Display Panel with Reflective Electrode for Light Management
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing display panels lack the capability to simultaneously display images by reflecting external light and generate power by absorbing that light, limiting their functionality and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A display panel is designed with a substrate and pixel units, each incorporating a power generating structure comprising a first electrode with a metal reflective layer, a second electrode with a transparent conductive layer, and a transparent semiconductor layer electrically connected to both electrodes, allowing the panel to reflect external light for display and absorb it for power generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a display panel uses external light as a light source for reflection, then the display function is achieved with low power consumption, but the power-generating function is not available
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates both display and power generation functions into a single display panel system. The power generating structure includes a first electrode, second electrode, and transparent semiconductor layer that can convert optical energy to electrical energy, while the metal reflective layer maintains the display reflection function. This multi-functionality allows the panel to serve both as a display device and a power generation device simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the power generating structure with the display structure by integrating the transparent semiconductor layer between the electrodes within the pixel units. The metal reflective layer is integrated into the first electrode structure. This merging allows the same optical path to serve both display reflection and power generation absorption functions, eliminating the need for separate systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a transparent semiconductor layer is added for power generation, then the power-generating function is achieved, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transparent semiconductor layer serves dual purposes: it acts as an electrode for display control and as a photoactive layer for power generation. The metal reflective layer also serves as both a structural support and an electrical electrode. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different material properties to different regions: the metal reflective layer is positioned where reflection is needed for display, while the transparent semiconductor layer is positioned where both transparency and photoelectric conversion are required. This localized optimization allows each layer to perform its specific function efficiently without requiring complex overall restructuring.
3Power
If external light is absorbed for power generation, then power is generated, but the light available for reflection is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the optical properties at different depths: the metal reflective layer is positioned to reflect light back through the transparent semiconductor layer, creating a light trapping effect. This local optimization at the reflective interface enhances the probability of light absorption in the semiconductor layer without significantly reducing the overall reflected light intensity, as the reflection process is enhanced rather than merely maintained.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a composite structure combining metal reflective layer and transparent semiconductor layer. The metal layer provides high reflectivity to trap light within the semiconductor layer, while the transparent semiconductor material provides both optical transparency for display and photoelectric conversion capability. This composite material approach allows simultaneous optimization of both reflection and absorption functions.
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
The display panel effectively utilizes external light for both image reflection and power generation, enhancing its functionality and efficiency while reducing power consumption and heat production.
Implementation Method 1
The first electrode includes a metal reflective layer
Implementation Method 2
The transparent semiconductor layer is disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode, and the transparent semiconductor layer is electrically connected to the first electrode and the second electrode
Data Source
AI summary
A display panel includes a substrate and a plurality of pixel units. The pixel unit is disposed on the substrate and includes a power generating structure. The power generating structure includes a first electrode, a second electrode and a transparent semiconductor layer. The first electrode includes a metal reflective layer. The second electrode is disposed on the first electrode and includes a transparent conductive layer. The transparent semiconductor layer is disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode, and the transparent semiconductor layer is electrically connected to the first electrode and the second electrode.