Display Module Transfer Layout for Lower ESD Damage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies fail to effectively minimize electrostatic discharge (ESD) during the transfer of display modules, which can damage electrodes in input sensors.
Innovation Solution
A transfer apparatus and method that includes a moving stage, an ionizer positioned at a distance of at least 5 cm from the display module, and a fixed moving unit with a vacuum suction unit and a pickup pad to adsorb and move the display module, ensuring a safe distance and high surface resistivity to reduce ESD.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the ionizer is positioned close to the display module for effective ion treatment, then the electrostatic discharge protection is improved, but the risk of direct electrostatic damage to the electrodes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a movable shield as an intermediary component between the ionizer and the display module. This shield is positioned closer to the ionizer than to the module, allowing ion treatment to proceed effectively while physically blocking direct contact between the ionizer's electrostatic field and the sensitive electrodes, thus resolving the contradiction between needing close proximity for treatment and avoiding direct damage
Solution Approach 2:
The shield is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position. The shield can move to different locations depending on the treatment stage: positioned close to the ionizer during ion treatment for maximum protection, and repositioned when not needed. This dynamic adjustment optimizes both the electrostatic discharge protection and prevents direct electrostatic damage
2Strength
If the vacuum suction unit is made of metal material for structural strength, then the mechanical strength is improved, but the generation of static electricity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite material construction to the vacuum suction unit by coating metal material with an anti-static layer. The metal base provides the required structural strength and rigidity, while the anti-static coating layer prevents static electricity generation during contact with the display module. This composite structure resolves the contradiction between needing metal for strength and avoiding static electricity generation
3Reliability
If the pickup pad has high surface resistivity to prevent static electricity, then the electrostatic discharge protection is improved, but the adsorption capability may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality differentiation by using different materials for different functional regions of the pickup pad. The surface layer has high surface resistivity (≥10^12 Ω/sq) to prevent static electricity generation during contact, while the underlying structure maintains the vacuum suction functionality. This localized material property assignment allows the pad to simultaneously achieve electrostatic protection and adequate adsorption capability
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 solution significantly reduces ESD failures, improving the reliability and integrity of display modules by minimizing damage to input sensors during transfer.
Implementation Method 1
an ionizer positioned at a side of the moving stage and configured to be spaced apart by a first space of about 5 cm or more from a side edge of the display module
Implementation Method 2
a vacuum suction unit having suction holes
Data Source
AI summary
A transfer apparatus is disclosed that includes a moving stage configured to mount a display module, an ionizer positioned at a side of the moving stage and configured to be spaced apart by a first space of at least about 5 cm from a side edge of the display module, and a fixed moving unit disposed over the moving stage and configured to adsorb and to move the display module, thereby being capable of reducing electrostatic discharge (ESD) failure during transfer of the display module.