US 2010O157585A1

(19) United States

(12) Patent Application Publication (10) Pub. No.: US 2010/0157585 A1
Diekmann et al. (43) Pub. Date: Jun. 24, 2010
(54) ORGANIC LIGHTING DEVICE AND (86). PCT No.: PCT/DE2007/001744
LIGHTING EQUIPMENT
S371 (c)(1),
(76) Inventors: Karsten Diekmann, Rattenberg (2), (4) Date: Jan. 11, 2010
(DE); Karsten Heuser, Erlangen
(DE); Markus Klein, Tegernheim (30) Foreign Application Priority Data
(DE); Dieter Lang, Bruckmühl
(DE); Georg Lechermann, Sep. 29, 2006 (DE) ......................... 102O06O461983
Penzberg (DE); Michael Sep. 29, 2006 ... 102006O46293.9
Reithmeier, Eichenau (DE); Nov. 20, 2006 ... 1020060545842
Carsten Plumeyer, Martinsried Dec. 21, 2006 (DE) ......................... 102OO606O781.3
(DE); Makarand Chipalkatti, Publication Classification
Lexington, MA (US); Udo
Custodis, Hong Kong (CN); Diane (51) Int. Cl.
Seymour, Towanda, PA (US); HOIL 5/52 (2006.01)
Dmytro Poplavskyy, San Jose, CA F2IK 2/00 (2006.01)
(US) (52) U.S. Cl. ......................................... 362/228; 313/504
Correspondence Address: (57) ABSTRACT
COHEN, PONTANI, LIEBERMAN & PAVANE
LLP An organic luminous means and an illumination device com
551 FIFTHAVENUE, SUITE 1210 prising such a luminous means are described. An optical
NEW YORK, NY 10176 (US) display apparatus, emergency lighting, motor vehicle interior
lighting, an item of furniture, a construction material, a glaz
(21) Appl. No.: 12/443,672 ing and a display comprising Such a luminous means and,
respectively, comprising an illumination device having Such a
(22) PCT Filed: Sep. 26, 2007 luminous means are also described.
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 1 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 1
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 2 of 57 US 2010/O157585 A1

FIG20
2012
2013
2011 201
2O2
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 3 of 57 US 2010/O157585 A1
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 4 of 57 US 2010/O157585 A1
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 5 of 57 US 2010/O157585 A1
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 6 of 57 US 2010/O157585 A1

FIG 4D
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 7 of 57 US 2010/O157585 A1

FEG 5A 100
100a a
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 8 of 57 US 2010/O157585 A1

FIG 6

- - - - -w . . .. . . .

3. AG:
-

V
1 OO

301
300 / 30
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 9 of 57 US 2010/O157585 A1

FIG 7 2O

5E/
LOGO-100
- --- -- - -1

(LOGO2-100
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 10 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 9

6
-3
2
1
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 11 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 11

331
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 12 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 12A 335

1 2
-3 6

A 610
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 13 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 14 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 13B
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 15 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 14

337
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 16 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 17A
6
Ya
604-P-E
- -601
604
604 602
601

FIG 17B ,

61

337

FIG 17C 6
337C 337)
337. 6O2
604 6O1
604 602
604 601
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 17 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 18A
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 18 of 57 US 2010/O157585 A1

FIG 19
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 19 of 57 US 2010/O157585 A1

FG 20
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 20 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 21 352
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 21 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 22 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 24

365

100
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 23 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 25 100

100b
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 24 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 27 100
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 25 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 26 of 57 US 2010/O157585 A1

FIG 29A 2A

FIG 29B

FIG 29C
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 27 of 57 US 2010/O157585 A1

FIG 30
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 28 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 32

1 OO
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 29 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 30 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 35A 100

51 50 a 1

2%%
-4-4-.
%24%
TA-1
%. 2 % AT
FIG 35B OO
51 50 5351 52 /1
50O-Peeter?tates
- e.g. 22.e. 3.2eos. So
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 31 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 36 100
51 50 5
a-150
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 32 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 39 100
55 51 50 3 /1

2:3:2
-:2:3:
%22%
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 33 of 57 US 2010/O157585 A1

100a

FIG 41
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 34 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

65
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 35 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 45 100
6 H 3
405
403 - 4044
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 36 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 48A

FIG 48B
100

102
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 37 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 50

FIG 51
100
3.222 Y ...A2/
N. Y. ZZZZY Y

100
-
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 38 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 52

FIG 53 FIG 54 FIG 55

72 72

9 y 76b 76a 760

Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 39 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 57

FIG 58 FIG 59 FIG 60

76b
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 40 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 62A 100

75- )
N 750 75 /
N. 1
--- 1

FIG 63A FIG 63B

7 78 Ya, a 71. Y
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 41 of 57 US 2010/O157585 A1

FIG 64 1000
-
s --
H | | - -- -- - - - - - -- - - - -- -

1§
--©-|- -+-- -,-

L -- -- - - -- -- -
- irs
y-----
100
--- --
- - - -
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 42 of 57 US 2010/O157585 A1

FIG 65

I I I I I I !!!! H } } } | ä ---- | |- ; ? | | –1 | I I | | -; I | | | J { |
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 43 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

1OO
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 44 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

O :
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 45 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 72
1000
N 100

60
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 46 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 74
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 47 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 76 95
80 -1
100
go
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 48 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 78

100

371
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 49 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 79 OOO
370 -

OO
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 50 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 80A
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 51 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 81 100

100
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 52 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 82 1000

FIG 83

370
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 53 of 57 US 2010/O157585 A1

FIG 84A AM 100

AYAM.4 Š YA
SNAM41
AM31-1N S
AM32 AM 42

FIG 84B AM 100

AM 11 AM32,AM AM8AM2 AM 10

A2Y S
Y
z S\-AMA241
7

AM 31 r AM4 AM s
AM 9 AM 9
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 54 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 85 AM 200
AM2 AM3 AM 32 AM 311
AM 41 25.42.
2
AMA21-13 IZA % 2.
2 22
AM 401s. É
22
322
AM 402-SZ,

%22
AM 422

AM312
SS

AM
H.
AM322 AM 412
SS

FIG 86 AM 300

AM2 AM301 AM321 AM 311

RS
s
AM 421-1 52.É.
AM 401s K5
É
NZW,
3 52.É. 2
2ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ
AM 402 IKE5
NZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ
22422ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ AM 422
21242-22474/1/ZZZZZZY
Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
SS

AM312 AM 1
7 S.
AM322 AM. 302 AM42
SS
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 55 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 87 AM 400
AM 411 - AM 412
... A ?
2N. S
AM2 2Eart

AM 401

Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa. N

AM 31 AM1

AM 7
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 56 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 89A
2 22

AM 101

22 22

FIG 89B

AM 101

22 22 z-z-AM 7
AM 51 AM 52 AM 711 AM 712
AM 101
AM 53 AM 54 AM 713 AM 71A
222 22 22 22
Patent Application Publication Jun. 24, 2010 Sheet 57 of 57 US 2010/0157585 A1

FIG 89D
22 22 AM 7
AM 5 AM 52. AM 711 AM 712
AM 101 AM 53-1 ) AM 713
AM 55 AM 54 AM 715 AM 714
22 22:

FIG 89E
AM 7
AM 51 AM 711
AM 52-3 AM 712
AM 101
AM 713
AM 54 AM 53-3 AM 714
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

ORGANIC LIGHTING DEVICE AND 0016. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
LIGHTING EQUIPMENT luminous means, a luminous means comprises, in particular:
0017 a substrate having a first main surface, to which a
first electrode is applied,
0018 a second electrode, and
0001. The present application relates to an organic lumi 0.019 an organic layer stack within an active region of
nous means and an illumination device comprising Such a the substrate between the first and the second electrode,
luminous means. The present application furthermore relates wherein the organic layer Stack comprises at least one
to an optical display apparatus, emergency lighting, motor organic layer which is Suitable for generating light.
vehicle interior lighting, an item of furniture, a construction 0020. The organic layers of the organic layer stack can
material, a glazing and a display comprising Such aluminous comprise low molecular weight materials (Small molecules)
means and, respectively, comprising an illumination device or polymeric materials. Low molecular weight materials are
having Such a luminous means. generally applied by vacuum processes, such as evaporation,
0002. The documents U.S. Pat. No. 6,554,443 and U.S. for example, while polymeric materials can be applied by
Pat. No. 6,626,554 describe a luminous means which has Solvent-based processes such as blade coating, spin-coating
semiconductor-based light-emitting diodes as light sources. or printing methods.
0003. However, semiconductor-based light-emitting 0021 One of the electrodes generally serves as an anode
diodes are generally relatively expensive. In particular, the which injects holes into the organic layer stack, while the
costs for a semiconductor-based light-emitting diode rise other electrode serves as a cathode which impresses electrons
with the luminous area thereof. Therefore, large-area semi into the organic layer stack. The anode preferably comprises
conductor-based light-emitting diodes are particularly expen a material having a high work function for electrons. Such as
sive and are produced only rarely, on account of their low indium tin oxide (ITO), for example.
profitability. Furthermore, semiconductor-based light-emit 0022. The cathode, by contrast, preferably comprises a
ting diodes are generally embodied neither as flexible nor as material having a low work function for electrons, such as
transmissive to visible light. alkali or alkaline earth metals, for example. Since Such mate
0004 One object of the present invention, interalia, is to rials are generally very sensitive to atmospheric gases—such
specify a cost-effective luminous means. as oxygen and moisture for example—the cathode can com
0005. A further object of the present invention, interalia, prise, alongside a layer of such a material having a low work
is to specify a luminous means which is transmissive to vis function, one or a plurality of further layers which are signifi
ible light. cantly less sensitive to ambient influences, such as silver,
aluminum or platinum layers, for example. The further layers
0006. A further object of the present invention, interalia, encapsulate the layer having the low work function for elec
is to specify a luminous means which is suitable for repre trOnS.
senting information, for example in public spaces. 0023 The organic layer stack can comprise, alongside the
0007. A further object of the present invention, interalia, at least one layer which is Suitable for generating light, further
is to specify a luminous means which can be used as glazing organic layers, such as, for example, a hole injecting layer, a
for example in public spaces or in items of furniture and can hole conducting layer, an electron injecting layer and an
furthermore serve as illumination. electron conducting layer.
0008 A further object of the present invention, interalia, 0024. In this case, the hole conducting layer and the hole
is to specify a luminous means which can serve as a mirror injecting layer are preferably situated on the side of the
and/or as an illumination Source. organic layer stack facing the anode, while the electron con
0009. A further object of the present invention, interalia, ducting layer and the electron injecting layer are preferably
is to specify a luminous means which is suitable for repre situated on that side of the organic layer stack which faces the
senting information, for example in motor vehicles. cathode. In this case, the organic layer Suitable for generating
0010. A further object of the present invention, interalia, light is preferably arranged between the hole conducting
is to specify a luminous means which can be used in a deco layer and the hole injecting layer, on the one hand, and the
rative element. electron conducting layer and the electron injecting layer, on
0011. A further object of the present invention, interalia, the other hand. In general, the organic materials are embodied
in light-transmissive fashion, in particular to a light emitted
is to specify a luminous means for a search mirror. by the organic layer stack.
0012. A further object of the present invention, interalia, 0025 By way of example, the hole injecting layer contains
is to specify a flexible luminous means. or consists of at least one of the following materials:
0013. A further object of the present invention, interalia, 0026 Pedot: PSS
is to specify an illumination device comprising luminous 0027 F4TCNQ (tetrafluorotetracyano-quin
CaS. odimethane), p-doped,
0014. A further object of the present invention, interalia, 0028 NHT-5 with NDP-2.
is to specify an illumination device comprising a luminous 0029. By way of example, the hole conducting layer con
means and whose light can cause a variable color impression. tains or consists of at least one of the following materials:
0015. At least one object of specific embodiments of the 0030) anPD—aNPB-4,4'-bis(N-(1-naphthyl)-N-phe
present invention, inter alia, is to specify storage furniture nyl-aminobiphenyl
comprising a storage element having a luminous means. By 0031 1-TNATA=4,4',4'-tris(N-naphth-1-yl)-N-phe
way of example, illumination of a region of the storage fur nyl-amino)triphenylamine
niture and the Surroundings thereof can be made possible 0032 MTDATA=44'4"-tris(N-3-methylphenyl-N-
thereby. phenyl-amino)triphenylamine
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

0033) TPD-N,N'-diphenyl-N,N'-(3-methylphenyl)-1, 0050. In accordance with at least one further embodiment

1"biphenyl-4,4'-diamine of the luminous means, the second electrode is transmissive to
0034 spTAD=2,2,7,7-diphenylamino-spiro-9.9'-bif a light emitted by the organic layer stack during operation. If
luorene. only the second electrode is transmissive to a light generated
0035. By way of example, the electron conducting layer by the organic layer Stack during operation, whereas the first
contains or consists of at least one of the following materials: electrode is not transmissive, then it is generally provided that
0036 Alq3-tris(8-hydroxyquinoline)aluminum the light is emitted through the top side of the luminous
0037 BAlq-bis(2-methyl-8-quinolinolate)-4-(phe means. Preferably, therefore, in this case, the elements
nylphenolato)aluminum between second electrode and top side—for example an
0038 TPBi=1,3,5-tris(1-phenyl-1H-benzimidazol-2- encapsulation—are likewise embodied as transmissive to the
yl)-benzene. light generated by the organic layer stack.
0039. By way of example, the electron injecting layer 0051. In accordance with at least one particularly pre
contains or consists of at least one of the following materials: ferred embodiment of the luminous means, both electrodes
0040 LiF, NaF are embodied as transmissive to the light generated by the
0041 Cs2CO3 layer stack. In this embodiment, the luminous means is gen
0.042 Ba erally provided for being embodied as transmissive to the
0043. NET-5 with NDN-1. light emitted by the organic layer stack. As already mentioned
0044. The luminous means generally has two main Sur above, in this case the further elements of the luminous means
faces lying opposite one another. That main Surface of the through which the light passes on the way to the top side and
luminous means which is remote from the Substrate is respectively underside of the luminous means, in particular
referred to hereinafter as the “top side' of the luminous the Substrate and an encapsulation, are likewise embodied as
means, while the main surface lying opposite the top side of transmissive to the light emitted by the organic layer stack.
the luminous means is called the “underside' of the luminous 0052. In accordance with at least one embodiment, at least
CaS. one of the electrodes comprises a transparent conductive
0045. The luminous means emits a light generated in the oxide, a metal or a conductive organic material or consists
organic layer stack either through its underside or through its thereof.
top side or through underside and top side. In any event the 0053 Transparent conductive oxides (TCO, for short) are
elements of the luminous means through which the light conductive materials, generally metal oxides, such as, for
generated in the organic layer stack passes on the way to the example, Zinc oxide, tin oxide, cadmium oxide, titanium
respective light-emitting side—top side or underside—of the oxide, indium oxide or indium tin oxide (ITO), which are
luminous means must be transmissive to the light generated transmissive to visible light. They are therefore particularly
by the organic layer stack. If it is provided that the light suitable for being used for electrodes which are embodied as
generated in the organic layer stack is emitted from the under transmissive to the light emitted by the organic layer stack.
side and top side of the luminous means, then in general all the ITO, for example, is Suitable as an anode material. Alongside
elements of the luminous means, in particular the electrodes, binary metal-oxygen compounds such as, for example, ZnO,
and also an encapsulation and the Substrate must be transmis Sn or In-Osternary metal-oxygen compounds such as, for
sive to the light generated by the organic layer stack. In the example, ZnO:Al (ZAO), ZnSnO, CdSnO, ZnSnO,
present case, an element is also referred to as “light-transmis Mgn-O, GanO, Zn-In-Os or InSnO2 or mixtures of
sive' if it is embodied as transmissive at least to the light different transparent conductive oxides also belong to the
generated by the organic layer stack. group of TCOs. Furthermore, the TCOs do not necessarily
0046. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the correspond to a stoichiometric composition and can also be p
luminous means, the first electrode is transmissive to a light or n-doped.
emitted by the organic layer stack during operation. 0054 Alkali or alkaline earth metals, for example, can be
0047. If only the first electrode is transmissive to a light used as metal for the cathode. The TCO materials specified
generated by the organic layer stack during operation, above are furthermore also suitable for forming the cathode.
whereas the second electrode is not transmissive, then it is 0055. The electrode can for example comprise a metallic
generally provided that the light is emitted through the under layer or consist of such a layer. If the electrode which com
side of the luminous means. Preferably, therefore, in this case prises the metallic layer or consists of such a layer is intended
at least the substrate is likewise embodied as transmissive to to be embodied as transmissive to the light emitted by the
the light generated by the organic layer stack. organic layer stack, then the metallic layer must be made
0048 Examples of a suitable material for a substrate Sufficiently thin. The thickness of Such a semitransparent
which is embodied as transmissive to the light emitted by the metallic layer preferably lies between 1 nm and 100 nm,
organic layer stack include glass or plastics such as, for inclusive of the limits.
example, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene 0056. A suitable organic conductive material for an elec
terephthalate (PBT), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), poly trode is PEDOT:PSS, for example, which is particularly well
carbonate (PC), polyimide (PI), polysulfone (PSO), polyphe Suited to the anode. Further Suitable organic conductive mate
nylene ether sulfone (PES), polyethylene (PE), polypropy rials are polythiophenes or pentacene, interalia.
lene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene (PS) and 0057. Organic materials are generally transmissive to vis
polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyamide (PA), poly ible light. Therefore, an electrode which comprises organic
urethane (PUR), and also rubbers. conductive material or consists of Such material is also gen
0049 Furthermore, a laminate composed of a glass and at erally transmissive to the light emitted by the organic layer
least one of the plastics listed above is suitable as a substrate stack.
which is embodied as transmissive to the light emitted by the 0058. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
organic layer stack. luminous means, at least one of the electrodes has electrically
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

conductive tracks. The electrically conductive tracks prefer tion of electrons from the cathode into the organic layer stack
ably comprise a metal or consist of such a metal. Particularly or, in the case of a p-doped layer adjoining the anode, leads to
preferably, the electrical tracks are made relatively thick, for a better injection of holes from the anode into the organic
example in comparison with a semitransparent metallic layer layer stack. Cesium, barium and lithium fluoride are prefer
described above. Preferably, the thickness of the metallic ably used as n-type dopants. The following materials are
tracks is at most 1.5 um. Such thick electrically conductive suitable as p-type dopant, for example: F4TCNQ, HIL from
tracks generally have a good electrical conductivity, Such that Mitsubishi (MCC-PC1.020).
they are particularly well Suited to impressing charge carriers 0066. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
into the organic layer stack. Furthermore, the metallic tracks luminous means, the active region is arranged within an
are preferably embodied in such a way that they fill only a encapsulation. Since the organic materials of the organic
small part of the area of the electrode that comprises them. By layer stack and often also electrode materials, in particular
way of example, the electrically conductive tracks are embod materials of the electron injecting cathode, are reactive
ied as a grid which is transmissive to the light emitted by the toward atmospheric gases, such as moisture and oxygen for
organic layer stack. In this way, with the aid of the electrically example, it is generally particularly important, for the life
conductive tracks, it is possible to provide an electrode which time of the luminous means, to be closed off well from oxy
is transmissive to the light emitted by the organic layer stack gen and moisture and other atmospheric gases, generally with
and which furthermore advantageously permits good charge the aid of an encapsulation. In particular the active region
carrier impression into the organic layer stack. comprising the organic layer stack and the electrodes gener
0059 Preferably, the proportion of the total electrode area ally has to be protected here.
made up by the metallic tracks is at most 25%, preferably at 0067. The encapsulation used can be a cap, for example,
most 10%, particularly preferably at most 5%. The metallic which has a cavity in the region of the active layer stack and
tracks are then no longer or only scarcely perceptible to an which is mounted on the substrate, for example by adhesive
observer. bonding, within a fixing region of the Substrate Surrounding
0060 Particularly preferably, the electrically conductive the active region. The cavity of the cap preferably forms a
tracks have a multilayer construction. Such a multilayer con Void above the active region in which the organic layer stack
struction can have a plurality of metallic layers, for example. and the two electrodes are arranged. Furthermore, the cap is
Preferably, the multilayer construction comprises or consists preferably not in direct contact by the underside of its cavity
of three metallic layers, of which the two outer layers serve as with the second electrode on the organic layer stack.
protective layers for the middle layer, for example against 0068. Furthermore, the encapsulation used can also be a
corrosion. The middle layer of the multilayer construction plate which is connected to the substrate, for example by
can for example comprise aluminum or consist of aluminum, adhesive bonding, within a fixing region of said substrate
or the two outer layers can comprise chromium, molybde Surrounding the active region. Such a plate can be arranged in
num, copper or silver or can consist of one of these materials. direct contract with the second electrode. By way of example,
0061. In this case, the multilayer construction has a thick the plate can be fixed by means of an adhesive layer on the
ness of preferably at least 50 nm and at most 100 nm. second electrode.
0062. In this case, the materials mentioned are particularly 0069. In order to produce a spacing between the cap or the
well suited to rather poorly conductive electrodes. For plate in Such a way that the cap or the plate is not in direct
example for electrodes which contain a TCO or consist contact with the second electrode, the active region in accor
thereof. In principle, the materials are suitable for anode and dance with one embodiment comprises spacers. The spacers
cathode. can be for example spherical particles arranged on the organic
0063. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the layer stack or the second electrode.
luminous means, the organic layer stack comprises a doped 0070 Furthermore, the encapsulation used can also be a
organic layer comprising a dopant, which layer is arranged film. The film can be connected to the substrate, for example
between the at least one organic layer Suitable for generating by adhesive bonding, within a fixing region of said Substrate
light and one of the electrodes. Particularly preferably, the Surrounding the active region. Such a film can be arranged in
doped organic layer forms an outermost layer of the organic direct contact with the second electrode. By way of example,
layer stack, which layer particularly preferably forms a com the film can be fixed by means of an adhesive layer on the
mon interface with the respectively facing electrode. The second electrode.
doped organic layer can be an n-doped layer or a p-doped 0071. In order to produce a spacing between the film and
layer. If the doped layer is arranged in Such away that it faces the second electrode or the organic layer stack in Such a way
the cathode or joins the cathode, an n-doped layer is generally that the film is not in direct contact with the second electrode,
involved. By contrast, if the doped layer is arranged in Such a the active region in accordance with one embodiment com
way that it faces the anode or adjoins the latter, then ap-doped prises spacers. The spacers can be for example spherical
layer is generally involved. particles arranged on the organic layer stack or the second
0064 Preferably, the dopant of the doped layer involves electrode.
the largest possible atoms or molecules which, in the case of 0072 The film is formed for example from a transparent
an n-type dopant, are Suitable for releasing electrons and, in plastic or a glass. Preferably, the film has a thickness of at
the case of a p-type dopant, are Suitable for releasing holes. most 1 mm, particularly preferably of at most 0.5 mm.
Furthermore, the dopant preferably has a low diffusion con 0073. Furthermore, the encapsulation used can also be a
stant within the organic layer Stack, as is generally the case for laminate comprising at least one layer composed of a glass to
example for large atoms or molecules. which at least one layer composed of a plastic is applied.
0065. The doping firstly advantageously increases the Preferably, the glass layer is covered by a respective plastic
conductivity of the doped organic layer and, in the case of an layer at its two main Surfaces. The laminate is then a plastic
n-doped layer adjoining the cathode, leads to a better injec glass-plastic laminate.
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

