Magnetic Mask Frame Assembly for OLED Deposition Precision

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

In high-resolution OLED display manufacturing, the narrow width of open slits in masks leads to a shadow effect during vacuum deposition, and existing technologies lack effective methods to enhance the adhesiveness between the substrate and the mask, which affects the precision of the deposition process.

Innovation Solution

A mask frame assembly with a supporting unit and a unit mask featuring a deposition pattern, where magnets are strategically placed to apply an attraction force, ensuring the unit mask is flattened and securely fixed to the frame, thereby minimizing creases and enhancing adhesiveness.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If the width of open slits in masks is reduced to achieve high-resolution OLED display, then the resolution is improved, but the shadow effect during vacuum deposition increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeposition precisionVSAvoidshadow effect
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies magnetic fields to change the physical state of the mask, transforming it from a flexible state (prone to deformation and shadow effects) to a flattened state through magnetic attraction forces. This parameter change in the mask's physical configuration resolves the shadow effect while maintaining the narrow slit width needed for high resolution

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If magnets are placed on the supporter to flatten the unit mask, then the adhesiveness between substrate and mask is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadhesivenessVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening methods (screws, clips, or complex clamping mechanisms) with a magnetic field-based system. Magnets placed on the supporter generate magnetic attraction forces that automatically flatten and secure the mask without requiring complex mechanical structures, thus improving adhesiveness while minimizing structural complexity

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes magnetic field parameters to control the mask's physical state. By adjusting the strength and distribution of magnets, the system achieves reliable mask fixation and flattening through non-contact magnetic forces, avoiding the need for complex mechanical attachment systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 solution allows for precise deposition patterns on the substrate by reducing creases in the unit mask and improving the adhesiveness between the substrate and the mask, resulting in higher resolution and reduced shadow effects in OLED displays.

Implementation Method 1

a magnet is placed on at least one portion of the first supporter... the magnet is configured to pull the unit mask toward the first supporter

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS10053766B2Mask frame assembly and method of manufacturing the same
Publication Date: 2018.08.21 SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO LTD
  • US10053766B2 patent drawing
  • US10053766B2 patent drawing
  • US10053766B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A mask frame assembly and a method of manufacturing the same are disclosed. In one aspect, the mask frame assembly for an organic light-emitting diode display includes a frame including a supporting unit, wherein an opening is formed in the frame. The assembly also includes a unit mask including a deposition pattern portion, wherein the unit mask extends in a first direction, and is fixed to the supporting unit. The assembly further includes a first supporter configured to support the unit mask, wherein a magnet is placed on at least one portion of the first supporter.