Flexible Display Barrier Layer Laser Separation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for fabricating flexible display devices using plastic substrates require an additional process for forming a separation layer between the plastic and carrier substrates, increasing processing time and expense.

Innovation Solution

A method that eliminates the need for a separation layer by using a barrier layer on the plastic substrate, allowing for the separation of the carrier substrate through laser irradiation of the barrier layer, thereby simplifying the fabrication process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If a separation layer is formed between the plastic substrate and carrier substrate, then the carrier substrate can be separated from the flexible substrate, but the processing time and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseparation processVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the barrier layer (which prevents moisture penetration) with the separation layer (which enables laser-based separation) into a single integrated layer. This eliminates the need for a separate formation process for the separation layer, reducing manufacturing steps and processing time while maintaining both moisture protection and separation functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The barrier layer is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both a moisture barrier and a separation layer that can be selectively removed by laser irradiation. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for dedicated separation layer materials and processes, streamlining the manufacturing workflow

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

2Ease of manufacture

If a separation layer is formed between the plastic substrate and carrier substrate, then the carrier substrate can be separated from the flexible substrate, but the manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseparation processVSAvoidfabrication process
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the barrier layer and separation layer into one integrated structure, reducing the number of fabrication steps. This simplification directly lowers manufacturing complexity and associated costs while maintaining the necessary functionality for both moisture protection and substrate separation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a plastic substrate is used instead of a glass substrate, then the display device becomes flexible, but the substrate is prone to damage during processing

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveflexibilityVSAvoidsubstrate durability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the adhesive layer to the carrier substrate before laminating the flexible plastic substrate. This preliminary action ensures proper positioning and bonding of the flexible substrate before subsequent processing steps, preventing misalignment and potential damage that could occur with improper handling of the flexible material

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 reduces processing time and cost by directly separating the carrier substrate from the flexible substrate without the need for a separation layer, facilitating the production of flexible display devices.

Implementation Method 1

separating the carrier substrate from the flexible substrate by irradiating a laser beam onto the barrier layer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser irradiation: Laser

Implementation Method 2

separating the carrier substrate from the flexible substrate by irradiating a laser beam onto the barrier layer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser ablation: Laser Ablation

Data Source

PatentUS8034206B2Method of fabricating flexible display device
Publication Date: 2011.10.11 SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO LTD
  • US8034206B2 patent drawing
  • US8034206B2 patent drawing
  • US8034206B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of fabricating a flexible display device, the method including applying a transparent adhesive layer on a carrier substrate, laminating a flexible substrate comprising a barrier layer on the transparent adhesive layer, forming a thin film transistor array on the flexible substrate, and separating the carrier substrate from the flexible substrate by irradiating a laser beam onto the barrier layer.