0.074 The laminate can be connected to the substrate, for applies in particular to barrier layers which are arranged in
example by adhesive bonding, within a fixing region of said alternating fashion with regard to their material composition.
Substrate Surrounding the active region. Such a laminate can I0082 Particularly preferably, one of the alternating barrier
be arranged in direct contact with the second electrode. By layers comprises silicon oxide and the other alternating bar
way of example, the laminate can be fixed by means of an rier layer comprises silicon nitride.
adhesive layer on the second electrode. 0083. In accordance with at least one further embodiment,
0075. In order to produce a spacing between the laminate the thin-film encapsulation comprises at least one polymer
and the second electrode or the organic layer stack in Such a interlayer arranged between two barrier layers.
way that the laminate is not in direct contact with the second I0084. By way of example, multicomponent resin systems
electrode, the active region in accordance with one embodi are suitable for the polymer interlayer, said systems being
ment comprises spacers. The spacers can be for example vapor-deposited as monomers and depositing in liquid form.
spherical particles arranged on the organic layer stack or the A high planarity of the polymer interlayer is thereby
second electrode. achieved. The deposited layer is subsequently crosslinked by
0076. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the means of UV radiation. The task of the polymer interlayer is
encapsulation is formed by a thin-film encapsulation. The the planarization in the thin-film encapsulation in order to
thin-film encapsulation has at least one barrier layer. The prevent pinholes from lying one above another in the inor
barrier layer is provided for protecting the organic layer stack ganic alternating barrier layers. The water and oxygen per
and also sensitive electrode materials against the penetration meability of the thin-film encapsulation is thereby reduced.
of harmful Substances, such as moisture and oxygen for I0085. The thickness of the polymer interlayer can prefer
example. ably lie between 50 and 100 nm, inclusive of the limits.
0077. A thin-film encapsulation furthermore comprises at Particularly preferably, the polymer interlayer is light-trans
least one thin-film layer, such as the barrier layer, for missive if a top emitter is present or transparency of the
example, which is applied by means of a thin-film method luminous means is required.
Such as sputtering, evaporation, and plasma enhanced CVD I0086 Particularly preferably, the thin-film encapsulation
(short for “chemical vapor deposition'), ALD (short for comprises a protective lacquer layer as the outermost layer.
"atomic layer deposition'), MOVPE (short for “metal organic The protective lacquer layer can be applied to the thin-film
vapor phase epitaxy'), flash evaporation and/or laser abla encapsulation for example by means of a spraying method
tion. Such thin-film layers preferably have a thickness of with mask process.
between 0.5 and 5um, inclusive of the limits. I0087 As an alternative, as a protective lacquer layer, for
0078. A thin-film encapsulation can be applied for example, an epoxy resin film can be adhesively bonded onto
example directly to the second electrode. A thin-film encap the thin-film encapsulation. In this case, the protective lac
Sulation generally affords the advantage of being able to be quer layer in particular also contributes to the watertightness.
made particularly thin and space-saving in comparison with a A thin glass can be laminated onto the epoxy resin film and
cap or a plate. improves the watertightness further.
0079. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the 0088. In accordance with a further embodiment, an adhe
barrier layer contains one of the following materials or con sion promoting layer is arranged between the thin-film encap
sists thereof: siliconoxide, silicon nitride. These materials are Sulation and the second electrode, said adhesion promoting
particularly suitable for forming a barrier with respect to layer preferably likewise being a thin-film layer. The adhe
external influences, such as the penetration of oxygen and sion promoting layer has the task of improving the adhesion
moisture for example. of the thin-film encapsulation on the second electrode or
0080. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the Some other layer applied on the second electrode, if appro
thin-film encapsulation comprises a plurality of alternating priate. For this purpose, the adhesion promoting layer com
barrier layers, wherein at least two barrier layers which are prises for example Sulfur and/or nitrogen atoms or Sulfur
different with regard to their material composition are and/or nitrogen compounds. It is furthermore possible for the
arranged in regular Succession. In other words, the thin-film adhesion promoting layer to contain aluminum oxide or to
encapsulation in this embodiment comprises first and second consist of aluminum oxide, for example.
barrier layers, wherein the material composition of the first 0089. In accordance with at least one further embodiment,
barrier layers is different from the material composition of the an organic planarization layer is arranged between the second
second barrier layers. The first barrier layers can for example electrode and the thin-film encapsulation.
comprise silicon oxide or consist of this material, and the 0090. By way of example, multicomponent resin systems
second barrier layers can for example comprise silicon nitride are suitable for the organic planarization layer, said systems
or consist of this material. The first and the second barrier being vapor-deposited as monomers and deposited in liquid
layers are furthermore arranged in alternating fashion with form. A high planarity of the organic planarization layer is
regard to their material composition. thereby achieved. The deposited layer is subsequently
0081. Such an alternating layer sequence of barrier layers crosslinked by means of UV radiation. The task of the organic
within the thin-film encapsulation affords the advantage that planarization layer is the planarization in the thin-film encap
the thin-film encapsulation is made particularly tight. This Sulation in order to prevent pinholes from lying one above
can generally be attributed to the fact that pinholes—that is to another in the inorganic alternating barrier layers. The water
say Small holes—which can arise in the respective barrier and oxygen permeability of the thin-film encapsulation is
layer during the application thereof can be covered by the thereby reduced. The thickness of the organic planarization
overlaying barrier layer or can even be filled by the material layer can preferably lie between 50 and 100 nm, inclusive of
thereof. Furthermore, the probability of a pinhole from one the limits.
barrier layer producing a continuous connection with a pin 0091) If an adhesion promoting layer is arranged between
hole from the adjacent barrier layer is extremely low. This the second electrode and the thin-film encapsulation, then the
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

organic planarization layer is preferably arranged between 0102. In particular, the following materials are suitable,
the adhesion promoting layer and the second electrode, for example: Rhodamine 6G, DCM-4-(dicyanomethylene)-
wherein the adhesion promoting layer is intended to improve 2-methyl-6-(p-dimethylaminostyryl)-4H-pyran.
the adhesion between the planarization layer and the thin-film 0103) In particular, molecules are desired here which have
encapsulation. an abnormal Stokes shift which brings about a reduced or no
0092. The organic planarization layer can have scattering overlap of the ranges of the luminescence and the exciting
centers, for example, Such as diffuser particles, for example radiation. So-called triplet emitters are furthermore suitable
silica balls. Apart from silica balls, other light-transmissive since no overlap between exciting radiation and lumines
materials having a different refractive index than the sur cence occurs here. A further positive effect in the case of
rounding matrix are also suitable. Such as glass balls, for triplet emitters is that absorption losses are avoided;
example. rhodamine B, for example, is particularly suitable here.
0093. The diffuser particles are provided for scattering 0104 Furthermore, the following inorganic materials are
light; by way of example, lateral structures of the OLED layer also Suitable for being used as luminescence conversion
construction—which can occur for example on account of the materials: garnets doped with rare earth metals, alkaline earth
electrode design—are intended to be blurred in order that a metal sulfides doped with rare earth metals, thiogallates
homogeneous impression arises for the observer. Further doped with rare earth metals, aluminates doped with rare
more, the emission characteristic can be influenced by the earth metals, orthosilicates doped with rare earth metals,
light scattering. chlorosilicates doped with rare earth metals, alkaline earth
0094. The diffuser particles preferably have a diameter of metal silicon nitrides doped with rare earth metals, oxyni
at least 0.5 to at most 5 um. The Surrounding layers are trides doped with rare earth metals, and aluminum oxyni
preferably correspondingly adapted in terms of their thick trides doped with rare earth metals.
ness, such that the diffuser particles are embedded into the 0105. In accordance with at least one further embodiment,
layers. the luminous means comprises a getter material. The getter
0095. If the intention is to provide a luminous means material is advantageously suitable for binding moisture and/
which is substantially transmissive to the light emitted by the or oxygen. By way of example, BaO, CaO. Zeolite, Al-alkoxy
organic layer stack during operation or a luminous means compounds and barium can serve as getter materials.
which emits light from its top side, then the encapsulation is 0106 The getter material can be arranged within the active
preferably likewise embodied as transmissive to the light region, for example. Furthermore, the getter material can
emitted by the luminous means during operation. alternatively also be arranged outside the active region. The
0096. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the getter material can for example enclose the active region and
encapsulation comprises glass or consists of glass. Such an be arranged approximately in ring-shaped fashion around the
encapsulation is generally transmissive to the light emitted by active region between the Substrate and the encapsulation. In
the organic layer stack. In particular, it is possible to use a this way the penetration of harmful Substances, through the
glass cap or a glass plate as encapsulation which is transmis getter material, can be avoided particularly effectively.
sive to the light generated by the organic layer stack. 0107 Furthermore, when using a cap or a plate for encap
Sulation, a getter material can also be applied on that side of
0097. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the the cap or plate which faces the active layer stack. If the
organic planarization layer contains a luminescence conver intention is to produce a luminous means which is substan
sion material. tially transmissive to the light generated by the organic layer
0098. The luminescence conversion material converts for stack, then in this case the getter material is also preferably
example blue light partly into yellow light, whereby a white transmissive to the light generated by the organic layer stack.
mixed light then arises which is emitted by the luminous For this purpose, Al-alkoxy compounds, for example, are
means. An embedding of the luminescence conversion mate Suitable as getter material.
rial into the planarization layer or other functional layers such 0.108 If the luminous means comprises an encapsulation
as the encapsulation or the Substrate proves to be particularly which prevents the penetration of harmful substances into the
advantageous since process steps during production can luminous means particularly well, as is the case for example
thereby be saved. Production is particularly cost-effective as with a thin-film encapsulation, then the luminous means is
a result. preferably free of any getter material.
0099 Luminescence conversion materials are materials 0109. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the
which absorb incident light from a first wavelength range and luminous means comprises an electrical lead on the Substrate
emit light from a second wavelength range, which is different which electrically conductively connects one of the elec
from the first wavelength range and which generally com trodes and a connection location preferably lying outside the
prises longer wavelengths than the first wavelength range. active region. Preferably, electrical contact is made with the
0100 Organic materials such as perylene phosphors, for luminous means via the connection location, for example
example, can be used as luminescence conversion materials. with the aid of a plug.
Further organic materials which can for example be used for 0110. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the
dye lasers in a corresponding wavelength range are Suitable as electrical lead is embodied as transmissive to the light emitted
luminescence conversion materials. by the layer stack. Such a lead is suitable in particular for
0101 Luminescence conversion materials whose mol being used in a luminous means which is embodied as com
ecules contain an aromatic system and preferably conjugate pletely transmissive to the light emitted by the layer stack.
double bonds are furthermore suitable. The skeleton of these 0111. The electrical lead can for example contain a metal
luminescence conversion materials is formed for example or consist thereof. If the electrical lead is intended to be
from chromene, Xanthene, coumarin, thioindole, and/or ben embodied as transmissive to the light emitted by the layer
Z. stack, then the metal in this case is applied in a manner so thin
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

that a semitransparent metal layer arises which is transmis logos, for example, can easily be integrated in display win
sive to light from the organic layer stack. dows or information can be presented in windshields of motor
0112 Furthermore, the electrical lead of the luminous vehicles or aircraft.
means can also contain a transparent conductive oxide or 0121 Furthermore, luminous means which are at least
consist thereof. Since transparent conductive oxides are partly transmissive to the light generated by the organic layer
transmissive to visible light, such an electrical lead is gener stack can be used in ceiling elements for example in museums
ally likewise transmissive to the light emitted by the layer or conference centers. As a result, with the luminous means
stack and preferably to external visible light. Switched off daylight can penetrate through the ceiling ele
ment into the respective space, while the ceiling element with
0113. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the the luminous means can be used for illumination at night or
luminous means is embodied as Substantially transmissive to twilight.
the light generated by the organic layer stack. In this case, the 0.122. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the
luminous means is provided for emitting the light generated substrate is embodied in milky fashion.
by the organic layer stack from its top side and from its
underside. Furthermore, the luminous means in this case is (0123. In accordance with a further embodiment, the
preferably embodied in such a way that it is readily transmis encapsulation is embodied in milky fashion.
sive to visible external light in the switched-off state and 0.124. By way of example, a surface of substrate and/or
comprises no elements which absorb or reflect large portions encapsulation is embodied in rough fashion and/or scattering
of visible light. In this case, the luminous means is only centers are introduced into the Substrate/encapsulation.
scantily perceptible to an observer in the switched-off state. 0.125 Furthermore, it is possible to apply an additional
That is to say that the luminous means is then preferably film/layer comprising so-called "polymer dispersed liquid
embodied such that it is clearly transparent and not diffusely crystals' to the substrate and/or the encapsulation. The milki
Scattering. ness can thus be switched on and off electrically. When a
0114. If the luminous means is transmissive to the light Voltage is applied, said layer is clear, and it becomes milky
when turned off.
emitted by the organic layer stack, then the elements of the
luminous means such as the organic layer stack, the elec I0126. A milky embodiment of substrate and/or encapsu
trodes, the Substrate, the encapsulation, if appropriate the lation, for example as milky window glazing, can be advan
getter material and the leads are likewise transmissive to the tageous particularly in the abovementioned applications if,
light generated by the organic layer stack, particularly pref for design reasons or functional reasons, it is not necessary for
erably transmissive to visible light. the respective window to afford a clear view through it.
0115. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the 0127. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the
luminous means, a window glazing serves as the Substrate. luminous means comprises at least one reflective element.
This can be advantageous particularly when the luminous The reflective element is preferably formed along one of the
means is embodied as transmissive to the light generated by main planes of the luminous means. Particularly preferably,
the organic layer stack. the reflective element is formed completely along the main
0116. A luminous means which is embodied as transmis plane of the luminous means. The reflective element can be
sive to the light generated by the organic layer stack can be arranged on the underside of the luminous means, for
integrated in a window, a ceiling element, a windshield, a example on that side of the substrate which faces away from
door, a room divider, a glass block, a wall or a partition and the organic layer stack, or on the top side of the luminous
can be used for example in buildings, furniture, motor means, for example on that side of the encapsulation which
vehicles or aircraft. faces away from the organic layer stack. Furthermore, the
reflective element can be arranged for example between the
0117. In accordance with a further embodiment, a window first electrode and the substrate or between the second elec
glazing serves as encapsulation. trode and the encapsulation. As a result of the arrangement of
0118 Particularly preferably, substrate and encapsulation a reflective element within the luminous means, in general
are embodied as window glazing. In this embodiment, the one of the main Surfaces is cut off from the light generated in
luminous means, preferably embodied as transmissive to the the organic layer stack, that is to say that the light generated in
light emitted by the organic layer stack, or an illumination the organic layer stack is emitted only from one of the main
device comprising such a luminous means can be integrated Surfaces, that is to say from underside or top side. This main
as simply as possible as glazing in a glass pane. surface is also called “light-emitting front side’ hereinafter. It
0119 Glass panes comprising a luminous means embod should be pointed out at this juncture that the expression
ied as transmissive at least to a light emitted by the organic “light-emitting front side' does not necessarily mean that the
layer stack or comprising an illumination device comprising entire main Surface from which the light generated in the
Such a luminous means can serve for example for signal organic layer stack is emitted is embodied in light-emitting
representation in doors of hotels, at trade fairs or museums. fashion. Rather, it is also possible for only a part of the surface
Information can thereby be represented by the luminous of the front side to be light-emitting. In the present case, that
means and can be displayed by the luminous means as surface of the light-emitting front side, of the underside and of
required. In this way it is advantageously possible to avoid the top side which is luminous is also referred to as “luminous
Stickers, for example on doors. Furthermore, a significantly surface'.
better signal effect is provided by the luminous information of I0128. The remaining elements of the luminous means, but
the luminous means than by a sticker. at least the elements of the luminous means through which the
0120) Furthermore, with the aid of luminous means light generated in the organic layer stack passes on the way to
embodied as transmissive to a light emitted by the organic the light-emitting front side, are preferably embodied as
layer stack, advertising representations such as company transmissive to the light generated in the organic layer stack.
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

Particularly preferably, these elements are generally embod 0140. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the
ied as transmissive to visible light. reflective encapsulation comprises a metal cap or consists
0129. If a luminous means in which those elements thereof. Particularly preferably, the metal cap is polished at its
through which the light generated by the organic layer stack inner side facing the organic layer stack.
passes on the way to the light-emitting front side are embod 0.141. In accordance with a further preferred embodiment,
ied in light-transmissive fashion comprises at least one reflec the reflective encapsulation is formed by a reflective thin-film
tive element, then the luminous means can advantageously encapsulation comprising at least one barrier layer. In this
serve as an illumination source in the Switched-on state and as embodiment, the thin-film encapsulation already described
a mirror in the switched-off state on account of the reflective above comprises at least one reflective layer. Said reflective
element in combination with the remaining elements of the layer preferably comprises a metal or consists thereof. Par
luminous means which are transmissive to visible light. In the ticularly preferably, the reflective thin-film encapsulation
case of this luminous means it is thus advantageously possible comprises at least one of the following layers as reflective
to change over between mirror function and illumination layer: a silver layer, a copper layer. Particularly preferably,
function. the thin-film encapsulation comprises a silver layer and a
0130. In the present case, a luminous means which com copper layer as reflective layer.
prises a reflective element is also called “reflective luminous 0.142 Furthermore, the reflective thin-film encapsulation
means'. can comprise a mirroring layer sequence. Such as a Bragg
0131. In this case, the luminous means can have an addi mirror for example, as reflective layer. For this purpose—as
tional reflective element or one of the elements of the lumi described above the thin-film encapsulation can comprise
nous means such as, for example, Substrate, electrodes or alternating layers of different materials, which forms a par
encapsulation can be embodied as a reflective element. ticularly tight encapsulation and at the same time a Bragg
0132. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the mirror or a dielectric mirror.
luminous means comprises a reflective layer sequence as 0143. In accordance with a further embodiment, the lumi
reflective element. nous means comprises a getter material which is embodied as
0133. The reflective layer sequence can for example com transmissive to the light emitted by the organic layer stack,
prise a dielectric mirror or consist thereof. Furthermore, it is preferably furthermore generally transmissive to visible light.
possible for the reflective layer sequence to comprise a silver 0144. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the
layer and a layer composed of mechanically more resistant getter material which is at least transmissive to the light
copper. Preferably, the reflective layer is then electrically emitted by the layer stack is comprised by the reflective
insulated from the functional layers of the luminous means encapsulation.
Such as electrodes or the organic layer stack. 0145 The getter material has the task of binding sub
0134. The reflective layer sequence can be arranged on the stances such as oxygen and/or moisture, for example, which
underside of the luminous means, for example on that side of can penetrate into the luminous means despite the encapsu
the Substrate which faces away from the organic layer stack, lation.
or on the top side of the luminous means, for example on that
side of the encapsulation which faces away from the organic 0146 The getter material is preferably comprised by the
layer stack. Furthermore, the reflective layer sequence can be encapsulation in Such a way that it faces into the space to be
arranged for example between the first electrode and the encapsulated, that is to say toward the organic layer stack. If
substrate or between the second electrode and the encapsula a metal cap is used as encapsulation, then the getter material
tion. is preferably applied, for example in the form of a layer, at the
0135 The reflective layer sequence can for example also inner side of the metal cap facing the organic layer stack. In
form the outermost layer of one of the electrodes. order that the metal cap has good reflection properties, a
0136. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the getter material which is transmissive to the light emitted by
luminous means comprises an antireflective layer sequence. the layer stack is particularly advantageous.
Such an antireflective layer sequence is preferably applied on 0.147. In order to fix a cap as encapsulation on the sub
one of the outer Surfaces, that is to say on the top side or the strate, an adhesive is used, for example, which is arranged
underside of the luminous means. If the luminous means around the active region. Such an adhesive, but also some
emits light only from one of the main Surfaces, namely from other connecting means, can furthermore be admixed with a
the light-emitting front side, then the antireflective layer getter material. Since the connecting means is often more
sequence is preferably applied on the light-emitting front permeable to harmful Substances, such as moisture and oxy
side. gen, than the cap, this affords the advantage that these Sub
0.137 An antireflective layer sequence preferably com stances can already be bound by the getter material upon
prises a dielectric material or consists thereof. By way of penetrating into the luminous means.
example, the layer sequence can in this case comprise at least 0.148. A thin-film encapsulation, in particular comprising
one layer which comprises a silicon nitride or silicon oxide. the alternating barrier layers described above, is generally
0138 Inaccordance with at least one embodiment, the first made tight in Sucha way that no getter material has to be used.
or the second electrode is embodied in reflective fashion. In 0149. In accordance with at least one further embodiment,
this case, the reflective electrode forms the reflective element. the substrate is embodied in reflective fashion. In this case, the
Preferably, the reflective electrode comprises silver, alumi substrate preferably forms the reflective element described
num and/or gold or consists of one of these materials. above. In this case, preferably all the other elements of the
0.139. Furthermore, the encapsulation can be embodied in luminous means which are arranged above the Substrate are
reflective fashion and serve as a reflective element. In this embodied as at least transmissive to the light emitted by the
case, the luminous means emits the light generated in the organic layer stack. By way of example, a metal film or a
organic layer stack through the Substrate. metal plate can serve as the reflective substrate.
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

0150 Luminous means which comprise a reflective ele 0.155. A luminous means having mirror and illumination
ment and whose further elements through which the light functions can furthermore be integrated in a mirror of a por
generated in the organic layer stack passes on the way to the table cosmetic set. If no external light is available, the illumi
light-emitting front side are embodied as transmissive to vis nation of the mirror can be activated in order to provide better
ible light can be used as a mirror or as an illumination source, light conditions for the observer.
as already mentioned above. In this case, the luminous means 0156 Furthermore, luminous means having mirror and
can be embodied in such a way that the entire surface of the illumination functions can be used as decoration elements,
light-emitting front side serves as an illumination Source dur Such as for example as flashing mirrors. A flashing mirror can
ing the operation of the luminous means and is used as a be used for example in a flashing Christmas star.
mirror in the switched-off state. Furthermore, it is also pos 0157. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
sible for the entire surface of the light-emitting front side of luminous means, the luminous means is embodied in flexible
the luminous means to be used simultaneously as mirror and fashion. A luminous means embodied in flexible fashion is
illumination source during operation. Furthermore, the Sur distinguished, inter alia, by the fact that it can be bent to a
face of the light-emitting front side can be segmented. Such certain degree without being damaged in the process. Prefer
that at least one certain region is provided as a mirror and at ably, the luminous means embodied in flexible fashion can be
least one other region is provided as an illumination Source bent repeatedly without being damaged in the process. The
during operation. luminous means is then Suitable, therefore, for withstanding a
0151 Luminous means having mirror and illumination plurality of bending cycles without being damaged.
functions generally comprise at least one electrode which is 0158 Particularly preferably, the luminous means is
embodied as transmissive to the light generated by the organic embodied inflexible fashion such that it can be wound up onto
layer stack and through which said light passes on the way to a roll and be unwound from the roll without being damaged in
the light-emitting front side. the process.
0152. In accordance with at least one embodiment, this 0159. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
light-transmissive electrode is embodied in structured fash luminous means, the encapsulation of the luminous means is
ion, such that a desired form of the luminous surface within embodied in flexible fashion. In this case, flexible means,
the front side of the luminous means is predetermined. The inter alia, that the encapsulation can be bent to a certain
form of the luminous surface can be embodied for example in degree without the encapsulation being damaged in the
accordance with a logo or a symbol. Such that this or other course of bending. The flexible encapsulation is for example
information appears against the background of a mirroring a thin glass layer, a laminate or a thin layer for example a
Surface during operation. In a mirror for motor vehicles, such film—composed of a plastic or a metal. Furthermore, the
as a rear-view or side mirror, for example warnings, such as flexible encapsulation can be a thin-film encapsulation Such
distance messages when parking, canthus be inserted into the as has been described further above. The thin-film encapsu
mirror. lation preferably comprises at least one barrier layer Such as
0153. Furthermore, a luminous means having mirror and has been described further above.
illumination functions can be comprised by a bath mirror or a (0160. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the
wardrobe mirror or be embodied as a bath orwardrobe mirror. flexible encapsulation is embodied in light-transmissive fash
The bath or wardrobe mirror can be embodied for example in ion, that is to say that the flexible encapsulation is transmis
a plurality of parts with a main mirror in the center and two sive at least to a part of the light generated in the organic layer
lateral mirror wings. The laterally fitted mirror wings can in stack of the luminous means, such that this part of the light
this case be embodied for example as luminous means having can leave the luminous means through the flexible encapsu
mirror and illumination functions and serve as a mirror under lation.
good light conditions. Under poor light conditions, one or 0.161. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
both mirror wings can then be Supplementarily Switched in as luminous means, the Substrate of the luminous means is flex
a light source in order to illuminate the observer. Such an ible. In this case, flexible means, interalia, that the substrate
illuminated mirror wing can advantageously also serve as a can be bent to a certain degree without the Substrate being
decorative illumination element.
damaged in the course of bending.
0154 Furthermore, aluminous means having illumination (0162. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
and mirror functions can be contained in a search mirror. Such
a search mirror is, in the simplest case, a holding element luminous means, the Substrate is formed from a metal. The
having an angled mirror element at one end, such as a dental substrate then preferably comprises at least one of the follow
mirror, for example. In accordance with one embodiment, the ing materials: aluminum, high-grade steel, gold, silver. It
mirror element comprises a luminous means having illumi proves to be particularly advantageous when using a metallic
nation and mirror functions. The combination of mirror func Substrate as the Substrate for the luminous means inter alia
tion and illumination function in the mirror element of the that the good reflectivity of the metal can contribute to an
search mirror in this case advantageously affords the possi increase in the light power of the luminous means. At least a
bility of being able both to look at locations that are not very part of the light which impinges on the metallic Substrate from
accessible, and to illuminate these regions. Such search mir the active region of the luminous means during operation of
rors can for example find application as dental equipment or the luminous means can be reflected from said substrate in the
be used in the domestic sector for instance for searching for direction of the light-emitting front side of the luminous
CaS.
lost articles behind or under furniture that is difficult to move.
Furthermore, the use of aluminous means having mirror and (0163 Preferably, the metal is embodied in flexible fash
illumination functions in a search mirror affords the advan ion
tage that mirror and lamp can be guided simultaneously by 0164. For this purpose, the substrate can be embodied as
one hand. sheet metal. The substrate is then preferably embodied as
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

