OLED Module Conductive Layer Grounding Path

Solution Overview

Problem

OLED modules accumulate electrostatic charges, which can damage the panel structure or drive circuit, and are susceptible to external electrostatic discharges, affecting their performance and reliability.

Innovation Solution

A light-emitting module with a conductive layer grounded from the cover plate to the light-emitting panel, including a conductive ink coated layer that extends to the peripheral contour and bottom surface, providing comprehensive electrostatic discharge protection by connecting to a ground wire through a flexible circuit board.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a conventional OLED module structure is used, then the device achieves basic display functionality, but electrostatic charges accumulate causing damage to the panel structure or drive circuit

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary anti-action by pre-establishing a conductive layer that forms a grounding path before electrostatic charges can accumulate to damaging levels. The conductive layer is integrated into the module structure in advance, creating a protective mechanism that actively prevents electrostatic damage rather than merely responding to it after occurrence.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Solution Approach 2:

The conductive layer serves as an intermediary element between the OLED panel and the ground wire. It provides a controlled path for electrostatic charges to flow safely to ground, acting as a mediator that protects the sensitive panel and drive circuit components from direct exposure to harmful electrostatic discharge.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If the conductive layer is extended to completely overlie the peripheral contour from cover plate to bottom surface, then comprehensive electrostatic protection is achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The conductive layer is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrostatic discharge protection by forming a grounding path, while also potentially serving as part of the module's structural framework. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate protective components, thereby managing complexity while maintaining comprehensive protection.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the electrostatic protection function with the existing module structure by integrating the conductive layer into the peripheral contour from cover plate to bottom surface. This combination approach allows the protective function to be achieved without adding entirely separate components, thus managing device complexity while ensuring comprehensive protection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Effectively grounds and releases electrostatic charges, enhancing the anti-electrostatic discharge capability of the OLED module, reducing damage and improving reliability in both internal charge accumulation and external discharge scenarios.

Implementation Method 1

a conductive layer arranged on a side of the body, the conductive layer having a part which is continuous from the cover plate to the light-emitting panel, wherein the conductive layer is grounded

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 2

Effectively grounds and releases electrostatic charges, enhancing the anti-electrostatic discharge capability of the OLED module

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrostatic discharge: Electrostatic Discharge

Data Source

PatentUS11257892B2Light-emitting module and display device
Publication Date: 2022.02.22
  • US11257892B2 patent drawing
  • US11257892B2 patent drawing
  • US11257892B2 patent drawing

AI summary

This disclosure provides a light-emitting module and a display device. The light-emitting module includes: a body including a light-emitting panel and a cover plate located on a light emission side of the light-emitting panel; and a conductive layer arranged on a side of the body, the conductive layer having a part which is continuous from the cover plate to the light-emitting panel, wherein the conductive layer is grounded.