JP4868922B2 - EL light source - Google Patents

Description

The present invention is an electroluminescent device (hereinafter, also referred to as an EL element.) Relates to the EL light source, in particular using an organic EL element.

  In recent years, EL elements have been developed, and EL elements for display or light sources having high luminance and a large area have been proposed. Accordingly, an EL light source body that is used for illumination by applying an EL element is being studied.

  FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a connection state of external leads connected to supply power from the outside to a conventional EL element.

  The conventional EL element 130 includes a transparent substrate 132 and a sealing portion 133 that are arranged to face each other. The sealing portion 133 includes a sealing plate 133p and a sealing portion 133j, and the sealing plate 133p is bonded to the transparent substrate 132 through the sealing portion 133j. The transparent substrate 132 is required to be transparent in order to lead the light from the light emitting layer 131e to the outside, and is made of, for example, a glass substrate. The sealing plate 133p is made of, for example, a glass substrate. Moreover, the sealing part 133j is comprised, for example with the epoxy-type adhesive agent, in order to adhere | attach a glass substrate mutually.

  A positive electrode 134p, a light emitting layer 131e, and a negative electrode 134m are sequentially stacked on the transparent substrate 132, and power is supplied to the light emitting layer 131e by applying an appropriate voltage between the positive electrode 134p and the negative electrode 134m. To emit light.

  The plus electrode 134p laminated on the transparent substrate 132 is required to be transparent because it needs to transmit light, and is made of, for example, ITO. Further, the negative electrode 134m laminated on the back surface side with respect to the light emitting layer 131e is made of, for example, aluminum because it is not required to be transparent but is required to have appropriate reflectivity. Note that the end portions of the plus electrode 134p and the minus electrode 134m (the plus electrode 134p and the minus electrode 134m are also referred to as element electrodes 134) are appropriately led out to the outside of the sealing portion 133 (the outer peripheral region of the transparent substrate 132). The plus electrode 134p constitutes a connection terminal 134pt.

  In order to apply an appropriate voltage to the device electrode 134, for example, the external lead 160 is connected to the connection terminal 134pt using an appropriate connection means. Although not shown, a similar connection terminal is formed on the negative electrode 134m in a direction crossing the connection terminal 134pt, and a similar external lead is connected thereto.

  In such a conventional EL element 130, since the external lead 160 is directly connected to the connection terminal 134pt, the connection strength of the external lead 160 is extremely weak, and it is difficult to ensure practical physical strength. Handling was also difficult. In other words, the conventional EL element 130 has a problem in practicality and reliability because of its low physical strength, and it has not been realized that the EL element 130 is put into practical use as a general EL light source body. is there.

  In addition, since the external lead 160 is locally connected by the connection terminal 134pt, there is a problem that the potential difference due to the resistance of the element electrode 134 is large, resulting in luminance unevenness and further lowering the luminance.

In addition, the terminal connection state of such a conventional EL element is presented in Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2, for example.
JP-A-1-149396 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-354272

  The present invention has been made in view of such a situation, and an EL element is used for the interconnection of first polarity electrodes arranged opposite to each other and the interconnection of second polarity electrodes arranged opposite to each other. The wiring structure for supplying power to the EL element is simplified by suppressing the potential difference due to the resistance of the element electrodes (first polarity electrode and second polarity electrode). An object of the present invention is to provide an EL light source body with high physical strength and high reliability by reducing luminance spots.

  Moreover, this invention comprises the 1st polarity connection member which connects a 1st polarity electrode mutually, and the 2nd polarity connection member which mutually connects a 2nd polarity electrode by comprising a plate-shaped conductor or a foil-shaped conductor. Another object of the present invention is to provide an EL light source body capable of improving the mechanical strength in a state in which the planarity of the EL element is ensured and making the device thinner.

  In addition, the present invention includes a surface case disposed opposite to the EL element, and by providing a window portion corresponding to the light emitting region in the surface case, it is possible to ensure physical strength without reducing the transmittance. It is another object to provide a possible EL light source.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide an EL light source body with excellent design by making the surface case light-shielding.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide an EL light source body that is easy to handle and highly practical by protecting the EL element using a front case and a back case engaged with the front case.

An EL light source body according to the present invention includes a quadrilateral transparent substrate, a sealing portion that covers a light emitting region formed in the center of the transparent substrate and is disposed to face the back surface of the transparent substrate, and the sealing A pair of first polar electrodes that are led out from the sealing portion in a first direction in plan view with respect to the stopper and disposed in an outer peripheral region of the back surface of the transparent substrate , and a second that intersects the first direction in plan view An EL light source body including an EL element having a pair of second polar electrodes that are led out from the sealing portion in a direction and disposed in an outer peripheral region of the back surface of the transparent substrate , and is disposed along the sealing portion A first polarity connection member that connects the pair of first polarity electrodes, a second polarity connection member that connects the pair of second polarity electrodes via the surface side of the transparent substrate, and the transparent substrate A window corresponding to the light emitting region is disposed opposite the surface of A surface case that engages with the surface case and covers the EL element, the surface case has a light shielding property, and the back surface case has a region corresponding to the sealing portion. It has the window part exposed .

With this configuration, since the interconnection of the first polarity electrode and the interconnection of the second polarity electrode are performed on the surface opposite to the EL element, the wiring structure for supplying power to the EL element can be simplified. In addition, since the luminance difference is reduced by suppressing the potential difference due to the resistance of the element electrodes (first polarity electrode and second polarity electrode), stable operation with high luminance becomes possible, so that the physical strength and reliability are improved. The EL light source body can be made high. Further, it is possible to ensure the mechanical strength without reducing the transmittance. In addition, it is possible to mask the periphery of the light emitting region (the outer peripheral region of the light emitting region) to reveal the light emitting region, and further, the second polarity connecting member can be masked, so that the decorativeness and design can be improved. . Further, the EL element can be reliably separated and protected from the external environment to further improve the physical strength, and an EL light source body that is easy to handle, safe, and highly practical can be obtained. In addition, it is possible to ensure mechanical strength without degrading heat dissipation and to secure a covering portion that covers the wiring portion. Further, a heat radiator having a shape protruding from the window portion is provided for further heat dissipation. It is also possible to improve.

