DE102015100857A1 - Organic display device and method of operating an organic display device - Google Patents

Abstract

In various embodiments, an organic display device (10) is provided that includes a plurality of pixels (12) and a plurality of spare pixels (14). The pixels (12) each have at least one organic light-emitting component (18, 20, 22). The reserve pixels (14) each have at least one organic light-emitting reserve component and are associated with the pixels (12). The reserve pixels (14) are arranged directly adjacent to the corresponding pixels (12). The organic light-emitting reserve components of the reserve pixels (14) emit light having the same or at least approximately the same emission color as the organic light-emitting components (18, 20, 22) of the corresponding pixels (12). The organic display device (10) has at least one sensor device that is electrically coupled to the pixels (12) and that is configured to monitor states of the pixels (12) during operation of the organic display device (10). The organic display device (10) has a driver unit which is electrically coupled to the sensor device and which is designed to activate the corresponding reserve pixels (14) during operation of the organic display device (10) depending on the determined states of the pixels (12) ,

Description

The invention relates to an organic display device and a method for operating an organic display device.

Organic-based optoelectronic components, so-called organic optoelectronic components, are increasingly being used. For example, organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) are increasingly being used in general lighting, for example as surface light sources or as optically active elements of pixels of organic display devices, in particular OLED displays. Organic display devices having pixels with OLEDs are increasingly being used as optical displays in mobile phones, tablet PCs, laptops, monitors and televisions.

In OLEDs sometimes a spontaneous failure (sudden death) is observed. In addition, particles can result in so-called "bright spots" which, during operation of the OLED, can lead to increased wear and accelerated aging leading to failure of the OLEDs.On organic display devices, these failure mechanisms lead to the failure of the corresponding pixels and the reproduction quality of the organic Display device is adversely affected by this.

A reduction in the brightness of individual pixels and / or a shift of the original color location in the operation of the corresponding pixels due to aging and / or wear can be compensated, for example, by using an increased drive voltage and / or an increased drive current at the corresponding pixels. However, the increased drive voltage and / or the increased drive current can further accelerate wear and aging. In addition, with increasing resolution, the drive voltages and drive currents increase as well, as a result of which the lifetime of the individual pixels and thus of the organic display device continues to decrease. For example, as the resolution increases, the fill factor, ie the ratio of active area to non-active area, decreases, which is compensated by an increasing drive voltage and / or an increasing drive current and, associated therewith, a higher brightness of the individual pixels. However, life is an important quality feature of organic display devices, especially in televisions.

In general, in organic display devices after their manufacture, a final inspection is performed in which such errors can be detected in part early, so that the corresponding organic display devices, in which the pixel errors are already recognizable, can be sorted out before delivery. Subsequent errors occurring, such as the abovementioned spontaneous failures or accelerated wear and / or aging processes can not be reliably excluded with the help of the final inspection.

Alternatively, the exposure of the individual pixels may be reduced and thus the lifetime extended by increasing the pixel areas of the pixels and matching the pixel areas of the individual pixels to their individual lifetimes, typically pixels emitting light of different colors. is different, done.

An object of the invention is to provide an organic display device having a high fault tolerance and / or lifetime, especially at a high resolution.

An object of the invention is to provide a method of operating an organic display device that contributes to the organic display device having a high fault tolerance and / or lifetime, especially at a high resolution.

An object of the invention is achieved in one aspect by an organic display device. The organic display device has a plurality of pixels, each comprising at least one organic light emitting device, and a plurality of spare pixels, each having at least one organic light emitting backup device and associated with the pixels. The spare pixels are located directly adjacent to the corresponding pixels. The reserve organic light-emitting devices of the reserve pixels emit light having the same or at least approximately the same emission color as the organic light-emitting devices of the respective pixels. The organic display device has a sensor device which is electrically coupled to the pixels and which is designed to monitor states of the pixels during operation of the organic display device. The organic display device has a driver unit, which is electrically coupled to the sensor device and which is designed to activate the corresponding reserve pixels during operation of the organic display device, depending on the determined states of the pixels.

For example, a state of one of the pixels may be representative of the degree of wear, the degree of aging, the brightness in operation, and / or the color rendering, such as color aging, in the operation of the corresponding pixel. The state may also be representative of a total failure of the corresponding pixel. If the result of the monitoring is that the condition of one of the pixels is so poor that the display quality of the organic display device is thereby impaired, the corresponding, previously inactive, reserve pixel is activated, ie switched on. The reserve pixels are preferably not yet in operation during the first startup of the organic display device and are subsequently switched on only when necessary. The active spare pixel compensates for the bad state of the corresponding pixel, thereby maintaining the high display quality of the organic display device. In addition, the organic display device can be operated long without sacrificing quality. Thus, the organic display device has a high fault tolerance and / or lifetime.

The spare pixels may have the same or a smaller area than the corresponding pixels to which they are associated. If the reserve pixels are smaller in size than the pixels, this can help to ensure that resolution of the organic display device is not compromised or halved. Thus, in these embodiments, the organic display device may have high fault tolerance and / or high resolution lifetime.

The organic light-emitting components are also referred to below as OLEDs. The organic light-emitting reserve components are also referred to below as reserve OLEDs. The fact that the reserve pixels are assigned to the pixels means that the reserve OLEDs are assigned to the corresponding OLEDs. The fact that the reserve OLEDs are assigned to the OLEDs means that the reserve OLEDs are arranged directly adjacent to the corresponding OLEDs and that the reserve OLEDs emit light of the same or at least approximate color as the corresponding OLEDs. The fact that the colors are at least approximately equal means, for example, that the respective centroid wavelengths of the light deviate from one another by a maximum of, for example, 5 to 20 nm, for example by a maximum of 10 nm.

