Introduction

MicroLED simulation is a computer-based method of modeling the performance and behavior of microLEDs to optimize their design and predict their properties before they are manufactured. Companies can now forecast and analyze the performance of microLED displays before they are created. This has cut down on development time and costs dramatically.

MicroLED simulation uses effective methods like finite element method (FEM), Monte Carlo method, and ray tracing to optimize performance. For example, FEM optimizes chip size and semi-sphere micro-structure size for better light extraction efficiency, resulting in a 15% increase in light efficiency when the chip size is reduced from 30 μm to 20 μm. 

These simulation methods have led to beneficial outcomes, such as a high light extraction efficiency of 85% for pixel-to-pixel fiber-coupled emissivemicroLED arrays.

This article explores microLED simulation and some latest patents, along with industry examples. 

Patents in MicroLED Simulation

According to Yole Developpement, more than 350 organizations have filed about 5,500 microLED patents (2,500 patent families). The rate of patent filing is growing exponentially—40 % of the patents were filed in 2019. 

Here are some patents in the field of MicroLED simulation research:

U.S. Patent 10,862,010 (2020)

This invention, which describes a method for mimicking the behavior of microLEDs, is given to Lumens Co Ltd. It focuses on modeling light distribution and how different parameters affect the model. This covers the substrate, the light output package, and the LED structure. The device includes a microLED driving substrate with many CMOS cells organized in rows and columns. 

U.S. Patent 11,967,586 (2024)

This patent, awarded to Apple Inc., explains how to manufacture display panels using microLEDs. It covers the simulation of the light-emitting structures and their formation techniques in full, as well as the application of well structures and hybrid bonding.

PCT/US2019/014595 (2019)

This patent application, filed by Apple Inc., describes a method for simulating the behavior of microLEDs. The application includes details on the simulation of the light distribution and the effects of various parameters. 

Patent by Igantec

US-based Ingantec has entered into a patent agreement with the University of California Santa Barbara (UCSB) for the production of highly efficient next-generation microLED devices. Patents are issued for innovative methods and systems that allow the creation of industry-leading devices using Metal-Organic Chemical Vapor Deposition.

LG Display and Ultra Display Technology

Ultra Display Technology, a Taiwanese company, has acquired 14 patents related to microLEDs. Some of the patents are about microLED microdisplays, while others detail microLED transfer technologies. LG Display is stepping up its microLED projects and has reportedly signed a deal to supply microLED backplanes to Apple.

X Display Company (XDC) and Lextar Agreement

LED developer Lextar and microLED display developer X Display Company (XDC) entered into a development, licensing, and services agreement. Lextar will provide its high-performance MicroLED chips to XDC customers. This agreement will accelerate the commercialization and development of next-generation displays.

ams-Osram’s Impairment

ams-Osram announced a US$648-$972M non-cash impairment for its 1.3 billion Euro, 200 mm microLED fab. A similar announcement from Kulicke and Soffa followed this. This involved developing the mass transfer tools for the project and is taking a $110 to $130 million impairment.

Some Industry Examples of MicroLED Simulation

These examples highlight the innovative approaches being taken in the field of microLED simulation:

This suite includes new CHARGE/MQW coupled mode simulation capabilities. These tools enable the self-consistent solution of the drift-diffusion, Poisson, and Schrödinger equations, allowing for the simulation of optoelectronic figures of merit. 

Examples include the current-voltage curve, internal quantum efficiency, and spontaneous emission power spectrum. They also enable the simulation of photonic figures of merit, such as the optical efficiency with FDTD and STACK. 

Stack Simulation for Micro-LED Advancement

Stack microLED simulation facilitates precise analysis and characterization of each layer’s optical properties. With tools like the STACK Optical Solver within FDTD Solutions, professionals can simulate the electromagnetic field’s interaction with each layer.

Advancements in Micro-LED Performance through Nanomaterials 

The color conversion efficiency (CCE) of quantum dot (QD)-μLEDs is a major obstacle. In this review, they systematically summarize the recent applications of nanomaterials and nanostructures in μLEDs.

Sony’s MicroLED Video Walls

Sony, along with Samsung and Konka, sells microLED video walls. Other companies have exhibited various microLED-based prototypes, including luxury TVs and varying sizes of transparent and flexible displays.

Samsung’s MicroLED TV

Samsung, with its “The Wall,” is one of the first commercially available microLED TVs. Samsung’s microLED TVs use millions of microscopic LEDs to produce incredibly bright, colorful, and sharp images.

Konka’s MicroLED Video Walls 

Konka, a Chinese electronics company, has vertically integrated its supply chain and is producing its micro-LED chips using Aixtron’s MOCVD systems. Konka declared in 2019 that it would be constructing a $365 million R&D center for micro-LEDs in Chongqing. The company believes that micro-LED will become the leading technology for ultra-high-quality consumer TVs. 

Earlier in 2019, Konka launched tiled large microLED displays under the APHAEA brand. The company demonstrated several possible configurations, including a 118″ 4K display.

End Note

Looking ahead, the prospects for the commercialization of microLED simulations are promising. With the ongoing advancements in simulation techniques and the increasing involvement of industries, the path to commercialization is becoming clearer. 

The surge in patent activity is a testament to the rapid advancements in this field. The mass transfer of microLEDs, which entails placing tiny LEDs onto a substrate, is one of the main obstacles. Creating dependable and effective mass transfer methods is essential to the commercialization of microLED displays.