Further, the EL light source according to the present invention, the first polarity connecting member and the second polarity connection member, Ri tare formed by plate-shaped conductor, said second polarity connection member is adhered to said transparent substrate and wherein the Citea Rukoto.

With this configuration, the first polarity connection member and the second polarity connection member can be arranged along the planes of the transparent substrate and the sealing portion, so that the EL light source body is thinned without impairing the planarity of the EL element. In addition, it is possible to obtain a highly reliable EL light source body by securing the physical strength of the first polarity connecting member and the second polarity connecting member and reinforcing the physical strength of the EL element. Become. Further, the sealing portion and the first polarity connecting member can be brought into close contact with each other, and the heat dissipation of the EL element can be improved. In addition, by stably fixing the second polarity connection member and improving heat dissipation, it is possible to improve the reliability of connection with the second polarity electrode and to provide a highly reliable EL light source body. .

Further, the EL light source according to the present invention, the first polarity connection member and a second polarity connection member, Ri tare formed by a foil-like conductor, said first polarity connecting member the sealing portion with an adhesive is adhered to, the second polarity connection member is characterized adhered tare Rukoto to the transparent substrate with an adhesive.

With this configuration, since the first polarity connection member and the second polarity connection member can be easily arranged along the sealing portion and the transparent substrate, the EL light source body having good flatness and further thinness can be obtained. Since the one polarity connecting member and the second polarity connecting member can be easily connected to the first polarity electrode or the second polarity electrode, an EL light source body with high productivity can be obtained. Further, the first polarity connection member and the second polarity connection member (foil-like conductor) can be easily and reliably fixed and arranged, and the physical strength of the first polarity connection member and the second polarity connection member can be increased. It is possible to improve the EL light source body with high reliability.

  According to the EL light source body according to the present invention, the interconnection of the first polarity electrodes arranged opposite to each other and the interconnection of the second polarity electrodes arranged opposite to each other are arranged on the opposite surface of the EL element. Therefore, the wiring structure for supplying power to the EL element can be simplified, and the potential difference due to the resistance of the element electrodes (first polarity electrode and second polarity electrode) can be suppressed. Since luminance spots can be reduced, the physical intensity, emission luminance, and reliability can be improved.

  Moreover, according to the EL light source body according to the present invention, the first polarity connection member that connects the first polarity electrodes to each other and the second polarity connection member that connects the second polarity electrodes to each other include the plate-like conductor or the foil shape. Since it is composed of a conductor, the mechanical strength can be improved and the thickness can be reduced while the planarity of the EL element is ensured.

  In addition, according to the EL light source body according to the present invention, since the surface case is provided so as to face the EL element, and the window portion corresponding to the light emitting region is provided in the surface case, physicality is not reduced. There is an effect that it is possible to ensure the appropriate strength.

  Further, according to the EL light source body according to the present invention, since the surface case is made light-shielding, the second polarity connecting member is masked, and an excellent design can be realized.

  Moreover, according to the EL light source body according to the present invention, since the EL element is protected by using the front case and the back case engaged with the front case, there is an effect that the handling is easy and high practicality can be realized.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

<Embodiment 1>
The present embodiment relates to a basic configuration of an EL light source body.

  FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view for explaining the outline of the main configuration of the EL light source body according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

  The EL light source 1 according to the present embodiment includes a surface case 20 disposed on the surface side that emits light, an EL element 30 that is disposed opposite to the surface case 20 and generates light, and supplies power to the EL element 30. By aligning and superimposing (fitting, engaging) the electrode connecting portion 40 for performing the above and the back surface case 50 that engages with the front surface case 20 and protects the back surface opposite to the front surface side that emits light in this order. It is configured.

  The front case 20, the EL element 30, the electrode connecting portion 40, and the back case 50 can be stably fixed using an appropriate adhesive such as an epoxy adhesive. The physical strength of the light source body 1 can be improved and the reliability can be improved.

  Since the front case 20 is disposed to face the EL element 30 (transparent substrate 32), it is possible to easily secure the physical strength of the EL light source body 1 and improve reliability and practicality. Can do. The surface case 20 includes, for example, a quadrangular and planar support portion 21 on which the EL element 30 is placed and supported, and an EL element 30 (transparent substrate 32) that is erected on the outer peripheral end of the support portion 21. The frame portion 22 is positioned and accommodated. With this configuration, the EL element 30 can be reliably positioned and placed inside the surface case 20.

  Since the front case 20 stably supports the EL element 30 and reliably separates it from the external environment, the EL element 30 can be protected from the surrounding external environment. Therefore, the mechanical strength of the EL light source body 1 can be easily secured, and the reliability and practicality can be improved.

  The front case 20 can reinforce and protect the corners (four corners of the quadrilateral plane, corners at the end surfaces intersecting both planes) of the transparent substrate 32 made of, for example, glass and sensitive to external force. The effect of becoming. Further, for example, by cutting the glass, it becomes possible to protect and cover the sharp edge at the quadrilateral end face formed on the transparent substrate 32, thereby eliminating the operational difficulty such as a worker's cut by the sharp edge, and handling ease. By improving the above, there is an effect that the workability in the process after being mounted on the surface case 20 can be improved.

  In the center of the support portion 21, a window portion 23 opened corresponding to the light emitting region 31 of the EL element 30 is formed in order to directly emit (transmit) the light from the EL element 30 to the outside of the EL light source body 1. is there. That is, since the support portion 21 has a frame shape corresponding to the outer peripheral portion of the EL element 30, the periphery of the EL element 30 can be reliably supported. Therefore, since the light generated in the light emitting region 31 is directly emitted to the outside of the EL light source body 1, it is possible to improve the light emission efficiency as the EL light source body 1 compared with the case where the window portion 23 is not provided. Thus, the physical strength can be secured without reducing the transmittance.

  The front case 20 is formed of, for example, a synthetic resin and has the window portion 23, so that it can be formed of a light shielding resin. The surface case 20 is molded from a light-shielding synthetic resin (for example, plastic) to make the light emitting region 31 of the EL element 30 stand out, and the light emitting region 31 is made visible. Since it is possible to shield (mask) the light emitting area so as not to be seen, it is possible to improve the decorativeness and design without reducing the transmittance when the EL light source 1 is used as an illumination light source. . In particular, since the second polarity connecting member 42 can be masked, a great visual effect is achieved.