The sensor device is coupled to the pixels in order to be able to monitor their states. The sensor device may comprise one, two or more sensor units coupled to the pixels. For example, each OLED can be assigned exactly one sensor unit. For example, the sensor units can be arranged directly adjacent to the OLEDs to which they are assigned. The coupling of the sensor device, in particular of the sensor units, with the OLEDs can be for example an electrical coupling by means of which a value of an electrical voltage applied to the OLED or a value of an electrical current flowing via the OLED can be determined , However, the coupling may also be an optical coupling, wherein the sensor units are photosensitive and detect the light emitted by the OLEDs to which they are associated.

The driver unit turns this on when activating the reserve pixels. The driver unit may also be referred to as a control and / or regulating unit. The driver unit may comprise an integrated circuit or be part of an integrated circuit. For example, the driver unit and the sensor device may be parts of the same integrated circuit. The driver unit can simply turn on the spare pixels at full power, for example, in the event of total failure of the corresponding OLED. Alternatively, the driver unit may operate at reduced power, for example, when the state of the corresponding OLED is poor, but there is no total failure.

In a development, the pixels each have at least two OLEDs. For example, each pixel has three OLEDs, for example a red light-emitting OLED, which is also referred to below as a red OLED, a green light-emitting OLED, which is also referred to below as a green OLED, and a blue light-emitting OLED, which is also referred to below blue OLED is called. In addition, each pixel may have a white light-emitting OLED, which is also referred to below as a white OLED. Alternatively, each pixel may have only a single OLED, for example a white OLED. If the pixels each have two or more OLEDs, the color impression, in particular the color location, of the light emitted by the corresponding pixel can be adjusted by mixing the light emitted by the OLED. If the pixels have only one OLED, for example a white OLED, then a black-and-white image can be generated, for example, by means of the corresponding organic display device or color filters can be assigned to the pixels, by means of which the color impression, in particular the color locus, of the corresponding pixel emitted and filtered by the corresponding color filter light can be adjusted. The OLEDs of the pixels can also be referred to as subpixels or subpixels. Thus, in other words, the pixels have at least two subpixels, each subpixel being formed by an OLED.

In one development, the organic light-emitting components of the pixels each have at least one of the organic light-emitting reserve components of the corresponding ones Associated with reserve pixels that is not associated with any other organic light emitting device. Thus, there is a unique one-to-one mapping from OLED to spare OLED. This can help to compensate for the bad state of a pixel one-to-one. This can help to ensure that the display quality remains high despite the deterioration of the state of the OLEDs.

In a development, the reserve OLEDs have a first organic functional layer structure and at least one second organic functional layer structure, which emit light with the same emission color during operation. In a first operating state of the reserve OLEDs, the corresponding first organic functional layer structure is operated, and in a second operating state of the reserve OLEDs, the corresponding second organic functional layer structure is operated. For example, in the first operating state only the first organic functional layer structure can be operated and in the second operating state only the second organic functional layer structure can be operated. Alternatively, in the first operating state, only the first organic functional layer structure can be operated, and in the second operating state, the first and the second organic functional layer structure can be operated. The two organic functional layer structures can thus optionally be operated together, ie simultaneously, for example in the second operating state, whereby, for example, an increase in the intensity of the reserve OLED compared to the operation of only one of the two organic functional layer structures can be achieved. In each of these cases, both organic functional layer structures of a spare OLED are used to compensate for the same OLED. If the corresponding OLED has only a partially deteriorated state, for example shows a reduced brightness during operation, only the first organic functional layer structure of the corresponding reserve pixel can be activated in the first operating state. If the corresponding OLED has a severely deteriorated state, for example a total failure, then in the second operating state the first and the second organic functional layer structure of the corresponding reserve OLED can be activated simultaneously. The reserve OLED can be spoken operating two-stage, for example, depending on the state of the corresponding OLED. Alternatively, the two organic functional layer structures can be operated independently of each other, whereby double protection of the pixels can be achieved and the fault tolerance and lifetime can be further increased. For example, one of the two organic functional layer structures can only be activated if the other of the two organic functional layer structures is defective or in poor condition.

In a further development, the at least two OLEDs of the pixels are assigned one of the reserve OLEDs of the corresponding reserve pixels. The reserve OLEDs are each designed such that, in a first operating state, they emit light with the same or at least approximately the same emission color as one of the at least two OLEDs and, in a second operating state, emit light with the same or at least approximately the same emission color as another of the two at least two OLEDs. Thus, two OLEDs of a pixel is associated with exactly one spare OLED. Alternatively, three OLEDs of a pixel are associated with exactly one spare OLED. Alternatively, three OLEDs of a pixel are associated with exactly one spare OLED.

In a development, the reserve OLEDs each have a first organic functional layer structure, which emits light of a first emission color in the first operating state, and a second organic functional layer structure, which emits light of a second emission color in the second operating state. The emission colors of the light of the reserve OLEDs are the same or at least approximately the same as the emission colors of the light of the corresponding OLEDs. Thus, the reserve OLED are designed so that they can be activated and / or operated in each case for the compensation of two or more differently colored OLEDs. In particular, the reserve OLEDs emit light of different emission color as a function of their activation, in particular as a function of their operating states. This can help to make fewer reserve OLEDs than OLEDs. For example, only half as many reserve OLEDs as OLEDs or only one third as many reserve OLEDs as OLEDs can be formed, the latter if the reserve OLEDs also have a third organic functional layer structure and the reserve OLEDs are each assigned to three OLEDs.

In a further development, the first and the second organic functional layer structure are arranged vertically one above the other. This can contribute to the fact that the entire surface of the corresponding reserve OLED can be used for light emission, regardless of which of the two organic functional layer structures is operated. Alternatively, the first and the second organic functional layer structure are arranged laterally next to one another. This can contribute to making the reserve OLED particularly simple and / or cost-effective, and Nevertheless, a double hedge and / or increase in intensity are possible. For example, the corresponding reserve OLED can be segmented and the two organic functional layer structures can be parts of two different segments of the reserve OLED.

