Micro LED Reflective Photonic Structure for Directional Emission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current micro LEDs for augmented or virtual reality applications face challenges in achieving improved light emission directionality, which is essential for efficient display technologies.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a semiconductor layer stack with a metal layer arrangement on the semiconductor layer facing away from the active zone, featuring conductive bodies insulated by dielectric layers, and includes voids or holes in the semiconductor layer to form an ordered photonic structure, enhancing light directionality through the use of reflecting materials and dielectric layers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If conventional micro LED structures are used, then manufacturing is simpler, but light emission directionality is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into distinct functional layers: semiconductor layer stack, dielectric layer with separating elements, and metal layer with reflective portions. This segmentation allows each layer to be optimized independently for its specific function, improving overall light directionality while maintaining manufacturability through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces vertical layering and three-dimensional structuring (metal portions extending at angles, separating elements with specific geometries) to control light propagation. This dimensional approach enables directional light emission by manipulating light paths in multiple spatial dimensions rather than relying solely on planar structures
2Productivity
If light emission directionality is improved through complex structures, then display efficiency increases, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The metal layer serves multiple functions: it provides electrical contacts, acts as a reflective element for light directionality, and forms structural support. The dielectric layer simultaneously insulates, supports separating elements, and manages light extraction. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining high display efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes specific parameters such as metal layer thickness (0.1*we to 10*we), angles of metal portions (45-135 degrees), and separating element dimensions to achieve optimal light directionality. These parameter optimizations allow the structure to perform efficiently without requiring overly complex geometries, balancing manufacturing ease with display performance
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 significantly improves the directionality of emitted electromagnetic radiation, allowing for more focused and efficient light emission, which is crucial for advanced display technologies like virtual and augmented reality.
Implementation Method 1
The metal layer may comprise silver or gold or another suitable reflecting metal
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment an optoelectronic semiconductor device includes a semiconductor layer stack having a first semiconductor layer of a first conductivity type, an active zone, and a second semiconductor layer of a second conductivity type, wherein the optoelectronic semiconductor device is configured to emit generated electromagnetic radiation via a first main surface of the first semiconductor layer, and wherein a lateral width z of the active zone is smaller than a smallest lateral width c of the first and the second semiconductor layers, separating elements arranged adjacent to the semiconductor layer stack, the separating elements vertically extending along the semiconductor layer stack, and portions of a metal layer arranged on a side of the first semiconductor layer facing away from the active zone and arranged at positions of the separating elements.