  On the other hand, when the surface case 20 is translucent, there is an effect that it is possible to form a flat plate without providing the window portion 23.

  Since the EL element 30 is generally a quadrilateral for ease of manufacture, etc., the surface case 20 is similarly a quadrilateral, but the surface case 20 may be appropriately deformed according to the shape of the EL element 30. Is possible.

  The EL element 30 covers the transparent substrate 32 disposed on the light emitting side (the side facing the front case 20) and the light emitting region 31 formed at the center of the transparent substrate 32 so as to face the transparent substrate 32. The sealing part 33 arrange | positioned is provided. Since the transparent substrate 32 is placed on the opposing support portion 21, the physical strength of the EL element 30 can be improved.

  Further, the transparent substrate 32 is led to the outer peripheral region of the sealing portion 33 on the outer peripheral region of the back surface (the surface facing the sealing portion 33. The surface opposite to the surface that emits light to the outside). The first polarity electrode 34p and the second polarity electrode 34m of the EL element 30 (hereinafter referred to as the element electrode 34 when there is no need to distinguish between the first polarity electrode 34p and the second polarity electrode 34m. For example, the first polarity electrode 34p). Is a positive electrode, and the second polarity electrode 34m is a negative electrode).

  For example, each of the first polarity electrode 34p and the second polarity electrode 34m is led out and arranged as a pair of electrodes having the same polarity in the opposite direction of the outer peripheral region of the transparent substrate 32 (sealing portion 33). That is, the first polarity electrode 34p and the second polarity electrode 34m are led out and arranged in a direction crossing each other.

  Details of the EL element 30 will be described with reference to FIG.

  The electrode connecting portion 40 is disposed opposite to the sealing portion 33 and connects the first polarity connecting member 41 connecting the first polarity electrodes 34p and the second polarity electrode 34m arranged opposite to the transparent substrate 32. And a second polarity connection member 42. In FIG. 1, the 1st polarity connection member 41 and the 2nd polarity connection member 42 are shown typically.

  The first polarity electrodes 34p arranged opposite to each other are connected on the side facing the sealing portion 33, and the second polarity electrodes 34m arranged opposite to each other in the direction intersecting the first polarity electrode 34p are connected. By connecting on the side facing the transparent substrate 32, the wiring structure for supplying power to the EL element 30 can be simplified and easily formed.

  In addition, by forming the first polarity connecting member 41 and the second polarity connecting member 42 in correspondence with the element electrode 34, it is possible to reliably suppress the potential difference due to the resistance of the element electrode 34 and reduce luminance unevenness. Thus, the EL light source body 1 that can operate stably with high luminance and has high physical strength and reliability can be obtained.

  The electrode connection section 40 will be described in further detail in the second to fifth embodiments (FIGS. 3 to 9).

  The back case 50 includes a covering portion 51 that covers a region where the electrode connecting portion 40 is connected to the element electrode 34 at the outer peripheral portion of the EL element 30, and a frame that is erected on the outer peripheral end of the covering portion 51 and encloses the EL element 30. The unit 52 is provided. That is, the back case 50 (frame portion 52) is fitted (engaged) and accommodated inside the front case 20 (frame portion 22), and is configured to cover the EL element 30, so that the front case The EL element 30 can be reliably separated and protected from the external environment by being engaged with 20, and the physical strength of the EL light source body 1 can be further improved to improve reliability and practicality. .

  Accordingly, since the EL element 30 is housed in a box composed of the front case 20 and the back case 50 and becomes an EL light source body 1 having a so-called cassette structure, handling becomes extremely easy, and the practicality as an illumination light source is greatly improved. It becomes possible to make it.

  The covering portion 51 is formed with a window portion 53 that exposes a region corresponding to the sealing portion 33 (first polarity connecting member 41) in order to release heat from the EL element 30 to the outside of the EL light source body 1. . That is, since the covering portion 51 has a frame shape corresponding to the outer peripheral portion of the EL element 30, the heat generated in the EL element 30 is directly released to the outside of the EL light source body 1.

  Therefore, since the covering portion 51 improves the heat radiation efficiency as the EL light source body 1 as compared with the case where the window portion 53 is not provided, it is possible to ensure the physical strength without deteriorating the heat radiation performance. Further, it is possible to further improve heat dissipation by providing a heat radiator (not shown) having a shape protruding from the window portion 53.

  The back case 50 can be made of a material having high thermal conductivity. In this case, the back case 50 is brought into contact (adhering) with the sealing portion 33 without providing the window portion 53, and the heat radiation means. Can also be used. According to this configuration, it is possible to reduce the number of component parts, and it is possible to simplify the manufacturing process and reduce the manufacturing cost.

  The state in which the EL element 30 is housed in a box (case) constituted by the front case 20 and the back case 50 will be further described with reference to FIG.

  When the EL light source body 1 is assembled, the transparent substrate 32 of the EL element 30 is placed on the support portion 21 of the front case 20, and the rear case 50 is fitted to the front case 20 so that the EL element 30 can be easily boxed. Since the EL light source body 1 can be accommodated in the housing, it can be manufactured very easily. That is, since excessive pressure is not applied to the EL element 30 after the manufacturing process and completion, the manufacturing yield and reliability can be improved.

  One of the frame part 22 and the frame part 52 may be omitted, and either the front case 20 or the back case 50 may be formed in a flat plate shape and arranged in a lid shape with respect to the other.

  2A and 2B are explanatory diagrams for explaining the main configuration of the EL element applied to the EL light source body according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 2A is a plan view showing the back side, and FIG. ) Is a cross-sectional view taken along arrows BB, and FIG. 8C is a cross-sectional view taken along arrows CC in FIG.

  The EL element 30 includes a transparent substrate 32 and a sealing portion 33 that are arranged to face each other. The sealing portion 33 includes a sealing plate 33p and a sealing portion 33j, and the sealing plate 33p is joined to the transparent substrate 32 via the sealing portion 33j. The transparent substrate 32 is required to be transparent in order to extract light from the light emitting region 31 to the outside, and is made of, for example, a glass substrate. The sealing plate 33p is made of, for example, a glass substrate having excellent moisture resistance in order to ensure reliability. Further, for example, an epoxy adhesive can be applied to the sealing portion 33j in order to bond the glass substrates to each other.

