Optoelectronic Reflector Structure for Pixel Crosstalk Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing optoelectronic components face challenges in achieving efficient light extraction and directionality, leading to crosstalk and non-Lambertian radiation characteristics, which affect display brightness and visual impression, particularly in automotive and display applications.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a method involving a circumferential reflective layer or mirror structure around the optoelectronic components, using metal mirror layers and a planarization layer to form a reflector structure that decouples and directs light, improving radiation characteristics and reducing parasitic capacitance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Illumination intensity

If no circumferential reflective layer is used, then the manufacturing process is simpler, but light directionality is poor and crosstalk occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight directionalityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The reflective layer is segmented into different regions: a first reflective layer in the pixel region and a second reflective layer in the non-pixel region. This segmentation allows each region to be optimized independently for its specific function while maintaining overall system simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The circumferential reflective layer structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides light directionality, reduces crosstalk between adjacent pixels, and maintains a compact design. The same structure addresses multiple optical problems without requiring separate components.

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

2Speed

If separate metallic lead wires are used for anode and cathode contacts, then electrical connection is achieved, but parasitic capacitance increases and switching time decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching timeVSAvoidparasitic capacitance
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The anode and cathode contacts are merged into a single contact structure that provides both electrical connections. This integration reduces the number of separate lead wires and minimizes parasitic capacitance while maintaining proper electrical connectivity for both terminals.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single contact structure performs multiple functions: it provides electrical connection for both anode and cathode, reduces parasitic capacitance, and maintains compact pixel design. This multi-functional approach addresses several electrical performance issues simultaneously.

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

3Reliability

If light is emitted without directionality control, then the structure is simpler, but crosstalk between adjacent pixels occurs and display quality deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay qualityVSAvoidoptical structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The reflective layer is divided into pixel-specific regions and non-pixel regions, with each segment optimized for its function. This segmentation contains light within appropriate boundaries while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardized patterns.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The circumferential reflective layer converts potentially harmful lateral light emission into beneficial directed light. By reflecting light that would otherwise cause crosstalk back toward the intended emission direction, the structure transforms a problem into a solution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

4Illumination intensity

If the reflective layer covers the entire substrate surface, then light extraction is maximized, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight extraction efficiencyVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The reflective layer is applied only to specific regions (pixel regions and non-pixel regions) rather than the entire substrate. This selective application reduces material usage and manufacturing complexity while maintaining effective light extraction where needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The reflective layer is placed locally where it is most needed for light extraction and directionality control. Different regions of the substrate have different reflective properties optimized for their specific functions, rather than uniform coverage across the entire surface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 approach enhances light directionality, reduces crosstalk, and achieves a Lambertian radiation pattern, resulting in improved display brightness and efficiency, while also simplifying manufacturing processes and reducing costs.

Implementation Method 1

a first metal mirror layer and a second metal mirror layer are applied, wherein the first metal mirror layer electrically connects a contact layer attached to a second contact of the optoelectronic component to the second contact region, and the second metal mirror layer is formed on a reflector structure arranged on the substrate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

Light which is emitted laterally by the optoelectronic component parallel to the active layer is guided by total internal reflection at the refractive index difference

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTotal internal reflection: Total Internal Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS12261256B2Optoelectronic component, optoelectronic arrangement and method
Publication Date: 2025.03.25 OSRAM OPTO SEMICON GMBH & CO OHG
  • US12261256B2 patent drawing
  • US12261256B2 patent drawing
  • US12261256B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to various aspects of an optoelectronic component or an arrangement comprising such a component for various applications, in particular in the automotive sector and for visual displays. The arrangements are characterized by simple manufacture and fast switching times.