medium sheet metal having a thickness of at least 3 mm and plastic. By way of example, it is possible for the substrate to
at most 4.75 mm or as thin sheet metal having a thickness of comprise a metal film as a basic body, which film is coated
at most 3 mm. with a plastic material.
(0165. Furthermore, it is possible for the flexible substrate 0.174 Particularly preferably, the plastic film consists of a
to be embodied as a metal film. The substrate then preferably light-transmissive plastic which is transmissive to at least a
has a thickness of at most 1 mm, particularly preferably at part of the light generated in the organic layer stack of the
most 0.5 mm. luminous means during operation.
0.175. A first electrode is disposed downstream of the first
0166 In accordance with at least one embodiment of the main surface of the plastic film. Preferably, the first electrode
luminous means, both the Substrate and the encapsulation are is applied directly to the first main surface of the substrate—
embodied in flexible fashion. For this purpose, encapsulation that is to say the film. In this case, the first electrode is
and substrate are preferably embodied in accordance with one preferably embodied in light-transmissive fashion, as
of the embodiments described above. By way of example, described further above.
substrate and/or encapsulation can be embodied as film. Fur 0176 The organic layer stack of the luminous means is
thermore, it is possible for the substrate to be embodied as disposed downstream of the first electrode. By way of
film and the encapsulation to be embodied as thin-film encap example, the organic layer stack is applied directly to the first
Sulation. electrode. The organic layer stack comprises an outermost
0167. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the organic layer. The outermost organic layer is doped with a
luminous means, the luminous means comprises a flexible dopant. Preferably, the dopant of the doped layer—as
substrate formed from a metallic material. By way of described further above involves the largest possible atoms
example, the flexible substrate is embodied as sheet metal. or molecules which, in the case of an n-type dopant, are
The first electrode of the luminous means is disposed down Suitable for releasing electrons and, in the case of a p-type
stream of the first main surface of the flexible substrate. In this dopant, are suitable for releasing holes. Furthermore, the
case, it is possible for further layers to be arranged between dopant preferably has a low diffusion constant within the
the substrate and the first electrode. By way of example, an organic layer stack, as is generally the case for example for
electrically insulating layer can be arranged between the Sub large atoms or molecules. In this case, cesium, interalia, is a
strate and the first electrode, with which at least the first main particularly Suitable dopant.
surface of the substrate is coated. The electrically insulating 0177. The second electrode is disposed downstream of the
layer electrically decouples the first electrode from the Sub organic layer stack. The second electrode is preferably
Strate. applied directly to the organic layer stack. In this case, the
0.168. In this embodiment, the organic layer stack of the second electrode is embodied in light-transmissive fashion—
luminous means is disposed downstream of the first elec as described further above. In this embodiment, the luminous
trode. The organic layer stack is applied for example directly means is preferably free of any getter material.
to the first electrode. The organic layer stack comprises an 0.178 In accordance with one embodiment of the lumi
organic layer provided for generating light. nous means, the latter comprises a flexible encapsulation.
0169. The second electrode succeeds the organic layer Preferably, the flexible encapsulation is light-transmissive,
stack. The second electrode is applied for example directly to that is to say that it is transmissive at least to a part of the light
the organic layer stack. The second electrode is preferably generated in the active region during the operation of the
luminous means.
embodied in light-transmissive fashion, as described further
above. 0179. In this case, the luminous means makes use of the
0170 In this embodiment, a planarization layer—de idea, interalia, that a flexible luminous means comprising a
light-transmissive Substrate, light-transmissive first elec
scribed further above is disposed downstream of the second trode, light-transmissive second electrode and light-transmis
electrode. By way of example, the planarization layer is sive encapsulation can be used particularly diversely. By way
arranged directly on the second electrode. The planarization of example, a luminous means embodied in this way can be
layer preferably contains an organic material. Furthermore, used as a light-transmissive enclosure of other luminous
the planarization layer can contain one of the following mate means—for instance as a lampshade for an incandescent
rials: Scattering centers such as, for example, diffuser par lamp. The light generated by the incandescent lamp can
ticles, luminescence conversion material, color filter mate largely penetrate through the flexible, light-transmissive
rial.
luminous means. By means of the luminous means, light of a
0171 A barrier layer succeeds the planarization layer. different color can be admixed with the light from the incan
Preferably, a plurality of barrier layers succeed the planariza descent lamp.
tion layer. The barrier layers, as part of a thin-film encapsu 0180. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
lation, form the flexible encapsulation of the luminous means luminous means, the Substrate is embodied as a laminate.
and are applied for example directly to the planarization layer. Preferably, the substrate is embodied in flexible fashion in
0172. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the this case. The laminate preferably comprises at least a first
Substrate of the luminous means is embodied as a plastic film. layer and at least a second layer. Particularly preferably, in
That is to say that the substrate has a thickness of preferably this case the material from which the first layer is formed
at most 1 mm, particularly preferably at most 0.5 mm, and differs from the material from which the second layer is
contains or consists of a plastic. formed.
0173. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the 0181. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
luminous means, the luminous means comprises a flexible luminous means, the Substrate of the luminous means is
substrate embodied as a film, preferably as a plastic film. In formed as a laminate comprising a first layer consisting of a
this case, the plastic film can consist of a plastic or contain a plastic. A second layer consisting of a glass is applied to the
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

first layer. Preferably, a third layer consisting of a plastic is 0190. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
applied directly to the second layer. Particularly preferably, luminous means, the luminous means comprises at least one
the third layer consists of the same plastic as the first layer. first color subregion. The first color subregion is suitable for
That is to say that the Substrate is embodied as a plastic-glass emitting light of a first color. Furthermore, the luminous
plastic laminate in accordance with this embodiment. means comprises at least one second color Subregion. The
0182 Preferably, the laminate is embodied in flexible second color Subregion is Suitable for emitting light of a
fashion. For this purpose, the plastic layers are embodied as second color, which is different from the first color. That is to
film or thin coating of the glass basic body. The glass basic say that the luminous means comprises at least two color
body is formed by a thin, flexible glass pane. Subregions which are in each case Suitable for emitting light
0183. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the of mutually different colors.
luminous means, the luminous means has a flexible plastic 0191) A luminous means comprising at least two color
glass-plastic laminate as Substrate. A first electrode succeeds subregions is also called “multicolored in the present case.
the substrate. In this case, the first electrode is applied directly The color Subregions of a multicolored luminous means can
to the first main surface of the substrate. be arranged as desired with respect to one another, for
0184 The organic layer stack of the luminous means is example alongside one another or vertically one above
disposed downstream of the first electrode. The organic layer another.
stack is applied for example directly to the first electrode. The 0.192 In this case, it is furthermore possible for the lumi
organic layer stack comprises an organic layer provided for nous means to comprise a plurality of first color Subregions.
generating light. The first color subregions are in each case suitable for emit
0185. The second electrode succeeds the organic layer ting light of the first color. The luminous means can then
stack. The second electrode is applied for example directly to furthermore comprise a plurality of second color Subregions
the organic layer stack. The second electrode is preferably which are in each case Suitable for emitting light of the second
embodied in light-transmissive fashion, as described further color.
above.
0186 A planarization layer—described further above is 0193 In this case, the luminous means is based on the idea,
disposed downstream of the second electrode. By way of interalia, of making possible, by means of the division into at
example, the planarization layer is arranged directly on the least two color Subregions, a luminous means which can emit
second electrode. The planarization layer preferably contains light of at least two different colors.
an organic material. Furthermore, the planarization layer can 0194 It is also possible, moreover, for the luminous means
contain one of the following materials: scattering centers such to be suitable for emitting mixed light of the two different
as, for example, diffuser particles, luminescence conversion colors. This means that an observer perceives mixed-colored
material, color filter material. light and the individual color subregions cannot be differen
0187. A barrier layer succeeds the planarization layer. tiated. This can be achieved for example by the dimensions of
Preferably, a plurality of barrier layers succeed the planariza color Subregions arranged laterally alongside one another
tion layer. The barrier layers, as part of a thin-film encapsu being chosen to be sufficiently small, or by the color subre
lation, form the flexible encapsulation of the luminous means gions being arranged vertically one above another. In this
and are applied for example directly to the planarization layer. case, the first and the second color Subregions of the organic
0188 In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
layer stack can emit light simultaneously or sequentially in
short Succession.
luminous means, the substrate is formed by the slat of a
louver. That is to say that the slat of a louver serves as sub 0.195. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
strate for the luminous means. Preferably, all the slats of the luminous means, the color Subregions are arranged in a com
louver then serve as a Substrate for a respective luminous mon plane. That is to say that the color Subregions are
means. The louver is fitted for example to a window or a door arranged laterally alongside one another or laterally at a dis
in such a way that the first main surfaces of the substrates tance from one another. The color Subregions can be arranged
formed by the slats of the louver are directed into the interior for example in the manner of pixels of a display apparatus. In
of the room having the window or the door. The louver can comparison with pixels of a display apparatus, however, the
then be used, in the case of a closed louver, for example, for color Subregions have a larger luminous Surface area. Prefer
illuminating the interior with a light preferably similar to ably, the luminous Surface area of each color Subregion of the
Sunlight. luminous means is at least one square millimeter.
0189 In accordance with at least one embodiment of the 0196. If the color subregions are arranged in a common
luminous means, an adhesive layer is applied to the second plane, a color Subregion is formed for example by dividing the
main surface of the substrate remote from the first main active region of the Substrate into different Subregions,
surface of the substrate of the luminous means. The adhesive wherein each Subregion of the Substrate is assigned to a color
layer is preferably covered by a protective film prior to the Subregion. A first electrode is applied to the Subregions, the
fixing of the luminous means at its intended location. The organic layer stack being situated on said first electrode.
luminous means can be permanently fixed at its intended Furthermore, the second electrode is applied to the organic
location after the stripping of the protective film in the sense layer stack. At least one of the electrodes can be structured in
of a transfer or adhesive image. In this case, the adhesion is this case, preferably in a manner corresponding to the Subre
promoted by the adhesive layer on the second main surface of gions. In this case, a structuring of at least one electrode can
the Substrate. In particular, a luminous means configured in enable the individual color subregions to be driven separately.
flexible fashion—such as has been described further above 0.197 Furthermore, the organic layer stack can be struc
for example—is Suitable in this case since, in this way, the tured in a manner corresponding to the Subregions, preferably
luminous means can be stuck even on uneven Surfaces, for in Such a way that each Subregion of the Substrate comprises
example rounded or curved Surfaces. a separate organic layer stack.
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

0198 In accordance with one embodiment of the lumi hereby incorporated by reference. The emitter material
nous means, in this case the organic layer stacks of different described here is a broadband emitter based on a polymeric
color Subregions comprise in each case mutually different material which comprises copolymers. The copolymers com
light-generating layers which differ with regard to their emit prise as backbone polyspirobifluorenes suitable for emitting
ter material and which are Suitable for generating light of light from the blue spectral range. Green emitting and red
different colors. emitting units are furthermore covalently coupled to the
0199. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the polyspirobifluorenes.
subregions of the substrate which correspond to the color 0205. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
subregions are separated from one another by webs. The webs luminous means, the luminous means comprises at least one
preferably comprise an electrically insulating material, for color Subregion which contains a luminescence conversion
example a photoresist. material. The luminescence conversion material is Suitable
0200. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the for converting light from a first wavelength range into light
luminous means, the color Subregion of the luminous means from a second wavelength range, wherein the first wavelength
comprises a color filter. The color filter is suitable for filtering range is different at least in places from the second wave
light from a specific wavelength range. This means that light length range. In this case, the luminescence conversion mate
from this wavelength range is at least partly absorbed by the rial is preferably provided for downward conversion. This
color filter. In this way, from white light, for example, a first means that the luminescence conversion material absorbs
color component can be filtered and a second color compo light of at least a first wavelength comprised by the first
nent can radiate through the color filter essentially unim wavelength range and re-emits light of at least a second wave
peded. The color Subregion comprising the color filter then length comprised by the second wavelength range, wherein
Substantially emits light of the second color component. the first wavelength is lower than the second wavelength.
0201 The color filter is embedded for example in the form Suitable luminescence conversion materials are for example
of particles of one or more color filter materials into a matrix the organic and inorganic materials that have already been
material. described above in connection with the planarization layer.
0202 In particular color subregions which are arranged 0206. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
within one plane can expediently comprise a color filter. In luminous means, the luminous means comprises at least two
this case, the color filter is generally arranged between the color Subregions which each comprise a luminescence con
first electrode and the underside of the luminous means if the version material, wherein mutually different color subregions
luminous means is provided for emitting light from its under comprise mutually different luminescence conversion mate
side, and between the second electrode and the top side of the rials. By way of example, the active region comprises a first
luminous means if the luminous means is provided for emit color Subregion comprising a first luminescence conversion
ting light from its top side. If the luminous means is provided material, and a second color Subregion comprising a second
for emitting light from its top side and from its underside, then luminescence conversion material, wherein the first lumines
a color filter can also respectively be provided between the cence conversion material is different from the second lumi
first electrode and the underside and also between the second nescence conversion material. In this way, the first color
electrode and the top side. The color filter of the color subre Subregion is suitable for emitting light of a first color and the
gion can be applied to the Substrate for example within a second color Subregion is Suitable for emitting light of a
subregion of said substrate. Furthermore, the color filter can second color, wherein the first color is different from the
also be arranged on the outer side of the substrate within a second color.
region of the Substrate that corresponds to the Subregion, or 0207. In particular color subregions which are arranged
within a region of the encapsulation that corresponds to the within one plane can expediently comprise a luminescence
Subregion. conversion material. In this case, the luminescence conver
0203. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the sion material is generally arranged between the first electrode
luminous means, the luminous means comprises a first color and the underside of the luminous means if the luminous
Subregion comprising a first color filter, and a second color means is provided for emitting light from its underside, and
Subregion comprising a second color filter, wherein the first between the second electrode and the top side of the luminous
color filter is different from the second color filter. In this way, means if the luminous means is provided for emitting light
the same organic emitter material can be used for the two from its top side.
color subregions. The color of the light emitted by the color 0208 If the luminous means is provided for emitting light
subregions is then determined by the respective color filter of from its top side and from its underside, then aluminescence
each color Subregion. In this way, aluminous means compris conversion material can also respectively be provided
ing a first color Subregion and a second color Subregion is between the first electrode and the underside, and also
realized, wherein the first color subregion emits light of a first between the second electrode and the top side. The lumines
color and the second color Subregion emits light of a second cence conversion material of the color Subregion can be
color and the first color is different from the second color. By applied to the Substrate for example withina Subregion of said
way of example, the layer of the organic layer stack that is Substrate. Furthermore, the luminescence conversion mate
provided for generating light is Suitable for emitting white rial can also be arranged on the outer side of the Substrate
light. The color filters then filter different color components within a region of the substrate that corresponds to the sub
from said white light. region, or within a region of the encapsulation that corre
0204 An emitter material suitable for emitting white light sponds to the Subregion.
is described for example in the document D. Buchhauser et 0209. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
al., “Characterization of White-Emitting Copolymers for luminous means, the color Subregions of the luminous means
PLED-Displays”, Proc. of SPIE, Vol. 5519, pp. 70-81, are arranged vertically one above another. Each color Subre
(2004), the disclosure content of which in this respect is gion comprises at least one organic layer of the layer stack of
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

the luminous means which is Suitable for generating light. Subregions of identical type are electrically conductively con
The different layers of the organic layer stack which are nected to one another by means of this electrode.
provided for generating light can then differ from one another 0217. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
for example with regard to an emitter material. luminous means, color Subregions that are not of identical
0210. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the type can be driven independently of one another. That is to say
luminous means, different color Subregions of the luminous that for example the first and the second color Subregion can
means comprise different emitter materials. That is to say that be energized independently of one another, such that the first
the first color Subregion comprises a first organic emitter color Subregion is energized at first times and the second color
material. The second color Subregion then comprises a sec Subregion is energized at second times. By way of example,
ond organic emitter material, wherein the first organic emitter all the first color subregions and all the second color subre
material is different from the second organic emitter material. gions can be energized alternately, such that the luminous
On account of the different emitter materials, the different means is suitable for alternately emitting light of the first and
color Subregions are then Suitable for generating light of of the second color. Upon simultaneous operation of the first
mutually different colors. color Subregion and the second color Subregion, the luminous
0211. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the means then emits light, for example mixed light, of the first
luminous means, the luminous means comprises at least one and second colors.
third color subregion which is suitable for emitting light of a 0218. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
third color, wherein the third color is different from the first luminous means, the luminous means comprises a controller
color and the second color. That is to say that the luminous provided for setting the operating state of the luminous
means comprises at least three different color Subregions means. The controller can be a switch, for example, by which
which in pairs emit light of different colors. Preferably, the the luminous means can be switched on and off. Preferably,
luminous means then comprises a plurality of third color however, the controller is suitable for setting more than two
Subregions which are in each case Suitable for emitting light operating states of the luminous means. By way of example,
of the third color. the controller can be suitable for driving different color sub
0212. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the regions of the luminous means separately from one another.
luminous means comprises at least one fourth color Subregion 0219. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
which is suitable for emitting light of a fourth color, wherein luminous means, the controller comprises a microcontroller.
the fourth color is different from the first color, the second
color and the third color. That is to say that the luminous 0220. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
means comprises at least four different color Subregions luminous means, the controller is arranged on the first main
surface of the substrate of the luminous means. The controller
which in pairs emit light of different colors. Preferably, the can then be a separate component, for example, which is
luminous means then comprises a plurality of fourth color arranged at a distance from the organic layer stack of the
Subregions which are in each case Suitable for emitting light luminous means on the first main Surface of the Substrate.
of the fourth color.
0213. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the Furthermore, it is possible for the controller to contain at least
luminous means, the luminous means comprises more than one organic material and to be produced jointly with the layer
four different color subregions, wherein the different color stack of the luminous means. This enables a particularly
subregions differ from one another in terms of the color of the space-saving and cost-effective integration of the controller
into the luminous means.
light emitted by them.
0214. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the 0221. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
luminous means, the luminous means comprises at least one luminous means, the controller is encapsulated together with
color subregion which is suitable for emitting white light. the organic layer Stack of the luminous means in a common
Preferably, the luminous means comprises a plurality of color encapsulation. This proves to be particularly advantageous if
Subregions which are in each case Suitable for emitting light the controller contains an organic material as described
of white color. above.
0215. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the 0222. The encapsulation of the luminous means protects
luminous means, color Subregions of the luminous means the controller against damage owing to atmospheric gases,
which are of identical type can be driven jointly. In this case, moisture and mechanical loading. A controller which is
color subregions of identical type should be understood to encapsulated jointly with the organic layer stack of the lumi
mean color Subregions which are constructed identically and nous means and which contains an organic material enables,
are thereby suitable for emitting light of identical color. Color interalia, an advantageously compactly constructed, flexible
Subregions of identical type are distinguished for example by luminous means. In particular, one of the encapsulations
the same organic emitter material and/or the same color filter described further above Such as caps, thin plates, films or a
and/or the same luminescence conversion material. By way of thin-film encapsulation is appropriate as encapsulation.
example, all the first color Subregions, which are Suitable 0223. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
emitting light of the first color, can be driven jointly. luminous means, the controller is provided for driving at least
0216 Can be driven jointly means that said color subre two color Subregions of the luminous means independently of
gions can be energized at identical times. The same color one another. The controller is then suitable for energizing two
Subregions can then be energized with the same current inten different color subregions of the luminous means at different
sity for example for identical times, for identical time dura times, for different time durations and/or with current of
tions. This can be achieved for example by color Subregions different intensities.
of identical type being electrically connected to one another. 0224. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
By way of example, one of the electrodes of the luminous luminous means, the controller comprises a pulse width
means is then structured in Such a way that all the color modulation circuit. The pulse width modulation circuit is
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

Suitable for applying a pulse-width-modulated signal to the current with which the luminous means is energized. That is
active region and/or color Subregions of the active region of to say that the controller is preferably suitable for setting the
the luminous means. intensity of the current with which the luminous means is
0225. A pulse-width-modulated signal is an electrical sig energized, and/or the duration of the current with which the
nal, preferably a rectangular signal, a sawtooth signal, a tri luminous means is energized. The color and brightness of the
angular signal, or a sinusoidal signal, which is Switched on for light emitted by the luminous means are then preferably
a specific time t, within a fixed basic period and is Switched dependent on the intensity of the current with which the
off for the remaining duration of the basic period to The luminous means is energized and/or the duration of energi
duration for which the signal is switched on is also referred to Zation of the luminous means. In this case, it is possible that
as pulse duration in the present case. The value of the signal two, three, four or more colors can be driven independently of
during the pulse duration is furthermore also referred to as one another.
pulse height in the present case. The ratio of Switched-on time 0232. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the
and basic period t/(t+t) is referred to as duty ratio. It luminous means comprises a sensor Suitable for determining
specifies the percentage temporal proportion over which the the color locus and/or the brightness of the light emitted by
rectangular signal is Switched on within the basic period. the luminous means during operation. The sensor can be
0226. The pulse height, pulse duration and/or direction of arranged for example on the first main Surface within the
the pulse-width-modulated signal therefore changes periodi active region of the Substrate of the luminous means. In par
cally, for example. In this case, the pulse duration, the spacing ticular, it is possible for the sensor to contain an organic
between the pulses and also the pulse height can preferably be material and to be produced together with the organic layer
set. Furthermore, the reverse voltage level and the frequency stack of the luminous means. The sensor can then be encap
can also be set. These parameters of the pulse width modula Sulated for example together with the organic layer stack of
tion circuit can be set for example by a microcontroller that is the luminous means by a common encapsulation. The sensor
part of the controller. is preferably a photodiode or a phototransistor.
0227. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the 0233. As an alternative, it is possible for the sensor to be
luminous means, the controller can be regulated by a user. embodied as a separate component. The sensor can then be
The user can then set for example the parameters of the pulse arranged for example on the first main Surface or the second
width modulation circuit of the controller. main surface of the substrate, remote from the first main
0228. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the Surface. In this case, the sensor is not necessarily encapsu
luminous means, the color of the light emitted by the lumi lated jointly with the organic layer stack of the luminous
nous means can be set by means of the controller. By way of CaS.
example, for this purpose the controller energizes specific 0234. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
color Subregions of the luminous means, thus resulting in the luminous means, the luminous means comprises a controller
desired color impression of the light emitted by the luminous provided for energizing the luminous means in a manner
CaS. dependent on the measured values determined by the sensor.
0229. This is possible in a particularly simple manner for That is to say that the controller is suitable for regulating the
example when the luminous means comprises a first and a luminous means in a manner dependent on the color locus
second color Subregion which are reverse-connected in par and/or the brightness of the light emitted by the luminous
allel with one another. By energizing the organic layer stack means during operation. The luminous means comprises for
with current of a first direction, the first color subregion is example an organic layer stack as described above, in which
then operated in the forward direction and the second color the color of the light emitted by the luminous means is depen
Subregion is connected in the reverse direction for this time, dent on the current density of the current with which the
Such that no current flows through the second color Subregion. luminous means is energized. The controller is then Suitable
By simply changing the current direction, the second color for setting a specific color locus and a specific brightness of
Subregion is energized in the forward direction for a second the generated light by virtue of the fact that said controller
time, such that light of the second color is emitted by the readjusts the current density of the current with which the
luminous means. The first color Subregion is connected in the luminous means is energized in a manner dependent on the
reverse direction for the second time period, such that no measured values determined by the sensor. In this way, the
current flows through the first color subregion. controller is suitable for setting a specific color of the light
0230. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the generated by the luminous means by means of a control loop.
luminous means, the color and brightness of the light emitted In this case, the color can be predetermined by a user of the
by the luminous means are dependent on the current density luminous means or a microcontroller of the controller.
of the current with which the luminous means is energized. 0235. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
For this purpose, the luminous means has for example at least luminous means, the luminous means comprises at least one
two color Subregions which are preferably arranged vertically connection location which is provided for making electrical
one above another. The field strength of the electric field contact with the luminous means. The connection location is
generated between the first and second electrodes during electrically conductively connected to at least one electrode
operation of the luminous means then determines the color of the luminous means—for example by means of an electri
Subregion in which a recombination of the charge carriers cal lead described further above. Via the connection location,
takes place in the active region of the luminous means. In this electrical contact can be made with the luminous means from
way, the color and the brightness of the emitted light can be outside the luminous means. The connection location can be
set for example by the pulse height and the pulse duration of electrically conductively connected for example to a Voltage
a current flowing through the active region. Source, a current source or a controller.
0231. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the 0236. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
controller is provided for setting the current density of the luminous means, the connection location is arranged at the
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

