TFT Array Substrate Vertical Insertion Structure

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional TFT array substrates face issues with weak adhesion between functional layers, leading to potential separation and peeling problems, especially when bent, which affects product stability and display performance.

Innovation Solution

A novel inter-layer structure is introduced, featuring a vertical insertion in the planarization layer with horizontal extensions, enhancing bonding between layers through a combination of vertical and horizontal wedge-shaped structures, thereby improving adhesion and stability even under bending conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If a through hole with a plug structure is added to enhance bonding between the planarization layer and interlayer dielectric layer, then the adhesion between layers is improved, but the structure complexity increases and the plug structure becomes easily extracted during bending

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadhesion between layersVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention transitions from a single vertical plug structure to a three-dimensional insertion structure that extends in multiple directions (vertical and horizontal). The insertion protrudes from the planarization layer into the function layer, creating a multi-dimensional bonding interface that prevents layer separation more effectively than conventional vertical plugs while maintaining structural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The insertion structure is divided into multiple functional segments: a vertical portion extending downward into the function layer and horizontal portions extending outward. This segmentation allows each part to perform specific functions - the vertical portion provides deep anchoring while horizontal portions prevent lateral displacement, collectively enhancing adhesion without requiring excessive complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of manufacture

If conventional planar surface contact is used between functional layers, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the bonding force between layers is weak leading to peeling

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing simplicityVSAvoidbonding force between layers
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

Rather than changing the entire planarization layer surface, the invention introduces localized insertions at specific positions where bonding is critical. These insertions create localized three-dimensional bonding interfaces that significantly enhance adhesion strength at key locations while maintaining the overall simplicity of the planar manufacturing process for the majority of the layer.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Adaptability or versatility

If the TFT array substrate is bent, then the adaptability to flexible applications is improved, but the risk of detachment between different layers increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility for bendingVSAvoidlayer stability during bending
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The multi-dimensional insertion structure (combining vertical and horizontal extensions) creates a three-dimensional bonding network that resists detachment forces from bending. The horizontal portions of the insertion extend laterally to anchor adjacent layers, preventing delamination that typically occurs during flexing, while the vertical portion maintains deep anchoring. This multi-directional anchoring system enables the substrate to bend without compromising layer stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS11398506B2TFT array substrate, fabricating method thereof, and display panel thereof
Publication Date: 2022.07.26 WUHAN CHINA STAR OPTOELECTRONICS SEMICONDUCTOR DISPLAY TECHNOLOGY CO LTD
  • US11398506B2 patent drawing
  • US11398506B2 patent drawing
  • US11398506B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention provides a thin film transistor (TFT) array substrate including a base layer. A function layer is disposed on the base layer, and a planarization layer is disposed on the function layer. The planarization layer includes a vertical insertion extending into the function layer, and a side of the vertical insertion horizontally extends outwardly into the function layer to from a horizontal insertion. The invention provides a TFT array substrate, which adopts a novel inter-layers structure arrangement, which effectively reduces risk of potential mutual detachment between different layers, thereby improving product stability.