Micro LED Unit Pixel Structure With Integrated ESD Protection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Micro LEDs in display apparatuses are prone to damage from external shocks and electrostatic discharge due to their small size, making handling and mounting challenging and increasing the risk of physical and electrical failures.

Innovation Solution

A unit pixel design incorporating a transparent substrate with light emitting devices and an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protector, such as a conductive line or Zener diode, to safeguard the micro LEDs from electrostatic discharge, facilitating easier handling and mounting while preventing damage from external impacts.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If micro LEDs are used to achieve high-resolution display, then display resolution is improved, but susceptibility to electrostatic discharge and physical damage increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay resolutionVSAvoidsusceptibility to electrostatic discharge and physical damage
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

An ESD protection circuit is introduced as an intermediary component between the micro LED and the external environment. This circuit acts as a mediator that captures and dissipates electrostatic discharge before it reaches the micro LED, thereby protecting the delicate device while allowing the high-resolution display to function. The ESD protection circuit includes elements such as resistors and capacitors that form a protective network around the micro LED.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements ESD protection structures and circuits before the micro LED is exposed to potential electrostatic damage. By pre-configuring protection diodes, resistors, and other protective elements in the circuit path, the system creates a cushioning effect that absorbs harmful electrostatic energy before it can reach the micro LED, thus preventing damage in advance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

2Measurement precision

If micro LEDs with small area are used to increase pixel density, then display quality is improved, but handling and mounting difficulty increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepixel densityVSAvoidhandling and mounting difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functions into an integrated structure where the ESD protection circuit is merged with the mounting substrate or package. By integrating the protection circuitry directly into the mounting structure, the system reduces the number of separate components that need to be handled individually, thereby simplifying the overall handling and mounting process despite the small size of the micro LED.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs thin-film ESD protection layers or flexible protective coatings that can be applied directly to the micro LED or its substrate. These thin-film structures provide ESD protection without adding significant bulk or complexity to the already miniaturized component, making handling and mounting easier while maintaining the small form factor required for high pixel density.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Reliability

If ESD protection structures are added to protect micro LEDs, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection from electrostatic dischargeVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The ESD protection circuit is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it protects against electrostatic discharge, provides electrical isolation, and serves as part of the mounting structure. By making the protection circuit multi-functional, the patent reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while maintaining comprehensive protection.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent optimizes the parameters of the ESD protection components (such as resistance values, capacitance values, and breakdown voltages) to achieve effective protection with minimal component values. By carefully selecting parameters, the protection circuit provides adequate ESD protection while occupying minimal space and adding minimal complexity to the overall device structure.

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

The unit pixel design enhances the reliability of micro LEDs by protecting them from electrostatic discharge and physical shocks, improving the handling and mounting process, and reducing the risk of damage during manufacturing and use.

Implementation Method 1

an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protector disposed on the transparent substrate, and protecting at least one of the light emitting devices from electrostatic discharge

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrostatic discharge: Electrostatic Discharge

Data Source

PatentUS11961872B2Unit pixel having light emitting devices and display apparatus having the same
Publication Date: 2024.04.16 SEOUL VIOSYS CO LTD
  • US11961872B2 patent drawing
  • US11961872B2 patent drawing
  • US11961872B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A unit pixel includes a transparent substrate, a plurality of light emitting devices disposed on the transparent substrate, and an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protector disposed on the transparent substrate and protecting at least one of the light emitting devices from electrostatic discharge.