  In the transparent substrate 32, the first polarity electrode 34 p is formed in the left-right direction in the same figure (A) as leading to the outer peripheral area of the sealing portion 33, and the second polarity electrode 34 m is the outer periphery of the sealing portion 33 in the vertical direction. Derived to the region. That is, the element electrode 34 led out along the periphery (side) of the sealing plate 33p is extended and arranged on the surface of the transparent substrate 32 facing the electrode connection portion 40 (element preparation step).

  The first polarity electrode 34p and the second polarity electrode 34m are formed so as to be stacked so that the light emitting layer 31e is sandwiched in a region corresponding to the light emitting region 31. Although the light emitting region 31 is described in a rectangular shape because of the shape of the element electrode 34, it is possible to make it square by appropriately adjusting the pattern shape of the element electrode 34 (hereinafter, shown as a square). There is also.)

  In addition, in order to reduce light emission spots (luminance spots), the first polarity electrode 34p and the second polarity electrode 34m are formed so as to be taken out from both sides in directions intersecting each other. Although not shown, a hole transport layer is formed on the plus side and an electron transport layer is formed on the minus side with the light emitting layer 31e interposed therebetween. An organic EL light emitting element is formed by forming the light emitting layer 31e with organic molecules.

  When the EL element 30 is an organic EL light emitting element, it can be lit at a low voltage and can be an EL light source body with good luminous efficiency. Various structures have been proposed for the light-emitting layer 31e and the hole transport layer, the electron transport layer, and the like laminated on the light-emitting layer 31e of the EL element 30, and the structure is not limited to the above-described structure.

  In the light emitting region 31, the first polar electrode 34p that is laminated on the transparent substrate 32 and constitutes the surface electrode is required to be transparent because it needs to emit light, and is made of, for example, ITO (Indium Tin Oxide). Composed. In addition, the second polarity electrode 34m that is laminated on the back surface side with respect to the light emitting layer 31e and constitutes the back electrode is made of, for example, aluminum because it does not require transparency but requires appropriate reflectivity. The end portions of the first polarity electrode 34p and the second polarity electrode 34m are led out to the outer peripheral region of the transparent substrate 32 facing the electrode connection portion 40 as described above.

  The transparent substrate 32 and the sealing plate 33p are, for example, 10 to 20 cm square glass substrates, and the thickness can be formed to be thinner than 1 mm, for example. Since the periphery (peripheral region / peripheral portion) of the transparent substrate 32 is formed by leading the device electrode 34 along the side of the sealing plate 33p (sealing portion 33), the transparent substrate 32 is sealed as described above. It is configured to be larger than the plate 33p.

  In order to facilitate understanding, the layout configuration of the device electrode 34 is a simple configuration, but is not limited to this, and the device electrode 34 may be further divided on each side.

<Embodiment 2>
The present embodiment relates to an arrangement relationship between the EL element and the electrode connection portion. Note that the description of the same configuration as that of Embodiment 1 will be omitted as appropriate.

  FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view illustrating an arrangement relationship between an EL element applied to the EL light source body according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention and an electrode connection portion (first polarity connection member, second polarity connection member). is there. 4 and 5 are explanatory diagrams for explaining the arrangement relationship in a state where the EL element and the electrode connecting portion shown in FIG. 3 are connected. FIG. 4 is a plan view showing the back side, and FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the arrow AA in FIG. 4, FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view taken along the arrow BB in FIG. 4, and FIG. 5C is a cross-sectional view taken along the arrow C-C in FIG. It is.

  The electrode connection part 40 is comprised by the 1st polarity connection member 41 and the 2nd polarity connection member 42 as above-mentioned. The first polarity connection member 41 and the second polarity connection member 42 are made of, for example, a plate-like conductor. As the plate-like conductor, for example, a copper plate, an aluminum plate, a 42 alloy plate, a phosphor bronze plate, a conductive plastic plate, or the like can be applied.

  Since the first polarity connection member 41 and the second polarity connection member 42 are plate-shaped, the EL light source body 1 can be thinned without impairing the planarity of the EL element 30. Moreover, since it is plate-shaped, it becomes possible to secure the physical strength and reinforce the physical strength of the EL element 30, thereby making the EL light source body 1 highly reliable.

  The first polarity connecting member 41 has a sealing facing portion 41a disposed to face the flat surface portion of the sealing portion 33, and is opposed to the sealing at the both ends of the sealing facing portion 41a in accordance with the thickness of the sealing portion 33. A thickness matching portion 41b that is bent in advance in a mountain-folded manner with respect to the portion 41a, and a connection terminal portion 41c that is formed in the tip of the thickness matching portion 41b and that is bent in advance in a valley-like manner relative to the thickness matching portion 41b. Since the plate-like conductor is formed by bending in advance, the first polarity connecting member 41 can be easily prepared, and the influence on the sealing portion 33 formed of a glass substrate or the like is avoided. Is possible.

  That is, since the first polarity connection member 41 formed so as to face the sealing portion 33 and the first polarity electrode 34p is disposed to face the sealing portion 33 and the first polarity electrode 34p, It is possible to easily and reliably connect the connection terminal portion 41c and the first polarity electrode 34p (first polarity connection step). That is, the first polar electrodes 34p can be connected with high productivity.

  Since the first polarity connection member 41 only needs to be superimposed on the sealing portion 33 as indicated by the arrow Set, the connection terminal portion 41c and the first polarity electrode 34p can be connected very easily. Can do.

  Therefore, since the pair of first polarity electrodes 34p are connected (short-circuited) to each other by the first polarity connection member 41 to be at the same potential, it is possible to suppress a potential difference due to the resistance of the first polarity electrode 34p. It becomes possible to improve brightness by reducing brightness spots. Further, the connection terminal portion 41c is arranged and connected so as to correspond almost to the entire surface with respect to the first polarity electrode 34p, thereby further suppressing the potential difference due to the resistance of the first polarity electrode 34p and reducing luminance spots. It becomes possible.

  Further, since the sealing portion 33 is covered with the plate-like conductor (first polarity connecting member 41), the EL element 30 (EL light source body 1) is improved in physical strength and the highly reliable EL light source body 1 is obtained. It becomes possible to manufacture with high productivity.