second main surface of the substrate, remote from the first jack Socket. The Socket then has two electrically conductive
main Surface of the Substrate of the luminous means. In this contact regions which are electrically insulated from one
case, the connection location is electrically conductively con another. The first contact region is then electrically conduc
nected to at least one of the electrodes of the luminous means tively connected to the first electrode of the luminous means,
for example by means of vias or perforations in the Substrate. for example by means of first electrical leads. The second
0237 As an alternative, it is possible for an electrically contact region is electrically conductively connected to the
conductive connection to be led between the connection loca second electrode of the luminous means—for example by
tion and at least one electrode of the luminous means by way means of second electrical leads.
of the side surfaces of the substrate. In this case, it is possible 0245. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
to dispense with vias or perforations in the substrate. luminous means, the luminous means has at least one con
0238. The connection between at least one electrode of the nection location which comprises a plurality of connection
luminous means and the connection location can be effected pins. The connection location then comprises at least one first
by electrical leads. The electrical leads are embodied for connection pin, which is electrically conductively connected
example as an electrically conductive coating of parts of the to the first electrode of the luminous means. Furthermore, the
luminous means, as conductor tracks integrated into the Sub connection location comprises a second connection pin,
strate, or as contact wires. which is electrically conductively connected to the second
0239. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the electrode of the luminous means. Moreover, the connection
luminous means, at least one connection location of the lumi location can comprise further connection pins which, by way
nous means is arranged at a side Surface of the Substrate. The of example, are electrically conductively connected to a con
side surface of the substrate preferably connects the first main troller of the luminous means. In this way, it is possible that
surface of the substrate to the second main surface of the the controller can be driven from outside the luminous means
Substrate. For the case where the luminous means has more by means of the corresponding connection pins.
than one connection location, all the connection locations of 0246. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
the luminous means can be arranged either at a side Surface of luminous means, the luminous means has a controller and a
the substrate or at the second main surface of the substrate. connection location which is electrically conductively con
Furthermore, it is possible for connection locations to be nected to the controller. Electrical signals can be conducted to
situated both at the side surface of the substrate and at the the controller via the connection location. In this way, the
second main Surface of the Substrate. controller can be set from outside the luminous means—for
0240. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the example by a user.
luminous means, at least one connection location of the lumi 0247. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
nous means is embodied as a connection pin. The connection luminous means, at least one connection location of the lumi
pin can be arranged at the second main Surface of the Substrate nous means is embodied as a connection rail which extends
or at a side Surface of the Substrate. The connection pin along a side Surface of the Substrate. The connection rail is
contains or consists of an electrically conductive material, preferably electrically conductively connected to at least one
Such as a metal for example. electrode of the luminous means.
0241. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the 0248. The connection rail can be embodied for example in
luminous means, at least one connection location of the lumi cylindrical fashion or in the manner of a cut-open cylinder.
nous means is embodied as a connection plug. The connec Preferably, the connection rail extends over at least 60% of
tion plug can be arranged at the second main Surface of the the length of the side surface of the substrate at which the
substrate or at a side surface of the substrate. The connection connection rail is arranged. Particularly preferably, the con
plug is embodied for example in the manner of a phono plug nection rail extends over at least 80% of the length of the side
or in the manner of a jack plug. In this case, it is possible, in surface of the substrate at which the connection rail is
particular, for the connection plug to have at least two contact arranged.
regions which are electrically insulated from one another. The 0249. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
first contact region is then electrically conductively con luminous means, at least one of the connection locations is
nected to the first electrode of the luminous means—for provided for the mechanical fixing of the luminous means.
example by means of first electrical leads. The second contact The luminous means can be mechanically connected to other
region is correspondingly conductively connected to the sec luminous means or to a carrier, for example, by means of said
ond electrode of the luminous means—for example by means connection location. Particularly preferably, the connection
of second electrical leads. location is provided both for mechanical and for electrical
0242. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the fixing of the luminous means. That is to say that, by means of
luminous means, at least one connection location of the lumi the same connection location, electrical contact is made with
nous means is embodied as a cutout. The cutout is a hole or a the luminous means and the latter is mechanically connected
bore, for example, which is introduced into the substrate at a to some other luminous means or a carrier.
side surface of the substrate or at the second main surface of 0250) An illumination device is furthermore specified.
the substrate. The illumination device comprises at least one luminous
0243 In this case, the side surfaces of the cutout are means such as has been explained in connection with at least
embodied in electrically conductive fashion at least in places. one of the embodiments described above.
The side surfaces of the cutout can be coated in electrically 0251. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
conductive fashion, by way of example. illumination device, the illumination device comprises at
0244. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the least two luminous means which are electrically and
luminous means, at least one connection location of the lumi mechanically connected to one another. In this case, it is
nous means is embodied as a Socket. The Socket can be possible for the luminous means to be directly electrically and
embodied for example in the manner of a phono socket or a mechanically connected to one another. However, it is also
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

possible for the luminous means to be electrically and 0258. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
mechanically connected to one another by means of a carrier illumination device, the illumination device comprises a car
of the illumination device. rier to which the at least one luminous means of the illumi
0252. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the nation device is electrically connected. In this case, it is
illumination device, the illumination device comprises a first possible for the luminous means of the illumination device
luminous means and a second luminous means. The first also to be electrically interconnected with one another by way
luminous means has at least one connection location which is of the carrier.
embodied as a connection pin. The connection pin is arranged 0259. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
at a side surface of the substrate of the first luminous means. illumination device, the illumination device comprises a car
The second luminous means has at least one connection loca rier to which the at least one luminous means of the illumi
tion which is embodied as a cutout in a side surface of the nation device is mechanically and electrically connected. For
Substrate of the second luminous means. The connection pin the case where the illumination device has a plurality of
of the first luminous means engages into the cutout of the luminous means, the luminous means are mechanically con
second luminous means. The first and the second luminous nected to one another by means of the carrier. Furthermore, it
means are electrically conductively connected to one another is also possible for the luminous means also to be electrically
by means of their connection locations—the connection pin connected to one another by means of the carrier.
and the cutout. 0260. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the
0253) The illumination device can furthermore comprise carrier is embodied as a carrier plate. That is to say that the
further luminous means which are electrically conductively carrier is formed by a solid body having two main Surfaces
connected to the first or the second luminous means in the which lie opposite one another and which are connected to
manner described. one another by side Surfaces.
0254. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the 0261. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
illumination device, the first and the second luminous means illumination device, the carrier is embodied as a grid. In this
are also mechanically connected to one another by an inter case, the carrier can be embodied in the manner of a carrier
ference fit by means of the connection locations. plate having a plurality of perforations. A carrier having a
0255 For this purpose, by way of example, a first connec lowest possible weight is realized in this way.
tion location of the first luminous means is embodied as a 0262. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
connection pin. A second connection location of the second illumination device, the carrier is embodied as a cable system.
luminous means is then embodied as a cutout. The diameter of The carrier then comprises at least two cables which contain
the connection pin of the first luminous means is chosen to be an electrically conductive material or consist of an electri
greater than or equal to the diameter of the cutout of the cally conductive material. Electrical contact can be made
second luminous means. By pressing the connection pin of with the luminous means of the illumination device by means
the first luminous means into the cutout of the second lumi of the cables of the carrier. By way of example, the cables of
nous means, a mechanically fixed connection between the the illumination device run parallel or substantially parallel to
first and the second luminous means is then produced. Pref one another. One or a plurality of luminous means can then be
erably, the first and the second luminous means are mechani arranged and electrically connected between two respective
cally and electrically connected to one another by the con cables of the carrier.
nection pin and the corresponding cutout. 0263. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
0256 In accordance with at least one embodiment of the illumination device, the carrier is embodied as a rod system.
illumination device, the first and the second luminous means The carrier then comprises at least two rods which contain an
are mechanically connected to one another by a plug connec electrically conductive material or consist of an electrically
tion by means of the connection locations. For this purpose, conductive material. Electrical contact can then be made with
by way of example, the first luminous means has a first con the luminous means of the illumination device by means of
nection location embodied as a connection plug. The second the rods. By way of example, the rods of the illumination
luminous means has a second connection location embodied device run parallel or substantially parallel to one another.
as a socket. By plugging the connection plug of the first One or a plurality of luminous means can then be arranged
luminous means into the connection Socket of the second and electrically connected between two respective rods of the
luminous means, a plug connection is produced by means of Ca1.
which the first luminous means is mechanically connected to 0264. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
the second luminous means. Preferably, the first luminous illumination device, at least one luminous means of the illu
means and the second luminous means are also electrically mination device is mechanically and electrically connected to
connected to one another by means of the plug connection. the carrier by means of a connection location embodied as a
The plug connection between the first and the second lumi connection pin. Preferably, all the luminous means of the
nous means is preferably embodied in detachable fashion, illumination device are then mechanically and electrically
preferably in such away that the first and the second luminous connected to the carrier by means of at least one connection
means can be detached from one another again by applying a location embodied as a connection pin. For this purpose, the
Small mechanical force. In this way, by way of example, a carrier can have a multiplicity of cutouts, for example. The
defective luminous means can be removed from the illumi connection locations of the luminous means which are
nation device in a simple manner and be replaced by a new embodied as connection pins then engage into corresponding
luminous means. cutouts of the carrier. The mechanical connection between the
0257. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the luminous means and the carrier is preferably provided by an
illumination device, the illumination device comprises a car interference fit in this case.
rier to which the at least one luminous means of the illumi 0265. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
nation device is mechanically connected. illumination device, at least one luminous means of the illu
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

mination device is mechanically and electrically connected to is disposed downstream of the luminous means of the illumi
the carrier by means of at least one connection location nation device in an emission direction of the luminous means.
embodied as a connection plug. Preferably, all the luminous By way of example, in this case the carrier is embodied as a
means of the illumination device are then mechanically and carrier plate. A plurality of luminous means are then applied
electrically connected to the carrier by means of at least one to the carrier plate, said luminous means being mechanically
connection location embodied as a connection plug. For this and electrically connected to the carrier plate. An optical
purpose, the carrier can have a multiplicity of cutouts, for element comprising a diffuser is disposed downstream of that
example, which are in each case embodied as connection side of the luminous means which is remote from the carrier
Sockets. The connection plugs of the luminous means then plate. The optical element can be formed for example by a
engage into corresponding sockets of the carrier. The light-transmissive plate—for example a glass plate—into
mechanical connection between the luminous means and the which light-scattering particles are introduced. As an alterna
carrier is preferably embodied in detachable fashion in this tive, it is possible for the surface of the light-transmissive
case, in Such a way that the luminous means can be detached plate to be roughened. Such that, on account of light refraction
from the carrier by applying Small mechanical force. Dam during passage through the plate, a diffuse scattering of the
aged luminous means can be replaced particularly simply in light passing through takes place. The optical element—for
this way. example the diffuser plate—can be mechanically fixed to the
0266. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the carrier of the illumination device.
illumination device, at least one luminous means of the illu 0272. In this case, the optical element disposed down
mination device is mechanically and electrically connected to stream of the at least one luminous means of the illumination
the carrier by means of at least one connection location device is preferably suitable for mixing the light generated by
embodied as a connection rail. Preferably, all the luminous the luminous means in Such away that the modular construc
means of the illumination device are then connected to the tion of the illumination device composed of a plurality of
carrier by means of at least one respective connection rail. In luminous means is no longer discernible to an observer. The
this case, the carrier is preferably embodied as a cable system illumination device then appears as though the illumination
or rod system. device has a single luminous Surface, wherein the form and
0267 By way of example, the carrier comprises two Surface area content of the luminous Surface are determined
cables or rods which run parallel to one another and which are by the form and light passage surface of the optical element.
embodied in electrically conductive fashion. At least one 0273. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
luminous means of the illumination device then comprises at illumination device, the illumination device has a multiplicity
least two connection locations embodied as connection rails. of luminous means arranged in matrix-like fashion.
The connection rails run at Side Surfaces of the luminous “Arranged in matrix-like fashion” means that the luminous
means which are remote from one another. Each connection means are arranged in rows and in columns. The illumination
rail engages into a cable or a rod of the carrier. Such that the device additionally has a controller suitable for driving each
luminous means is arranged between the cables or the rods of of the luminous means of the illumination device indepen
the carrier. Preferably, a plurality of luminous means are dently of the remaining luminous means. The controller can
connected to the carrier in this way. therefore energize each luminous means of the illumination
0268. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the device with a predeterminable operating current for predeter
illumination device, the illumination device comprises a first minable time periods, at predeterminable times.
luminous means and a second luminous means, wherein the 0274. On account of the matrix-like arrangement of the
first and the second luminous means emit light of different luminous means and of the controller Suitable for driving each
colors during operation. In this case, it is possible, on the one of the luminous means independently of the other luminous
hand, for the first and the second luminous means to differ means of the illumination device, the illumination device is
from one another with regard to the organic emitter material Suitable for forming a coarse-grained display apparatus. Each
used, aluminescence conversion material or a color filter. The luminous means then corresponds to a pixel of the display
first and the second luminous means are then embodied dif apparatus. The illumination device is suitable in this way for
ferently, therefore. use as a coarse-grained display, advertising logo or signal
0269. However, it is also possible to use, for the first and transmitter. The illumination device can furthermore be pro
the second luminous means, luminous means as described vided in the sense of a seven-segment display representing
further above which are suitable for emitting light of at least numerals and letters. The illumination device is also particu
a first and a second color during operation. This can be real larly well Suited as emergency lighting that indicates an
ized as described further above, for example, by the first and escape route, for example, using symbols or words.
the second luminous means each comprising at least two 0275. The luminous means of the illumination device
color Subregions which are Suitable for emitting light of embodied as a coarse-grained display apparatus are prefer
mutually different colors. That is to say that the illumination ably mechanically and electrically connected to a carrier by
device comprises at least one multicolored luminous means means of connection locations and/or electrically and
such as has been described in more detail further above. mechanically interconnected by means of connection loca
0270. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the tions, as described above.
illumination device, the illumination device comprises a plu 0276 Particularly preferably, the illumination device
rality of luminous means which are suitable for emitting light embodied as a coarse-grained display apparatus in this case
of mutually different colors. That is to say that the illumina comprises at least one multicolored luminous means which is
tion devices comprises a multiplicity of multicolored lumi suitable for emitting light of a first color during a first time
OS CalS. period and for emitting light of a second color during a second
0271. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the time period, wherein the first color differs from the second
illumination device, an optical element comprising a diffuser color. This can be made possible for example—as described
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

above by virtue of the fact that the luminous means has a erating light of at least two different colors. The luminous
plurality of color Subregions which are Suitable for generating means can then serve as a signal apparatus by means of which
light of mutually different colors. As an alternative, it is the wearer of the garment can optically represent information.
possible for the color of the light generated by the luminous For this purpose, the luminous means is connected to a con
means during operation to be dependent for example on the troller which can be set by the wearer of the garment.
current density with which the luminous means is operated. 0285. As an alternative or in addition it is possible for the
0277. The use of luminous means which are suitable for control means to set the operating state of the luminous
emitting light of different colors makes it possible to use the means—that is to say for example the color of the light
illumination device as a coarse-grained display apparatus emitted by the luminous means—in a manner dependent on
which can be used particularly diversely. specific measured values. For this purpose, the illumination
0278. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the device comprises at least one sensor which is Suitable for
illumination device, the carrier of the illumination device determining body functions of the wearer of the garment Such
contains a textile material. The luminous means of the illu as the pulse rate, the skin resistance and/or the body tempera
mination device are then at least mechanically connected to ture of the wearer. Depending on the values determined, the
the carrier. The mechanical connection can be imparted for controller then sets the operating state of the luminous means.
example by a hook-and-loop connection between the textile The luminous means is then suitable, therefore, for optically
material and a hook-and-loop layer applied to the second reproducing information about body functions of the wearer
main Surface of the luminous means. of the garment.
0279. Furthermore, it is possible for conductor tracks— 0286 Furthermore, the illumination device whose carrier
for example thin metal wires to be integrated into the textile is embodied as a garment can serve to improve the visibility of
material. The conductor tracks can be interwoven for example the person wearing the garment—for example in road traffic.
with the material of the carrier. By means of these conductor Such a garment is particularly well Suited to cyclists and
tracks, it is possible to make electrical contact with the lumi pedestrians.
nous means of the illumination device by means of the carrier. 0287 Furthermore, an optical display apparatus is speci
As an alternative, the luminous means of the illumination fied. The optical display apparatus comprises an imaging
device can bear a dedicated power Supply in the form of a element and at least two luminous means which are embodied
battery, a rechargeable battery or a capacitor.
in accordance with at least one of the embodiments described
0280. The luminous means of the illumination device with above. In this case, the luminous means form a backlighting
the carrier containing a textile material are preferably embod apparatus for the imaging element.
ied in flexible fashion. Particularly preferably, the luminous
means are embodied in similarly flexible fashion to the car 0288 The backlighting apparatus is preferably embodied
rier. That is to say that the luminous means can largely adapt like at least one of the illumination devices described further
themselves to a deformation of the carrier on which they are above.
applied—for example by folding. 0289. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
0281. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the display apparatus, the backlighting apparatus of the display
illumination device, the carrier containing a textile material is apparatus comprises at least two luminous means which are
embodied as a curtain. At least one-for example flexible— electrically and mechanically connected to one another. In
luminous means is then applied on the curtain. In this case, it this case, it is possible for the luminous means to be directly
is possible for a large part of that surface of the curtain which electrically and mechanically connected to one another. How
faces the at least one luminous means to be covered by the at ever, it is also possible for the luminous means to be electri
least one luminous means. cally and mechanically connected to one another by means of
0282. With the curtain drawn, the main surface of the a carrier of the backlighting apparatus of the display appara
curtain which is covered by the at least one luminous means tus. The luminous means of the backlighting apparatus are
forms the luminous surface of the illumination device. then mechanically connected and/or electrically connected
0283. By way of example, the curtain is fitted in front of a among one another and/or to a carrier, as described further
window. The curtain then forms an illumination device whose above, by means of connection locations which can be
luminous Surface area corresponds approximately to the area embodied as connection pins, connection plugs, connection
content of the window covered by the curtain. In this way, the holes, or sockets.
illumination device realizes room lighting corresponding to 0290 The imaging element of the display apparatus can be
the window in terms of size and direction of light incidence. an LCD panel, for example. The imaging element is disposed
A room with such a curtain is preferably illuminated with directly downstream of the luminous means of the backlight
light similar to daylight by the illumination device. ing apparatus in the emission direction thereof. That is to say
0284. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the that the imaging element is then directly backlit by the lumi
illumination device, the carrier containing a textile material is nous means. The modular construction of the backlighting
embodied as a garment. At least one luminous means is apparatus for the imaging element composed of two or more
mechanically fixed on the garment. The mechanical connec luminous means enables the backlighting of a particularly
tion can be imparted for example by a hook-and-loop con large area. A particularly large display apparatus can be real
nection between the textile material of the garment and a ized in this way. Furthermore, defective luminous means of
hook-and-loop layer applied to the second main Surface of the the backlighting apparatus can be replaced particularly sim
luminous means. In this case, the luminous means is prefer ply—on account of the modular construction of the back
ably embodied in flexible fashion—as described further lighting apparatus of the display apparatus.
above-and has a flexibility which corresponds approxi 0291. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
mately to the flexibility of the garment. Preferably, the lumi optical display apparatus, at least one of the luminous means
nous means is Suitable—as described further above-forgen of the display apparatus is suitable for emitting white light
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

during operation. Preferably, all of the luminous means of the with respect to one another in Such a way that light from the
backlighting apparatus of the display apparatus are then Suit second light source passes through the luminous means.
able for emitting white light. 0304. An illumination device in which:
0292. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the 0305 the luminous means emits light of a first color and
display apparatus, the light emitted by the luminous means of the second light source emits light of a second color,
the display apparatus during operation is mixed to form white which is different from the first color,
light. That is to say that the display apparatus then comprises 0306 at least one of the two light sources is dimmable,
for example luminous means Suitable for emitting greenlight, and
luminous means Suitable for emitting red light, and luminous 0307 the luminous means and the second light source
means suitable for emitting blue light. These luminous means are arranged with respect to one another in Such a way
are then preferably arranged in Such a way that a white color that light from the second light source passes through the
impression is established as a result of the intermixing of the luminous means,
light of the individual luminous means. For this purpose, an is referred to hereinafter as “color-variable illumination
optical element comprising a diffuser can be arranged device.
between the luminous means and the imaging element. By
way of example, the optical element is a diffuser plate 0308 Preferably, the luminous means of the color-vari
which—as described further above is suitable for intermix able illumination device is embodied as transmissive to vis
ing the light generated by the luminous means. ible light, in particular to the light generated by the organic
0293. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the layer stack and to the light emitted by the second light source.
illumination device, the illumination device comprises one of 0309 The color-variable illumination device is suitable
the luminous means described here as a first light source and for emitting mixed-colored light comprising light from the
a further second light source. luminous means and light from the second light Source. This
0294 The luminous means is in this case preferably affords the advantage that the color locus and brightness of
embodied in Such away that it is embodied as transmissive at the illumination device can be varied by variation of the color
least to the light generated by the organic layer stack and also and brightness of the luminous means and/or of the second
the light from the second light Source. light source. In this case, either the brightness of one of the
0295. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the light Sources—luminous means or second light source—can
second light source is an incandescent lamp, a light-emitting be kept constant and the brightness of the other light source
diode module—"LED module” for short , at least one indi can be varied or the brightnesses of both light sources can be
vidual light-emitting diode "LED' for short—a cold cath varied. Thus, the color and brightness of the light from the
ode lamp, a lava lamp, a fluorescent lamp or an organic illumination device can be adapted to a specific situation or
light-emitting diode "OLED' for short. mood in a simple manner.
0296 An LED module comprises one or a plurality of 0310. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the
LEDs arranged on a carrier. The carrier can be a printed color-variable illumination device, the luminous means emits
circuit board, for example, such as a metal-core circuit board, light from the yellow spectral range and the second light
for example. Furthermore, an LED module can comprise a Source emits light from the blue spectral range. Likewise, it is
beam-shaping optical unit disposed downstream of the LEDs also conceivable for the luminous means to emit light from
in the emission direction thereof. The beam-shaping optical the blue spectral range and the second light source to emit
unit is formed for example at least partly in the manner of one light from the yellow spectral range. A color-variable illumi
of the following optical elements: compound parabolic con nation device which emits light having a color locus in the
centrator (CPC), compound elliptic concentrator (CEC), white region of the CIE standard chromaticity diagram is
compound hyperbolic concentrator (CHC). Furthermore, the advantageously obtained in this way. By varying the bright
beam-shaping optical unit can be a lens. ness of the second light source and/or of the luminous
0297. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the means—that is to say by adapting the color component of the
luminous means emits light of a first color and the second blue light and of the yellow light in the mixed-colored light of
the color-variable illumination device—the color locus of the
light source emits light of a second color, which is different mixed-colored light of the color-variable illumination device
from the first color.
can be varied in wide ranges of the CIE standard chromaticity
0298. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the diagram and, in particular, be adapted to a desired value. In
luminous means is embodied such that it is dimmable. particular, different white tones of the mixed-colored light
0299. In accordance with at least one further embodiment, can thus be set and adapted to the corresponding situation.
the second light source is embodied such that it is dimmable. 0311. Furthermore, the luminous means and the second
0300 Dimming of the luminous means and of the second light source of a color-variable illumination device, alongside
light source can be achieved for example by the use of a PWM yellow and blue, can also have other mutually different col
circuit that generates pulse-width-modulated signals (PWM ors. If both light sources—luminous means and second light
signals), or by means of a conventional dimmer. source—are embodied in dimmable fashion, the color of the
0301 In accordance with at least one embodiment, the mixed-colored light of the illumination device can thus be set
luminous means is embodied in flexible fashion. fluidly from the color of the light from the luminous means to
0302. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the the color of the light from the second light source.
luminous means is embodied as a lampshade, which is 0312. In particular, it is possible in this case for the lumi
arranged for example around or above the second light nous means to be embodied as a multicolored luminous
SOUC. means comprising at least two color Subregions as described
0303. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the further above. Such a multicolored luminous means enables a
luminous means and the second light source are arranged color-variable illumination device which can generate for
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

