Isolation Column Prevents Organic Layer Overflow in OLED Encapsulation

The patent introduces an isolation column as an intermediary structure between the display area and the dam. This isolation column acts as a mediator that receives and contains the overflowing organic layer, preventing it from reaching the dam and compromising encapsulation. The isolation column thus serves as a buffer zone that resolves the contradiction between needing fluid organic layer for encapsulation and preventing edge overflow.

The patent segments the boundary structure into two parts: the dam and the isolation column. Instead of having a single boundary structure, the isolation column is introduced as a separate element that specifically handles the organic layer overflow, while the dam maintains its original function. This segmentation allows the system to tolerate organic layer fluidity without compromising encapsulation integrity.

The isolation column serves as a protective intermediary that allows the organic layer to flow freely during encapsulation without compromising device protection. By providing this intermediate containment structure, the patent enables simple encapsulation processes while preventing water and oxygen from reaching the organic layer, thus maintaining device lifespan.

The isolation column provides beforehand cushioning by creating a buffer zone that anticipates and contains potential organic layer overflow. This pre-positioned protective structure ensures that even if the organic layer flows excessively during encapsulation, it cannot reach the dam and compromise device protection against water and oxygen corrosion.

The isolation column employs asymmetric geometry with a larger top width than bottom width. This asymmetric design is strategically positioned at the overflow-prone location, providing effective containment of the organic layer. The asymmetry is localized only to the isolation column while maintaining symmetry in other parts of the device, thus balancing reliability improvement with acceptable device complexity.

The patent applies local quality by making only the isolation column asymmetric rather than the entire device structure. The asymmetric shape is localized to the specific region where organic layer containment is needed, while other parts of the device maintain simpler symmetric designs. This localized application minimizes overall device complexity while achieving the desired containment function.