Mask Assembly Frame Support Stick Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mask assemblies experience central mask sagging due to substrate and mask weight, leading to potential damage and deformation during the deposition process for manufacturing flat panel displays like OLEDs.
Innovation Solution
A mask assembly with a frame and support sticks that traverse the opening, featuring communication patterns and contact support portions to minimize contact area with the mask, preventing damage and maintaining precision during deposition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the mask is supported by a conventional frame structure, then the mask can be held in position during deposition, but the central portion of the mask sags due to weight, causing damage and precision issues
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is segmented into multiple discrete support sticks rather than a continuous frame, allowing localized support at critical points without causing overall mask sagging. The support sticks are positioned to provide targeted structural reinforcement while maintaining mask flatness for precise pattern formation.
Solution Approach 2:
The support sticks are positioned at specific locations where maximum support is needed, particularly near the edges and corners of the mask, rather than uniform support across the entire mask surface. This localized support approach prevents central sagging while maintaining overall structural integrity.
2Reliability
If the support structure contacts the mask over a large area, then the mask is well-supported, but the mask may be damaged by the support structure itself
Solution Approach 1:
The support sticks are designed with localized contact regions that provide stable support while minimizing the contact area with the mask. This reduces the harmful effects of support structure-mask interaction while maintaining sufficient support stability during the deposition process.
Solution Approach 2:
The support sticks act as intermediary elements between the frame and the mask, transferring support forces while minimizing direct damage to the mask. The support sticks are positioned and designed to distribute loads effectively without concentrating stress on the mask surface.
3Manufacturing precision
If the mask is held taut with tensile force, then the mask maintains its shape and precision, but the support structure must withstand increased stress
Solution Approach 1:
The tensile force is distributed across multiple discrete support sticks rather than concentrated on a single continuous frame, reducing the stress burden on each individual support element while maintaining overall mask shape stability and precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A mask assembly includes a frame with an opening, at least one support stick in the frame and extending in a first direction to traverse the opening of the frame, the support stick including a communication pattern above the opening of the frame, and a mask positioned on the frame and the at least one support stick, the mask extending in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction to traverse the opening of the frame, and the mask being exposed to the opening of the frame through the communication pattern.