Pixel-Source Electrode Connection Structure Against Undercut Corrosion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Some array substrates face issues with effective connection between the pixel electrode and the source electrode, leading to reduced product yield rates due to problems like undercut during etching and oxidation corrosion.

Innovation Solution

The array substrate includes a connection structure that connects the source electrode and the pixel electrode, either through a via hole structure exposing both electrodes or by being disposed between them. This connection structure ensures effective electrical connection and prevents oxidation corrosion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a via hole structure is used to connect the pixel electrode and source electrode, then the electrical connection is improved, but the risk of undercut during etching and oxidation corrosion increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connection reliabilityVSAvoidundercut and oxidation corrosion
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a connection structure as an intermediary element between the pixel electrode and source electrode. This connection structure includes a connection electrode and connection wiring that mediate the electrical connection, preventing direct exposure of the electrodes to etching and oxidation environments while maintaining reliable electrical connectivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The connection structure is formed in advance before the pixel electrode and source electrode are fully exposed to the etching process. By preliminarily establishing the connection path through the connection electrode and wiring, the structure protects the electrodes from undercut and oxidation corrosion that would occur during subsequent etching and processing steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Object-affected harmful factors

If additional ashing processes are implemented to prevent oxidation corrosion, then the protection against oxidation is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and production costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoxidation corrosion resistanceVSAvoidmanufacturing process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection structure serves as a protective intermediary that physically separates the pixel electrode and source electrode from the oxidizing environment. This structural protection eliminates the need for additional chemical protection steps like ashing processes, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining oxidation resistance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces chemical protection methods (ashing processes) with a mechanical/structural protection approach. The connection structure provides physical protection against oxidation corrosion through its geometric configuration and material properties, substituting the need for complex chemical treatment processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of manufacture

If the pixel electrode and source electrode are directly connected, then the manufacturing process is simplified, but the product yield rate decreases due to connection failures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing process simplicityVSAvoidproduct yield rate
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection structure acts as a buffered intermediary that simplifies the manufacturing process by providing a dedicated connection path, while simultaneously improving product yield rate. The connection electrode and wiring are specifically designed to ensure reliable electrical connection, reducing connection failures despite the additional structural element.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS12235551B2Array substrate and display apparatus comprising connection structure between pixel electrode and source electrode
Publication Date: 2025.02.25 BEIJING BOE DISPLAY TECH CO LTD
  • US12235551B2 patent drawing
  • US12235551B2 patent drawing
  • US12235551B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides an array substrate, a method for manufacturing the array substrate, and a display apparatus. The array substrate includes: a base substrate, a thin film transistor disposed on the base substrate; a first passivation layer, an organic film layer and a pixel electrode disposed on the thin film transistor; a connection structure for connecting the source electrode of the thin film transistor and the pixel electrode, wherein the connection structure is disposed in a via hole structure exposing the pixel electrode and the source electrode; or, the connection structure is disposed between the pixel electrode and the source electrode.