Reflective 3D pixel configuration for enhancing efficiency of OLED displays

Although active-matrix organic light-emitting diode displays (AMOLEDs) have been widely applied, effective optical out-coupling techniques possessing both integration compatibility and image quality remain highly desired for further improving their efficiency and power consumption performances. In our previous simulation studies, a 3-dimensional (3D) reflective pixel structure filled with a patterned high-index material was proposed for boosting light extraction efficiency of common top-emitting AMOLED pixel devices. In this work, we conducted experimental studies on the proposed 3D OLED pixel configuration to validate the simulation and design. 3D OLED pixel devices with varied pixel dimensions were implemented and their structures, electrical properties, efficiencies, and EL characteristics were characterized. Significant efficiency gains were obtained with the μm-scale reflective 3D pixel devices and experiment results well corroborated multiscale optical simulation results, confirming effectiveness of the 3D OLED pixel for enhancing light extraction of OLED displays.