In a development, the reserve OLEDs are operated in the first operating state with a positive voltage and operated in the second operating state with a negative voltage. For example, the organic functional layer structures of the reserve OLEDs may each be vertically stacked and electrically anti-parallel and have a common intermediate electrode, so that when applying a voltage to the reserve OLED either the upper organic functional layer structure or the lower organic functional Layer structure is operated, depending on the sign and the polarity of the applied voltage.

In a further development, the OLEDs of the pixels are arranged directly adjacent to one another. In other words, no spare OLED is arranged between two OLEDs. This can contribute to the organic display device having a particularly high resolution. In general, the pixels of organic display devices are arranged in two-dimensional matrix form and in rows and columns of the matrix. The OLEDs of a pixel are regularly arranged side by side in the row direction. The reserve OLEDs can be arranged, for example, in the column direction above or below the corresponding OLEDs.

In a further development, at least one of the reserve OLEDs is arranged in each case between two of the OLEDs. This can help to arrange superimposed rows of pixels close to each other.

An object of the invention is achieved in one aspect by a method of operating the organic display device. In the method, during the operation of the organic display device, the states of the pixels of the organic display device are monitored. Depending on the states of the pixels, inactive ones of the spare pixels are first activated, which are assigned to the corresponding pixels. Monitoring the states of the pixels means monitoring the states of the pixels' OLEDs.

In a development, the pixels, in particular the OLEDs of the pixels, are monitored by detecting one value each of a parameter of the pixels, in particular the OLEDs of the pixels. The detected value of the parameter is compared with a predetermined threshold. The corresponding reserve pixel is activated if the detected value is equal to the predetermined threshold or exceeds the predetermined threshold. This makes it possible to monitor the states of the pixels with particular precision and, in particular, to determine them. The predefined threshold value can be determined empirically, for example, and stored on a storage unit of the organic display device. The parameter may, for example, be a voltage applied to the pixel, in particular to one of the OLEDs of the pixel. Alternatively, the parameter may be, for example, an electrical current that flows over the pixel, in particular one of the OLEDs of the pixel. Alternatively, the parameter may be, for example, an electrical resistance, which the pixel, in particular one of the OLEDs of the pixel, has. Alternatively, the parameter may, for example, be a light intensity and / or a color locus of the light emitted by the pixel, in particular one of the OLEDs of the pixel.

In a further development, depending on the detected value of the parameter of a pixel, a value of a control variable for controlling the corresponding activated reserve pixel is determined and the corresponding reserve pixel is activated depending on the determined value of the control variable. The control variable may be, for example, a drive current or a drive voltage. A value of the control variable varies depending on the state of the pixel. In other words, the reserve pixel is not simply activated, ie switched on, but operated with a more or less low or a more or less high drive voltage and / or with a more or less weak or more or less strong drive current depending on the state of the pixel. This makes it possible to more or less compensate for a more or less bad state of the pixel, so that overall a consistently high display quality is ensured.

In a further development, the value of the parameter is representative of a wear, an age, a color rendering, for example a color location, and / or a brightness, for example light intensity, of the corresponding pixel.

In a further development, at least one OLED of the corresponding pixel is deactivated for monitoring one of the pixels, and after deactivating the OLED a voltage value of a voltage is detected which is applied to the organic light-emitting component. In particular, the voltage is detected shortly after a switch-off, for example approximately one second after the switch-off, of the pixel to be monitored, in particular to be checked. This allows for extra simple and effective way to monitor the state of the pixel, especially with respect to a total failure. Furthermore, this makes it possible to monitor a plurality of OLEDs connected in series. Alternatively, the detection of a total failure of one of the pixels may be accomplished by monitoring the voltage at the pixel required to operate with a particular current through the pixel driver. This allows, for example, the detection of a spontaneous short circuit at the corresponding pixel.

Embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the figures and are explained in more detail below.

Show it:

1 a plan view of an embodiment of an organic display device in a first state;

2 a plan view of the organic display device according to 1 in a second state;

3 a plan view of an embodiment of an organic display device in a first state;

4 a plan view of the organic display device according to 3 in a second state;

5 a plan view of an embodiment of an organic display device in a first state;

6 a plan view of the organic display device according to 5 in a second state;

7 a plan view of an embodiment of an organic display device in a first state;

8th a plan view of the organic display device according to 7 in a second state;

9 a side sectional view of a reserve OLED;

10 an equivalent circuit of the reserve OLED according to 9 ;

11 a flowchart of an embodiment of a method for operating an organic display device;

12 a flowchart of an embodiment of a method for operating an organic display device;

13 a flowchart of an embodiment of a method for monitoring a state of a pixel.

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this specification, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. Because components of embodiments may be positioned in a number of different orientations, the directional terminology is illustrative and is in no way limiting. It should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. It should be understood that the features of the various embodiments described herein may be combined with each other unless specifically stated otherwise. The following detailed description is therefore not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims. In the figures, identical or similar elements are provided with identical reference numerals, as appropriate.

An organic light emitting device may be an organic semiconductor device and / or may be formed as an organic light emitting diode or as an organic light emitting transistor. The light may, for example, be visible light, UV light and / or infrared light. In this context, the organic light-emitting component may be formed, for example, as an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) or as an organic light-emitting transistor. An organic light emitting device may be part of an integrated circuit in various embodiments.

1 shows a plan view of an embodiment of an organic display device 10 , in particular to a pixel arrangement of the organic display device 10 in a first condition. The organic display device 10 is a display of a mobile phone, a tablet PC or a laptop, a monitor or a TV. The organic display device 10 has a plurality of pixels 12 , a plurality of reserve pixels 14 and at least one sensor device. The reserve pixels 14 are the pixels 12 assigned and serve in a bad condition one or more of the pixels 12 , the bad state of the corresponding pixel 12 to compensate.

