Organic Photodetector Interlayer for Photocurrent and Signal Quality

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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 an organic photodetector design comprising specific interlayer compounds with defined root mean square roughness and enthalpy of fusion, arranged between an anode and photoconversion unit, enhancing the performance of the organic semiconductor layer.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional organic photodetector materials and structures are used, then the device can operate with standard materials, but the photocurrent density and signal-to-noise ratio remain insufficient

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

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an interlayer compound as an intermediary between the anode and photoconversion unit. This interlayer with specific roughness (≥7 nm RMS) and enthalpy of fusion (≥60 J/g) properties mediates the interaction between the anode and photoconversion unit, improving charge extraction and reducing noise without requiring complete redesign of the photodetector structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes physical parameters of the interlayer compound, specifically controlling the root mean square roughness to be ≥7 nm and the enthalpy of fusion to be ≥60 J/g. These parameter changes optimize the interlayer's ability to extract charges and reduce noise, thereby improving the signal-to-noise ratio while maintaining structural simplicity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If existing photodetector designs are used, then the device structure remains simple, but the photocurrent density is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvephotocurrent densityVSAvoidsignal quality
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by creating an interlayer with specific localized properties (roughness ≥7 nm RMS, enthalpy of fusion ≥60 J/g) at the interface between the anode and photoconversion unit. This localized modification optimizes charge extraction in the critical interfacial region, boosting photocurrent density without compromising overall signal quality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Reliability

If standard interlayer materials are used, then the device is easier to manufacture, but the photocurrent and signal-to-noise ratio are not improved

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovephotocurrentVSAvoidinterlayer material selection
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent specifies precise parameter ranges for the interlayer compound (RMS roughness ≥7 nm, enthalpy of fusion ≥60 J/g) that can be achieved through standard vacuum deposition techniques. This approach maintains ease of manufacture while significantly improving photocurrent and signal-to-noise ratio through optimized material properties

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Implementation Method 1

the interlayer is arranged between the anode layer and the photoconversion unit... the interlayer comprises an interlayer compound that either has a root mean square of atomic force microscopy of ≥7 nm and an enthalpy of fusion ΔH fus of ≥ 60 J/g

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCharge transport: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 2

the photoconversion unit comprises a donor compound, and an acceptor compound... improved photocurrent density and improving the signal-to-noise ratio

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotogeneration: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentEP4646075A1Organic 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
  • EP4646075A1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4646075A1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP4646075A1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

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