example a particularly large number of white tones and/or storage Surface. In this case, the desire for illumination may
white light having a high color rendering index (CRI). have functional and also esthetic reasons. For this purpose,
0313. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the usually in the Surroundings of the storage Surface, that is to
color-variable illumination device, the luminous means emits say above or alongside the latter for instance, an illumination
light of a first color from the warm white region of the CIE device is fitted in such away that a desired illumination of the
standard chromaticity diagram and the second light Source storage surface and possibly also of the Surroundings is
emits light of a second color from the cold white region of the obtained.
CIE standard chromaticity diagram. It is likewise possible for 0321 Storage furniture in accordance with one embodi
the luminous means to emit light of a first color from the cold ment of the invention comprises, in particular,
white region of the CIE standard chromaticity diagram and 0322 a storage element shaped in planar fashion and
for the second light source to emit light of a second color from having at least one storage Surface and at least one radia
the warm white region of the CIE standard chromaticity dia tion-emitting component, having an active region which
gram. The color locus of the mixed-colored light of this emits electromagnetic radiation during operation, and
color-variable illumination device can be set between cold 0323 at least one holding apparatus for holding the
white and warm white. Such a color-variable illumination storage element.
device can be used as a light source in the private domain, for 0324. In this case, in particular, the storage surface can
example, wherein in work situations for instance cold white serve for positioning and/or storing articles on it.
light is rather used, which in relaxation phases can be altered 0325 In a further embodiment, the radiation-emitting
by the user rapidly and simply by dimming the cold white component is shaped in planar fashion. In this case, “shaped
light source and increasing the warm white component in the in planar fashion” can mean that the radiation-emitting com
mixed-colored light to form warm white light. ponent extends continuously over an areal region having at
0314 Particularly preferably, the luminous means of the least a Surface area of a plurality of square millimeters, pref
color-variable illumination device is embodied as a lamp erably a plurality of square centimeters and particularly pref
shade. The latter is arranged around or above the second light erably at least one or a plurality of square decimeters or more.
source, for example. Particularly preferably, the luminous In particular a radiation-emitting component shaped in planar
means is embodied in flexible fashion in this case. fashion can have a surface area which is of the order of
0315. In accordance with at least one embodiment, the magnitude of the storage surface.
luminous means is embodied in flexible fashion in Such away 0326 In one preferred embodiment, the radiation-emit
that the form of the luminous means can be altered during the ting component is an organic radiation-emitting component,
application. in particular an organic light-emitting diode (OLED). In this
0316 A color-variable illumination device comprising a case, an OLED can have an organic layer or a layer sequence
second light Source which serves predominantly for decora having at least one organic layer, having an active region
tion, Such as a lava lamp for example, is preferably used for which can emit electromagnetic radiation during operation.
decoration purposes, for example in bars or as floor lighting Furthermore, an OLED can have a first electrode and a second
of dance floors. electrode, wherein the organic layer or the layer sequence
0317 Furthermore, color-variable illumination devices having at least one organic layer having the active region can
can be used for medical purposes in light therapy. be arranged between the first and second electrodes. In this
0318. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the case, the first and the second electrode can be suitable for
illumination device, a light-emitting main Surface of the lumi injecting "holes' and electrons, respectively, into the active
nous means and a light-emitting front side of the second light region, which can recombine there with emission of electro
Source are arranged in a common plane. In this case, the magnetic radiation.
second light Source can be an LED module, for example, 0327 Furthermore, the first electrode can be arranged on a
which is arranged within the radiation-emitting front side of Substrate. The organic layer or the layer sequence having one
the luminous means. Particularly preferably, the LED module or a plurality of functional layers composed of organic mate
is in this case arranged centrally within the radiation-emitting rials can be applied above the first electrode. In this case, the
main Surface of the luminous means. Such an arrangement functional layers which can comprise the active region can
can be used for example as a decoration element. have for example electron transport layers, electrolumines
0319 Storage furniture is furthermore specified. The stor cent layers and/or hole transport layers. The second electrode
age furniture comprises a radiation-emitting component. The can be applied above the functional layers or above the at least
radiation-emitting component can be, in particular, a lumi one organic layer.
nous means according to at least one of the embodiments 0328 By way of example, the substrate can comprise
described here. In particular, the storage furniture can also be glass, quartz, plastic films, metal, metal films, silicon wafers
an illumination device according to at least one of the or another other suitable substrate material. By way of
embodiments described here. That is to say that the storage example, the Substrate can also be embodied as a layer
furniture can have any desired features of the luminous means sequence or laminate of a plurality of layers. If the organic
and illumination devices described here. Embodiments radiation-emitting component is embodied as a so-called
which relate to storage furniture, in particular, are described “bottom emitter, that is to say that the electromagnetic radia
below. The luminous means and illumination devices tion generated in the active region can be emitted through the
described here can also have any desired features of the stor Substrate, then the Substrate can advantageously have a trans
age furniture described here. parency to at least a part of the electromagnetic radiation.
0320 In the case of a storage surface on which articles or 0329. In accordance with at least one embodiment, at least
objects are positioned for example for storage or for exhibi one of the electrodes comprises a transparent conductive
tion, it may be desirable also to illuminate said articles or oxide, a metal or a conductive organic material or consists
objects in addition to the possibility of arranging them on the thereof.
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010
20

0330. In the bottom emitter configuration, the first elec encapsulation can comprise one or a plurality of layers,
trode can advantageously be transparent to at least a part of wherein the layers of the encapsulation can be for example
the electromagnetic radiation. A transparent first electrode, planarization layers, barrier layers, water and/or oxygen
which can be embodied as an anode and can therefore serve as absorbing layers, connecting layers or combinations thereof.
a material that injects positive charges or "holes', can for 0336. As an alternative, the radiation-emitting component
example comprise a transparent conductive oxide or consist can be embodied as an electroluminescent film. In this case,
of a transparent conductive oxide. Transparent conductive an active region comprising an inorganic material, for
oxides “TCO' for short are transparent conductive materials, example based on Zinc sulfide, can be arranged between a first
generally metal oxides, such as, for example, Zinc oxide, tin
oxide, cadmium oxide, titanium oxide, indium oxide or and a second electrode. In this case, the electrodes can have
indium tin oxide (ITO). Alongside binary metal-oxygen com features and structures as described in connection with the
pounds such, as, for example, ZnO, SnO or In-Os, ternary organic radiation-emitting components. The active region can
metal-oxygen compounds such as, for example, ZnSnO, have a Suitable doping, for instance copper or europium.
CdSnO, ZnSnO, Mgn-O, GanO, Zn-In-Os or 0337 The electromagnetic radiation generated by the
In SnO2 or mixtures of different transparent conductive active region of the radiation-emitting component can have in
oxides also belong to the group of TCOs. Furthermore, the particular a spectrum having wavelengths in an ultraviolet to
TCOs need not necessarily correspond to a stoichiometric infrared spectral range. In particular, it can be advantageous if
composition and can also be p- or n-doped. As an alternative the spectrum has at least one wavelength visible to an
or in addition, the first electrode can also comprise a metal, for observer. The spectrum of the electromagnetic radiation can
example silver. advantageously also comprise a plurality of wavelengths,
0331. The layer sequence having at least one organic layer Such that a mixed-colored luminous impression can arise for
can comprise polymers, oligomers, monomers, organic Small an observer. For this purpose, it can be possible that the
molecules or other organic non-polymeric compounds or radiation-emitting component itself can generate electromag
combinations thereof. In particular, it can be advantageous if netic radiation having a plurality of wavelengths or that a part
a functional layer of the layer sequence is embodied as a hole of the electromagnetic radiation generated by the organic
transport layer in order to enable an effective hole injection radiation-emitting component or the entire electromagnetic
into an electroluminescent layer or an electroluminescent radiation generated by the radiation-emitting component and
region. Such structures concerning the active region or the having a first wavelength, for instance in a blue and/or green
further functional layers and regions are known to the person spectral range, is converted into a second wavelength, for
skilled in the art in particular with regard to materials, con instance in a yellow and/or red spectral range, by a wave
struction, function and structure and will therefore not be length conversion Substance. For this purpose, a layer or a
explained in any greater detail at this juncture. region which comprises a wavelength conversion Substance
0332 The second electrode can be embodied as a cathode can be disposed downstream of the active region. In particu
and therefore serve as a material that induces electrons. Inter lar, a wavelength conversion Substance structured into partial
alia, in particular aluminum, barium, indium, silver, gold, regions can be disposed downstream of the active region, Such
magnesium, calcium or lithium and also compounds, combi that an observer can be given different-colored luminous
nations and alloys thereof can prove to be advantageous as impressions in different partial regions of the radiation-emit
cathode material. In addition or as an alternative, the second ting component. Suitable wavelength conversion Substances
electrode can also be embodied in transparent fashion. This and layers comprising wavelength conversion Substances and
means, in particular, that the OLED can also be embodied as also the structurings thereofare known to the person skilled in
a “top”, that is to say that the electromagnetic radiation gen the art with regard to their construction and their function and
erated in the active region can be emitted on that side of the will not be explained in any greater detail at this juncture.
organic radiation-emitting component which is remote from 0338. In a further embodiment, the first and/or the second
the substrate. electrode of the radiation-emitting component is structured,
0333 Ifan electrode which comprises the metallic layer or for example in the form of electrode strips, which can also run
consists thereof is intended to be embodied as transmissive to parallel to one another. This can mean, in particular, that the
the light emitted by the organic layer Stack, then it can be first and/or the second electrode has partial regions which can
advantageous if the metallic layer is made sufficiently thin. be connected to a current and/or Voltage source indepen
Preferably, the thickness of such a semitransparent metallic dently of one another. As a result, the radiation-emitting com
layer lies between 1 nm and 100 nm, inclusive of the limits. ponent can have different operating states depending on the
0334 Furthermore, the first electrode can be embodied as contact-connection of the partial regions of the first and/or
cathode and the second electrode as anode, wherein the second electrode, that is to say that different luminous pat
organic radiation-emitting component can in this case be terns and luminous distributions of the radiation-emitting
embodied as a bottom or top emitter. Moreover, the organic component can be generated. Furthermore, by way of
radiation-emitting component can simultaneously be embod example, the active region of the radiation-emitting compo
ied as a top emitter and as a bottom emitter. nent, in the case of an organic radiation-emitting component
0335 Furthermore, the organic radiation-emitting compo for instance the organic layer or the layer sequence having at
nent can have an encapsulation in order to achieve a protec least one organic layer, in the different partial regions of the
tion against moisture and/or oxidizing Substances such as first and/or the second electrode, can comprise in each case
oxygen, for instance, for the electrodes and/or the functional different materials and for example also be structured, such
region. In this case, the encapsulation can Surround the entire that the radiation-emitting component can emit for example
organic radiation-emitting component including the Sub electromagnetic radiation having different wavelengths in
strate. As an alternative, the Substrate and/or at least one different operating states. As a result, a different-colored or
electrode can form apart of the encapsulation. In this case, the else a mixed-colored luminous impression can be generated
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

for an observer depending on the contact-connection of the 0343. In particular, the storage element can be embodied
partial regions of the first and/or second electrode to a current as a Substrate for a radiation-emitting component. As an alter
and/or Voltage source. native, an organic radiation-emitting component comprising
0339. In particular, the first electrode can be structured in a Substrate can be applied on the storage element. As an
Such a way that it is embodied as parallel strips. In this case, alternative or in addition, the encapsulation of the radiation
groups of parallel strips cantogether respectively form partial emitting component can also be embodied as a storage Sur
regions which can be connected to a current and/or Voltage face. In particular, the radiation-emitting component can have
Source independently of one another. As an alternative or in a radiation exit Surface for the electromagnetic radiation gen
addition, the second electrode can also be structured in this erated in the active region. Said exit Surface can be at least a
part of an outer Surface of the storage element. In this case, the
way. Preferably, the first and the second electrode can in each outer Surface can be the storage Surface. This can mean that
case be structured as parallel strips, wherein the parallel strips articles which can be arranged on the storage surface can be
of the first electrode can be perpendicular to the parallel strips illuminated from the storage surface. As an alternative or in
of the second electrode. As an alternative, the strips of the first addition, the outer surface can for example also be a different
electrode and the strips of the second electrode can also be side of the storage element than the storage surface. As an
parallel to one another. In this case, the first and/or the second alternative or in addition, the exit surface can also be an outer
electrode can have respectively independent partial regions of Surface arranged on a side remote from the storage surface.
parallel strips, such that a plurality of illumination patterns This can mean that regions or articles which are situated on
can be generated. Furthermore, it can also be possible that, by the side remote from the storage Surface can be illuminated.
way of example, the first electrode is embodied in planar 0344. In a further embodiment, the storage element has a
fashion and the second electrode is structured in the form of top side, an underside and side Surfaces. In this case, the
pictograms, or vice versa, Such that the luminous impression organic radiation-emitting component can be fitted on at least
for an observer can be perceived in conjunction with a picto one of the top sides, the underside and the side Surfaces.
rial impression. 0345 Inafurther embodiment, a holding apparatus has for
0340. In a further embodiment, the storage element can example a rail, a holding bracket, a carrying arm, a strut, a
have at least partial regions which are transparent to the post, a furniture wall or a combination thereof. In particular,
electromagnetic radiation generated by the radiation-emit the holding apparatus can also have a plurality of the elements
ting component. In one preferred embodiment, “transparent mentioned or a combination thereof. Furthermore, a holding
can mean that a transparent element or structural part is trans apparatus can also have a radiation-emitting component.
missive at least to a partial region of the spectrum of the 0346. In a further embodiment, the storage element has
emitted radiation of the organic radiation-emitting compo holding elements by means of which the storage element can
nent. Preferably, “transparent can also mean transmissive to be mounted onto the holding apparatus. In one embodiment,
the entire spectrum. A storage element having at least trans “can be mounted can mean that the storage element can be
parent partial regions can for example comprise glass or fixed rigidly to the holding apparatus. Merely by way of
transparent plastic or else be composed of glass or a transpar example, for instance a screw, clamping or plug connection
ent plastic. As an alternative, the storage element can have at and also hanging or adhesive bonding shall be mentioned here
least partial regions which are opaque to the electromagnetic for a rigid fixing. As an alternative or in addition, "can be
radiation generated by the radiation-emitting component. For mounted can also mean that the storage element is arranged
this purpose, the storage element can comprise opaque glass, at the holding apparatus in Such a way that it is fixed non
an opaque plastic, metal or wood or a combination thereofor rigidly. Merely by way of example, it shall be mentioned in
be composed of such materials or a combination thereof. this regard for instance that the storage element can be placed
0341. In a further embodiment of the invention, the radia on the holding apparatus or a part of the holding apparatus.
tion-emitting component can be a constituent part of the The holding elements can comprise or be in particular for
storage element and for example beintegrated into the storage example hooks, eyes, rails, openings, holes, threads or bear
element shaped in planar fashion. In this case, it is possible for ing Surfaces or combinations thereof.
the radiation-emitting component to be arranged in the inte 0347 In a further embodiment, the storage element has at
rior of the storage element and to emit the electromagnetic least two electrical contacts for making electrical contact with
radiation emitted during operation toward the outside via one the radiation-emitting component. In this case, the at least two
of the outer surfaces of the storage element. Said outer sur electrical contacts can preferably be suitable for making con
faces are then at least partially transparent to the electromag tact with the first and/or the second electrode. Particularly
netic radiation generated by the organic radiation-emitting preferably, contact is made with the first and the second
component. electrode or partial regions of the first and/or second electrode
0342. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the storage by different electrical contacts. Furthermore, an electrical
element has a glass Substrate, on which the radiation-emitting line may be necessary for electrically contact-connecting an
component is fitted, and also a further glass plate, which is electrical contact to an electrode or a partial region of a
arranged on that side of the organic radiation-emitting com structured electrode. In this case, the electrical contacts can be
ponent which is remote from the glass Substrate and which embodied for example in Strip-shaped, round or n-gonal fash
can enable for example an encapsulation or a part of an ion, where n is an integer greater than or equal to 3.
encapsulation for the radiation-emitting component. In this 0348. In one preferred embodiment, the holding elements
case, that side of the glass substrate which is remote from the comprise the electrical contacts. As a result, for example the
radiation-emitting component or that side of the glass plate retention of the storage element and the electrical contact
which is remote from the radiation-emitting component can connection of the radiation-emitting component can be real
have the storage surface. As an alternative, the storage ele ized in a space-saving, compact and/or esthetically pleasing
ment can also have a plastic Substrate and/or a plastic plate. a.
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010
22

0349. In a further embodiment, the holding apparatus has storage surfaces of the respective storage elements are
mount parts onto which the storage element can be mounted arranged parallel to one another.
onto the holding apparatus by means of the holding elements 0355 Furthermore, the storage element can form or be
of said storage element. In this case, the mount parts can comprised by a base of storage furniture. As a result, it can be
comprise or be for example hooks, eyes, rails, backing Sur possible for example that articles which are positioned below
faces, pegs, Screw, plug or clamping connections or angle or laterally offset with respect to the storage furniture can be
connectors or combinations thereof. illuminated by the radiation-emitting component.
0350. In a further embodiment, the holding apparatus has 0356. A storage element can be, purely by way of
at least two electrical lead contacts for making electrical example, an insert base for shelving, a cupboard or a chest of
contact with the organic radiation-emitting component, drawers, or else a drawer base, a cupboard base or a wall
wherein the electrical contacts of the storage element are mountable storage shelf. In this respect, storage furniture can
electrically connected to the electrical lead contacts when the be for example shelving, a cupboard, a chest of drawers, a
storage furniture is constructed or assembled. Particularly drawer, a kitchen cabinet, in particular a wall-mountable
preferably, the mount parts comprise the electrical lead con upper kitchen cabinet, bath furniture or a bookcase.
tactS. 0357 The invention is explained in more detail below on
0351. In further embodiments, the electrical contacts and the basis of exemplary embodiments and the associated fig
the electrical lead contacts can be embodied for example as U.S.
mutually matching parts of plug, clamping or screw connec 0358 FIG. 1 shows a schematic sectional illustration of an
tions. In particular a reliable and stable electrically conduc organic layer stack between a first and a second electrode in
tive contact-connection of the radiation-emitting component accordance with one exemplary embodiment,
can thereby be made possible. As an alternative, the electrical 0359 FIG. 2A shows a schematic sectional illustration of
contacts and/or the electrical lead contacts can also be aluminous means inaccordance with one exemplary embodi
embodied as plane contact Surfaces or have spring elements. ment,
0352. In a further embodiment, the storage element can 0360 FIG. 2B shows a schematic perspective illustration
have an n-gonal form, where n is an integer greater than or of an electrode in accordance with one exemplary embodi
equal to 3. Particularly preferably, the storage element can ment,
have a square or rectangular form. Furthermore, the form can 0361 FIG. 2C shows a schematic sectional illustration
also be for example circular or elliptical or a combination of along the line A-A in FIG. 2B,
the forms mentioned. In particular, the storage surface of the 0362 FIG. 3 shows a schematic sectional illustration of a
storage element can have one of the forms mentioned or a thin-film encapsulation,
combination thereof, in this case particularly preferably for
example a square or rectangular form with rounded corners. 0363 FIG. 4A shows a schematic sectional illustration of
In this case, a holding element and/oran electrical contact can a luminous means in accordance with a further exemplary
be arranged in each or at least one corner of the storage embodiment,
element or the storage Surface. In particular, the storage fur 0364 FIG. 4B shows a schematic plan view of the sub
niture can have a holding apparatus, or be contact-connected strate of the luminous means in accordance with FIG. 4A,
by a holding apparatus, in each or at least one corner of the 0365 FIG. 4C shows a schematic sectional illustration of
storage element or the storage surface. a luminous means in accordance with a further exemplary
0353. In particular, the holding apparatus can be suitable embodiment,
for holding the storage element in Such a way that at least 0366 FIG. 4D shows a schematic plan view of the sub
partial regions of the storage surface are parallel to a floor strate of a luminous means in accordance with FIG. 4C,
above which the storage element can be arranged. By way of 0367 FIG. 5A shows a schematic sectional illustration of
example, for this purpose the storage furniture can be place a luminous means in accordance with a further exemplary
able or installable on the floor. As an alternative or in addition, embodiment,
the holding apparatus can be Suitable for holding the storage 0368 FIG. 5B shows a schematic illustration of the con
element in Such a way that at least partial regions of the struction of a light-transmissive luminous means,
storage surface are substantially perpendicular to a wall at or 0369 FIG. 6 shows a schematic perspective view of a door
in front of which the storage furniture can be mounted or in accordance with one exemplary embodiment,
installed. In this case, “substantially perpendicular can mean 0370 FIG. 7 shows a schematic perspective illustration of
that the storage surface should be at Such an angle with a display window in accordance with one exemplary embodi
respect to the wall that articles arranged on the storage Surface ment,
can remain on the latter. Since it may be possible that the wall
is not entirely parallel to the direction of gravity, it may 0371 FIG. 8 shows a schematic perspective front view of
therefore be necessary for the angle between the wall and the a motor vehicle in accordance with one exemplary embodi
storage Surface to deviate from 90 degrees to a comparable ment,
eXtent. 0372 FIG.9 shows a schematic perspective illustration of
0354. In a further embodiment, the storage furniture has a a museum room in accordance with one exemplary embodi
plurality of storage elements. Such storage furniture can be ment,
for example shelving or a cupboard having a plurality of 0373 FIG.10 shows a schematic sectional illustration of a
storage elements. In particular, it can be possible in this case luminous means in accordance with one exemplary embodi
that a radiation-emitting component of one storage element ment,
can illuminate the storage Surface of another storage element, 0374 FIG. 11 shows a schematic perspective illustration
arranged underneath for example. In this case, the plurality of of a room with a room divider in accordance with one exem
storage elements can be arranged in Such a way that the plary embodiment,
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

0375 FIG.12A shows a schematic sectional illustration of 0399 FIG.29B shows the curtain in accordance with FIG.
a display with a luminous means in accordance with one 29A in a schematic sectional illustration,
exemplary embodiment, 0400 FIG.29C shows a schematic sectional illustration of
0376 FIG. 12B shows a schematic plan view of a televi a curtain in accordance with a further exemplary embodi
sion set, ment,
0377 FIG. 13A shows a schematic perspective illustration 0401 FIG. 30 shows a schematic view of a window with a
of shelving in accordance with one exemplary embodiment, curtain in accordance with a further exemplary embodiment,
0378 FIG. 13B shows an enlarged excerpt from FIG.13A, 0402 FIG.31 shows a schematic sectional illustration of a
0379 FIG.14 shows a schematic sectional illustration of a luminous means in accordance with one exemplary embodi
reflective display in accordance with one exemplary embodi ment,
ment, 0403 FIG. 32 shows a schematic perspective illustration
0380 FIG.15 shows a schematic sectional illustration of a of an item of furniture in accordance with one exemplary
luminous means in accordance with one exemplary embodi embodiment,
ment, 0404 FIG. 33 shows a schematic perspective illustration
0381 FIG.16 shows a schematic sectional illustration of a of a flexible luminous means in accordance with one exem
luminous means in accordance with a further exemplary plary embodiment in a rolled-up state,
embodiment, 04.05 FIG.34A shows a schematic sectional illustration of
0382 FIG.17A shows a schematic sectional illustration of an illumination device in accordance with one exemplary
a thin-film encapsulation in accordance with one exemplary embodiment,
embodiment, 0406 FIG.34B shows a schematic sectional illustration of
0383 FIG.17B shows a schematic sectional illustration of the illumination device in FIG. 34A along the sectional line
a reflective encapsulation in accordance with one exemplary A-A",
embodiment, 04.07 FIG. 35A shows a schematic plan view of a lumi
0384 FIG. 17C shows a schematic sectional illustration nous means in accordance with one exemplary embodiment,
through a thin-film encapsulation in accordance with a further 0408 FIG.35B shows a schematic sectional illustration of
exemplary embodiment, the luminous means in accordance with FIG. 35A along the
0385 FIG. 18A shows a schematic perspective illustration sectional line A-A.
of a motor vehicle mirror in accordance with one exemplary 04.09 FIG. 35C shows a schematic plan view of a multi
embodiment, colored luminous means in accordance with one exemplary
0386 FIG. 18B shows a schematic perspective illustration embodiment,
of the motor vehicle mirror in accordance in FIG. 18A, 0410 FIG.36 shows a schematic sectional illustration of a
0387 FIG. 19 shows a schematic perspective illustration luminous means in accordance with a further exemplary
of a multi-part mirror in accordance with one exemplary embodiment,
embodiment, 0411 FIG. 37 shows a further schematic sectional illus
0388 FIG. 20 shows a schematic perspective illustration tration of a multicolored luminous means in accordance with
of a multi-part mirror in accordance with a further exemplary a further exemplary embodiment,
embodiment, 0412 FIG. 38 shows a schematic plan view of first and
0389 FIG. 21 shows a schematic perspective illustration second electrodes in accordance with a further exemplary
of a search mirror in accordance with one exemplary embodi embodiment of a multicolored luminous means,
ment, 0413 FIG. 39 shows a schematic plan view of a multicol
0390 FIG. 22 shows a schematic perspective illustration ored luminous means in accordance with a further exemplary
of a make-up mirror in accordance with one exemplary embodiment,
embodiment, 0414 FIG. 40A shows a schematic plan view of an illu
0391 FIG.23 shows a schematic plan view of a decorative mination device in accordance with one exemplary embodi
element in accordance with one exemplary embodiment, ment,
0392 FIG. 24 shows a schematic perspective illustration 0415 FIG. 40B shows a schematic enlargement of an
of a mirror in accordance with a further exemplary embodi excerpt from FIG. 40A,
ment, 0416 FIG. 41 shows a schematic plan view of a luminous
0393 FIG.25 shows a schematic sectional illustration of a means in accordance with a further exemplary embodiment,
flexible luminous means in accordance with one exemplary 0417 FIG. 42 shows a schematic sectional illustration of a
embodiment, luminous means in accordance with a further exemplary
0394 FIG. 26 shows a schematic sectional illustration of a embodiment,
flexible luminous means in accordance with a further exem 0418 FIG. 43 shows a schematic sectional illustration of a
plary embodiment, further luminous means in accordance with a further exem
0395 FIG.27 shows a schematic sectional illustration of a plary embodiment,
luminous means in accordance with one exemplary embodi 0419 FIG. 44 shows a further exemplary embodiment of a
ment, luminous means in a schematic plan view,
0396 FIG. 28A shows a schematic plan view of a window 0420 FIG. 45 shows a schematic sectional illustration of a
with a louver in accordance with one exemplary embodiment, luminous means in accordance with a further exemplary
0397 FIG. 28B shows a schematic sectional illustration embodiment,
through a slat of the louver in FIG. 28A, 0421 FIG. 46 shows the luminous means in accordance
0398 FIG. 29.A shows a schematic view of a window with FIG. 45 in a schematic perspective illustration,
covered by a curtain in accordance with one exemplary 0422 FIG. 47 shows a schematic illustration of the CIE
embodiment, standard chromaticity diagram,
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010
24

