Pixel Electrode Layout for Defect-Tolerant Light Emission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current display devices face challenges in maintaining light output efficiency and reliability due to defects in sub-pixels, which can appear as dark spots, reducing overall light emission intensity.
Innovation Solution
The design includes a pixel structure with three series stages of light emitting elements connected through intermediate electrodes, where the shape of these electrodes is modified to ensure that even if a defect occurs in one series stage, the light output is maintained by the other stages, and the light emitting elements are positioned to face the center of the emission area for improved efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If light emitting elements are arranged in a simple structure, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to defects appearing as dark spots
Solution Approach 1:
The pixel is divided into three series stages (first, second, and third stages) with multiple light emitting elements in each stage. Intermediate electrodes separate these stages, creating a segmented structure where defects in one stage do not completely disable the pixel. This segmentation allows the pixel to maintain partial light emission even when some elements fail, thereby improving reliability without excessive complexity increase.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate electrodes at different spatial positions and orientations (first intermediate electrode with first extension direction, second intermediate electrode with second extension direction). This multi-dimensional arrangement creates redundant light emission paths, so that when one path fails due to defect, other paths in different dimensions can compensate, improving reliability while maintaining manageable device complexity.
2Reliability
If multiple series stages are added to improve reliability, then resistance to defect impact increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple light emitting elements within each series stage are connected in parallel, merging their light emission contributions. This merging approach allows the pixel to achieve redundancy and defect resistance through parallel pathways rather than requiring completely separate series stages, thereby improving reliability while controlling device complexity through efficient spatial utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate electrodes serve multiple functions: they act as electrical connections between series stages, provide structural support, and define the boundaries between different light emitting regions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components, thereby improving reliability through robust design while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
3Productivity
If light emitting elements are positioned away from center, then manufacturing is easier, but light output efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions light emitting elements specifically at the center of the pixel area, creating a local concentration of light emission sources where they are most effective. This central positioning optimizes light output efficiency by ensuring maximum light generation in the primary viewing area, while the surrounding regions can accommodate manufacturing tolerances and electrode connections, balancing productivity and ease of manufacture.
Data Source
AI summary
A pixel includes an emission area and a non-emission area, a first pixel electrode, a first intermediate electrode, a second intermediate electrode, and a second pixel electrode spaced from each other, first light emitting elements including a first end electrically connected to the first pixel electrode and a second end electrically connected to the first intermediate electrode, second light emitting elements including a first end electrically connected to the first intermediate electrode and a second end electrically connected to the second intermediate electrode, and third light emitting elements including a first end electrically connected to the second intermediate electrode and a second end electrically connected to the second pixel electrode. The second intermediate electrode includes a first portion opposing the first intermediate electrode, a second portion between the first pixel electrode and the second pixel electrode, and a diagonal line portion between the first portion and the second portion.