Gate Driver Line Part Static Discharge Protection

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Solution Overview

Problem

The proximity of the line part to the shift register in gate drivers increases the likelihood of damage from static electricity, which can lead to malfunction or failure in display apparatuses.

Innovation Solution

The line part is disposed apart from the shift register with a distance of at least 20 μm to prevent damage from static electricity, ensuring reliable operation by maintaining a safe distance and reducing electrical interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If the line part is disposed close to the shift register to reduce device area, then area is reduced, but the line part becomes vulnerable to damage from static electricity generated by the shift register

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvearea of gate driverVSAvoiddamage from static electricity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a ground voltage line as an intermediary element positioned between the signal lines and the shift register. This ground voltage line acts as a mediator that provides a safe discharge path for static electricity, preventing it from damaging the signal lines while maintaining compact layout. The ground voltage line serves as a protective intermediary that resolves the conflict between close spacing and static electricity protection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent converts the harmful static electricity generated by the shift register into a beneficial protective mechanism. By intentionally providing a ground voltage line close to the signal lines, the design allows static electricity to be safely discharged through the ground line rather than damaging the signal lines. The harmful static discharge is redirected into a controlled, safe path that actually protects the circuit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

2Reliability

If the line part is disposed apart from the shift register with a distance of at least 20 μm to prevent static electricity damage, then reliability is improved, but device area increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection from static electricity damageVSAvoidarea of gate driver
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the protective ground voltage line function with the existing signal line layout. Instead of creating a completely separate protective structure, the ground voltage line is integrated into the same layer structure as the signal lines, sharing the same physical space and routing methodology. This merging approach provides protection without requiring additional area beyond the normal signal line spacing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS9576544B2Gate driver and display apparatus having the same
Publication Date: 2017.02.21 SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO LTD
  • US9576544B2 patent drawing
  • US9576544B2 patent drawing
  • US9576544B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A gate driver includes a line part to receive control signals and a shift register to sequentially output gate signals in response to the control signals provided from the line part. The line part and the shift register are disposed apart from each other with a first distance equal to or greater than about 20 μm.