0423 FIG. 48A shows a schematic illustration of a flirta 0444 FIGS. 65 and 67 shows schematic illustrations of a
tion indicator in accordance with one exemplary embodiment further illumination device in accordance with one exemplary
having a multicolored luminous means, embodiment,
0424 FIG. 48B shows a schematic illustration of the lumi 0445 FIG. 68 shows a schematic perspective illustration
nous means in accordance with FIG. 48A together with a of an illumination device in accordance with a further exem
controller, plary embodiment,
0425 FIG. 49 shows a schematic sectional illustration of a 0446 FIG. 69 shows a schematic illustration of a sche
luminous means in accordance with one exemplary embodi matic circuit diagram in accordance with one exemplary
ment, embodiment,
0426 FIG. 50 schematically shows a further possibility 0447 FIG.70 shows a further schematic circuit diagram in
for the use of a multicolored luminous means, accordance with a further exemplary embodiment,
0427 FIG. 51 shows a schematic perspective illustration 0448 FIG. 71 shows a schematic illustration of an illumi
of the use of multicolored luminous means, nation device in accordance with a further exemplary
0428 FIG. 52 shows a schematic perspective illustration embodiment,
of a luminous means in accordance with one exemplary 0449 FIG. 72 shows a schematic perspective illustration
embodiment, of an illumination device in accordance with a further exem
0429 FIG. 53 shows a schematic illustration of a connec plary embodiment,
tion location in accordance with one exemplary embodiment, 0450 FIG. 73 shows a schematic perspective illustration
Such as can be used for instance in the case of the luminous of an illumination device in accordance with a further exem
means in FIG. 52, plary embodiment,
0430 FIG. 54 shows a further schematic perspective illus 0451 FIG. 74 shows a schematic perspective illustration
tration of a connection location in accordance with one exem of an illumination device in accordance with a further exem
plary embodiment, such as can be used in the case of FIG. 52. plary embodiment,
0431 FIG.55 shows a schematic plan view of a connec 0452 FIG. 75 shows a schematic perspective illustration
tion location such as can be used in the case of the luminous of a display apparatus in accordance with one exemplary
means of the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 52. embodiment,
0432 FIG. 56 shows a schematic perspective illustration 0453 FIG. 76 shows a schematic plan view of a coarse
of a luminous means in accordance with a further exemplary grained display in accordance with one exemplary embodi
embodiment, ment,
0433 FIG. 57 shows a schematic perspective illustration 0454 FIG. 77 shows a schematic view of a bathroom in
of a luminous means in accordance with a further exemplary accordance with one exemplary embodiment,
embodiment, 0455 FIG. 78 shows a schematic perspective illustration
of an illumination device comprising aluminous means and a
0434 FIG. 58 shows a schematic plan view of a connec second light source in accordance with one exemplary
tion location in accordance with one exemplary embodiment embodiment,
Such as can be used in the case of the luminous means in FIG.
57, 0456 FIG. 79 shows a schematic perspective illustration
of an illumination device comprising aluminous means and a
0435 FIG. 59 shows a further schematic plan view of a second light Source in accordance with a further exemplary
connection location in accordance with one exemplary embodiment,
embodiment such as can be used in the case of the luminous
means in FIG. 57,
0457 FIG. 80A shows a schematic perspective illustration
of an illumination device in accordance with a further exem
0436 FIG. 60 shows a schematic plan view of a further plary embodiment,
embodiment of the connection location Such as can be used in
0458 FIG. 80B shows a schematic sectional illustration of
the case of the luminous means in FIG.55, the illumination device in FIG. 80A,
0437 FIG. 61 shows a schematic perspective illustration 0459 FIG. 81 shows a schematic plan view of an illumi
of a luminous means in accordance with a further exemplary nation device in accordance with a further exemplary
embodiment, embodiment,
0438 FIG. 62A shows a further schematic perspective 0460 FIG. 82 shows a schematic perspective illustration
illustration of a luminous means in accordance with one of an illumination device comprising aluminous means and a
exemplary embodiment, second light Source in accordance with a further exemplary
0439 FIG. 62B schematically shows an enlarged excerpt embodiment,
from FIG. 62A, 0461 FIG. 83 shows a schematic perspective illustration
0440 FIG. 63A shows a schematic plan view of a lumi of an illumination device comprising aluminous means and a
nous means in accordance with a further exemplary embodi second light source in accordance with one exemplary
ment, embodiment,
0441 FIG. 63B shows a schematic enlargement of an 0462 FIGS. 84A to 84C shows schematic illustrations of
excerpt from a connection location of the luminous means in a storage element and storage furniture in accordance with
accordance with FIG. 63A, one exemplary embodiment,
0442 FIG. 64 shows a schematic plan view of an illumi 0463 FIG. 85 shows a schematic illustration of a storage
nation device in accordance with one exemplary embodi element in accordance with a further exemplary embodiment,
ment, 0464 FIG. 86 shows a schematic illustration of a storage
0443 FIGS. 65 and 66 shows schematic perspective illus element in accordance with a further exemplary embodiment,
trations of an illumination device inaccordance with a further 0465 FIG. 87 shows a schematic illustration of a storage
exemplary embodiment, element in accordance with a further exemplary embodiment,
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

0466 FIG. 88 shows a schematic illustration of storage can for example comprise glass or a plastic or consist thereof.
furniture in accordance with a further exemplary embodi By way of example, the Substrate used can be a thin glass
ment, lamina or a flexible plastic film which comprises or consists
0467 FIGS. 89A to 89E shows schematic illustrations of of one of the plastic materials presented in the general part of
storage furniture in accordance with further exemplary the description.
embodiments. 0474. The first electrode 2 on the substrate is also embod
0468. In the exemplary embodiments and figures, identi ied as transmissive to visible light. The first electrode 2 can for
cal or identically acting constituent parts are in each case example consist of or comprise a TCO. The organic material
provided with the same reference symbols. The elements of the organic layer stack 4 is generally embodied as trans
illustrated should not be regarded as true to scale; rather, missive to visible light. In particular, in the present case the
individual elements may be illustrated with an exaggerated doped layer is embodied as transmissive to visible light. The
size for the sake of a better understanding. organic layer stack 4 can comprise for example the layers of
0469 FIG.1 shows a schematic sectional illustration of an the organic layer stack in FIG. 1. The second electrode 3 is
organic layer stack 4 between a first electrode 2 and a second likewise embodied as transmissive to visible light, in particu
electrode 3 in accordance with one exemplary embodiment. lar to a light generated by the organic layer stack 4. The
The first electrode is embodied as transmissive to visible light second electrode 3 is preferably embodied as the cathode. The
and comprises a TCO (transparent conductive oxide), for latter can comprise a metallic layer, for example, which con
example ITO (indium tin oxide). Furthermore, the first elec tains aluminum or silver and has a thickness of approximately
trode 2 serves as an anode. The second electrode 3 serves as a 30 nm.
cathode in the present case. It comprises an aluminum or 0475. Furthermore, an electrode 2, 3 embodied as trans
silver, for example. missive to visible light can comprise a conductive organic
0470 An organic layer stack 4 having the following layers material or consist thereof. In this case, by way of example,
is applied on the first electrode 2, wherein the order of the PEDOT:PSS is suitable as organic electrode material. In this
layers that is presented below corresponds to their order case, PEDOT:PSS can form the anode, for example. In the
within the organic layer stack starting from the cathode: a case of a suitable conductivity doping, however, it is also
1-TNATA layer (1-TNATA=44'4"-tris(N(naphth-1-yl)-N- possible for the cathode to consist of PEDOT:PSS or to con
phenylamino)triphenylamine) having a thickness of approxi tain this material.
mately 40 nm, an sp-TAD layer (spTAD-2.2",7,7-dipheny 0476 Should the conductivity of the electrode material, in
lamino-spiro-9.9'-bifluorene) having a thickness of particular of the organic material, not suffice to inject enough
approximately 20 nm, SEB-010:SEB020 layer having a charge carriers into the organic layer stack, then thin metal
thickness of approximately 10 nm, a TMM-004:Ir(ppy)3 tracks can be arranged between the electrode and the organic
(15%) layer (Irppy-fac-tris(2-phenylpyridyl)iridium com layer stack.
plex) having a thickness of approximately 10 nm and TMM 0477 FIG. 2B shows a schematic perspective illustration
04:TER012 layer having a thickness of approximately 30 nm. of an electrode 2 in accordance with one exemplary embodi
The present organic layer stack is suitable for emitting white ment, which has a layer comprising organic conductive mate
light. rial and thin metal tracks 201 which are arranged between the
0471 FIG. 2A shows a schematic sectional illustration of organic electrode layer 202 and the organic layer stack 4. FIG.
aluminous means inaccordance with one exemplary embodi 2C shows a schematic sectional illustration along the line AA
ment. The luminous means comprises a Substrate 1 having a in FIG. 2B.
first main surface 101, to which the first electrode 2 is applied 0478. The metal tracks 201 are embodied in the form of a
within an active region 5 of the substrate 1. Arranged on the grid in the case of the present exemplary embodiment. The
first electrode 2 is an organic layer stack 4 having at least one thickness of the metal tracks is preferably a few um. The
layer 401 suitable for generating light, the second electrode 3 distance between directly adjacent grid points is in this case
being applied to said stack. In the present case, the first preferably between 1 mm and 100mm, inclusive of the limits.
electrode 2 on the substrate 1 is the anode and the second 0479. Furthermore, the electrically conductive tracks 201
electrode 3 on the organic layer stack 4 is the cathode. The have a multilayer construction, for example comprising three
organic layer stack 4 has, on its outer side facing the cathode, metallic tracks, as shown in FIG. 2C. The two outer tracks
a doped layer 402 comprising a dopant 410 that functions as 2011, 2012 are protective layers for the middle layer 2013, for
an electron donor. The injection of electrons from the cathode instance against corrosion. They can for example comprise
into the organic layer stack is advantageously increased chromium, molybdenum, copper or silver or consist of one of
thereby. By way of example, cesium, barium or lithium fluo these materials. The middle layer 2013 of the multilayer
ride can be used as dopant 410. construction can for example comprise aluminum or consist
0472. Furthermore, the luminous means in accordance of aluminum.
with FIG. 2A comprises a thin-film encapsulation 6. The 0480. In this case, the multilayer construction has a thick
active region 5 with the organic layer stack 4 is arranged ness of preferably at least 50 nm and at most 100 nm.
within the thin-film encapsulation 6. The thin-film encapsu 0481 Furthermore, the thin-film encapsulation 6 of the
lation 6 is applied directly to the second electrode 3. A thin luminous means inaccordance with FIG. 2A is also embodied
film encapsulation Such as can be used for example in the case as transmissive to visible light, in particular to a light gener
of the luminous means in FIG. 2A is described for example in ated by the organic layer stack 4. A schematic sectional illus
conjunction with FIG. 3. tration through a thin-film encapsulation 6 Such as can be used
0473. The luminous means in accordance with FIG. 2A is for example in accordance with FIG. 2A is shown in FIG. 3.
embodied as transmissive to visible light, in particular to a The thin-film encapsulation 6 comprises here in each case two
light generated by the organic layer stack 4. For this purpose, first barrier layers 601, which comprise silicon oxide or con
the substrate 1 is embodied as transmissive to visible light. It sist of silicon oxide, and two second barrier layers 602, which
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010
26

comprise silicon nitride or consist of silicon nitride. In this nected to the further electrode structure 901 for example by
case, the first barrier layers 601 and the second barrier layers means of a plated-through hole 900.
602 of the thin-film encapsulation 6 are arranged alternately 0488 Within the fixing region 8, an adhesive layer 610 is
with regard to their material composition. The thin-film arranged above the electrical leads 9, said adhesive layer
encapsulation 6 preferably has a thickness of between 0.5 and being used to fix a cap, serving as encapsulation 6, on the
5um, inclusive of the limits. substrate. The cap has a cavity above the active region 5 in
0482. The barrier layers can for example be vapor-depos which the active layer stack 4 is arranged. In the present case,
ited, sputtered or deposited by means of a plasma-enhanced the cap is not in direct contact with the second electrode 3.
process Such as chemical vapor deposition (CVD) on the Furthermore, the cap, like the substrate 1, the first electrode 2
second electrode. The barrier layers preferably have a thick and the second electrode 3 and also the organic layer stack 4,
ness of in each case at least 30 nm to at most 300 nm. is likewise embodied as transmissive to visible light, in par
Particularly preferably, an individual barrier layer is approxi ticular to a light generated by the organic layer Stack 4. It can
mately 100 nm thick. Preferably, a thin-film encapsulation be formed for example from glass or one of the light-trans
comprises at least two to at most eight barrier layers. Typi missive plastics already mentioned in connection with the
cally, the thin-film encapsulation comprises three or four Substrate 1 in the general part of the description.
barrier layers. 0489. A getter layer 611 is applied on the inner side of the
0483 The thin-film encapsulation can furthermore com cap facing the organic layer stack, said getter layer being
prise polymer interlayers such as are described further below embodied as transmissive to visible light. By way of example,
in the text with reference to FIG. 17. one of the materials described above can be used as getter
0484 Furthermore, a protective lacquer layer 603 is material. In particular, particles of a getter material—for
applied to the barrier layers. The protective lacquer layer 603 example calcium oxide—which are embedded into a trans
can be applied for example by means of spin-coating, spray parent matrix are Suitable for a transparent getter layer 611.
ing, blade coating, Screen-printing or similar techniques. By way of example, solvent-free, curable plastic materials are
After application, the protective lacquer layer 603 is cured by suitable for the matrix. The getter layer 611 preferably has a
supplying heat or UV radiation. Suitable materials for the thickness of at most 300 um, particularly preferably between
protective lacquer layer 603 include acrylates, polacrylates, at least 50 and at most 100 um.
polyimides and similar materials. The thickness of the pro 0490 The electrical leads 9 on the substrate 1 are electri
tective lacquer layer is for example between at least 30 and at cally conductively connected to a controller 11 in the present
most 40 um. CaS.
0485 The luminous means in FIG. 2A is suitable for emit 0491 FIG. 4B shows a schematic plan view of the sub
ting light simultaneously from a top side and from an under strate 1 in accordance with FIG. 4A. The first electrode 2 and
side lying opposite the top side, since the light generated in the further electrode structure 901 are arranged within the
the organic layer stack 4, on the way to the top side and to the active region 5. Electrical leads 9 are in each case situated
underside, only passes through elements which are embodied laterally with respect to the active region 5 within the fixing
as transmissive to visible light. region 8, said electrical leads being embodied in grid-type
0486 FIG. 4A shows a schematic sectional illustration of fashion in the present case. The electrical leads on one side of
a luminous means in accordance with a further exemplary the substrate 1 are continuations of the further electrodestruc
embodiment. The luminous means in accordance with FIG. ture 901, while the electrical leads 9 on the other side of the
4A has a Substrate 1 having an active region 5, to which a first substrate are continuations of the first electrode 2. The elec
electrode 2 is applied. Arranged on the first electrode 2 is an trical leads in the present case comprise a TCO, for example
organic layer stack 4 having at least one layer 401 Suitable for ITO.
generating light. A further, second electrode 3 is arranged on 0492 Furthermore, it is also possible for the electrical
the organic layer stack 4. The substrate, the first electrode and leads 9 to comprise a metal or to consist thereof. By way of
the second electrode and also the organic layer stack are in the example, the leads 9 contain or consist of at least one of the
present case embodied as transmissive to visible light, in following materials or material combinations: Cr/Al/Cr,
particular to a light generated by the organic layer stack 4, as
already described for example with reference to FIG. 2A. Cu/Cr, Mo/Al/Mo; Cr, Cu, Al, Ag, Au, Pt.
0487. The active region 5 of the substrate 1, on which the 0493 If the electrical leads 9 comprise a metal, then the
organic layer stack 4 is arranged between the first 2 and the degree of filling of the grid is generally chosen to be so low
second 3 electrode, is surrounded by a fixing region. Within that the electrical leads are not perceived by an observer. In
the fixing region 8, the Substrate 1 comprises electrically this way, the electrical leads 9 can advantageously be embod
conductive leads 9 which are electrically conductively con ied as transmissive to visible light. In this case, the degree of
nected to the first electrode 2 and the second electrode 3. The filling of the grid is preferably less than 10%, particularly
leads 9 to the first electrode 2 can be for example structures of preferably less than 2%.
the first electrode 2 which are lengthened right into the fixing 0494 The electrical leads 9 are electrically conductively
region 8. In this case, the electrical leads generally comprise connected to electrical connection locations 70, in the present
the same material as the first electrode 2. In the present case, case pins 75, which are arranged laterally with respect to the
the leads 9 to the second electrode 3 are electrically conduc substrate 1. By means of the pins 75, the luminous means can
tively connected to a further electrode structure 901, which is be electrically contact-connected to a socket or, as illustrated
electrically insulated from the first electrode 2, within the in FIG. 4A, be connected to the controller 11.
active region 5 of the substrate 1, for example by the leads 9 0495 FIG. 4C shows a schematic sectional illustration of
likewise being formed by lengthening of the further electrode aluminous means 100 in accordance with a further exemplary
structure 901 into the fixing region 8. The second electrode 3 embodiment. FIG. 4D shows a schematic plan view of the
on the organic layer stack 4 is electrically conductively con substrate of the luminous means in accordance with FIG. 4C.
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010
27

The luminous means 100 corresponds to the luminous means for the first electrode 2 to be applied to the substrate over the
in FIGS. 4A and 4B apart from the differences described whole area and for the second electrode 3 to be applied to the
below. organic layer stack 4 in the form which is intended to embody
0496. In contrast to the luminous means in FIGS. 4A and the luminous Surface of the luminous means. A second glass
4B, the organic layer Stack 4 has no plated-through hole. pane as encapsulation 6 is applied to the second electrode 3.
Furthermore, the substrate comprises no further electrode In this case, the dimensions of the encapsulation 6 are pref
Structure. erably chosen to be identical to the dimensions of the sub
0497. Instead, the first electrode 2 is embodied over the strate 1. This gives rise to a glazing having a luminous means
whole area below the organic layer stack 4 within the active 100 whose luminous surface is embodied in the desired man
region 5 on the substrate 1. Electrical leads 9 which are ner, for example in the form of a lettering or a logo.
electrically conductively connected to the first electrode 2 are 0502. The second glass pane, serving as encapsulation 6.
arranged on one side of the active region 5 within the fixing can be fixed on the substrate for example by means of an
region. These electrical leads 9 can be for example continued adhesive layer 610 that is transmissive to visible light. In this
structures of the first electrode 2. On the other side, electrical case, the adhesive layer 610 can be applied to the substrate
leads 9 which are not electrically connected to the first elec and to the second glass pane over the whole area, or only
trode 2 are fitted on the substrate 1. Furthermore, the electrical within a fixing region 8 outside the active region 5.
leads on this side comprise a bonding pad 903, on which is 0503 Contact can be made with the active region 5 for
arranged a bonding wire 902 that is electrically conductively example by means of electrically conductive leads 9 such as
connected to the second electrode 3. have been described with reference to FIGS. 4A to 4D.
0498 FIG. 5A shows a schematic illustration through a 0504 FIG. 6 shows a schematic perspective view of a door
luminous means 100 in accordance with a further exemplary 300 in accordance with one exemplary embodiment. The
embodiment. The luminous means 100 comprises a window door 300 has two door leaves 301 embodied as transmissive to
glazing as Substrate 1. A first electrode 2 is applied on the visible light. They comprise glass for example or are formed
Substrate, and an organic layer stack 4 having at least one from glass. A luminous means 100 embodied as transmissive
layer 401 suitable for generating light is furthermore applied to visible light is integrated into each door leaf 301. With the
to said first electrode. The organic layer stack 4 can be for aid of the luminous means 100, which in the present case each
example a layer stack 4 Such as has already been described have a luminous Surface that respectively forms an inscrip
with reference to FIG.1. A second electrode 3 is applied to the tion, it is possible to integrate luminous signs in doors 300.
organic layer stack 4. As encapsulation 6, the luminous means Such doors 300 having luminous signs can be used for
in accordance with FIG. 5A comprises a second window example in museums, conference centers, hotels or the like.
glazing, which is adhesively bonded onto the second elec In the present case, the luminous means can either be inte
trode 3 by means of an adhesive layer 610. A suitable adhesive grated into the door 300, as already described with reference
is a transparent adhesive, for example. This adhesive is pref to FIGS.5A and 58, or the luminous means 100 can also be
erably likewise embodied as transmissive to visible light. flexible luminous means which are embodied as transmissive
Examples of suitable adhesives include Nagase or Three to visible light and are fitted on the door by means of an
Bond. adhesive layer, for example. A flexible luminous means Suit
0499 Substrate 1, electrodes 2, 3, encapsulation 6, organic able for being adhesively attached is described for example in
layer stack 4 and adhesive layer 610 are embodied as trans conjunction with FIG. 9.
missive to visible light. The luminous means 100 is therefore 0505 If the luminous means 100 are integrated into the
suitable for emitting light from its top side 100A and its door 300, then electrical leads 9 such as have already been
underside 100B. Furthermore, an observer can see through described for example in conjunction with FIGS. 4A to 4D
the luminous means 100 when it is not in operation. The can be applied on the substrate 1, that is to say the window
luminous means is therefore Suitable for being used as glaz glazing on which the first electrode 2 is applied. The electrical
ing for example in doors, windows, room dividers, furniture leads 9 can be electrically conductively connected for
or the like, wherein the glazing can serve as an illumination example to connection locations 70 which are embodied as
SOUC. parts of the door hinges, wherein the electrically conductive
0500 FIG. 5B shows a schematic illustration of the con parts run within the door hinges. For their part, the door
struction of a luminous means 100 which is embodied such hinges can be connected to electrical cables running within
that it is substantially transmissive to visible light and is the door frame.
integrated into the glazing. In the present case, a glass pane (0506 Furthermore, FIG. 6 shows emergency lighting 395,
having an active region 5, to which a first electrode 2 is which comprises a luminous means 100 described here or an
applied, serves as the Substrate 1. In the present case, the illumination device 1000 described here. The emergency
electrode is likewise embodied as transmissive to visible light lighting 395 is activated in the event of a power failure, for
and comprises a TCO, for example ITO. In order to represent example, and comprises an autonomous power Supply or is
specific forms, for example a lettering or a logo, the first Supplied with the necessary operating current by an emer
electrode 2 is structured in accordance with the desired form, gency power unit. The luminous means 100 and illumination
in the present case in the lettering “Info 1. devices 1000 described here are particularly well suited to use
0501. Within the active region, an organic layer stack 4, for as emergency lighting since they can generate light of Suffi
example such as has already been described in FIG. 1, is cient brightness with a relatively low power consumption.
applied to the first electrode. A second electrode 3, which is 0507 FIG. 7 shows a schematic perspective illustration of
likewise transmissive to visible light and in the present case a display window in accordance with one exemplary embodi
serves as a cathode, is applied to the organic layer stack. The ment comprising four luminous means 100 which are embod
second electrode 3 is applied to the organic layer stack 4 over ied as transmissive to visible light. With the luminous means
the whole area. It is furthermore also conceivable, however, it is possible to display trade names “Trademark 1 and
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010
28