  In particular, the physical strength and heat dissipation of the EL element 30 can be further improved by disposing the first polarity connecting member 41 in close contact with the sealing portion 33. By fixing the sealing facing portion 41a and the sealing portion 33 with an adhesive, the physical strength and heat dissipation of the EL element 30 can be reinforced. In addition, the 1st polarity connection member 41 (sealing opposing part 41a) can be provided with a heat radiating part, and by providing a heat radiating part, heat dissipation can be further improved.

  The second polarity connecting member 42 is made to correspond to the thickness of the transparent substrate 32 at both ends of the substrate facing portion 42a and the substrate facing portion 42a that are disposed to face the flat portion (surface side that emits light) of the transparent substrate 32. A thickness matching portion 42b that is bent in a mountain shape with respect to the substrate facing portion 42a, and a connection terminal portion 42c that is formed at the tip of the thickness matching portion 42b and is bent in a mountain shape with respect to the thickness matching portion 42b.

  In the substrate facing portion 42a, a light transmitting window portion 42d is formed corresponding to the light emitting region 31 in order to emit light to the outside. Therefore, the second polarity connection member 42 (substrate facing portion 42 a) is disposed between the support portion 21 that defines the window portion 23 of the surface case 20 and the transparent substrate 32. With this configuration, the second polarity connection member 42 can be disposed around the light emitting region 31 (outer peripheral region) and can be protected from the outside. The reliability of the second polarity connection member 42 and the transparency of the EL light source body 1 can be achieved. Light property can be secured. Moreover, since the plate-like conductor is formed by bending in advance, the second polarity connecting member 42 can be easily prepared.

  That is, the second polarity connection member 42 (substrate facing portion 42a) formed so as to face the transparent substrate 32 and the second polarity electrode 34m is disposed to face the transparent substrate 32, and the second polarity connection member 42 is provided. Since the (connecting terminal portion 42c) is disposed to face the second polarity electrode 34m, the connecting terminal portion 42c and the second polarity electrode 34m can be easily and reliably connected (second polarity connection). Process). Therefore, the second polar electrodes 34m can be connected with high productivity.

  In addition, the connection between the connection terminal portion 42c and the second polarity electrode 34m is transparent to a groove portion (a groove portion constituted by the thickness matching portions 42b that are mountain-folded on both sides) formed in the thickness direction of the second polarity connection member 42. Since it is only necessary to insert (insert) the substrate 32 as indicated by the arrow Ins, this can be done very easily.

  Therefore, since the pair of second polarity electrodes 34m are connected (short-circuited) to each other by the second polarity connection member 42 to have the same potential, it is possible to suppress a potential difference due to the resistance of the second polarity electrode 34m. It becomes possible to improve brightness by reducing brightness spots. In addition, the connection terminal portion 42c is arranged and connected so as to correspond almost to the entire surface with respect to the second polarity electrode 34m, thereby further suppressing a potential difference due to the resistance of the second polarity electrode 34m and reducing luminance spots. It becomes possible.

  Further, since the outer peripheral area (frame area) of the transparent substrate 32 is covered with the plate-like conductor (second polarity connecting member 42), the physical strength of the EL element 30 (EL light source body 1) is improved and the reliability is improved. It is possible to manufacture an EL light source body 1 with high productivity. In particular, the physical strength of the EL element 30 can be further improved by arranging the second polarity connecting member 42 (substrate facing portion 42a) in close contact with the transparent substrate 32. By fixing the transparent substrate 32 and the substrate facing portion 42a with an adhesive, the physical strength of the EL element 30 can be reinforced.

  The connection between the first polarity connection member 41 and the first polarity electrode 34p and the connection between the second polarity connection member 42 and the second polarity electrode 34m are performed using appropriate means such as a conductive adhesive or a conductive double-sided tape. Can be done.

  Instead of fixing the transparent substrate 32 and the substrate facing portion 42a with an adhesive, the connection terminal portion 42c can be pressed against the substrate facing portion 42a with an appropriate pressure to be brought into pressure contact therewith. Alternatively, the connection terminal portion 42c may have an appropriate spring property and be in pressure contact with the second polarity electrode 34m. In this case, the second polarity connection member 42 and the second polarity electrode 34m can be connected without using a conductive adhesive, a conductive double-sided tape, or the like. Of course, both can be used together.

  Note that either the first polarity connection step or the second polarity connection step may be performed first.

  In addition, the electrode connection portion 40 includes a thin planar second polarity connection member 42 along the transparent substrate 32 and a thin planar first polarity connection member 41 along the sealing portion 33, and the thickness of the sealing portion 33. Since the device electrode 34 is connected in the space formed by the above, a special space for wiring is not required, and the EL light source body 1 can be thinned (see FIGS. 3 to 9).

  The connection terminal portion 41 c is connected to the element electrode 34 at both ends of the first polarity connection member 41 to cover the transparent substrate 32, and the second polarity connection member 42 arranged in a direction intersecting the first polarity connection member 41. By connecting the connection terminal portion 42c to the element electrode 34 at both ends and covering the transparent substrate 32 from both front and back surfaces, it becomes possible to have a configuration in which the end portion of the transparent substrate 32 is covered from both front and back surfaces. Reinforcement is possible.

  In addition, since the corner portion of the transparent substrate 32 can be surely covered by the second polarity connecting member 42, the reinforcement and protection of the transparent substrate 32 described above can be further improved. Problems can also be prevented.

  In addition, it is possible to connect an appropriate lead terminal (not shown) to the first polarity connection member 41 and the second polarity connection member 42 and supply power to the EL element 30 from an external power source via the connector (not shown). It is. A terminal lead-out portion for leading the lead terminal connected to the first polarity connection member 41 and the second polarity connection member 42 can be appropriately formed near the center of the frame portion 22 corresponding to one side of the support portion 21.

<Embodiment 3>
The present embodiment relates to a modification example of the arrangement relationship between the EL element 30 and the electrode connecting portion 40 shown as the second embodiment. Note that the description of the same configuration as that of Embodiment 2 will be omitted as appropriate.

