Photoelectric Conversion Element with Grooved Electrode Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing photoelectric conversion elements face challenges in maintaining efficient conductivity between electrodes of the photoelectric conversion characteristics are improved by preventing a short circuit between a top electrode and a bottom electrode, and the like when connecting a plurality of photoelectric conversion parts in series, and a manufacturing method thereof.
Innovation Solution
A photoelectric conversion element with a substrate, first and second photoelectric conversion parts, and a conductive layer and grooves to prevent short circuits by exposing a conductive portion and a stepped portion to avoid electrode contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If mechanical scribing is used to pattern the stacked film, then the electrode film can be divided into multiple portions, but burrs of the top electrode may be pressed into contact with bottom electrodes causing short circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces a depth dimension by forming a groove that exposes the conductive layer at a different level than the top electrode surface. This dimensional change creates physical separation between the top electrode burrs and the bottom electrode, preventing short circuits while maintaining the mechanical scribing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive layer serves as an intermediary element between the top electrode and bottom electrode. By exposing this intermediate layer through groove formation, the invention creates a controlled interface that prevents direct contact between opposing electrodes while maintaining electrical connectivity where needed.
2Manufacturing precision
If pressing pressure of the scribing blade is increased to remove sufficient material, then the top electrode and photoelectric conversion layer can be adequately removed, but cracking or scraping of the bottom electrode occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive layer is formed on the bottom electrode before the top electrode and photoelectric conversion layer are deposited. This preliminary action creates a protective framework that can withstand the scribing process, allowing sufficient material removal without damaging the bottom electrode structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive layer is selectively positioned and formed with specific properties on the bottom electrode surface. This local quality enhancement creates zones of different mechanical and electrical properties, allowing the scribing process to remove upper layers effectively while the reinforced bottom electrode regions maintain structural integrity.
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
Enhances photoelectric conversion characteristics by preventing short circuits and maintaining conductivity between electrodes, thereby improving the efficiency of charge extraction.
Implementation Method 1
a photoelectric conversion layer is formed on the entire surface of a substrate such as a transparent substrate
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~3B
Figure 3C~3D
AI summary
A photoelectric conversion element (1) in an embodiment includes: a first photoelectric conversion layer (3A) including: a bottom electrode (4A); a photoelectric conversion layer (5A); and a top electrode (6A); and a second photoelectric conversion part (3B) including: a bottom electrode (4B); a photoelectric conversion part (5B); and a top electrode (6B). A conductive layer (14) is formed on the bottom electrode (4B). The top electrode (6A) and the bottom electrode (4B) are electrically connected by a conductive portion and the conductive layer (14), the conductive portion formed of a part of the top electrode (6A) filled in a first groove (11) that makes a surface of the conductive layer (14) exposed and separates a photoelectric conversion layer (5A) and a photoelectric conversion layer (5B) from each other. The top electrode (6A) and the top electrode (6B) are physically separated by a second groove (12) provided to make a step surface of a stepped portion (17) that is provided in the photoelectric conversion layer (5B) exposed and have a bottom surface thereof overlap the surface of the conductive layer (14).