“Trademark 2' and logos “Logo 1 and “Logo 2. As already which can be darkened by applying an electrical Voltage are
described in connection with FIGS.5A and 5B, the luminous also appropriate in addition to a PDLC shutter.
means 100 can be luminous means which are integrated into 0514 FIG. 11 shows a schematic perspective illustration
the glazing of the display window, or a flexible luminous of a room with a room divider in accordance with one exem
means which is adhesively bonded onto the inner side of the plary embodiment. The room divider 330 has two room
glazing by means of an adhesive layer. divider elements 331 comprising a glazing within a frame,
0508 FIG. 8 shows a schematic front view of a motor wherein the glazing comprises aluminous means 100 embod
vehicle 310 in accordance with one exemplary embodiment. ied as transmissive to visible light. The luminous means 100
In this case, two luminous means 100 are integrated into a is either integrated into the glazing, as described for example
window 20, for example the windshield, said luminous means in conjunction with FIGS.5A and 5B, or adhesively bonded
being embodied as transmissive to visible light and being onto the glazing. On account of their illumination function,
suitable for representing information “Info 1 and “Info 2' the room divider elements 331 can advantageously be used to
for the driver. As an alternative, it is also possible—as already illuminate room regions which are separated by the room
described in connection with FIGS. 7 and 6—for the two divider.
luminous means 100 to be embodied inflexible fashion and to 0515. In the present case, the room divider 330 is con
be adhesively bonded onto the windshield from inside. structed in modular fashion. It comprises two room divider
0509 FIG. 8 furthermore shows motor vehicle interior elements 331, which can be connected to one another by plug
lighting 396. The motor vehicle interior lighting is formed for connections. For this purpose, the frame of the room divider
example by a luminous means 100 described here or an illu element comprises a sleeve 332 on one of its side surfaces,
mination device 1000 described here. said sleeve being embodied for example in the manner of a
0510 FIG.9 shows a schematic perspective illustration of cylinder. That side surface of the frame which lies opposite
a museum room, the ceiling elements 320 of which comprise the side surface with the sleeve 332 is provided with pins 333
a glazing. The glazing of a ceiling element has, over part of embodied in such away that they can be fitted into the sleeves
the area or over the whole area, a luminous means 100 or an 332. By inserting the pins of one room divider element into
illumination device 1000 which is transmissive to visible the sleeves of a further room divider element, it is possible for
light. The glazing can be for example a glazing having an two room divider elements 331 respectively to be connected
integrated luminous means 100 Such as has already been to one another. In this case, in particular, an electrical con
described with reference to FIGS.5A and 5B. As an alterna nection of the room divider elements 331 by means of the
tive, the luminous means can also be applied to the inner side sleeves 332 and the pins 333 is also possible. The room
of the glazing, for example by adhesive bonding. divider 330 forms a large-area illumination device.
0511. The glazing of the ceiling elements of the museum 0516 FIG. 12 shows a schematic sectional illustration of a
room in accordance with FIG. 9 is therefore suitable for display in accordance with one exemplary embodiment. The
enabling the room to be illuminated by means of daylight display 335 can be for example the display of a television, of
during the day. Under poor light conditions, for example an LCD screen, of an OLED screen, or of a plasma screen.
during the night, the luminous means 100 of the glazing can The front glass pane of the display is used as a Substrate 1 for
be used as additional light sources for the room. a luminous means embodied as transmissive to visible light.
0512. The glazing of the ceiling elements of the museum The first electrode 2 is applied to the front glass pane, which
room in FIG.9 can furthermore be configured in milky fash first electrode comprises a TCO and is therefore embodied as
ion. For this purpose, either the glazing serving as Substrate or transmissive to visible light. An organic layer stack 4 such as
the glazing serving as encapsulation or both is or are embod has been described for example with reference to FIG. 1 is
ied in milky fashion. applied on the first electrode 2. A second electrode 3, in the
present case likewise comprising a TCO, is applied to said
0513 FIG.10 shows a schematic sectional illustration of a organic layer stack.
luminous means 100 in accordance with one exemplary 0517. By way of example, one of the following TCO mate
embodiment. In the case of the luminous means 100 in accor
dance with FIG. 10, encapsulation 6 and substrate 1 are rials is particularly suitable as TCO for the cathode: ITO,
embodied as glazing, as for example in the case of the lumi ATO, Zinc oxide.
nous means in accordance with FIGS. 5A and 5B. Such a 0518. A further glass plate as encapsulation 6 is applied to
glazing can serve for example as a window pane of a window the second electrode 3. It can be adhesively bonded onto the
20, but also of a door 300 orofanitem or furniture. During the second electrode 3 by means of an adhesive layer 610, for
day, Such a glazing can be used as a window 20, that is to say example. In the present case, the organic layers are embodied
that visible light from outside can penetrate into the room in Such away that the emission from the organic layer Stack is
unhindered. At night, the luminous means 100 can be acti predominantly effected through the encapsulating glass pane.
vated, such that the glazing serves as an illumination Source In the present case, the luminous means 100 integrated into
for the room. Furthermore, on the outer side of the glazing a the front pane of the display 335 can be used as an illumina
mirrored louver 22 is provided which serves for protecting the tion source in the switched-off state of the display. For this
private sphere and which prevents uninvited looks from out purpose, the luminous means is preferably embodied in dim
side from being able to penetrate. In addition, the mirrored mable fashion. In the switched-off state of the luminous
louver 22 is suitable for reflecting light emitted by the lumi means, the content of the display 335 can be perceived by an
nous means 100. The degree of utilization of the light emitted observer since the luminous means is embodied as transmis
by the luminous means 100 is advantageously increased on sive to visible light.
account of the back-reflection by the mirrored louver 22. 0519 FIG. 12B shows a schematic plan view of a televi
Furthermore, it is also possible for the louver 22 to be a sion set 336 comprising a display 335 such as has been
traditional louver or a PDLC shutter. Other types of glass described in conjunction with FIG. 12A.
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010
29

0520 FIG. 13A shows a schematic perspective illustration sequence comprises a copper layer 337b, a silver layer 337a
of shelving 340 in accordance with one exemplary embodi and a protective lacquer layer 337c, wherein the silver layer
ment. FIG. 13B shows an excerpt from FIG. 13A. The shelv 337a is applied to the substrate 1, the copper layer 337b is
ing 340 comprises two side parts having rods 83 which are applied to that side of the silver layer 337a which is remote
embodied as hollow in the interior and comprise electrical from the Substrate, and the protective lacquer layer is applied
cables. The side parts having the rods 83 form a rod system to the copper layer 337b. Since the reflective layer sequence
such as is also described with reference to FIG. 68, for is formed along the underside 100b of the luminous means
example. Said rods 83 are provided for carrying shelves 341 100, the luminous means 100 can no longer emit light from
of the shelving. For this purpose, the shelves 341 of the the underside, but rather only from its top side 100a. Further
shelving each comprise mounts 342 which are correspond more, the reflective element reflects light that passes through
ingly shaped at the sides. In the present case, in a manner the first electrode 2 and the substrate 1 in the direction of the
corresponding to the rods of the side parts of the shelving, top side 100a of the luminous means 100.
said mounts are embodied after the manner of a cut-open 0523. As an alternative to the above-described layer
cylinder. However, it is also conceivable for the rods 83 and sequence comprising a silver layer, a copper layer and a
the mounts 342 to be embodied in cornered fashion. The protective lacquer layer, the reflective element 337 used can
shelves 341 of the shelving in the present case comprise a also be for example a dielectric mirror which like the layer
frame 343 into which is introduced a glazing comprising a sequence above is applied to the outer side of the Substrate.
luminous means 100 transmissive to visible light. For making 0524. The reflective element 337, such as a reflective layer
electrical contact, the mounts 342 of the shelves of the shelv sequence or a dielectric mirror, can for example furthermore
ing comprise in the present case a pin 71 which is inserted into be applied on the outer side of the encapsulation 6 or be
an electrically conductive cutout 73 within the rods 83, as applied between substrate 1 and first electrode 2 and between
illustrated in FIG. 13B. The rods 83 of the side parts are encapsulation 6 and second electrode 3. If the reflective ele
preferably embodied in hollow fashion. Thus, the cables used ment is arranged on the outer side of the encapsulation 6 or
for making contact with the plugs can be guided within the between encapsulation 6 and second electrode 3, then the
rods. Shelves of shelving as exhibited by the shelving 340 in luminous means 100 emits light from its underside 100b.
accordance with FIG. 13B can for example also be used in 0525 Aluminous means 100 such as is illustrated in FIG.
display cabinets or other items of furniture and storage fur 15 permits, in particular, this luminous means to serve as a
niture. mirror when the luminous means is deactivated and as an
0521 FIG.14 shows a schematic sectional illustration of a illumination source during the operation of the luminous
reflective display 335. A reflective display 335 comprises a means 100. In the case of such a luminous means 100, the
reflective element 337, on which pixels 338 are arranged, on entire light-emitting front side 100a can either serve as illu
its rear side. Reflective displays 335 do not require backlight mination or serve as a mirror. Furthermore, it is also possible
ing, but rather reflect ambient light on account of the reflec for the entire light-emitting front side 100a to serve as illu
tive element 337 in such away that the display content can be mination and as a mirror. Furthermore, the light-emitting
represented. Therefore, reflective displays 335 are dependent front side 100a can also be divided into regions, such that one
on the ambient light. They can no longer be read in the dark. part of the light-emitting front side 100a serves as a mirror
Aluminous means transmissive to visible light, as described and a further part serves as an illumination source.
with reference to FIG. 5A, for example, is applied to the 0526. By way of example, the luminous means can, how
radiation-emitting front side 335A of the reflective display ever, also be embodied in such a way that it emits light both
335. Said luminous means is embodied in the present case in from its front side 100a and from its rear side 100b. Using the
Such a way that it predominantly emits radiation in the direc so-called cavity effect, for example, it is possible for light
tion of the reflective element. Forbetter color rendering, the having different light properties to emerge from different
luminous means 100 can be slightly colored, for example in sides of the luminous means in this case. Aluminous means of
the color of a light magenta. For this purpose, by way of this type is described for example in German patent applica
example, the encapsulation 6 or the substrate 1 or both is or tion 102006046196.7, the disclosure content of which is
are colored in the desired color. The luminous means is pref hereby expressly incorporated by reference.
erably fitted with an index matching material on the front side 0527 FIG.16 shows a schematic sectional illustration of a
335a of the reflective display in order to avoid reflections. If luminous means 100 in accordance with a further exemplary
the luminous means can be varied in color, for example in embodiment. The following elements of the luminous means
such a way that the color space RGB is covered, and if the 100 are embodied as transmissive to visible light: encapsula
reflective display 335 can furthermore be switched rapidly tion 6. Substrate 1, first electrode 2 and organic layer stack 4.
enough, time-sequential operation in RGB is also possible. The Substrate 1 used can be for example a glass plate or a
During this time-sequential operation, the display is prefer plastic film which is embodied as transmissive to visible light.
ably operated with frequencies of at least 70 Hz, particularly 0528. The first electrode 2 can beformed from a TCO, for
preferably at least 100 Hz. example.
0522 FIG.15 shows a schematic sectional illustration of a 0529. The organic layer stack 4 can be a layer stack such as
luminous means 100 in accordance with one exemplary has already been described with reference to FIG. 1.
embodiment. The electrodes 2, 3, the substrate 1, the encap 0530. The encapsulation 6 can be for example a glass cap,
Sulation 6 and the organic layer stack 4 are embodied as a glass plate, a plastic cap or a plastic plate.
transmissive to visible light, in particular to the light gener 0531. Furthermore, a getter material can be applied on the
ated by the organic layer stack 4. A reflective element 337, inner side of the cap or plate that faces the organic layer stack
which is a reflective layer sequence in the present case, is 4, said getter material likewise being embodied as transmis
applied to the outer side of the substrate 1, which can be sive to visible light. Furthermore, the encapsulation 6 can be
formed by a glass plate, for example. The reflective layer a thin-film encapsulation having at least one barrier layer. The
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010
30

barrier layer can for example consist of SiOx or SiNx or thin-film encapsulation 6 in accordance with FIG. 17C has a
comprise one of these materials. Furthermore, the thin-film reflective element 337, for example a reflective layer
encapsulation 6 can also have first and second barrier layers sequence Such as has already been described with reference
601, 602, which alternate with regard to their material com FIG. 15. The reflective layer sequence comprises a silver
position. Polymer interlayers, for example, can be arranged layer 337a applied to the outermost barrier layer 602. A
between the alternating barrier layers; in this respect, also see copper layer 337b is applied to the silver layer 337a, and a
FIG. 3, for example. protective lacquer layer 337c is in turn arranged on said
0532 FIG. 17a shows a schematic sectional illustration of copper layer. On account of the reflective layer sequence, the
a thin-film encapsulation 6 comprising alternating barrier thin-film encapsulation is embodied in reflective fashion and
layers 601, 602, wherein a polymer interlayer 604 is fitted in can be used as a reflective encapsulation.
each case between two adjacent barrier layers having differ 0538 A further possibility for embodying a luminous
ent material compositions. The barrier interlayers can be for means 100 in which it is possible to switch back and forth
example two barrier layers 601 comprising SiOx and two between mirror function and illumination function consists in
barrier layers 602 comprising SiNx, such as have already the substrate 1 being embodied in reflective fashion, while the
been described in conjunction with FIG. 3. As in the case of other elements of the luminous means, through which the
the exemplary embodiment in accordance with FIG. 3, the light generated in the organic layer stack 4 has to pass on the
barrier layers 601, 602 are arranged in alternating fashion way to the light-emitting front side 100a, in particular the
with regard to their material composition, that it to say that second electrode 3, the organic layer Stack 4 and the encap
first barrier layers 601 alternate with second barrier layers sulation 6, are embodied as transmissive to visible light. A
602 within the thin-film encapsulation 6, wherein the first and reflective Substrate 1 can for example comprise metal or con
the second barrier layers 601, 602 have different material sist of a metal. By way of example, a metal film, Such as a
compositions. In contrast to the thin-film encapsulation 6 in high-grade steel film, can be used as the reflective substrate 1.
accordance with FIG. 3, however, the barrier layers 601, 602 In particular, a mirror can be used as the substrate. Further
are separated from one another by polymer interlayers 604. more, a laminate composed of plastic films onto which a
0533. As an alternative to the use of a separate reflective metal film—for example composed of aluminum is lami
element 337, such as, for example, of the above-described nated is suitable as a reflective substrate. Furthermore, the
reflective layer sequence or of the dielectric mirror, the sec Substrate can be a glass Substrate coated in reflective fashion.
ond electrode 3 of the luminous means in accordance with 0539. As an alternative or in addition to a reflective sub
FIG. 16 is embodied as reflective to visible light. For this strate 1, the first electrode 2 can also be embodied in reflective
purpose, the second electrode 3 comprises aluminum or silver fashion. Such an electrode can for example comprise one of
for example or consists of one of these materials. A luminous the following materials or consist thereof: aluminum, silver.
means of this type is likewise Suitable for being used as a 0540 Furthermore, it is also possible for the thin-film
mirror and/oran illumination source, like the luminous means encapsulation 6 perse to form a dielectric mirror or a Bragg
in accordance with FIG. 15. mirror. The material of the first and the second barrier layers
0534. In order to obtain aluminous means which can serve 601, 602 and also the thickness of these layers are then chosen
as a mirror and/or as an illumination source and does not have accordingly.
an additional reflective element, it is also possible for the 0541 FIG. 18A shows a perspective schematic illustration
second electrode 3 to be embodied as transmissive to visible of a motor vehicle mirror 315 comprising a luminous means
light, for example by a TCO being used as electrode material, 100 in the case of which it is possible to change over between
and for the encapsulation 6, the substrate 1 or the first elec the illumination function and mirror function, as described
trode 2 to be embodied in reflective fashion instead. for example in conjunction with FIGS. 15 to 17C. In the
0535 A reflective encapsulation 6 can be a polished metal present case, the luminous means has a luminous Surface
cap, for example. embodied in accordance with the lettering “Info 1. For this
0536 FIG. 17B shows a schematic sectional illustration purpose, one of the electrodes 2, 3 can be structured, as
through a reflective encapsulation 6 in accordance with one described with reference to FIG.SB. In contrast to FIG.SB,
exemplary embodiment. This involves a cap which has either however, the luminous means 100 in accordance with FIG.
already been embodied in reflective fashion, for example by 18A has a reflective element 337, for example an additional
being formed from a polished metal, or a cap which is not reflective layer sequence. Furthermore, one of the elements of
embodied in reflective fashion. A reflective element 337, for the luminous means 100, for example one of the electrodes 2.
example a reflective layer, is applied to the inner side of the 3, the substrate 1 or the encapsulation 6, can also be embodied
cap that faces the organic layer stack 4. The reflective layer on in reflective fashion, as described above. In this way, logos,
the inner side of the cap can be for example a metallic layer symbols or other information can be displayed in luminous
which for instance comprises silver or consists of silver. Fur fashion as desired against the background of a mirror Surface.
thermore, the reflective layer can also have a plurality of With the aid of these luminous means 100, for example warn
layers. Furthermore, a getter layer 611 composed of a getter ings, such as distance messages when parking, for instance,
material embodied as transmissive to visible light is applied could be inserted in the motor vehicle mirror 315.
on the reflective layer. 0542 FIG. 18B shows a schematic perspective illustration
0537 FIG. 17C shows a schematic sectional illustration of the motor vehicle mirror 315 in accordance with FIG. 18A.
through a thin-film encapsulation 6 in accordance with a A mirror is used as the substrate 1 in the case of the motor
further exemplary embodiment. Like the thin-film encapsu vehicle mirror. The substrate 1 is connected to a holder. A first
lation 6 in accordance with FIG. 17A, the thin-film encapsu electrode 2 is applied within an active region 5 on the sub
lation 6 has alternating barrier layers 601, 602 separated from strate. The first electrode 2 is embodied as transmissive to
one another by polymer interlayers 604. In contrast to the visible light, for example by being formed from a TCO.
thin-film encapsulation 6 in accordance with FIG. 17A, the Furthermore, the first electrode 2 is structured in accordance
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

with the lettering “Info 1'. An organic layer stack 4 is applied case of which it is possible to switchback and forth between
to the structured first electrode 2, said stack being transmis mirroring and illuminating function. Under poor visibility
sive to visible light. Furthermore, the second electrode 3 is conditions, the luminous means can be activated. Under low
applied to the organic layer stack 4, said second electrode light, therefore, the make-up mirror 355 can be used simul
likewise being embodied as transmissive to visible light. A taneously as a cosmetic mirror and as face illumination. The
glass plate is used as encapsulation 6, said glass plate being luminous means 100 can comprise a part or virtually the
fitted above the second electrode. The organic layer stack 4 entire mirror Surface.
and the second electrode 3 are applied over the whole area 0548 FIG.23 shows a schematic plan view of a decorative
within the active region 5. In order that the luminous means element 360 in accordance with one exemplary embodiment.
100 has aluminous surface which is structured in accordance In the present case, the decorative element 360 is embodied as
with a lettering, it is sufficient to structure the first electrode 2. a flashing Christmas Star. A basic Surface of the staris embod
The use of a mirror as the substrate 1 permits the luminous ied in mirroring fashion, wherein luminous means in the case
means to be integrated into the motor vehicle mirror 315 in a of which it is possible to switch back and forth between
simple manner. reflective and illuminating function are introduced into partial
0543 FIG. 19 shows a schematic perspective illustration regions of the star. These luminous means can for example
of a multi-part mirror 345 in accordance with one exemplary also be embodied in colored fashion. In this case, multicol
embodiment. Such a mirror can be used for example as a bath ored luminous means 100 can also be involved, in particular,
or wardrobe mirror. The mirror 345 comprises a central part such as are described further below.
345a and two pivotable side wings 345b (indicated by arrows 0549 FIG. 24 shows a schematic perspective illustration
in the figure) arranged laterally with respect to the central of a mirror 365 in accordance with a further exemplary
part. The side wings 345b each comprise a luminous means embodiment. In the present case, the mirror 365 is provided
100 in the case of which it is possible to change over between for use in the domestic wet sector. In the present case, the
reflective and illuminating function and the luminous Surface mirror has an outer region provided with a luminous means
of which fills the surface of the side wing virtually over the 100 in the case of which it is possible to switchback and forth
whole area in each case. Undergood light conditions, the side between illuminating and mirroring function.
wings 345b can be used as normal mirrors. Under poor light 0550 FIG. 25 shows, in a schematic sectional illustration,
conditions, for example in the dark or at twilight, one of the a luminous means 100 in accordance with one exemplary
two side wings or both side wings 345b of the mirror can be embodiment of a luminous means described here.
Switched on as an illumination source in order to illuminate 0551. The luminous means 100 illustrated in FIG.25 is a
the observer. Furthermore, the illuminated side wings 345b flexible luminous means. The luminous means 100 embodied
can serve as a decorative illumination element. in flexible fashion is distinguished, interalia, by the fact that
0544. Like FIG. 19, FIG. 20 shows a schematic perspec it can be bent to a certain degree without being damaged by
tive illustration of a multi-part mirror 345 in accordance with the bending. Preferably, the luminous means embodied in
a further exemplary embodiment. This mirror is likewise a flexible fashion can be bent repeatedly without being dam
three-part mirror comprising a central part 345a and two side aged in the process. The luminous means is then Suitable,
wings 345b which are arranged laterally with respect to the therefore, for withstanding a plurality of bending cycles with
central part and into which luminous means 100 are intro out being damaged.
duced in the case of which it is possible to switch back and 0552. The luminous means 100 in FIG. 25 comprises a
forth between mirroring and illuminating function. Such a substrate 1. The substrate 1 is a flexible, metallic substrate 1.
mirror can also be used for example as a bath or wardrobe The metallic substrate 1 contains or consists of one of the
mirror. following materials: aluminum, high-grade steel, gold, silver.
0545 FIG. 21 shows a schematic perspective illustration Preferably, the substrate 1 is in this case embodied as a metal
of a search mirror 350 in accordance with one exemplary film having a thickness of at most 1 mm, particularly prefer
embodiment. The search mirror 350 comprises a mirror ele ably at most 0.5 mm. It is furthermore possible for the flex
ment 351 and a holding element 352, to which the mirror ible, metallic substrate 1 to be embodied as medium sheet
element is fixed. In this case, the holding element 352 is metal having a thickness of at least 3 mm and at most 4.75 mm
embodied in bent fashion in order to be able to use the mirror or as fine sheet metal having a thickness of at most 3 mm.
element 351 to inspect locations that are difficult to access. 0553 A first electrode 2 is applied directly to the first main
Such a search mirror can be a dental mirror, for example. surface 101 of the substrate 1. The first electrode 2 is a
0546. The search mirror 350 comprises, on its mirror ele cathode of the luminous means 100, for example.
ment 351, a luminous means 100 in the case of which it is 0554. The cathode is suitable for impressing electrons into
possible to switch back and forth between reflective and illu the organic layer stack that succeeds the cathode. For this
minating function. The luminous means can comprise a part purpose, the cathode comprises a material which is distin
of the mirror surface or virtually the entire mirror surface. It guished by a low work function for electrons. In this case, the
therefore affords the possibility of simultaneously illuminat cathode contains or consists preferably of alkali metals or
ing and inspecting locations that are difficult to access. Such alkaline earth metals. Furthermore, the cathode can comprise
a mirror can also be used in the domestic sector, for example one or a plurality of layers which consist of silver, aluminum
for searching for lost articles behind/under furniture that is and/or platinum or contain at least one of these metals.
difficult to move. 0555. The organic layer stack 4 is preferably applied
0547 FIG. 22 shows a schematic perspective illustration directly to the cathode. The organic layer stack 4 comprises at
of a make-up mirror in accordance with one exemplary least one layer 401 which is suitable for generating light
embodiment. In the present case, the make-up mirror is inte during operation of the luminous means 100.
grated into a cosmetic set, Such as a powder contact. Further 0556. The organic layer stack 4 can comprise further
more, the make-up mirror comprises a luminous means in the organic layers such as, for example, a hole conducting layer
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010
32

