Pixel Electrode Layout for Stable Alignment and Light Emission

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current display technologies face challenges in achieving reliable pixel configurations for improved light emission efficiency and alignment stability, particularly in the integration of light emitting elements and electrodes within a display device.

Innovation Solution

A pixel configuration is proposed, featuring a specific arrangement of conductive patterns, electrodes, and bank structures that include overlapping and separated areas for alignment signals, along with an insulating layer and contact holes, to ensure precise alignment and efficient light emission.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If multiple electrodes and conductive patterns are integrated in a pixel structure, then light emission efficiency is improved, but manufacturing complexity and alignment precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight emission efficiencyVSAvoidpixel structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The pixel structure is segmented into multiple functional layers including first and second conductive patterns, first to fourth electrodes, bank patterns, and insulating layers. Each layer performs a specific function in the electrical connection and light emission process, allowing complex functionality to be achieved through modular organization rather than monolithic design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes vertical stacking of conductive patterns and electrodes in the thickness direction to achieve multiple electrical connections within a compact planar footprint. The first conductive pattern is positioned at a first level while the second conductive pattern is positioned at a second level, creating three-dimensional electrical interconnections that improve light emission efficiency without proportionally increasing planar complexity.

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

2Use of energy by moving object

If conductive patterns and electrodes are positioned closer together, then light emission efficiency improves, but alignment precision requirements worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight emission efficiencyVSAvoidalignment precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

Bank patterns are introduced as intermediary structures positioned between the conductive patterns and electrodes. These bank patterns provide physical reference markers and structural support that facilitate precise alignment during manufacturing. The bank patterns extend in the thickness direction and create defined spacing relationships that guide the positioning of adjacent conductive elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The bank patterns are formed in advance before the conductive patterns and electrodes are positioned. These pre-formed structures establish the geometric framework and alignment references that subsequent layers must follow, ensuring consistent positioning relationships are maintained throughout the stacking process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If overlapping areas between conductive patterns and electrodes are increased, then electrical connection reliability improves, but parasitic capacitance increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connection reliabilityVSAvoidparasitic capacitance
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The insulating layer is selectively positioned to cover specific regions where conductive patterns and electrodes overlap or are in close proximity. By applying insulation only in critical areas where parasitic capacitance would be generated, the patent maintains good electrical connection reliability in non-critical regions while suppressing unwanted capacitive effects in sensitive areas.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The insulating layer, which might seem to increase electrical isolation, is strategically used to convert potentially harmful parasitic capacitance into beneficial controlled electrical isolation. By positioning the insulating layer to cover specific overlapping regions, the patent eliminates harmful capacitive coupling while maintaining necessary electrical connections elsewhere in the structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Data Source

PatentUS12176460B2Pixel and display device including the same
Publication Date: 2024.12.24 SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO LTD
  • US12176460B2 patent drawing
  • US12176460B2 patent drawing
  • US12176460B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A pixel includes a first conductive pattern, a second conductive pattern, and a third conductive pattern that are spaced apart from each other; a first electrode at least partially overlapping and directly contacting the first conductive pattern; a second electrode adjacent to the first electrode; a third electrode on the third conductive pattern and directly contacting the third conductive pattern, and a fourth electrode at least partially overlapping, and directly contacting the second conductive pattern; a first pixel electrode and a second pixel electrode that are on at least one of the first, second, third, and fourth electrodes; and light emitting elements electrically connected to the first and second pixel electrodes. The first conductive pattern, the first electrode, and the first pixel electrode are electrically connected to each other. The third conductive pattern, the third electrode, and the second pixel electrode are electrically connected to each other.