The pixels 12 and the reserve pixels 14 are arranged in rows and columns. In particular shows 1 three lines of pixels 12 , three rows of spare pixels 14 , three columns of pixels 12 and nine columns of spare pixels 14 , The pixels 12 a row are arranged side by side in the corresponding row and directly adjacent to each other. The reserve pixels 14 a row are arranged side by side in the corresponding row and directly adjacent to each other. Between two lines of pixels 12 is one row each of reserve pixels 14 arranged. The reserve pixels 14 are the pixels 12 assigned, over which they are arranged and to which they are arranged directly adjacent.

Each of the pixels 12 has a first organic light emitting device 18 , a second organic light-emitting device 20 and a third organic light-emitting device 22 on, which are arranged side by side in the row direction and directly adjacent to each other. The first organic light emitting device 18 Can also be the first OLED 18 be designated. The second organic light emitting device 20 can also be used as a second OLED 20 be designated. The third organic light emitting device 18 Can also be used as a third OLED 22 be designated. In addition, each of the pixels 12 not shown electronic components, such as transistors, capacitors, diodes and / or electrical lines have.

Each of the reserve pixels 14 has an organic light-emitting reserve device, which can be referred to as a reserve OLED. Every OLED 18 . 20 . 22 is exactly one reserve pixel 14 , in particular exactly one reserve OLED, assigned. The reserve pixels 14 and / or the reserve OLEDs each have a smaller area than the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 to which they are assigned. In addition, each of the reserve pixels 14 not shown electronic components, such as transistors, capacitors, diodes and / or electrical lines have.

The pixels 12 , especially the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 , and the reserve pixels 14 , In particular, the reserve OLEDs are formed on a common carrier, not shown. The carrier may be translucent or transparent. The carrier serves as a carrier element for electronic elements or layers. The support may include, for example, plastic, metal, glass, quartz and / or a semiconductor material or be formed therefrom. Furthermore, the carrier may comprise or be formed from a plastic film or a laminate with one or more plastic films. The carrier may be mechanically rigid or mechanically flexible.

The OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 and the reserve OLEDs 14 each have an organic functional layer structure. The organic functional layer structure may, for example, have one, two or more partial layers. By way of example, the organic functional layer structure may comprise a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, an emitter layer, an electron transport layer and / or an electron injection layer. The hole injection layer serves to reduce the band gap between the first electrode and hole transport layer. In the hole transport layer, the hole conductivity is larger than the electron conductivity. The hole transport layer serves to transport the holes. In the electron transport layer, the electron conductivity is larger than the hole conductivity. The electron transport layer serves to transport the holes. The electron injection layer serves to reduce the band gap between the second electrode and the electron transport layer. Furthermore, the organic functional layer structure may have one, two or more functional layer structure units which each have the sub-layers and / or further intermediate layers.

The organic functional layer structures are arranged between non-illustrated electrodes and emit light in operation if an operating voltage is applied to them. The OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 and the reserve OLEDs 14 can be encapsulated by means of an encapsulation layer, not shown. The encapsulation layer forms a barrier to chemical contaminants or atmospheric agents, in particular to water (moisture) and oxygen. The encapsulation layer may be formed as a single layer, a layer stack or a layer structure. The encapsulant layer may include or be formed from: alumina, zinc oxide, zirconia, titania, hafnia, tantalum lanthania, silica, silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, indium tin oxide, indium zinc oxide, aluminum doped zinc oxide, silicon carbide, poly (p-phenylene terephthalamide), nylon 66 , as well as mixtures and alloys thereof.

The sensor device has a plurality of sensor units 16 on. The sensor device and / or the sensor units 16 can be formed on the carrier. The sensor units 16 are arranged in rows and columns. In particular shows 1 three rows and nine columns of sensor units 16 , Each sensor unit 16 is one of the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 assigned and electrically connected to the corresponding OLED 18 . 20 . 22 connected. The sensor units 16 are designed so that with their help, an electrical voltage at the corresponding OLED 18 . 20 . 22 is applied, an electric current via the corresponding OLED 18 . 20 . 22 flows, and / or an electrical resistance of the corresponding OLED 18 . 20 . 22 can be detected.

In operation of the organic display device 10 can the pixels 12 and in particular the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 be driven with a driver unit, not shown, that by means of the organic display device 10 an image and / or an image sequence, for example a film, a video or a video game can be displayed optically. The driver unit may be formed on the carrier.

The driver unit, not shown, has an electronic circuit. The driver unit has, in particular, an operating time control, not shown, a data driver unit and a gate driver unit, by means of which the pixels 12 , especially the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 , and the reserve pixels 14 can be controlled depending on displayed image data. The image data can be entered, for example, by means of an internal or external arithmetic unit.

Depending on the control of the pixels 12 The OLEDs emit by means of the driver unit and the corresponding image data 18 . 20 . 22 Light of different colors, where by means of color mixing of the generated light more colors can be displayed. For example, the first OLEDs emit during operation 18 red light, which therefore also called red OLEDs 18 be designated, the second OLEDs 20 green light, which therefore also called green OLEDs 20 and the third OLEDs 22 blue light, which therefore also called blue OLEDs 22 be designated. The pixels 12 can be referred to as RGB pixels in this context.

The reserve OLEDs are designed such that they depend on the activation of the reserve pixels 14 emit light with the same or at least approximately the same emission color by means of the driver unit as the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 to which they are assigned. For example, the organic functional layer structures of the reserve OLEDs have the same or at least similar structure and / or the same materials as the organic functional layer structures of the corresponding OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 ,

The sensor units 16 Monitor the states of the OLEDs during operation 18 . 20 . 22 to which they are assigned. The states are, for example, a mode of operation in general and / or a brightness, in particular an intensity, a color impression, in particular a color location, and / or wavelength ranges of the one of the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 emitted light in particular. The states can be monitored, for example, by means of the sensor units 16 Values of parameters of the corresponding OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 and compared to one or more corresponding thresholds. The parameters are for example the electrical voltage at the corresponding OLED 18 . 20 . 22 is applied, the electric current through the corresponding OLED 18 . 20 . 22 flows, and / or the electrical resistance of the corresponding OLED 18 . 20 . 22 ,

With age and / or wear, the values of the parameters change. If the values of the parameters are equal to or even exceed the threshold, then the state of the corresponding pixel will be 12 classified as bad. For compensation of the pixel 12 in the bad state, the corresponding reserve pixel 14 activated. If the pixel 12 in bad condition has failed completely, the corresponding reserve pixel 14 activated and operated at full power. If the pixel 12 in poor condition is only reduced in its performance, so can the corresponding reserve pixels 14 be activated and operated with such a high power that the reduced performance of the corresponding pixel 12 is being compensated. Overall, such a high display quality of the organic display device 10 be ensured.

