OLED Planarization Layer Structure to Prevent Contrast Loss and Dark Spots
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Solution Overview
Problem
Organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays suffer from contrast degradation due to external light intensity and can develop dark spots from residues during the formation of a colored pixel defining layer.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a substrate with a thin film transistor, a first transparent planarization layer, and a colored planarization layer that includes a second contact hole for electrical connection, using transparent and colored pigments or carbon black to enhance reliability and reduce defects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a colored pixel defining layer is formed to prevent contrast degradation, then contrast is improved, but dark spots generate due to process residues
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel defining layer is divided into two separate layers: a first transparent planarization layer and a second colored planarization layer. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function independently - the first layer provides planarization and electrical connection without residues, while the second layer provides the coloring function to prevent contrast degradation without causing dark spots.
Solution Approach 2:
The harmful residues are extracted and eliminated by separating the coloring function from the planarization function. The first transparent planarization layer is formed without the colored material that causes residues, thus removing the source of dark spots while maintaining the necessary planarization and electrical connection functions.
2Illumination intensity
If a colored pixel defining layer is formed to prevent contrast degradation, then contrast is improved, but the process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first transparent planarization layer and the second colored planarization layer are merged into an integrated structure where the first layer serves as both a planarization layer and a base for the second layer. This merging reduces process complexity by combining multiple functions into a unified layered structure rather than treating them as separate independent components.
Solution Approach 2:
The first transparent planarization layer performs multiple functions: it provides planarization for the underlying structure, serves as an insulating layer, provides electrical connection through contact holes, and acts as a base layer for the second colored planarization layer. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate layers and processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A display apparatus having improved reliability includes: a substrate; a thin film transistor on the substrate; a pixel electrode electrically connected to the thin film transistor; a first transparent planarization layer between the thin film transistor and the pixel electrode, the first transparent planarization layer including a first contact hole for electrically connecting the thin film transistor to the pixel electrode and including a transparent material; and a colored planarization layer on the first transparent planarization layer, the colored planarization layer including a second contact hole for electrically connecting the thin film transistor to the pixel electrode and including a colored pigment or carbon black.