  FIG. 6 is a process cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the electrode connecting portion (second polarity connecting member) applied to the EL light source body according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention, and (A) shows the second polarity connecting member. Sectional view of the state where the substrate facing portion is aligned with the transparent substrate in contact with the transparent substrate, (B) is a sectional view of the state where the second polarity connecting member is bent to form the thickness matching portion on the side surface of the transparent substrate, (C) FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a state where the second polarity connecting member is further bent and the electrode connecting portion is brought into contact with the second polarity electrode. Note that the cross section is shown at a position similar to that in FIG.

  The second polarity connection member 42 described in the second embodiment (FIGS. 3 to 5) has been described as a mode in which the previously bent state is connected to the second polarity electrode 34m, but in this embodiment, The second polarity connecting member 42 in a flat plate state is brought into contact with the transparent substrate 32 and then bent and connected to the second polarity electrode 34m.

  FIG. 6A shows a state in which the second polarity connection member 42 (the substrate facing portion 42 a and the window portion 42 d) is aligned with the transparent substrate 32. The actual work can be easily performed by reversing the top and bottom. At this time, by applying an appropriate adhesive, the substrate facing portion 42a and the transparent substrate 32 are adhered to each other, so that the second polarity connection member 42 can be stably fixed, and subsequent bending is enhanced. Can be facilitated with accuracy. In addition, since the second polarity connection member 42 is fixed to the transparent substrate 32, the reliability of the connection between the second polarity electrode 34m and the second polarity connection member 42 can be improved.

  FIG. 6B shows a state in which the thickness matching portion 42b corresponding to the side surface of the transparent substrate 32 is formed by folding the second polarity connecting member 42 with respect to the substrate facing portion 42a. The second polarity connecting member 42 can be easily bent by appropriately adjusting the plate thickness and hardness. FIG. 6C shows a state in which the connection terminal portion 42c that contacts the second polarity electrode 34m is formed by folding the second polarity connection member 42 with respect to the thickness matching portion 42b.

<Embodiment 4>
The present embodiment relates to a modification of the arrangement relationship between the EL element 30 and the electrode connection portion 40 shown in the second and third embodiments. Note that the description of the same configuration as that of the second and third embodiments is omitted as appropriate.

  FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view showing a modification of the electrode connecting portion (second polarity connecting member) applied to the EL light source body according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. The first polarity connecting member 41 can be configured in the same manner as in the second embodiment (FIG. 3) and the third embodiment (FIG. 6), and is not shown.

  In the present embodiment, a thickness matching portion 42e and a connection terminal portion 42f are provided in place of the thickness matching portion 42b and the connection terminal portion 42c shown in the second and third embodiments. The thickness matching portion 42e and the connection terminal portion 42f are arranged and formed in a direction crossing the thickness matching portion 42b and the connection terminal portion 42c. That is, the thickness matching part 42e and the connection terminal part 42f are respectively arranged on both sides in a direction intersecting with the direction in which the second polarity electrode 34m is derived (total of four places).

  Since the thickness matching portion 42e and the connection terminal portion 42f are arranged and formed in a direction intersecting the thickness matching portion 42b and the connection terminal portion 42c, the EL element 30 is used as the second polarity connection member 42 in the illustrated state. It cannot be set as the form (Embodiment 2) to insert. Therefore, as shown in the third embodiment, after aligning the second polarity connection member 42 in the flat state with respect to the transparent substrate 32, the thickness adjustment portion 42e in the state shown in the figure by folding the second polarity connection member 42 is shown. The connection terminal portion 42f is required.

  That is, in the present embodiment, after aligning the flat second polarity connecting member 42 with respect to the transparent substrate 32, the second polarity connecting member 42 is bent in the same manner as in the third embodiment, thereby matching the thickness. The part 42e and the connection terminal part 42f are formed. Since the thickness matching part 42e and the connection terminal part 42f can reduce the width of the bent part, the bending process is easier than in the case of the third embodiment (FIG. 6).

<Embodiment 5>
In the second to fourth embodiments, the electrode connecting portion 40 (the first polarity connecting member 41 and the second polarity connecting member 42) is a plate-like conductor. However, in this embodiment, the electrode connecting portion 40 is a foil. It is composed of a conductor. Note that the description of the same configurations as those in Embodiments 2 to 4 will be omitted as appropriate.

  FIG. 8 is a process cross-sectional view showing an arrangement relationship between an EL element applied to an EL light source body according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention and an electrode connection portion (first polarity connection member), and FIG. Sectional drawing which shows the state which aligned the element and the 1st polarity connection member, (B) is sectional drawing which shows the state which adhere | attached the EL element and the 1st polarity connection member, (C) is the element electrode and 1st of EL element It is sectional drawing which shows the state which connected the connection terminal part of the polar connection member. Note that the cross section shows the same position as in FIG. 5A, and the thickness of the foil conductor is relatively large.

  In the present embodiment, the electrode connecting portion 40 (the first polarity connecting member 43 and the second polarity connecting member 45) is made of a foil-like conductor. In FIG. 8, the second polarity connecting member 45 is not shown. As the foil-like conductor, for example, copper foil, aluminum foil, conductive plastic foil, or the like can be applied.

  FIG. 8A shows a state where the adhesive 45 and the first polarity connection member 43 are aligned with the sealing portion 33 of the EL element 30.

  The adhesive 45 has a shape corresponding to the sealing portion 33 and the first polarity connecting member 43 so as to adhere (stack) the sealing portion 33 and adhere the first polarity connecting member 43. The first polarity connecting member 43 is bonded to the sealing portion 33 via the adhesive 45. The adhesive 45 may be an adhesive in a general application form, but is preferably a double-sided tape. With this configuration, the flatness of the first polarity connection member 43 (foil-like conductor) can be maintained, and the first polarity connection member 43 can be easily and reliably fixed. The adhesive 45 (double-sided tape) is preferably made of a material having good thermal conductivity.

  The first polarity connection member 43 is arranged in a planar state having regions corresponding to the sealing facing portion 43a, the thickness matching portion 43b, and the connection terminal portion 43c. That is, the first polarity connection member 43 is arranged in a planar state similar to the shape of the first polarity connection member 41 before bending shown in FIG.

  FIG. 8B shows a state where the adhesive 45 and the first polarity connection member 43 are bonded to the sealing portion 33 of the EL element 30. By applying the adhesive 45, it becomes possible to easily and reliably fix and arrange the first polarity connecting member 43 made of a foil-like conductor on the sealing portion 33. The physical strength can be improved and the EL light source body 1 with high reliability can be obtained.