At the in 1 shown first state of the organic display device 10 are all pixels 12 in perfect condition and none of the reserve pixels 14 are activated.

Alternatively to the in 1 shown embodiment, fewer sensor units 16 be arranged, the more of the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 are assigned and monitor them. For example, a sensor device with only one sensor unit 16 be arranged with all OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 is electrically connected and monitors. Furthermore, the sensor units 16 be photosensitive elements and that of the corresponding OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 detect emitted light and so the corresponding OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 monitor. In this case, the electrical coupling between the sensor units 16 and the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 be waived. For example, the sensor units 16 each have an organic functional layer structure as photosensitive elements. Optionally, such an organic functional layer structure may for example be the same or at least similar to the organic functional layer structures of the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 and / or the reserve OLEDs.

Furthermore, every pixel 12 have yet another OLED, for example, an OLED that emits white light and which can also be referred to as white OLED. The pixels 12 can then be called RGBW pixels. Alternatively, the organic display device 10 pixel 12 have only one OLED, for example, each with a white OLED, and with controllable color filters, by means of which the white light of the OLEDs can be converted into colored light.

Furthermore, the reserve pixels 14 and / or the reserve OLEDs each have an equal or larger area than the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 to which they are assigned.

2 shows a plan view of the embodiment of the organic display device 10 according to 1 in a second state, in particular some pixels 12 are in bad shape. In particular, the second OLEDs are 20 the middle pixel 12 in the middle column, the third OLED 22 , the left pixel 12 in the bottom line and the first OLED 18 the right pixel 12 in the bottom line in bad condition. These OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 in bad condition may be completely failed or shine only with reduced brightness or intensity or emit light with a different color impression, for example with a changed color location, in particular altered wavelength ranges.

The directly above these malfunctioning OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 arranged reserve pixels 14 are activated to compensate for these bad conditions. Depending on the states of the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 become the reserve pixels 14 operated with full or limited performance, in particular so that the bad states of the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 be compensated.

3 shows a plan view of an embodiment of an organic display device 10 , for example, largely the organic display device explained above 10 corresponds, in a first state. The reserve pixels 14 are each two OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 assigned. The reserve pixels 14 are designed so that they can emit light in a first operating state, which has the same or at least approximately the same emission color as one of the two OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 to which they are associated and that in a second operating state they can emit light having the same or at least approximately the same emission color as the other of the two OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 to which they are assigned. This can reduce the number of reserve pixels 14 opposite to the 1 shown embodiment can be reduced by half.

In 3 are optionally in the right column the reserve pixels 14 only the third OLEDs 22 assigned.

For example, the right column may be a right edge of the organic display device 10 represent.

Alternatively, in all columns, the pixels 12 one column of reserve pixels each 14 just one of the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 be assigned. In other words, a pixel with three OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 two reserve pixels 14 be associated with one of the reserve pixels 14 two of the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 is assigned and the other reserve pixel 14 the rest of the OLED 18 . 20 . 22 assigned.

Alternatively, each reserve pixel 14 three OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 be assigned so that to each pixel 12 exactly one reserve pixel 14 is arranged. Furthermore, if the pixels 12 four OLEDs each 18 . 20 . 22 have, one of the reserve pixels 14 all four OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 be assigned or the corresponding pixels 12 can each have two of the reserve pixels 14 be assigned, each two of the corresponding OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 assigned.

In the in 3 shown first state of the organic display device 10 are all pixels 12 in perfect condition and none of the reserve pixels 14 is activated.

4 shows a plan view of the embodiment of the organic display device 10 according to 3 in a second state, in particular some pixels 12 are in bad shape. In particular, the second OLEDs are 20 the middle pixel 12 in the middle column and the third OLED 22 the middle pixel 12 in the bottom line in bad condition. These OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 in bad condition may be completely failed or shine only with reduced brightness or intensity or emit light with a different color impression, for example with a changed color location, in particular altered wavelength ranges.

The directly above these malfunctioning OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 arranged reserve pixels 14 are activated to compensate for these bad conditions. Depending on the states of the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 become the reserve pixels 14 operated with full or limited performance, in particular so that the bad states of the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 be compensated.

5 shows a plan view of an embodiment of an organic display device 10 , for example, largely one of the above-explained organic display devices 10 corresponds, in a first state. Between two of the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 is each a reserve pixel 14 arranged. The reserve pixels 14 are for example the in 5 to the left of them arranged pixels 12 assigned. The areas of the reserve pixels 14 are the same size as the areas of the pixels 12 , 5 shows only two columns of pixels 12 ,

In the in 5 shown first state of the organic display device 10 are all pixels 12 in perfect condition and none of the reserve pixels 14 is activated.

The reserve pixels 14 can basically be identical in their design to the OLED 18 . 20 . 22 be formed, they are assigned. This allows for the reserve pixels 14 to use the same or even the same control as for the corresponding OLED 18 . 20 . 22 , It can be controlled by a single additional control line in combination with a simple switching control, whether the OLED 18 . 20 . 22 and / or their reserve pixel 14 is operated. In this way, all OLEDs can 18 . 20 . 22 reserve pixels 14 can be assigned without the number of control and power supply lines and / or electronic elements, such as transistors and / or capacitors, is substantially increased. The control and power supply lines and / or the electronic elements may be arranged and / or formed in or on a background plate, for example a backplane.

