Structured Electrode Light Management in OLEDs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optoelectronic components, such as OLEDs, face limitations in light coupling-out efficiency, with external methods achieving only 60-70% efficiency and internal methods being complex and affecting component durability, and requiring integration after the organic functional layer formation.
Innovation Solution
An optoelectronic component with a structured electrode that is reflective and has a conformal organic functional layer structure, allowing for increased light coupling-in and coupling-out before the organic functional layer formation, using techniques like lithographic methods to create diffusive or periodic structures for enhanced light management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If external coupling-out measures (scattering film, surface structuring) are applied to increase light coupling-out, then light coupling-out efficiency is improved, but the appearance of the organic light emitting diode is significantly influenced and may become milky or diffusely reflective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by forming the structuring directly on the substrate surface before depositing the organic functional layer system. This early structuring allows light coupling optimization to be achieved without requiring subsequent application of scattering films or surface treatments that would affect appearance. The structuring is created in advance through techniques like lithographic methods, enabling light management before the organic layers are formed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from applying coupling-out measures on the outer surface (external coupling) to creating structuring on the inner substrate surface (internal coupling). This dimensional shift moves the light management interface from the external surface to the internal substrate-organic layer interface, thereby improving light coupling without compromising the external appearance of the device.
2Loss of energy
If conventional internal coupling-out arrangements are applied after the organic functional layer system is formed, then light coupling-out is improved, but the production process becomes more complicated and component durability is adversely affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by creating the light coupling structuring on the substrate before the organic functional layer system is deposited. This reverses the conventional sequence where coupling structures are added after organic layer formation. By performing the structuring operation first, the production process is simplified and avoids the complexity of integrating coupling structures into already-formed multi-layer organic systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies inversion by reversing the conventional production sequence. Instead of forming the organic functional layer system first and then adding coupling-out structures, the patent creates the coupling structuring on the substrate first, followed by deposition of the organic layers. This inverted sequence simplifies manufacturing and improves durability by avoiding post-assembly modifications.
3Loss of energy
If conventional internal coupling-out arrangements are applied after the organic functional layer system is formed, then light coupling-out is improved, but component durability is adversely affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by forming the light coupling structuring on the substrate before the organic functional layer system is deposited. This early formation of the structured surface allows subsequent organic layers to conformally follow the structuring, creating a stable integrated structure that enhances durability. The structuring is established in advance, avoiding mechanical stress or delamination issues that would arise from adding structures after organic layer formation.
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 enhances light coupling efficiency while maintaining component durability and allowing for early integration in the manufacturing process, reducing financial losses if initial coupling-out is ineffective.
Implementation Method 1
the electrode has a surface which is reflective with respect to the electromagnetic radiation
Data Source
AI summary
In various embodiments, an optoelectronic component is provided. The optoelectronic component may include an electrode, and an organic functional layer structure formed for emitting an electromagnetic radiation or converting an electromagnetic radiation into an electric current. The electrode has a surface which is reflective with respect to the electromagnetic radiation, and wherein the organic functional layer structure is formed on or over the reflective surface of the electrode and is electrically coupled thereto. The reflective surface has a structuring.