Organic Photodetector Electrode Layout That Protects Sensor Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical biosensors face issues with the deterioration of the organic photoelectric layer due to the process of forming the upper transparent electrode layer, leading to compromised sensor element characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A detection device configuration featuring a substrate with an anode electrode, a cathode electrode provided in the same layer as the anode electrode, and an organic semiconductor layer with a p-type and n-type semiconductor layer structure, which covers the electrodes to prevent damage during the manufacturing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If an upper transparent electrode layer is provided on the organic photoelectric layer, then the electrode structure is completed, but the organic photoelectric layer may be damaged in the process of forming the upper transparent electrode layer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional layer structure by placing the organic photoelectric layer above the transparent electrode layer instead of below it. This inversion allows the organic layer to be formed first and protected, while the electrode layer is subsequently formed without risking damage to the sensitive organic material.
Solution Approach 2:
The organic photoelectric layer is formed in advance before the transparent electrode layer is deposited. This preliminary formation allows the organic layer to be established and protected prior to the potentially damaging electrode formation process, ensuring its integrity while still completing the necessary electrode structure.
2Ease of manufacture
If the organic photoelectric layer is exposed during electrode formation, then the electrode can be formed, but the characteristics of the sensor element deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
By inverting the layer sequence, the organic photoelectric layer is positioned above the electrode layer, allowing electrode formation to proceed without exposing or damaging the organic layer. This maintains sensor element characteristics while enabling complete electrode formation.
Solution Approach 2:
The structural arrangement acts as an intermediary solution where the organic layer's position above the electrode serves as a protective configuration, allowing the electrode formation process to occur without direct contact or damage to the sensitive organic photoelectric material.
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 configuration enhances the durability of the organic semiconductor layer by avoiding direct damage from electrode formation processes, thereby maintaining the detection characteristics of the sensor elements.
Implementation Method 1
An optical biosensor includes a photoelectric conversion element such as a photodiode, and the photoelectric conversion element changes an output signal thereof depending on an amount of irradiating light
Data Source
AI summary
According to an aspect, a detection device includes: a substrate; an anode electrode provided on the substrate; a cathode electrode that is provided on the same layer as that of the anode electrode and is adjacent to the anode electrode; and an organic semiconductor layer that has a structure in which a p-type semiconductor layer and an n-type semiconductor layer coexist and that is provided so as to cover the anode electrode and the cathode electrode.