Transparent Partition Light-Absorbing Layers for Display Viewing Angle Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Display apparatuses face the challenge of emitting output light in various directions, necessitating a viewing angle control technology that can direct light only in a straight direction, which existing technologies have not effectively addressed.

Innovation Solution

A display apparatus is designed with transparent partitions and light-absorbing layers, including a first layer with a non-uniform thickness of molybdenum tantalum oxide (MoTaOx) surrounding the side surfaces of the partitions, and a third layer with a uniform thickness formed by oxygen plasma exposure, to control light emission directionally.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Shape

If transparent partitions are disposed over the display panel to control light emission direction, then viewing angle control is improved, but light absorption efficiency deteriorates due to light being absorbed by the partitions themselves

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight emission directionVSAvoidlight absorption
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The light-absorbing function is segmented into separate layers (first light-absorbing layer, second light-absorbing layer, third light-absorbing layer) positioned at different heights around the transparent partitions, rather than relying on the partitions themselves to absorb light. This segmentation allows the partitions to maintain their light-transmitting function while dedicated layers handle light absorption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces intermediary light-absorbing layers between the transparent partitions and the display panel, as well as between the partitions and the external environment. These intermediary layers (first, second, and third light-absorbing layers) mediate the light absorption function, preventing the transparent partitions from directly absorbing light and compromising their transmission capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Shape

If multiple light-absorbing layers are added to control viewing angle, then light direction control is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight emission directionVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a nested structure where the first, second, and third light-absorbing layers are arranged concentrically around the transparent partitions in sequence. Each layer surrounds the previous one, creating a nested configuration that efficiently uses space while providing multiple stages of light absorption control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The light-absorbing layers are positioned at different vertical heights around the transparent partitions, utilizing the vertical dimension to achieve directional light control. The first layer is at a first height, the second layer at a second height, and the third layer at a third height, creating a three-dimensional arrangement that controls light emission direction without increasing planar complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Shape

If the first layer has non-uniform thickness to control light absorption, then light direction control is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight emission directionVSAvoidthickness uniformity
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The first light-absorbing layer is designed with non-uniform thickness, where the thickness varies at different locations around the transparent partitions. Specifically, the first thickness at the first location is different from the second thickness at the second location, allowing localized optimization of light absorption characteristics to control light emission direction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the thickness parameter of the first light-absorbing layer to create non-uniformity, where the thickness at different positions (first thickness vs. second thickness) is deliberately varied. This parameter change enables the layer to absorb light more effectively in specific directions while maintaining manufacturability through standard deposition processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Manufacturing precision

If oxygen plasma is used to form the third layer with uniform thickness, then manufacturing precision is improved, but surface damage increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethickness uniformityVSAvoidsurface damage
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses oxygen plasma to form the third light-absorbing layer, utilizing strong oxidation to achieve uniform thickness. The oxygen plasma process provides controlled oxidation that creates a uniform layer while the subsequent annealing process helps mitigate any surface damage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #38Strong oxidants (Accelerated oxidation)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs annealing as a preliminary or subsequent action after the oxygen plasma treatment to recover from any surface damage. The annealing process is applied to the third light-absorbing layer to relieve stress and restore surface integrity before final device assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

The solution effectively directs output light only in a given direction, enhancing viewing angle control and reducing light absorption issues, while minimizing surface damage and maintaining light transmission efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

forming a third layer including the oxide of the first light-absorbing material and having a uniform thickness by exposing a surface of the second layer to oxygen plasma

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOxidation: Oxidation

Implementation Method 2

a first layer surrounding a side surface of each of the transparent partitions and including an oxide of a first light-absorbing material

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight absorption: Absorption (EM radiation)

Data Source

PatentUS20240155925A1Display apparatus and method of manufacturing the same
Publication Date: 2024.05.09 SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO LTD
  • US20240155925A1 patent drawing
  • US20240155925A1 patent drawing
  • US20240155925A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided are a display apparatus and a method of manufacturing the display apparatus. The display apparatus includes a display panel including a display area, transparent partitions disposed over the display panel, in the display area, a first layer surrounding a side surface of each of the transparent partitions and including an oxide of a first light-absorbing material, a second layer surrounding a side surface of the first layer and including the first light-absorbing material, and a third layer surrounding a side surface of the second layer, including the oxide of the first light-absorbing material, and having a uniform thickness.