Multi-Layer Display Electrodes for Precise LED Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing display devices face challenges in aligning light-emitting elements accurately, leading to potential misalignment and reduced display quality.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of electrodes disposed in different layers within the display device allows for improved alignment of light-emitting elements during fabrication, utilizing electric fields formed by electrodes from various layers to enhance dielectrophoretic forces and alignment precision.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If electrodes are disposed in the same layer, then the device structure is simpler, but the alignment precision of light-emitting elements deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrode structureVSAvoidalignment precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a two-dimensional planar electrode arrangement to a three-dimensional multi-layer electrode configuration. By stacking electrodes in different layers (first electrode layer, second electrode layer, third electrode layer) at different heights, the system creates vertical dimensionality that enables precise alignment of light-emitting elements through electric field confinement while maintaining structural organization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The electrode system is segmented into multiple discrete layers (first, second, and third electrode layers) rather than using a single monolithic electrode structure. Each layer serves specific functional purposes: the first layer provides baseline electrical connection, the second layer creates confined electric fields for alignment, and the third layer establishes reference potentials. This segmentation enables independent optimization of each layer's function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Manufacturing precision

If electrodes are disposed in different layers, then the alignment precision of light-emitting elements is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment precisionVSAvoidelectrode structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The multi-layer electrode structure performs multiple functions simultaneously: electrical connection, electric field generation for alignment, and structural reference. The first electrode layer provides both electrical connection and structural baseline, the second layer creates alignment fields while maintaining electrical continuity, and the third layer provides both reference potential and structural definition. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the alignment function with the existing electrode structure by integrating alignment electrodes into the same fabricating process that creates the functional electrodes. The first, second, and third electrode layers are formed as part of the same pixel circuit structure, combining light-emitting element alignment with electrical connection functions in a unified multi-layer system rather than adding separate alignment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach significantly improves the alignment of light-emitting elements, resulting in enhanced display quality and reduced misalignment issues.

Implementation Method 1

utilizing electric fields formed by electrodes from various layers to enhance dielectrophoretic forces and alignment precision

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDielectrophoresis:

Data Source

PatentEP3971969B1Display device and method of fabricating the same
Publication Date: 2025.06.11 SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO LTD
  • EP3971969B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3971969B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3971969B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A display device comprises a substrate (SUB), a via layer (VIA) disposed on the substrate, a first electrode (RME1) and a second electrode (RME2) disposed on the via layer and spaced apart from each other, a third electrode (RME3) that overlaps a region between the first electrode and the second electrode in a thickness direction, and light-emitting elements (ED) disposed on the first electrode and the second electrode, wherein the third electrode overlaps portions of the first electrode and the second electrode in the thickness direction.