Soft Shielding Structure for OELD Particle Protection

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Solution Overview

Problem

The fragile structure of organic electroluminescence devices (OELDs) in display panels makes them susceptible to damage during packaging and back-end processes due to bending or deformation of the top cover and substrate, leading to particle-induced scratches and reduced yield and reliability.

Innovation Solution

A shielding structure with a hardness smaller than the electrode is integrated onto the OELD, acting as a buffer layer to protect the device from particles and external forces, comprising materials like aluminum, copper phthalocyanine, or triphenylamine derivatives, and designed to cover either the entire or partial surface of the electrode.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a conventional OELD structure without shielding is used, then the device structure remains simple, but the device is easily damaged by particles and external forces during packaging and handling

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice integrityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A shielding structure is introduced as an intermediary layer between the electrode and external environment. This shielding layer absorbs particle impacts and distributes external forces, protecting the fragile electrode structure without requiring fundamental redesign of the OELD architecture

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The shielding structure is pre-installed on the electrode before the device undergoes packaging or handling processes. This proactive protection cushioning prevents damage from anticipated particle contamination and mechanical stress during subsequent manufacturing and transport operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

2Ease of manufacture

If the top cover or substrate is bent during packaging process, then the OELD structure is deformed, but particles would scratch or press the OELD when squeezed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepackaging processVSAvoidparticle damage
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The shielding structure serves as a mediator between particles and the electrode. When particles are present during packaging operations, the shielding layer intercepts and absorbs their impact, preventing direct contact with and damage to the electrode surface

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The shielding structure modifies the mechanical parameters of the electrode surface by providing a softer protective layer. This changes the hardness parameter from the original electrode material to a softer shielding material that absorbs impact energy, reducing the harmful effects of particle scratches and pressure during squeezing operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS7495391B2Organic electroluminescence device and organic electroluminescence panel using the same
Publication Date: 2009.02.24 AU OPTRONICS CORP
  • US7495391B2 patent drawing
  • US7495391B2 patent drawing
  • US7495391B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An organic electroluminescence device (OELD) and a display panel are provided. The OELD comprises a first electrode, a second electrode, an emissive layer and a shielding structure. The second electrode is disposed above the first electrode. The emissive layer is disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The shielding structure is disposed above the second electrode. The hardness of the shielding structure is smaller than that of the second electrode.