UV LED Package Waterproof Coating for Heat and Light Extraction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing UV light sources face challenges in achieving efficient heat dissipation and light extraction, leading to reduced performance and lifespan, particularly when exposed to fluids.

Innovation Solution

A UV light source design featuring a transparent layer exposed to fluids, a waterproof coating layer, and a substrate with high thermal conductivity materials, along with a waterproof layer between the coating and housing, to enhance heat dissipation and light extraction efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a waterproof coating layer is applied to protect the substrate and LED package from fluid exposure, then reliability is improved, but light extraction efficiency deteriorates due to the coating blocking UV light transmission

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection from fluid exposureVSAvoidlight extraction efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

The waterproof coating is segmented into two distinct layers: a first waterproof layer applied to the substrate and LED package components, and a second waterproof layer applied to the housing. This segmentation allows each layer to be optimized independently - the first layer provides essential waterproofing for electrical components while the second layer provides housing protection, and the gap between them prevents light blocking while maintaining waterproof integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A gap or intermediate space is introduced between the first waterproof layer and the second waterproof layer. This intermediate space acts as a light transmission channel that allows UV light to pass through without being blocked by the waterproof coating materials, while the overall structure still provides the necessary waterproof protection against fluid exposure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If the LED package is fully enclosed for waterproofing, then reliability is improved, but heat dissipation deteriorates due to restricted thermal pathways

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewaterproof protectionVSAvoidheat dissipation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The waterproof coating structure applies local quality differentiation by providing waterproofing only where absolutely necessary - the first waterproof layer covers the substrate and LED package mounting areas, while the second waterproof layer covers the housing. The gap between layers in the light extraction region provides localized thermal and optical pathways without compromising overall waterproof protection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Illumination intensity

If the transparent layer is fully exposed to fluids for direct light transfer, then light extraction efficiency is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to fluid contact with electrical components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight extraction efficiencyVSAvoidprotection from fluid exposure
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The waterproof protection is segmented into two layers with a gap between them, creating distinct functional zones: the first layer protects electrical components, the gap allows light transmission and fluid access, and the second layer protects the housing. This segmentation enables the transparent layer to be exposed for light transfer while maintaining reliability through the layered waterproof structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

Improves light extraction efficiency by 16% and reduces operating temperature by up to 14.6°C compared to conventional designs, extending the lifespan and maintaining mechanical strength.

Implementation Method 1

an LED chip configured to generate UV light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectroluminescence: Electroluminescence

Implementation Method 2

the transparent layer is configured to directly contact a sterilization-target fluid... UV light that is directly transferred to a sterilization-target fluid without passing through the waterproof coating layer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight transmission: Light

Implementation Method 3

a substrate with high thermal conductivity materials... improves heat dissipation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal conduction: Conduction (thermal)

Data Source

PatentUS12350411B2Ultraviolet (UV) light source including light-emitting diode (LED) package with waterproof coating layer
Publication Date: 2025.07.08 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US12350411B2 patent drawing
  • US12350411B2 patent drawing
  • US12350411B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An ultraviolet (UV) light source includes: a substrate coupled to an upper housing; a light-emitting diode (LED) package on the substrate; and a waterproof coating layer on at least a portion of the substrate, wherein the LED package includes: an LED chip configured to generate UV light; and a transparent layer including a lower surface facing the LED chip, an upper surface opposite to the lower surface, and a lateral surface connecting the upper surface to the lower surface, wherein at least a portion of the upper surface of the transparent layer is exposed from the waterproof coating layer, and the transparent layer is configured to directly contact a sterilization-target fluid.