Micro-LED Structure With Lateral Emission to Reduce Surface Recombination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current micro-LED structures face inefficiencies due to surface recombination carrier loss when the light emitting layer aligns with the edges of the conductive layers, leading to reduced light emission efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A micro-LED structure design where the light emitting layer extends horizontally away from the edges of the conductive layers, preventing contact and minimizing surface recombination, with additional features like spacers and isolation structures to enhance performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the light emitting layer aligns with the edges of the conductive layers, then the device structure is simplified and easier to manufacture, but surface recombination carrier loss increases leading to reduced light emission efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the light emitting layer in the horizontal dimension beyond the vertical alignment of conductive layers, creating an L-shaped configuration. This dimensional change allows the light emitting layer to cover additional area without increasing vertical complexity, thereby reducing surface recombination losses while maintaining manufacturing simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The light emitting layer is segmented into two functional zones: a first portion vertically aligned with the conductive layers for carrier injection, and a second portion extending horizontally for light emission. This segmentation allows each portion to optimize its function independently, reducing overall energy loss.
2Loss of energy
If the light emitting layer extends horizontally away from the conductive layer edges, then light emission efficiency improves by reducing surface recombination, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The horizontal extension of the light emitting layer utilizes the lateral dimension rather than increasing vertical layering. This approach improves light emission efficiency by providing additional emission area away from recombination-prone edges, while avoiding the complexity of additional vertical stacking.
Solution Approach 2:
The extended light emitting layer serves multiple functions: it provides the primary light emission area, acts as a carrier transport path from the conductive layers, and eliminates the need for separate emission structures. This multi-functionality improves efficiency without proportionally increasing complexity.
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 design improves light emission efficiency by reducing surface recombination and enhancing carrier injection efficiency, resulting in improved performance and reliability of the micro-LED.
Implementation Method 1
A micro-light emitting diode (micro-LED) is a device that emits light using an electric signal
Data Source
AI summary
A micro-LED structure includes a first type conductive layer; a second type conductive layer stacked on the first type conductive layer; and a light emitting layer formed between the first type conductive layer and the second type conductive layer. The light emitting layer extends along a horizontal level from an edge of the second type conductive layer. An edge of the light emitting layer is aligned with an edge of the first type conductive layer. The edge of the first type conductive layer extends along the horizontal level away from the edge of the second type conductive layer.