Quantum Dot Patterning via Transfer Template Bonding

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for patterning quantum dot layers in quantum dot light emitting diodes (QLEDs) face challenges in achieving high resolution due to the inorganic nano-particle features of the material, requiring complex and demanding process conditions and material interactions in multiple transferring processes.

Innovation Solution

A method involving a transfer template with convex portions that form chemical bonds with the quantum dot layer, allowing for the selective removal of a portion to be transferred while retaining the reserved portion on the substrate, using modified quantum dot materials with specific functional groups and a simplified one-step transfer process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If a transfer printing method with two transferring processes is used to pattern quantum dot layer, then patterning capability is achieved, but process complexity and operational demands increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepatterning resolutionVSAvoidprocess complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines two separate transfer processes into a single integrated process. The transfer template directly transfers the quantum dot layer from the carrier to the substrate in one operation, eliminating the intermediate transfer step and reducing process complexity while maintaining patterning precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts and eliminates the intermediate carrier transfer step from the original two-process method. By using a transfer template that can directly access and transfer quantum dots from the carrier to the substrate, the complex intermediate handling is removed, simplifying the overall process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Manufacturing precision

If a transfer printing method with two transferring processes is used to pattern quantum dot layer, then patterning capability is achieved, but operational demands and material requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepatterning resolutionVSAvoidoperational ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines two separate transfer operations into one unified transfer process. The transfer template performs both the pickup from carrier and release on substrate in a single operational sequence, reducing the number of manual operations and alignment steps required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Productivity

If conventional transfer printing is used, then quantum dot layer can be transferred, but alignment accuracy and transfer reliability are compromised due to multiple process steps

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransfer efficiencyVSAvoidtransfer reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the transfer operations into a single step, eliminating cumulative alignment errors that would occur in two separate processes. The transfer template maintains consistent positioning relative to both carrier and substrate, improving transfer reliability and reducing misalignment risks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 approach simplifies the patterning process, reduces material and process requirements, and enables high-resolution patterning of quantum dot layers, facilitating mass production of QLED display devices by eliminating the need for two transferring processes and improving alignment accuracy.

Implementation Method 1

bonding the portion to be removed with a plurality of convex portions provided on a transfer template, by pressing the transfer template against the quantum dot layer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectChemical bonding: Chemical Bonding

Data Source

PatentUS11158800B2Method for patterning quantum dot layer, method for manufacturing display device and transfer template
Publication Date: 2021.10.26 BOE TECHNOLOGY GROUP CO LTD
  • US11158800B2 patent drawing
  • US11158800B2 patent drawing
  • US11158800B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for patterning a quantum dot layer, a method for manufacturing a display device and a transfer template are provided in embodiments of the disclosure; the method for patterning a quantum dot layer, comprising: preparing a quantum dot layer on a substrate, the quantum dot layer comprising a reserved portion and a portion to be removed; bonding the portion to be removed with a plurality of convex portions provided on a transfer template, by pressing the transfer template against the quantum dot layer; and removing the portion to be removed with a removal of the transfer template, while retaining the reserved portion on the substrate.