Polarized LED Grating Layers Eliminate LCD Polarizer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current LED technologies do not have a method to generate polarized light, necessitating the use of an additional polarizing plate in LCD products, which increases production complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A polarized LED is developed by forming a first grating layer on a quantum well layer and a second grating layer on a substrate, with the grating patterns oriented differently to rotate and polarize light, eliminating the need for a polarizing plate by emitting polarized light in the front direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional LED structure is used, then the LED can be manufactured with a simple structure, but it cannot generate polarized light requiring an additional polarizing plate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the light generation function and polarized light output function into a single LED device by integrating grating layers within the LED structure. The grating layers are formed on the quantum well layer and substrate, enabling the LED itself to generate polarized light without requiring a separate polarizing plate, thus merging multiple functions into one device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the LED structure into multiple functional layers including a first grating layer formed on the quantum well layer and a second grating layer formed on the substrate. Each grating layer serves a specific function in polarizing the light, with the first grating layer polarizing light in one direction and the second grating layer polarizing light in a different direction, achieving comprehensive polarized light generation through segmentation of the optical path.
2Ease of manufacture
If an additional polarizing plate is used in LCD products, then polarized light can be achieved, but the total number of parts increases and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the polarizing plate function into the LED structure itself by incorporating grating layers that perform polarization. This eliminates the need for a separate polarizing plate in the LCD assembly, reducing the total number of parts and simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining the required polarized light output.
Solution Approach 2:
The LED device is designed to perform multiple functions: light generation and polarized light output. By making the LED structure universal and capable of generating polarized light directly, the system eliminates the need for additional specialized components like polarizing plates, thereby reducing part count and manufacturing complexity.
3Illumination intensity
If grating layers are added to the LED structure, then polarized light can be emitted in the front direction, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies grating structures only in specific locations where polarization is needed - the first grating layer is formed on the quantum well layer and the second grating layer is formed on the substrate. This localized application of grating structures achieves polarized light output in the front direction without requiring complex grating formation throughout the entire LED structure, thereby managing manufacturing precision requirements effectively.
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
This solution allows for the production of LCDs without a polarizing plate, reducing manufacturing costs and enhancing optical efficiency by effectively polarizing light within the LED itself.
Implementation Method 1
a first grating layer formed on the quantum well layer to allow a part of light generated from the quantum well layer to pass through the first grating layer and to reflect remaining light
Implementation Method 2
a second grating layer formed on the substrate to rotate the light reflected from the first grating layer such that the reflected light passes through the first grating layer
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a polarized light emitting diode (LED) capable of emitting polarized light in the front direction thereof by forming a first grating layer on a quantum well layer and forming a second grating layer on a substrate. The polarized LED includes a nitride thin film formed on a substrate, a quantum well layer formed on the nitride thin film, a first grating layer formed on the quantum well layer to allow a part of light generated from the quantum well layer to pass through the first grating layer and to reflect remaining light, and a second grating layer formed on the substrate to rotate the light reflected from the first grating layer such that the reflected light passes through the first grating layer.