structures or utilizing them as part of the underlying substrate architecture. This consolidation approach adds short circuit prevention functionality without creating entirely separate structural components, thereby minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The insulating patterns are designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide electrical isolation between contact electrodes, support the electrode structures, and in some embodiments, contribute to the overall mechanical stability of the device. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components.
3Reliability
If contact area between electrodes and light emitting elements is increased to improve contact, then electrical connection quality improves, but risk of process errors and misalignment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary positioning structures such as alignment marks, guide patterns, or pre-formed insulating features that establish precise reference points before electrode deposition. These preliminary structures guide the subsequent electrode formation process, ensuring accurate alignment and reducing the risk of positioning errors even when contact area is increased.
Solution Approach 2:
The insulating patterns serve as intermediary alignment references that facilitate precise positioning of contact electrodes relative to light emitting elements. By providing clearly defined boundaries and spacing, these insulating structures enable accurate alignment during manufacturing while allowing for larger contact areas.
Data Source
AI summary
A display device may include a first electrode and a second electrode spaced from each other on a substrate. A light emitting element may be on the first electrode and the second electrode. A first insulating pattern may be on the light emitting element. A first contact electrode may be on a first side of the first insulating pattern and contacting a first end of the light emitting element. A second insulating pattern may be on the first insulating pattern and partially covering the first contact electrode. A third insulating layer may be on the second insulating pattern. A second contact electrode may be on a second side of the first insulating pattern, and contact a second end of the light emitting element that is exposed from the first insulating pattern, the second insulating pattern, and the third insulating layer.