See-through OLED Pixel Structure with Insulating Layer Openings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional organic light-emitting display apparatuses do not effectively allow users to recognize external backgrounds while displaying images, due to the lack of a transparent or see-through design, which limits their application in devices requiring both image display and external visibility.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a substrate with a pixel structure that includes a first region for image realization and a second region for transmitting external light, featuring a driving circuit unit, insulating layers with different refractive indices, and a specific opening configuration to enhance transmittance and visibility of external backgrounds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a conventional organic light-emitting display apparatus is used, then image display function is achieved, but external background visibility is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel structure is divided into a first region for image display and a second region for external light transmission. The insulating structure is segmented with multiple openings (first opening in pixel defining layer, second opening in insulating structure) to allow external light to pass through while maintaining the display function in the first region. This spatial segmentation resolves the contradiction by creating dedicated zones for different functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The insulating structure is designed with different properties in different regions: in the second region, it includes transparent or low-refractive-index materials with openings to maximize external light transmission, while in the first region, it maintains standard insulating properties for device operation. This local differentiation allows the same component to serve dual purposes without compromising overall device complexity.
2Measurement precision
If insulating layers with different refractive indices are used, then sharpness of external backgrounds is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies that the insulating structure should have a refractive index lower than the pixel defining layer, or include multiple layers with different refractive indices. This parameter optimization reduces light refraction and reflection at interfaces, thereby improving the sharpness of external backgrounds. The manufacturing complexity is managed by integrating this parameter control into the existing multi-layer fabrication process.
Solution Approach 2:
The insulating structure may comprise multiple insulating layers with different refractive indices (e.g., first insulating layer, second insulating layer with different refractive index, third insulating layer). This composite structure allows optimization of optical properties for external visibility while maintaining electrical insulation functionality, and can be manufactured using standard sequential deposition techniques.
3Illumination intensity
If a second region for light transmission is created, then transmittance of external light is improved, but display area is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Each pixel is segmented into a first region (for image display) and a second region (for external light transmission). The second region includes corresponding openings in the pixel defining layer and insulating structure. This segmentation allows the display apparatus to simultaneously provide image display functionality and external visibility without requiring a separate transparent component.
Solution Approach 2:
The pixel structure serves dual functions: the first region displays images while the second region transmits external light. The insulating structure similarly serves both electrical insulation and optical transmission functions through its openings. This multi-functionality allows the same area to contribute to both display and transparency goals.
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 enables a see-through organic light-emitting display apparatus with improved transmittance and sharpness of external backgrounds, allowing users to view both displayed images and external environments effectively.
Implementation Method 1
an insulating structure disposed between the substrate and the pixel defining layer, the insulating structure including at least one insulating layer that includes a third opening corresponding to the second region and the fourth region
Data Source
AI summary
An organic light-emitting display apparatus including: a pixel including a first region realizing an image and a second region through which external light is transmitted, a driving circuit unit disposed in the first region, a wire area including a third region and a fourth region, a wire for transferring a signal to the driving circuit unit, a first electrode disposed in the first region and electrically connected to the driving circuit unit, a pixel defining layer disposed in the first region and including a first opening and a second opening, a second electrode disposed in the first region opposite the first electrode, an organic emission layer disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode, and an insulating structure disposed between the substrate and the pixel defining layer and including at least one insulating layer that includes a third opening corresponding to the second region and the fourth region.