OLED Lighting Module Array Connection via Conductive Interlock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing OLED lighting devices are limited in size and light output, necessitating a method to group multiple units for increased light emission.
Innovation Solution
An OLED lighting module with a casing and electrodes that allows for mechanical and electrical connection to adjacent modules in one- or two-dimensional arrays using conductive connection components, enabling extended lighting surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If multiple OLED lighting units are grouped together to increase light emitting surface, then the lighting surface area is improved, but the device complexity increases due to connection requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the lighting system into modular OLED lighting units, each with standardized connection interfaces. This segmentation allows multiple units to be grouped together to increase light emitting surface area while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized interfaces. Each module contains complete functional elements (OLED panel, casing, electrodes, connection components) that can be independently assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection component serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrical connection between adjacent modules, mechanical support through bent portions fitting into openings, and structural alignment. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby managing device complexity while enabling modular expansion of light emitting surface area.
2Power
If OLED lighting modules are connected to form arrays, then light output is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases due to precise alignment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The connection component is pre-formed with bent portions that are dimensioned to fit into specific openings on adjacent modules. This preliminary preparation of connection interfaces ensures proper alignment when modules are assembled, reducing the precision requirements during final assembly while maintaining accurate electrode alignment for functional performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection component acts as an intermediary element between adjacent OLED modules, providing a standardized interface that simplifies the connection process. The bent portions of the connection component fit into predetermined openings, serving as alignment guides that reduce manufacturing complexity while enabling scalable array formation for increased light output.
3Reliability
If connection components are used to link adjacent modules, then electrical connection is improved, but the number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection component merges multiple functions into a single element: electrical conduction between modules, mechanical support through structural rigidity, and alignment guidance via bent portions. This consolidation reduces the total number of separate components needed while maintaining reliable electrical connections, as the connection component serves as an integrated solution rather than separate electrical and mechanical elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection component is designed as a universal interface element that handles multiple aspects of module interconnection simultaneously. The electrically conductive material provides reliable electrical connection, while the bent portions provide mechanical support and alignment. This multi-functionality reduces component count by eliminating the need for separate electrical connectors, mechanical fasteners, and alignment features.
Data Source
AI summary
A lighting module has an OLED panel with two or more pairs of electrodes and a casing for mounting the OLED panel on the casing front side. The backside of the casing has two openings for providing access to one pair of electrodes (anode and cathode), each opening located near one of the opposing side edges to provide access to one of the electrodes. A connection component made of an electrically conductive material has two bent portions dimensioned for inserting into the openings of two adjacent lighting modules for providing mechanical and electrical connection between two adjacent modules. The length of the connection component is dimensioned for achieving a snug fit between two adjacent modules. One lighting module can be connected to one or two adjacent lighting modules in a one-dimensional array, or two to fourth adjacent lighting modules in a two-dimensional array.