6 shows a plan view of the embodiment of the organic display device 10 according to 3 in a second state, in particular, some of the pixels 12 are in bad shape. In particular, the third are OLEDs 22 of the left pixel 12 in the middle row and the first OLED 18 the right pixel 12 in the bottom line in bad condition. These OLEDs 18 . 22 in bad condition may be completely failed or shine only with reduced brightness or intensity or emit light with a different color impression, for example with a changed color location, in particular altered wavelength ranges.

The directly to the right of these malfunctioning OLEDs 18 . 22 arranged reserve pixels 14 are activated to compensate for these bad conditions. Depending on the states of the OLEDs 18 . 22 become the reserve pixels 14 operated with full or limited performance, in particular so that the bad states of the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 be compensated.

7 shows a plan view of an embodiment of an organic display device 10 , for example, largely related to the 1 to 4 explained organic display devices 10 corresponds, in a first state. Each of the reserve pixels 14 has a first organic functional layer structure 24 and a second organic functional layer structure 26 on. The organic functional layer structure 26 one of the reserve pixels 14 For example, they may be physically independent of one another, reserve OLEDs, or two segments each of a spare OLED. The organic functional layer structures 24 . 26 a reserve pixel 14 are designed to emit light of the same emission color. One of the two organic functional layer structures 24 . 26 can be considered a reserve for the other of the two organic functional layer structures 24 . 26 serve, for example, if the latter is in poor condition, for example, fails. Alternatively or additionally, both organic functional layer structures 24 . 26 in bad condition of the corresponding OLED 18 . 20 . 24 operated together, for example, to increase the intensity of the corresponding reserve pixel 14 , The organic functional layer structures 24 . 26 are laterally formed side by side.

In the in 7 shown first state of the organic display device 10 are all pixels 12 in perfect condition and none of the reserve pixels 14 is activated.

8th shows a plan view of the embodiment of the organic display device 10 according to 7 in a second state, in particular, some of the pixels 12 are in bad shape. In particular, the second OLEDs are 20 the middle pixel 12 in the middle row, the third OLED 22 of the left pixel 12 in the bottom line and the first OLED 18 of the left pixel 12 in the bottom line in bad condition. These OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 in bad condition may be completely failed or shine only with reduced brightness or intensity or emit light with a different color impression, for example, with a changed color location, in particular altered wavelength ranges.

The directly above these malfunctioning OLEDs 18 . 22 arranged reserve pixels 14 are activated to compensate for these bad conditions. Depending on the states of the OLEDs 18 . 22 become the reserve pixels 14 operated with full or limited performance, in particular so that the bad states of the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 being compensated, for example, only one or both organic functional layer structures 24 . 26 can be activated. For example, in the in 8th shown second state in the activated in the middle row spare pixels 14 and left in the bottom line activated reserve pixels 14 only the first organic functional layer structure 24 activated, for example, because the states of the corresponding second or third OLED 20 . 22 are only partially degraded, and at the lower right justified spare pixels 14 are both organic functional layer structures 24 . 26 activated, for example, because the corresponding first OLED 18 completely failed.

9 shows a side sectional view of an embodiment of a reserve pixel 14 , The reserve pixel 14 has a reserve OLED that has a first organic functional layer structure 24 and a second organic functional layer structure 26 having. The second organic functional layer structure 26 is above the first organic functional layer structure 24 arranged.

The first organic functional layer structure 24 is over a first electrode 28 arranged. Between the two organic functional layer structures 24 . 26 is an intermediate electrode 30 arranged. Over the second organic functional layer structure 26 is a second electrode 32 arranged. The reserve OLED can be designed as a top emitter, bottom emitter or as a double-sided emitting OLED. Accordingly, the intermediate electrode 30 formed transparent and the first electrode 28 and / or the second electrode 32 is or are also transparent.

The first electrode 28 and the intermediate electrode 30 are via a first voltage source 34 electrically coupled together. The second electrode 32 and the intermediate electrode 30 are via a second voltage source 36 electrically coupled together. The first voltage source 34 is suitable for operating the first organic functional layer structure 24 , The second voltage source 36 is suitable for operating the second organic functional layer structure 26 , With the help of the two voltage sources 34 . 36 can be the two organic functional layer structures 24 . 26 operated independently or jointly.

The first organic functional layer structure 24 is designed to emit light of a first emission color. The second organic functional layer structure 24 is designed to emit light of a second emission color. For example, the first emission color is red. The second emission color is blue, for example. If only the first organic functional layer structure 24 is operated, so emit the first organic functional layer structure 24 and thus the reserve pixel 14 Red light. If only the second organic functional layer structure 26 is operated so emit the second organic functional layer structure 26 and thus the reserve pixel 14 blue light. This allows the reserve pixel 14 one of the blue OLEDs, for example one of the third OLEDs 22 , one of the pixels 12 and one of the red OLEDs, for example one of the first OLEDs 18 , one of the pixels 12 assign, wherein the blue OLED and the red OLED to the same pixel 12 can belong to or to neighboring pixels 12 can belong. Depending on whether the red OLED or the blue OLED is in bad condition, then the reserve pixel 14 be driven so that it emits red light or blue light, causing the poor state of the corresponding OLED 18 . 22 can be compensated.

Alternatively, the organic functional layer structures 24 . 26 be designed so that they emit red and green light or that they emit blue and green light. Furthermore, three organic functional layer structures 24 . 26 be formed over each other, the red, green and blue light emit, so that with one of the reserve pixels 14 bad states of OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 can be compensated, emit red, green, blue or white light. Furthermore, it is possible to use both organic functional layer structures 24 . 26 operate simultaneously, so that by mixing the light another color can be generated. For example, in the case of three superimposed organic functional layer structures 24 . 26 by the simultaneous operation of all three organic functional layer structures 24 . 26 be generated white light.

