Pixel Light Control Layer for Micro LED Efficiency

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current display technologies face challenges in enhancing light efficiency of micro light emitting elements due to inefficient light recycling and directional control in display devices.

Innovation Solution

A pixel design incorporating a light control layer with a reflective and scattering layer structure, positioned between insulating layers, which recycles light emitted by micro light emitting elements to direct it upwards, improving light efficiency by ensuring that light emitted downwards is redirected towards the viewer.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If a light control layer with reflective and scattering layers is added to recycle light, then light efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight efficiencyVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The light control layer is nested between the first and second insulating layers, with the reflective layer and scattering layer integrated within this confined space. The reflective layer is positioned between the first insulating layer and the light emitting element, while the scattering layer is positioned between the second insulating layer and the light emitting element, creating a compact nested structure that recycles light without significantly increasing device footprint.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent converts the harmful effect of light being emitted in unwanted directions (downwards or sideways) into a beneficial recycling mechanism. The reflective layer reflects downward-emitted light back towards the emission area, while the scattering layer scatters light to redirect it towards the viewer. This transforms wasted light into useful light that contributes to display brightness and viewing angle.

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

2Loss of energy

If the light control layer completely covers the light emitting element, then light recycling is maximized, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight recycling efficiencyVSAvoidmanufacturing precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The light control layer is designed with local quality variations - the reflective layer has a specific width that may differ from the width of the light emitting element, and the scattering layer is positioned to cover specific areas. The second insulating layer has a thickness equal to or greater than the light control layer thickness, ensuring complete coverage where needed while allowing manufacturing tolerances in other areas. This localized optimization balances light recycling efficiency with manufacturability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 enhances light efficiency by recirculating light emitted by micro light emitting elements, improving the overall brightness and viewing angle range of display devices.

Implementation Method 1

The light control layer may include a reflective layer. The reflective layer may include a floated metal pattern. The reflective layer may include at least one of aluminum (Al), gold (Au), and silver (Ag).

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

The light control layer may include a scattering layer including at least one type of light scattering particles.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight scattering: Scattering

Data Source

PatentUS11626537B2Pixel and display device having the same
Publication Date: 2023.04.11 SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO LTD
  • US11626537B2 patent drawing
  • US11626537B2 patent drawing
  • US11626537B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A display device includes a pixel located in a display area, the pixel including: a first electrode and a second electrode spaced from each other on a base layer; a first insulating layer and a second insulating layer sequentially stacked on the first electrode and the second electrode; a light emitting element on the second insulating layer and located between the first electrode and the second electrode; and a light control layer interposed between the first insulating layer and the second insulating layer and overlapping the light emitting element.