Mask Assembly Rib Segmentation for Display Deposition Precision

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mask assemblies face challenges in achieving precise arrangement of the mask sheet on the mask frame, which affects the deposition accuracy in display apparatus manufacturing.

Innovation Solution

The proposed mask assembly features a mask frame with a plurality of ribs and receiving portions, where the mask sheet is accurately disposed to cover the opening area, and gas is sprayed into the receiving portions to reduce friction and enhance precision.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If the mask sheet is fixed to the mask frame using conventional methods, then the mask assembly can be manufactured, but the arrangement precision of the mask sheet on the mask frame is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvearrangement precisionVSAvoidmask frame structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mask frame is segmented into multiple ribs (first rib, second rib, third rib, fourth rib) that are spaced apart from each other. These ribs are divided into multiple segments along their lengths, with each segment containing receiving portions. This segmentation allows the mask sheet to be positioned and fixed at multiple discrete points, improving arrangement precision while maintaining manufacturing feasibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Receiving portions are introduced as intermediary structures on the ribs. These receiving portions receive and hold the mask sheet at specific positions, acting as mediators between the rib structure and the mask sheet. This intermediary mechanism enables precise positioning without requiring complex direct fixation methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If gas is sprayed from the mask stage to lift the mask frame, then friction between the mask stage and mask frame is reduced, but the positioning accuracy may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefriction reductionVSAvoidpositioning accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The mask sheet is fixed to the mask frame at multiple predetermined positions through the receiving portions before the deposition process begins. This preliminary fixation ensures that even when gas is sprayed to reduce friction during subsequent operations, the mask sheet maintains its precise position relative to the mask frame, preventing positioning drift.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The receiving portions are distributed at different locations (first, second, and third ribs at different positions) along the mask frame. This local distribution of fixation points ensures that the mask sheet is securely held at multiple critical positions, maintaining overall positioning accuracy while allowing gas spraying for friction reduction during movement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Manufacturing precision

If multiple ribs with receiving portions are used to improve mask sheet positioning, then arrangement precision is enhanced, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemask sheet positioningVSAvoidnumber of ribs and receiving portions
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The ribs serve multiple functions: they provide structural support for the mask frame, define the opening area through their arrangement, and contain receiving portions for mask sheet positioning. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving improved positioning precision.

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

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 configuration ensures accurate positioning of the mask sheet, improves the flatness of the mask frame, and enhances the precision of the deposition process in display apparatus manufacturing.

Implementation Method 1

gas may be sprayed from the mask stage to lift the mask frame and reduce friction between the mask stage and the mask frame

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGas lubrication: Air Lubrication

Data Source

PatentUS20250066898A1Mask assembly, method of manufacturing the mask assembly, and apparatus for manufacturing display apparatus
Publication Date: 2025.02.27 SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO LTD
  • US20250066898A1 patent drawing
  • US20250066898A1 patent drawing
  • US20250066898A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A mask assembly includes a mask frame including a plurality of ribs including a first rib extending in a first direction, the plurality of ribs defining an opening area, and a mask sheet disposed on a first surface of the first rib and covering the opening area, where the mask frame further includes a plurality of receiving portions disposed on a second surface of the first rib, and spaced apart from each other in a longitudinal direction of the first rib, the second surface being opposite to the first surface.