  FIG. 8C shows a state where the first polarity electrode 34p of the EL element 30 and the connection terminal portion 43c of the first polarity connection member 43 are connected. Since the first polarity connecting member 43 is a foil-like conductor, it is easily bent at the edge of the sealing portion 33 according to the thickness of the sealing portion 33, and the thickness matching portion 43b and the connection terminal portion 43c are connected. Is formed.

  Therefore, the connection terminal portion 43c and the first polarity electrode 34p can be easily and reliably connected (first polarity connection step). The connection terminal portion 43c and the first polarity electrode 34p can be connected in the same manner as in other embodiments. That is, the first polar electrodes 34p can be connected with high productivity.

  In the present embodiment, since the first polarity connecting member 43 can be easily arranged along the sealing portion 33 and the first polarity electrode 34p, the EL light source body 1 can be provided with a good flatness and a thinner thickness. Since the first polarity connection member 43 can be easily and reliably connected to the first polarity electrode 34p, the EL light source body 1 with high productivity can be obtained.

  FIG. 9 is a process cross-sectional view illustrating an arrangement relationship between an EL element applied to an EL light source body according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention and an electrode connection portion (second polarity connection member), and FIG. Sectional drawing which shows the state which aligned the element and the 2nd polarity connection member, (B) is sectional drawing which shows the state which adhere | attached the EL element and the 2nd polarity connection member, (C) is the element electrode and 2nd of EL element It is sectional drawing which shows the state which connected the connection terminal part of the polar connection member. Note that the cross section shows the same position as in FIG. 5B, and the thickness of the foil conductor is relatively large.

  The basic configuration is the same as that of the first polarity connecting member 43 shown in FIG. In FIG. 9, the first polarity connection member 43 is not shown.

  FIG. 9A shows a state in which the adhesive 46 and the second polarity connection member 44 are aligned with the transparent substrate 32 of the EL element 30.

  The adhesive 46 has a shape corresponding to the transparent substrate 32 and the second polarity connection member 44 so as to adhere (laminate) to the transparent substrate 32 and adhere the second polarity connection member 44. The second polarity connection member 44 is bonded to the transparent substrate 32 via the adhesive 46. The adhesive 46 can be configured similarly to the adhesive 45. Similar to the window portion 42d (see FIG. 3), a light transmitting window portion 44d (second polarity connecting member 44) and a window portion 46d (adhesive 46) are formed in advance. Further, the actual work can be easily performed by reversing the top and bottom.

  The second polarity connection member 44 is arranged in a planar state having regions corresponding to the substrate facing portion 44a, the thickness matching portion 44b, and the connection terminal portion 44c. That is, the second polarity connecting member 44 is arranged in a planar state similar to the shape of the second polarity connecting member 42 before bending shown in FIG.

  FIG. 9B shows a state where the adhesive 46 and the second polarity connection member 44 are bonded to the transparent substrate 32 of the EL element 30. By applying the adhesive 46, it is possible to easily and reliably fix and arrange the second polarity connecting member 44 made of a foil-like conductor on the transparent substrate 32. The physical properties of the second polarity connecting member 44 are as follows. Thus, the EL light source body 1 with high reliability can be obtained with high reliability.

  FIG. 9C shows a state where the second polarity electrode 34 m of the EL element 30 and the connection terminal portion 44 c of the second polarity connection member 44 are connected. Since the second polarity connection member 44 is a foil-like conductor, it is easily bent at the edge of the transparent substrate 32 according to the thickness of the transparent substrate 32 to form a thickness matching portion 44b and a connection terminal portion 44c. ing.

  Therefore, the connection terminal portion 44c and the second polarity electrode 34m can be easily and reliably connected (second polarity connection step). The connection terminal portion 44c and the second polarity electrode 34m can be connected in the same manner as in the other embodiments. That is, the second polar electrodes 34m can be connected with high productivity.

  In the present embodiment, since the second polarity connection member 44 can be easily arranged along the transparent substrate 32 and the second polarity electrode 34m, the EL light source body 1 having good flatness and further thinness can be obtained. Since the second polarity connection member 44 can be easily connected to the second polarity electrode 34m, the EL light source body 1 with high productivity can be obtained.

  As in the other embodiments, either the first polarity connection step or the second polarity connection step may be performed first.

<Embodiment 6>
The front case 20 and the back case 50 described in the first embodiment can be applied as they are to the EL elements 30 according to the second to fifth embodiments. In the present embodiment, the EL light source body 1 in a state where the EL element 30 shown in the first to fifth embodiments is housed in the front case 20 and the back case 50 will be described.

  FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the outer shape (front case and back case) of the EL light source body according to Embodiments 1 to 5 of the present invention. In the figure, for the sake of simplicity, the EL element 30 and the electrode connecting portion 40 are shown as an integral unit. The basic configuration is the same as that shown in FIG.

  A light emitting region 31 (not shown in FIG. 10) is arranged corresponding to the window portion 23 formed in the support portion 21 of the front case 20, and the EL element 30 and the electrode connection portion 40 are accommodated in the frame portion 22. . The EL element 30 and the electrode connection part 40 are engaged with the inner periphery of the back case 50. Further, the front case 20 and the back case 50 are configured to engage with each other to protect the EL element 30 and the electrode connection portion 40.

<Embodiment 7>
The present embodiment relates to an EL light source body in which the front case 20 and the rear case 50 shown in the sixth embodiment are integrated to form a slide case. The description of the same configuration as that of Embodiment 6 is omitted as appropriate.

  FIG. 11 is a perspective view for explaining the outer shape (slide case) of the EL light source body according to Embodiment 7 of the present invention. Basically, it functions in the same manner as the front case 20 and the back case 50 shown in the first embodiment, and therefore description thereof is omitted as appropriate.

  The slide case 60 shown in the present embodiment connects the front plate 61 corresponding to the light emitting region 31 (see FIG. 1), the back plate 62 corresponding to the sealing portion 33, the front plate 61, and the back plate 62 in three directions. The side plate 63 is the main component. An opening 64 is formed in one direction where the side plate 63 does not exist. The front plate 61 and the back plate 62 correspond to the front case 20 and the back case 50, respectively, and function similarly.