10 shows an equivalent circuit diagram of the reserve pixel according to 9 , The two organic functional layer structures 24 . 26 are represented as diode symbols and behave like diodes during operation. Now a voltage between the first electrode 28 and the second electrode 32 applied, depending on the sign of the voltage, either the first organic functional layer structure 24 or the second organic functional layer structure 26 operated.

11 shows a flowchart of an embodiment of a method for operating an organic display device, for example, the above-explained organic display device 10 , The procedure serves to cause a bad condition of one of the pixels 12 , in particular one of the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 of the pixel 12 to recognize and depending on the bad state and the corresponding pixel 12 the corresponding reserve pixel 14 to activate such that the effects of the bad state of the pixel 12 or the OLED 18 . 20 . 22 be compensated, so that in total the organic display device 10 despite the poor state of the pixel has a high display quality. This contributes to the organic display device having high fault tolerance and long life.

In a first step S2, the state of one of the pixels 12 , in particular one of the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 of the pixel 12 , supervised. For example, the value of the parameter of the pixel becomes 12 , in particular one of the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 of the pixel 12 , detected and compared with the predetermined threshold.

In a second step S4, the reserve pixel 14 enabled, the corresponding pixel 12 , in particular the corresponding OLED 18 . 20 . 22 of the pixel 12 , is assigned, if the state of the corresponding pixel 12 or the corresponding OLED 18 . 20 . 22 bad is. For example, the reserve pixel becomes 14 activated if the value of the parameter of the corresponding pixel 12 or the corresponding OLED 18 . 20 . 22 is the same as the predetermined threshold or exceeds the predetermined threshold. The fact that the value exceeds the predetermined threshold value may mean that the value exceeds or already exceeded the predetermined threshold value from top to bottom or that the value exceeds or has already exceeded the predetermined threshold value from bottom to top. Specifically, the value exceeding the predetermined threshold may mean that the value is greater or less than or greater than the predetermined threshold depending on which parameter is being monitored. For example, if the parameter is the brightness of the pixel 12 or the OLED 18 . 20 . 22 is monitored, the predetermined threshold value is a minimum brightness value, and when the detected value of the brightness becomes smaller than the minimum brightness value, the state of the corresponding pixel becomes 12 or the corresponding OLED 18 . 20 . 22 classified as bad. If, for example, in contrast, as a parameter, the electrical resistance of the pixel 12 or the OLED 18 . 20 . 22 is monitored, the predetermined threshold value is a maximum resistance value, and when the detected value of the resistance becomes larger than the maximum resistance value, the state of the corresponding pixel is classified as bad.

In step S4 or below, the reserve pixel 14 be controlled so that the intensity of the light emitted by it remains the same or changes, depending on whether the state of the pixel 12 stays the same or changes. In addition, the reserve pixel 14 depending on whether the state of the pixel 12 only relatively poorly deteriorated or massively deteriorated, the latter, for example, in a total failure, are operated so that it emits light with only relatively low intensity or light with relatively high, for example, maximum intensity emitted.

The process can be repeated successively or permanently for the pixel 12 and / or simultaneously for multiple pixels 12 be performed. The method can in particular be repeated successively or permanently for the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 and / or simultaneously for multiple OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 be performed. In other words, the pixel can 12 or a variety of pixels 12 be monitored simultaneously and / or successively by means of the method and optionally compensated. In particular, in other words, one of the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 or a variety of OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 be monitored simultaneously and / or successively by means of the method and optionally compensated.

12 shows a flowchart of an embodiment of a method for operating an organic display device, for example, the above-explained organic display device 10 , For example, the method may be substantially the same as in 10 However, it is more detailed.

In a step S6, the value of the parameter becomes one of the pixels 12 or one of its OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 monitored, in particular recorded. The value of the parameter can be monitored permanently or only occasionally, for example at regular intervals.

In a step S8, it is checked whether the detected value of the parameter is equal to or even exceeds the predetermined threshold value. If the detected value of the parameter is equal to or even exceeds the predetermined threshold, step S6 is executed again with either the same pixel 12 , in particular with the same OLED 18 . 20 . 22 or another OLED 18 . 20 . 22 same pixel 12 , and / or another of the pixels 12 , If the detected value of the parameter is not equal to and does not exceed the predetermined threshold, the process proceeds to a step S10.

Illustrated is the corresponding pixel 12 monitored in steps S6 and S8. The monitoring of the pixel 12 For example, by means of the control device, in particular by means of the control units 16 , respectively.

In step S10, the value of the control variable is determined, for example, depending on the detected value of the parameter. The control variable, for example, a drive voltage, the at the corresponding reserve pixel 14 to be created, or be a drive current with which the corresponding reserve pixel 14 should be charged. The value of the control variable can be determined, for example, in the driver unit or a computing unit.

In a step S12, the reserve pixel becomes 14 activated and controlled. It becomes the reserve pixel 14 For example, simply turned on or turned on and operated depending on the determined value of the control variable. The step S12 can be executed, for example, in the driver unit.

13 FIG. 12 shows a flow diagram of one embodiment of a method for monitoring one of the pixels 12 , The method serves to easily and reliably prevent a bad state of the pixel 12 to recognize.

In a step S14, the pixel becomes 12 disabled. The step S14 may be performed, for example, in the course of a shutdown operation of the organic display device.

In a step S16, a value of a voltage detected at the turned-off pixel is detected 12 , in particular at one of the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 is present, in particular shortly after step S14, for example, 0.1 s to 5 s, for example 1 s to 2 s after step S14.

If the pixel 12 has a short circuit that leads to a total failure of the pixel 12 or the OLED 18 . 20 . 22 may or may already lead to a total failure of the pixel 12 resulted in an intrinsic capacity of the corresponding OLED discharges 18 . 20 . 22 quickly over the short circuit, for example, in a period of less than 0.1 s. If the pixel 12 has no short circuit resulting in a total failure of the pixel 12 or the OLED 18 . 20 . 22 may or may already lead to a total failure of the pixel 12 has led to discharge of the intrinsic capacity of the corresponding OLED 18 . 20 . 22 only slowly and the value of the voltage detected in step S16 is above a correspondingly predetermined threshold value. The intrinsic capacitance is due, for example, to the electrodes of the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 before, since these as long as the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 are operated below their threshold voltage and in particular are not active, as plate capacitors act, which naturally each have a capacity and at which shortly after switching off an intact OLED 18 . 20 . 22 a certain voltage is applied. The short circuit of the OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 then acts as a short between the plates of a capacitor and discharges the corresponding capacitor quickly, so that no voltage is applied between the plates.

