Organic Photodetector Photoconversion Layers for Higher Photocurrent

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing organic photodetectors face challenges in improving photocurrent density and signal-to-noise ratio, necessitating advancements in photodetector materials and structures.

Innovation Solution

The introduction of a photoconversion unit comprising specific electron donor and acceptor compounds, along with an additional compound having a root mean square roughness of ≥7 nm and enthalpy of fusion of ≥112 J/g, arranged between the anode and organic semiconductor layers, enhances the performance of organic photodetectors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional organic photodetector materials and structures are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but photocurrent density and signal-to-noise ratio are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal-to-noise ratioVSAvoidphotoconversion unit structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs composite materials by combining electron donor compounds, electron acceptor compounds, and additional compounds with specific properties (RMS roughness ≥7 nm, enthalpy of fusion ≥112 J/g) to form the photoconversion unit. This composite approach enhances photocurrent density and signal-to-noise ratio while managing the increased structural complexity through systematic material selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The invention applies local quality by positioning the photoconversion unit with specific material characteristics (roughness and enthalpy parameters) between the anode and organic semiconductor layer. This localized optimization of material properties in the photoconversion unit improves overall detector performance without requiring changes throughout the entire device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Productivity

If the photoconversion unit uses compounds with specific roughness and enthalpy properties, then photocurrent density improves, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvephotocurrent densityVSAvoidcompound deposition control
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent specifies critical parameters for the additional compound (RMS roughness ≥7 nm, enthalpy of fusion ≥112 J/g) that directly influence photocurrent density. By establishing these parameter thresholds, the invention enables manufacturers to control deposition processes within defined ranges, balancing performance improvement with manufacturability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The additional compound acts as an intermediary material between the electron donor/acceptor compounds and the organic semiconductor layer. Its specific roughness and enthalpy properties mediate the interaction between layers, facilitating improved charge transport and photocurrent generation while providing a buffer that simplifies the precision requirements for adjacent layer depositions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 results in improved photocurrent and signal-to-noise ratio in organic photodetectors, demonstrating enhanced efficiency and performance.

Implementation Method 1

Organic photodetectors have been developed inter alia for use in organic electronic devices such as displays... improved photocurrent density and improving the signal-to-noise ratio

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentEP4646073A1Organic photodetector, organic electronic device comprising the organic phototector as well as a display device comprising the organic electronic device
Publication Date: 2025.11.05 NOVALED GMBH
  • EP4646073A1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4646073A1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP4646073A1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

The present invention relates to an organic photodetector comprising a metal complex of formula (I), an organic electronic device comprising the organic phototector as well as an display device comprising the organic electronic device.