  A window portion 65 is formed on the surface plate 61 so as to correspond to the light emitting region 31. Further, a window 66 is formed on the back plate 62 so as to correspond to the sealing portion 33 (see FIG. 1). The window part 65 and the window part 66 correspond to the window part 23 and the window part 53 and function similarly.

  In the present embodiment, the point where the integrated EL element 30 and the electrode connecting portion 40 are slidably inserted from the opening 64 into the slide case 60 as indicated by an arrow Ins is the same as in the case of the first embodiment. Different. That is, the EL light source body 1 according to the present embodiment is configured by inserting the integrated EL element 30 and the electrode connection portion 40 into the opening portion 64 in a sliding manner. Therefore, it is not necessary to engage (fit) the front case 20 and the back case 50, and the EL light source body 1 can be easily assembled.

  Also, appropriate lead terminals (not shown) connected to the first polarity connection member 41 and the second polarity connection member 42 (see FIG. 1) are led out from the opening 64, and are connected from an external power source via a connector (not shown). Thus, electric power can be supplied to the EL element 30.

It is a disassembled perspective view explaining the outline | summary of the main structures of the EL light source body which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is explanatory drawing explaining the main structures of the EL element applied to the EL light source body concerning Embodiment 1 of this invention, (A) is a top view which shows a back surface side, (B) is an arrow of (A) Sectional drawing in BB, (C) is sectional drawing in the arrow CC of (A). It is a disassembled perspective view explaining the arrangement | positioning relationship between the EL element applied to the EL light source body which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention, and an electrode connection part (1st polarity connection member, 2nd polarity connection member). It is explanatory drawing explaining the arrangement | positioning relationship in the state which connected the EL element and electrode connection part shown in FIG. 3, and is a top view which shows the back surface side of an EL element. It is explanatory drawing explaining the arrangement | positioning relationship in the state which connected the EL element and electrode connection part which were shown in FIG. 3, (A) is sectional drawing in the arrow AA of FIG. 4, (B) is FIG. FIG. 5C is a cross-sectional view taken along the arrow BB in FIG. 4, and FIG. It is process sectional drawing which shows the modification of the electrode connection part (2nd polarity connection member) applied to the EL light source body which concerns on Embodiment 3 of this invention, (A) is a 2nd polarity connection member on a transparent substrate. A cross-sectional view of the state where the substrate facing portion is brought into contact with each other, (B) is a cross-sectional view of a state where a thickness matching portion is formed on the side surface of the transparent substrate by bending the second polarity connecting member, and (C) is a second polarity. It is sectional drawing of the state which further bent the connection member and contacted the electrode connection part to the 2nd polarity electrode. It is a disassembled perspective view which shows the modification of the electrode connection part (2nd polarity connection member) applied to the EL light source body which concerns on Embodiment 4 of this invention. It is process sectional drawing which shows the arrangement | positioning relationship between the EL element applied to the EL light source body which concerns on Embodiment 5 of this invention, and an electrode connection part (1st polarity connection member), (A) is an EL element and 1st. A cross-sectional view showing a state in which the polar connection member is aligned, (B) is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the EL element and the first polarity connection member are bonded, and (C) is a view of the element electrode of the EL element and the first polarity connection member It is sectional drawing which shows the state which connected the connection terminal part. It is process sectional drawing which shows the arrangement | positioning relationship between the EL element applied to the EL light source body which concerns on Embodiment 5 of this invention, and an electrode connection part (2nd polarity connection member), (A) is EL element and 2nd. A cross-sectional view showing a state in which the polar connecting member is aligned, (B) is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the EL element and the second polar connecting member are bonded, and (C) is a view of the element electrode of the EL element and the second polar connecting member. It is sectional drawing which shows the state which connected the connection terminal part. It is sectional drawing explaining the external shape (front surface case and back surface case) of the EL light source body which concerns on Embodiment 1 thru | or Embodiment 5 of this invention. It is a perspective view explaining the external shape (slide case) of the EL light source body which concerns on Embodiment 7 of this invention. It is sectional drawing explaining the connection state of the external lead connected in order to supply electric power to the conventional EL element from the outside.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 EL light source body 20 Surface case 21 Support part 22 Frame part 23 Window part 30 EL element 31 Light emission area 31e Light emission layer 32 Transparent substrate 33 Sealing part 33p Sealing plate 33j Sealing part 34 Element electrode 34p Plus electrode 34m Negative electrode 40 Electrode connecting portion 41 First polarity connecting member 42 Second polarity connecting member 43 First polarity connecting member 44 Second polarity connecting member 45 Adhesive 46 Adhesive 50 Back case 51 Covering portion 52 Frame portion 53 Window portion 60 Slide case 65 Window Part 66 Window

Claims (3)

A quadrilateral transparent substrate, a sealing portion that covers a light emitting region configured in the center of the transparent substrate and is disposed to face the back surface of the transparent substrate, and a first direction in plan view with respect to the sealing portion And a pair of first polarity electrodes that are derived from the sealing portion and disposed in the outer peripheral region of the back surface of the transparent substrate , and are derived from the sealing portion in a second direction that intersects the first direction in the plan view. An EL light source body comprising an EL element having a pair of second polar electrodes arranged in an outer peripheral region of the back surface of the transparent substrate,
A first polarity connection member arranged along the sealing portion to connect the pair of first polarity electrodes;
A second polarity connection member for connecting the pair of second polarity electrodes to each other via the surface side of the transparent substrate ;
A surface case disposed opposite to the surface of the transparent substrate and having a window corresponding to the light emitting region;
A back case that engages with the front case and covers the EL element;
The EL light source body , wherein the front case has light shielding properties, and the back case has a window portion that exposes a region corresponding to the sealing portion . The EL light source body according to claim 1,
The EL light source body, wherein the first polarity connection member and the second polarity connection member are formed of a plate-like conductor, and the second polarity connection member is bonded to the transparent substrate. The EL light source body according to claim 1,
The first polarity connection member and the second polarity connection member are formed of a foil-like conductor, the first polarity connection member is bonded to the sealing portion with an adhesive, and the second polarity connection member is An EL light source body, which is bonded to the transparent substrate with an adhesive.

Images