OLED Deposition Mask Assembly with Wing-Groove Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
As organic light emitting display devices increase in resolution, the need for a more precise deposition method to form smaller electrodes and light emitting layers becomes critical, as existing deposition masks face challenges in maintaining stability and precision.
Innovation Solution
A mask assembly is designed with a specific structure that includes a mask frame, first and second sticks, and deposition masks, featuring symmetrical wing portions and grooves to stabilize the deposition masks, preventing bending and enhancing precision during the deposition process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a deposition mask is used to form patterns on substrates, then the manufacturing precision of electrodes and light emitting layers is improved, but the mask may bend during the deposition process, reducing stability and precision
Solution Approach 1:
The mask assembly is divided into multiple components: a mask frame, multiple first sticks extending in a first direction, multiple second sticks extending in a second direction, and deposition masks. This segmentation allows each component to be independently optimized and positioned, preventing bending while maintaining deposition precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The first and second sticks act as intermediary support elements between the mask frame and the deposition masks. These sticks provide additional structural support and positioning, preventing the deposition masks from bending during the deposition process while maintaining their precise positioning.
2Ease of manufacture
If the mask structure is simplified for ease of manufacture, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to stabilize the deposition mask and prevent bending is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The mask frame serves multiple functions: it provides the overall structural support, positions the first and second sticks, and maintains the geometric relationships between all components. This multi-functionality allows the structure to be both manufacturable and reliable, as the same components perform multiple roles in ensuring mask stability.
3Manufacturing precision
If the deposition mask is brought into close contact with the substrate for precise pattern transfer, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but any bending of the mask will directly affect the pattern accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second sticks serve as intermediary support elements that maintain the rigid positioning of the deposition mask relative to the substrate. By providing this intermediate support structure, the mask remains flat and stable during close contact, ensuring both pattern transfer precision and alignment precision without bending.
Data Source
AI summary
According to an embodiment, a mask assembly may include a mask frame, a plurality of first sticks disposed on the mask frame and extending in a direction parallel to first sides of the mask frame, a plurality of second sticks disposed on the first sticks and extending in a direction parallel to second sides of the mask frame, and deposition masks disposed on the second sticks. The second sticks may comprise a first long-side stick disposed adjacent to each of the second sides of the mask frame and a second long-side stick spaced apart from the second sides of the mask frame, the first long-side stick may comprise wing portions extending in the direction parallel to the first sides of the mask frame, and each of the second sides of the mask frame may comprise wing grooves in which the wing portions are seated.