In a step S18, the state of the pixel becomes 12 , especially its OLEDs 18 . 20 . 22 , for example, by comparing the detected value of the voltage with the predetermined threshold value. If the detected value of the voltage is larger than the predetermined threshold value, the state of the pixel becomes 12 or the corresponding OLED 18 . 20 . 22 classified as good. If the detected value of the voltage is less than or equal to the predetermined threshold value, the state of the pixel becomes 12 or the corresponding OLED 18 . 20 . 22 classified as bad.

The invention is not limited to the specified embodiments. For example, the embodiments may be combined. For example, in the 9 and 10 shown reserve pixels 14 in relation to the 1 to 8th explained organic display devices 10 be used.

Claims (15)

Organic display device ( 10 ), with a plurality of pixels ( 12 ), each having at least one organic light-emitting component ( 18 . 20 . 22 ), a plurality of reserve pixels ( 14 ) each having at least one organic light-emitting reserve device and the pixels ( 12 ), the reserve pixels ( 14 ) directly adjacent to the corresponding pixels ( 12 ) and wherein the reserve organic light-emitting devices of the reserve pixels ( 14 ) Emit light with the same or at least approximately the same emission color as the organic light-emitting components ( 18 . 20 . 22 ) of the corresponding pixels ( 12 ), at least one sensor device electrically connected to the pixels ( 12 ) and which is adapted, during operation of the organic display device ( 10 ) States of the pixels ( 12 ) and a driver unit which is electrically coupled to the sensor device and which is designed to operate during operation of the organic display device ( 10 ) depending on the detected states of the pixels ( 12 ) the corresponding reserve pixels ( 14 ) to activate. Organic display device ( 10 ) according to claim 1, wherein the pixels ( 12 ) at least two organic light-emitting components ( 18 . 20 . 22 ) exhibit. Organic display device ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the organic light-emitting components ( 18 . 20 . 22 ) of the pixels ( 12 ) in each case at least one of the organic light-emitting reserve components of corresponding reserve pixels ( 14 ) associated with any other organic light emitting device ( 18 . 20 . 22 ) assigned. Organic display device ( 10 ) according to claim 3, in which the organic light-emitting reserve components have a first organic functional layer structure ( 24 ) and at least one second organic functional layer structure ( 26 ), which in operation emit light with the same emission color, wherein in a first operating state the first organic functional layer structure ( 24 ) and in a second operating state the second organic functional layer structure ( 26 ) is operated. Organic display device ( 10 ) according to claim 2, wherein the at least two organic light-emitting components ( 18 . 20 . 22 ) of the pixels ( 12 ) one of the organic light-emitting reserve components of the corresponding reserve pixels ( 14 ), and in each case the organic light-emitting reserve components are designed in such a way that, in a first operating state, they emit light having the same or at least approximately the same emission color as one of the at least two organic light-emitting components ( 18 . 20 . 22 ) and in a second operating state emit light with the same or at least approximately the same emission color as another of the at least two organic light-emitting components ( 18 . 20 . 22 ). Organic display device ( 10 ) according to claim 5, in which the organic light-emitting reserve components each have a first organic functional layer structure ( 24 ), which emits light of a first emission color in the first operating state, and a second organic functional layer structure ( 26 ), which emits light of a second emission color in the second operating state. Organic display device ( 10 ) according to one of claims 4 or 6, in which the first and the second organic functional layer structure ( 24 . 26 ) are arranged vertically one above the other. Organic display device ( 10 ) according to one of Claims 4, 6 or 7, in which the reserve organic light-emitting devices are operated with a positive voltage in the first operating state and are operated with a negative voltage in the second operating state. Organic display device ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the organic light-emitting components ( 18 . 20 . 22 ) of the pixels ( 12 ) are arranged directly adjacent to each other. Organic display device ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, in which between two of the organic light-emitting components ( 18 . 20 . 22 ) in each case at least one of the organic light-emitting reserve components is arranged. Method for operating an organic display device ( 10 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein during operation of the organic display device ( 10 ) the states of the pixels ( 12 ) of the organic display device ( 10 ) and depending on the states of the pixels ( 12 ) initially inactive the reserve pixels ( 14 ), which correspond to the corresponding pixels ( 12 ) assigned. Method according to Claim 11, in which the pixels ( 12 ) are monitored by adding one value each of a parameter of the pixels ( 12 ), the detected value is compared with a predetermined threshold, and the corresponding reserve pixel ( 14 ) is activated if the detected value is equal to the predetermined threshold or exceeds the predetermined threshold. Method according to Claim 12, in which, depending on the detected value of the parameter, one of the pixels ( 12 ) a value of a control quantity for controlling the corresponding activated reserve pixel ( 14 ) and the corresponding reserve pixel ( 14 ) is driven depending on the determined value of the control variable. Method according to one of Claims 12 or 13, in which the value of the parameter is representative of wear, age, color rendering and / or brightness of the corresponding pixel ( 12 ). Method according to one of Claims 11 to 13, in which for monitoring one of the pixels ( 12 ) at least one organic light-emitting component ( 18 . 20 . 22 ) of the corresponding pixel ( 12 ) and after deactivation of the organic light emitting device ( 18 . 20 . 22 ) is detected a voltage value of a voltage which is applied to the organic light-emitting component ( 18 . 20 . 22 ), and the state of the corresponding organic light-emitting device ( 18 . 20 . 22 ) is determined depending on the detected voltage value.

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