Laser Window Scratch Removal for Fast Surface Rework

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Solution Overview

Problem

Display device windows suffer from scratches that are difficult to prevent and require rework, leading to increased processing time, quality differences, and additional defects during fabrication and transfer processes.

Innovation Solution

A laser defect removal apparatus and method that uses a laser beam generator to irradiate scratches on windows, liquefy and then solidify the affected area, reducing processing time and damage while improving surface planarization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If conventional polishing methods are used to remove scratches from windows, then the scratch can be removed, but the processing time is long and additional defects may occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescratch removal qualityVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces conventional mechanical polishing methods with a laser-based processing system. The laser beam generator irradiates the scratch with laser energy, melting and vaporizing the scratched area without mechanical contact, thereby removing the scratch while significantly reducing processing time and avoiding mechanical-induced defects.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes laser parameters (wavelength, power, pulse duration) to precisely control the material removal process. By adjusting these parameters, the system achieves effective scratch removal with minimal heat-affected zone, preventing additional defects while maintaining short processing time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If conventional polishing methods are used to remove scratches from windows, then the scratch can be removed, but damage to the window occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescratch removal qualityVSAvoidwindow damage
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

By replacing mechanical polishing with laser processing, the system eliminates mechanical contact that causes scratching and marring of the window surface. The laser energy selectively removes material through melting and vaporization without the mechanical forces that lead to additional damage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The laser processing can be performed in a controlled atmosphere that prevents oxidation and contamination of the window surface during treatment, minimizing harmful chemical reactions and maintaining window integrity throughout the defect removal process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #39Inert atmosphere (Inert environment)

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 laser defect removal method effectively reduces processing time, minimizes additional defects, and enhances the quality of the window surface, making it suitable for use in display devices.

Implementation Method 1

irradiating a scratch of the defective window with a laser beam to remove the scratch

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser heating: Laser

Implementation Method 2

allowing the laser beam to liquefy the scratch and surroundings thereof

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMelting: Melting

Implementation Method 3

allowing the laser beam to liquefy the scratch and surroundings thereof and then solidifying the liquefied scratch and liquefied surroundings thereof

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhase change: Phase Change

Data Source

PatentUS20220305586A1Laser defect removal apparatus and window defect removal method
Publication Date: 2022.09.29 SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO LTD
  • US20220305586A1 patent drawing
  • US20220305586A1 patent drawing
  • US20220305586A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A window defect removal method includes inspecting a plurality of windows to select a defective window among the windows, providing a laser beam generator on the defective window, and irradiating a scratch of the defective window with a laser beam to remove the scratch. The laser beam generator generates the laser beam in a wavelength range from about 780 nm to about 100,000 nm.