409 or an electron conducting layer 408. The electron con 0567 FIG. 26 shows, in a schematic sectional illustration,
ducting layer preferably directly adjoins the cathode. The an exemplary embodiment of a luminous means described
hole conducting layer is arranged on that side of the light here.
generating layer 401 of the layer stack 4 which is remote from 0568. The luminous means 100 described in conjunction
the cathode, and preferably adjoins the anode of the luminous with FIG. 26 is a flexible luminous means. In this case, the
means 100.
0557. A second electrode 3 is preferably arranged directly flexible luminous means 100 is preferably embodied in flex
on the organic layer stack 4. The second electrode 3 is an ible fashion in Such a way that—without being damaged in
anode of the luminous means 100, for example. the process—it can be rolled up onto a roll and can be unrolled
from a roll.
0558. The anode is provided for injecting holes into the
organic layer Stack. The anode comprises a material which 0569. The luminous means 100 comprises a substrate 1.
has a high work function for electrons. Indium tin oxide The substrate 1 is embodied as a plastic film. That is to say
(ITO), for example, is a suitable material for forming the that the substrate 1 has a thickness of at most 1 mm, preferably
anode. at most 0.5 mm, particularly preferably of between at least 50
0559) A planarization layer 7 is preferably applied directly and at most 500 um, for example 250 um, and contains or
to the second electrode 3. The planarization layer 7 consists of consists of a plastic. Suitable plastics include, interalia, PE,
or contains an organic material. polyimide and similar plastics.
0560. In accordance with the exemplary embodiment (0570. A first electrode 2 is preferably applied directly to
described in conjunction with FIG. 25, additional scattering the first main surface 101 of the substrate 1, said first electrode
centers 701 are introduced into the planarization layer. The preferably being transmissive to visible light. That is to say
scattering centers 701 can be for example particles of at least that the first electrode 2 as described further above is
one of the following materials: luminescence conversion embodied such that it is at least partly transmissive to the light
material, color filter material, diffuser material. By way of generated by the luminous means during operation. For this
example, the materials already mentioned in the general part purpose, the first electrode 2 can consist of a light-transmis
of the description can serve as luminescence conversion sive material and/or be embodied in grid-shaped fashion.
materials.
0561 Color pigments dispersed in a matrix material are 0571. The organic layer stack 4 is preferably applied
suitable for example as color filter materials. The matrix directly to the first electrode 2. The organic layer stack 4
material involves for example transparent plastics such as comprises at least one light-generating organic layer 401.
acrylate, polyacrylate or polyimide. A color filter material Furthermore, the organic layer stack 4 comprises an outer
transmits only light of a specific color—for example green, most organic layer 402, which for example directly adjoins
red or blue light. the second electrode 3. The outermost organic layer is doped
0562. The diffuser material involves for example light with a dopant 410. Preferably, the dopant 410 of the doped
scattering particles such as titanium oxide, silicon oxide or layer—as explained further above involves the largest pos
particles of the above-described luminescence conversion sible atoms or molecules which are suitable for releasing
materials which can be embedded into a matrix. electrons—n-type dopant—or holes p-type dopant. Fur
0563 An encapsulation 6 is preferably applied directly to thermore, the dopant has a low diffusion constant within the
the planarization layer 7. The encapsulation 6 is formed by a organic layer stack 4. For this purpose, the dopant is formed
plurality of barrier layers which preferably contain an inor from the largest possible atoms or molecules. Cesium, for
ganic material. The barrier layers, as part of a thin-film encap example, proves to be a suitable dopant in this case.
sulation, form the flexible encapsulation of the luminous (0572. The second electrode 3 is preferably applied directly
means. By way of example, first and second barrier layers to the organic layer stack 4. The second electrode 3—as
601, 602 are applied alternately to the planarization layer 7. In described further above is embodied in light-transmissive
this case, the first barrier layers 601 consist of a silicon oxide, fashion. That is to say that the second electrode 3 is formed
and the second barrier layers 602 then consist of a silicon from a light-transmissive material and/or embodied in grid
nitride; in this case, also see FIG.3, in which such a thin-film shaped fashion.
encapsulation is elucidated in greater detail. 0573. A light-transmissive encapsulation 6 is preferably
0564 Overall, a flexible luminous means 100 comprising applied directly to the second electrode 3. The encapsulation
a metallic substrate 1 is described in conjunction with FIG. 6 is preferably formed by a light-transmissive plastic film. In
25. this case, the light-transmissive encapsulation 6 can be
0565. The luminous means in accordance with FIG. 25 is formed from the same material as the substrate 1. However, it
provided for emitting light from its top side 100a. For this is also conceivable for the encapsulation to be formed from
purpose, the elements through which the light generated in one or a plurality of barrier layers such as have been described
the organic layer stack has to pass on its way to the top side for example in conjunction with FIG. 3. In this case, the
100a, in particular the organic layer stack 4 itself, the second encapsulation 6 is embodied as a flexible thin-film encapsu
electrode 3 and the encapsulation 6, are embodied as trans lation.
missive to visible light. Furthermore, the planarization layer 7 0574. Overall, a light-transmissive, flexible luminous
is likewise embodied as transmissive to visible light. means 100 is described in conjunction with FIG. 26. In par
0566. The first main surface 101 of the surface 1 of the ticular on account of the particularly flexible substrate 1
luminous means 100 can be embodied such that it is reflective embodied as a plastic film, and the particularly flexible encap
to the light generated in the organic layer stack 4, by polishing Sulation 6 embodied as a plastic film or thin-film encapsula
the main surface 101. The luminous means described in con tion, the luminous means 100 is so flexible that it can be rolled
junction with FIG. 25 is then a flexible, reflective luminous up onto a roll and can be unrolled from a roll, without being
CaS. damaged in the process.
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

0575 FIG. 27 shows an exemplary embodiment of alumi the luminous means 100. The encapsulation is preferably
nous means 100 described here, in a schematic sectional embodied in light-transmissive fashion.
illustration. 0586. With the louver 22 closed, the slats 21 of the louver
0576. The luminous means 100 elucidated with the aid of 22 are preferably oriented relative to the window 20 in such a
FIG. 27 is a flexible luminous means. The flexible luminous way that the light-opaque Substrate 1 is directed outward and
means 100 in FIG. 27 is distinguished, interalia, by the fact the light-transmissive encapsulation is directed inward—that
that it can be bent to a certain degree without being damaged is to say into the room. In this way, the louver embodied in
in the process. Preferably, the luminous means embodied in Such a manner can be used as an illumination device for the
flexible fashion can be bent repeatedly without being dam OO.
aged in the process. The luminous means is then Suitable, 0587. For this purpose, the organic layer stack 4 is prefer
therefore, for withstanding a plurality of bending cycles with ably Suitable for generating white light similar to daylight.
out being damaged. In this case, the luminous means 100 can The organic layer stack 4 can be constructed for example as
be embodied in flexible fashion in such a way that the lumi explained in conjunction with FIG.1. An illumination which
nous means—without experiencing a negative impairment in is similar to daylight in terms of emission direction, emission
the process—can be rolled up onto a roll and can be unrolled characteristic and light impression is advantageously realized
from a roll. in this way. The room darkened by the louver 22 can in this
0577. The luminous means 100 comprises a substrate 1. way be illuminated with a light having a particularly natural
The substrate 1 is a flexible laminate substrate. That is to say appearance. With the aid of such a louver, therefore, a room
that the substrate 1 of the luminous means 100 is embodied as can for example be outwardly protected from inquisitive
a laminate. looks and at the same be illuminated. Furthermore, it is also
0578. The laminate comprises a first layer 104, which is possible for the organic layer stack 4 to be suitable for gen
formed from a plastic. The laminate furthermore comprises a erating colored light. Such a louver can also have a decorative
second layer 103, which is formed from a glass. The laminate function for example in addition to the darkening function.
furthermore comprises a third layer 104, which is in turn 0588 FIG. 29.A shows, in a schematic plan view, a win
formed from a plastic. By way of example, the layers of the dow 20 covered by a curtain 23 in accordance with one
laminate are adhesively bonded to one another. However, it is exemplary embodiment.
also possible for the second layer 103 of the laminate, which 0589 FIG. 29B shows the curtain 23 in a schematic sec
is formed from a glass, to be coated with a plastic. The tional illustration.
substrate 1 of the luminous means 100 described in conjunc 0590 The curtain is embodied for example as a flexible
tion with FIG. 27 is embodied in flexible fashion and can luminous means 100 Such as has been described in conjunc
furthermore also be light-transmissive. By comparison with a tion with FIG. 26 or FIG. 27. That is to say that the curtain 23
simple plastic film, a laminate is for example particularly well comprises a flexible substrate 1 formed by a plastic film or a
Suited to keeping moisture away from the electrodes and the laminate. The substrate 1 is preferably embodied in light
organic layer stack 4. opaque fashion.
0579. A first electrode 2 is preferably applied directly to 0591. The encapsulation of the luminous means 100 is
the first main surface 101 of the substrate 1. The organic layer embodied as a light-transmissive film, as a light-transmissive
stack 4 succeeds the first electrode 2, said stack comprising at laminate or as a light-transmissive thin-film encapsulation. In
least one light-generating organic layer 4. this case, the light-opaque Substrate is directed toward the
0580. The second electrode 3 is applied directly to the window. The light-transmissive encapsulation 6 is directed
organic layer stack. into the room, away from the window 20.
0581. The encapsulation 6 of the luminous means 100 0592. The curtain 23 can be connected to a power supply
Succeeds the second electrode 3. The encapsulation can be a 10 for example by a rod 24 or a cable and can be energized by
thin-film encapsulation, which, as described further above, said power Supply. A curtain 23 formed in this way enables a
comprises one or a plurality of barrier layers. Furthermore, room to be illuminated with light which can be very similar to
the encapsulation can be a film—for example a plastic or daylight with regard to emission direction, emission charac
metal film. Furthermore, it is possible for the encapsulation to teristic and color.
be embodied as a laminate in the same way as the Substrate 1 0593. A further exemplary embodiment of a curtain 23 is
of the luminous means 100. described in a schematic sectional illustration in conjunction
0582 FIG. 28A shows a window 20 covered by a louver with FIG. 29C. In this exemplary embodiment, a luminous
22, in a schematic plan view in accordance with one exem means 100 is applied to a textile carrier, for example a con
plary embodiment. ventional textile curtain 25. In this case, the luminous means
0583 FIG. 28B shows a schematic sectional illustration 100 is preferably embodied as a flexible and, if appropriate,
through a slat 21 of the louver 22 as illustrated in FIG. 28A. light-transmissive luminous means 100 Such as has been
The slat 21 of the louver 22 is embodied as a flexible luminous described for example in conjunction with FIG. 26 or FIG. 27.
means 100, in a manner similar to that described for example In this case, the textile material of the curtain 25 faces the
in conjunction with FIG. 25. window 20, and the luminous means 100 is remote from the
0584) Preferably, this luminous means 100 comprises a window 20.
substrate 1 embodied in light-opaque fashion. The substrate 1 0594. The luminous means 100 is fixed on the curtain 25
can be for example a metallic Substrate 1 or a plastic Substrate. preferably by means of a hook-and-loop connection. For this
In particular the Slat of a conventional louver can be used as purpose, a hook-and-loop fastening is for example adhesively
the substrate 1 in this case. bonded on the second main surface 102 of the substrate 1 of
0585 Alayer sequence comprising at least a first electrode the luminous means 100 in this respect also cf. the exem
2, an organic layer stack 4, a second electrode 3 and an plary embodiment of a luminous means 100 described here
encapsulation 6 is then applied to the slatas the substrate 1 of that is described in conjunction with FIG. 49. In this way, the
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010
34

luminous means 100 can readily be detached from the textile means 100, a particularly simple use of the luminous means
curtain 25 in order, for example, to wash the textile curtain or 100 for example for adhesive attachment to items of furniture,
to replace a defective luminous means 100 in a particularly stair landings, walls, tiles, flags or sanitary fixtures.
simple manner. For the case where the luminous means is 0603 FIG. 34A shows an exemplary embodiment of an
embodied in light-transmissive fashion, it advantageously illumination device 1000 described here, in a schematic plan
emerges that the curtain remains visible through the luminous view.
CaS. 0604 FIG. 34B shows the illumination-device 1000 in a
0595 FIG. 30 shows, in a schematic plan view, a window schematic sectional illustration along the sectional line AA'.
20 covered by a textile curtain 25. 0605. The illumination device 1000 in accordance with
0596. In contrast to the exemplary embodiment in FIG. FIGS. 34A and 34B is a flexible illumination device. In this
29C, the luminous means 100 in this exemplary embodiment case, the flexibility of the illumination device 1000 is
do not completely cover the textile material, but rather are achieved by virtue of the fact that rigid luminous means 100,
applied to the curtain in the form of individual smaller appli that is to say luminous means 100 which have no flexibility
cations. In this way, it is possible, for example, to apply perse since they have for example a rigid substrate 1 and/or a
luminous means 100 of predeterminable size and form to the rigid encapsulation 6, are embedded into a flexible matrix 40.
textile curtain 25. In this case, the luminous means can form 0606. The illumination device 1000 comprises two flex
for example stylized stars, moons, hearts or else letterings. A ible carriers 42, 43, between which the rigid luminous means
curtain 25 formed in this way is particularly well suited as a 100 and the material of the matrix 40 are arranged. At least the
nightlight in a child's/children's room, as Christmas lighting carrier 43, through which the luminous means 100 emit the
or for advertising purposes in a display window. The lumi light generated during operation, is light-transmissive. The
nous means 100 is preferably a flexible luminous means other carrier 42 can be formed from a light-opaque material,
embodied in reflective and/or multicolored fashion. embodied for example in reflective fashion, for instance of a
0597 Contact can be made with the individual luminous metal film.
means 100 via conductor tracks 26. For this purpose, the 0607. The space between the two carriers 42, 43 is filled
conductor tracks 26 arefixed to the textile curtain 25 or woven with the rigid luminous means 100 and a flexible matrix
into the curtain 25. The luminous means 100 can in turn be material 40. The light-transmissive matrix material can con
energized via a cable or a rod 24 which is connected to a tain particles of at least one of the following materials: lumi
power supply 10. Furthermore, it is possible for the luminous nescence conversion material, color filter material, diffuser
means 100 each to bear an autonomous power supply such as material.
a battery, for example. 0608 Suitable matrix material includes for example
0598 FIG.31 shows, in a schematic sectional illustration, Zeonex, polystyrene, polycarbonate or other plastics which
an exemplary embodiment of a luminous means described can preferably be processed by means of injection molding.
here. The luminous means 100 is for example a flexible lumi 0609. The flexible carrier 42, 43 is for example a plexi
nous means 100 such as has been described in greater detail in glass plate, a plastic film or a plastic-glass-plastic laminate.
conjunction with FIGS. 25, 26 and 27. 0610. In this case, the rigid luminous means 100 can be
0599 An adhesive layer 30 is applied to the second main arranged so close together that if appropriate through dif
surface 102 of the substrate 1, remote from the first main fuser particles contained in the matrix material—a homoge
surface 101 of the substrate 1. The adhesive layer is covered neous light impression of the illumination device 1000
by a protective film 31. The protective film can be stripped results. That is to say that individual luminous means 100 are
from the adhesive layer 30, such that the adhesive layer 30 can then no longer perceptible by the observer, rather the illumi
be uncovered by stripping away the protective film 31. As a nation device 1000 has a single, homogeneous luminous Sur
result, a luminous means 100 is realized which, after simple face.
stripping away of the protective film 31, can be fixed to a 0611. As an alternative, it is possible for the luminous
predetermined location by being stuck on in the sense of a means 100 to be arranged in a manner spaced far apart from
transfer. one another such that webs are perceptible between the lumi
0600 FIG. 32 shows, in a schematic perspective illustra nous means. In this case, the space between individual lumi
tion, an item of furniture 33, for example a table, shelving, or nous means can be filled with a matrix material comprising
generally storage furniture, to which a self-adhesive lumi light-absorbing particles. The light-absorbing particles can
nous means 100 in accordance with FIG. 31 is adhesively be for example carbon black or particles of dyes.
attached. 0612. The conductor tracks 41 connecting the individual
0601 On account of the flexibility of the luminous means luminous means 100 of the illumination device 1000 to one
100, the luminous means 100 can also be adhesively bonded another are arranged in the matrix material. This ensures the
around edges, rounded portions or rims of the item of furni flexibility of the illumination device. The conductor tracks 41
ture 33. As a result of the flexible, self-adhesive luminous are formed by thin, metallic springs or thin wires laid in
means 100 being adhesively attached to the item of furniture meanders.
33, an item of furniture is realized which functions as an 0613. The carriers 42, 43 of the illumination device 1000
illumination device 1000. can be chosen to be load-bearing Such that the illumination
0602. A flexible luminous means as illustrated in FIG. 31, device 1000 withstands loadings by weights of up to a few
for example, is shown in the rolled-up state in the schematic hundred kilograms without being damaged. A use of the
perspective illustration in FIG. 33. That is to say that the illumination device 1000 as a floor covering is possible in this
luminous means 100 is embodied in flexible fashion in such a way.
way that it can be rolled up to form a roll and can be unrolled 0.614. In a further exemplary embodiment of the illumina
from a roll 32 in the direction of the arrow 32. This enables, in tion device 1000 as described in conjunction with FIGS. 34A
addition to particularly space-saving storage of the luminous and 34B, at least one of the two carriers of the illumination
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

device 1000 is embodied in rigid fashion. The rigid carrier can ond electrode 3 Succeeds the organic layer stack 4 on its side
have a predeterminable curvature, for example, thus resulting remote from the first electrode 2.
in a three-dimensionally shaped illumination device 1000 0625. The layer comprising the first 52 and second 53
which is invariable in its form, that is to say rigid. luminescence conversion materials and/or the first and sec
0615. All of the luminous means 100 described here can ond color filter materials is arranged on that side of the second
be used for the luminous means 100 of the illumination device electrode 3 which is remote from the organic layer stack 4.
1000 as described in conjunction with FIGS.34A and 34B. In The luminous means 100 is hermetically encapsulated from
this way, colored, light-transmissive, reflective or multicol the Surroundings by an encapsulation 6.
ored, flexible illumination devices can be produced particu 0626. By means of corresponding structuring of the first
larly simply and cost-effectively. electrode 2 and/or second electrode 3, it is possible that the
0616 FIG. 35A shows a schematic plan view of a lumi color Subregions can be driven independently of one another.
nous means 100 in accordance with one exemplary embodi 0627 The luminous means 100 can be constructed in par
ment of a luminous means 100 described here. ticular as in one of the other exemplary embodiments
0.617 FIG.35B shows a schematic sectional illustration of described. Flexible, light-transmissive and/or reflective lumi
the luminous means 100 in FIG. 35A along the sectional line nous means which have at least two color Subregions can
AA'. thereby be realized in a particularly simple manner.
0618. The luminous means described in conjunction with 0628. The materials described further above are suitable
FIGS. 35A and 35B is a multicolored luminous means. for example as first and/or second luminescence conversion
0619. As illustrated schematically in the plan view in FIG. materials.
35A, the luminous means comprises first and second color 0629. The materials described further above are suitable
Subregions arranged laterally alongside one another. The first for example as first and second color filter materials.
50 and second 51 color subregions are suitable for emitting 0630. For reasons of a simplified illustration, only two
light of different colors. The first color subregion 50 is suit different color subregions are illustrated in the exemplary
able for emitting light of a first color. The second color sub embodiment described in conjunction with FIGS. 35A and
region 51 is suitable for emitting light of a second color. The 35B. It is possible, however, for the luminous means 100 to
first color differs from the second color in this case. have a larger number of different color subregions which are
0620. In the exemplary embodiment of the luminous Suitable for generating light of different colors in pairs.
means as described in conjunction with FIG. 35A, the first 0631. In the extreme case, the color of the light of each
and second color subregions 50, 51 are arranged in a check color subregion differs from the color of the light of any other
ered pattern with respect to one another. That is to say that the color Subregion of the luminous means. This is illustrated
first and second color subregions 50, 51 are arranged at the schematically in FIG. 35C, which elucidates a further exem
grid points of a square grid in Such a way that each first color plary embodiment of a multicolored luminous means 100
subregion 50 which is not arranged at the edge of the lumi described here, on the basis of a schematic plan view. In this
nous means 100 has four second color subregions 51 as clos exemplary embodiment, the luminous means has five differ
est neighbors which laterally adjoin the first color subregion ent color subregions 50a to 50e which each generate light of
50. The same correspondingly holds true for the second color different colors in pairs.
subregions 51. 0632 FIG. 36 shows a schematic sectional illustration
0621. In this case, the color subregions 50, 51 are formed through a luminous means 100 in accordance with a further
in the manner of pixels of a display. The size of each color exemplary embodiment of a luminous means 100 as illus
subregion is preferably at least 1 mm. trated for example in the schematic plan view in FIG. 35A.
0622. As is illustrated in the schematic sectional illustra 0633. The luminous means described in conjunction with
tion in FIG.35B, first and second color subregions 50, 51 can FIG. 36 is a multicolored luminous means.
comprise different luminescence conversion materials or dif 0634. In the exemplary embodiment of the luminous
ferent color filter materials which are responsible for the means 100 in FIG. 36, the materials—that is to say the first 52
different color impression of the first and second color sub and second 53 luminescence conversion materials and/or the
regions. Thus, the first color subregions 50 comprise for first and second color filter materials—are arranged in the
example a first luminescence conversion material and/or a encapsulation 6 of the luminous means 100. By way of
first color filter material 52. The second color subregions 51 example, the encapsulation 6 of the luminous means 100 can
then comprise a second luminescence conversion material beformed by a plate or flexible film into which the materials
and/or a second color filter material 53. are embedded.
0623. In this case, the luminescence conversion materials 0635. This enables a luminous means 100 in the case of
and/or the color filter materials can be arranged in a layer of which the desired color impression of the luminous means
the luminous means which runs parallel to the first main 100 can be set by the choice of the encapsulation 6. With
surface 101 of the substrate 1 of the luminous means 100 and regard to the remaining elements of the luminous means, the
which is arranged in Such away that at least a large part of the luminous means 100 can be constructed as in one of the
electromagnetic radiation generated in the organic layer stack exemplary embodiments discussed further above or further
4 during operation passes through said layer. below. Flexible, light-transmissive and/or reflective luminous
0624. In the exemplary embodiment described in conjunc means which have at least two color Subregions can thereby
tion with FIG. 35B, the luminous means 100 comprises a be realized in a particularly simple manner. The functional
substrate 1, to which a first electrode is applied. The organic components of the luminous means such as, for example, the
layer stack 4 is applied to that side of the first electrode 2 first electrode 2 and second electrode 3 and also the organic
which is remote from the Substrate, said stack comprising at layer stack 4 can be produced independently of the encapsu
least one organic layer provided for generating light. A sec lation 6.
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010
36

0636 FIG.37 shows a schematic sectional illustration of a 0644 As can be gathered from the enlargement of the
further exemplary embodiment of a multicolored luminous excerpt in FIG. 40B, each luminous means of the illumination
means 100 described here. In the present case, the active device 1000 comprises four color subregions 50a, 50b, 50c
region of the Substrate comprises Subregions which each cor and 50d.
respond to a color Subregion. In this exemplary embodiment, (0645. The first color subregion 50a is suitable for
the different color subregions 50, 51 of the luminous means example for emitting light of green color during the
100 are realized by different emitter materials in the organic operation of the illumination device 1000.
layer stack. That is to say that the organic layer stack is 0.646. The second color subregion 50b is suitable for
structured in a lateral direction. First and second color sub emitting light of red color during the operation of the
regions differ at least with regard to an organic layer provided illumination device 1000.
for generating light. The first color Subregion 50 comprises a 0647. The third color subregion 50c is suitable for emit
first emitter material, for example, and the second color Sub ting light of blue color during the operation of the illu
mination device 1000.
region 51 then comprises a second emitter material, which
differs from the first emitter material. With regard to the (0648. The fourth color subregion 50d is suitable for
remaining elements of the luminous means, the luminous emitting white light during the operation of the illumi
nation device 1000.
means 100 can then be constructed as in one of the other
exemplary embodiments. Flexible, light-transmissive and/or 0649. In this case, the color subregions of each luminous
means 100 of the illumination device 1000 can be driven
reflective luminous means which have at least two color sub separately and independently of one another. For this pur
regions can thereby be realized in a particularly simple man pose, the illumination device 1000 comprises a controller 11,
.
which can contain a microcontroller, for example. The con
0637 FIG. 38 shows, in a schematic plan view, the first troller 11 is energized by means of the power supply 10.
and second electrodes 2, 3 for a further exemplary embodi 0650 Optionally, an optical element 60 is disposed down
ment of a multicolored luminous means 100. As can be gath stream of the luminous means 100 of the illumination device
ered from FIG.38, the first and second electrodes 2, 3 are each 1000 at their light-emitting front side 100a. The optical ele
embodied in strip-shaped fashion. In this way, the individual ment 60 is preferably a diffuser plate. That is to say that light
color subregions 50, 51 can be driven independently of one which radiates through the optical element 60 is scattered by
another. In this case, the luminous means 100 is constructed in the optical element 60. In this way, during the operation of the
the manner of a passive matrix display apparatus. The indi illumination device 1000, the individual color subregions are
vidual color subregions 50, 51 are driven by means of a no longer perceptible as separate elements by the observer,
controller 11, which can be arranged outside the luminous rather the illumination device 1000 appears as though it has a
means 100 or is integrated into the luminous means 100. The single, homogeneous luminous Surface. In this case, the lumi
luminous means 100 is energized by the power supply 10 via nous surface of the illumination device 1000 is composed of
the controller 11. the light-emitting front sides of the luminous means of the
0638 FIG.39 shows a further exemplary embodiment of a illumination device.
multicolored luminous means 100 described here, in a sche 0651. The optical element 60 is furthermore preferably
matic plan view. In this exemplary embodiment, all the first Suitable for mixing the light generated by the color Subregions
color subregions 50 and all the second color subregions 51 are 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d of the individual luminous means 100. In
in each case connected to one another by electrical connec this way, the illumination device 1000 is suitable for gener
tions 54 and 55, respectively. That is to say that, by way of ating not only light of the colors of the individual Subregions
example, all the first color subregions 50 can be driven jointly but also mixed light composed of two or more of these colors.
and simultaneously in this way. Likewise, all the second color Overall, an illumination device which can be used in a par
subregions 51 can be driven jointly and simultaneously. By ticularly flexible manner and which is suitable in a simple
contrast, the first and the second color subregions 50, 51 can manner for generating light of a multiplicity of different
be driven separately from one another. Aluminous means 100 colors is realized in this way.
embodied in this way therefore has four operating states: 0652. If the luminous means 100 of the illumination
0639 the luminous means can be switched off, such that device 1000 additionally have at least one color subregion
none of the color Subregions generates light, that is to 50d which is suitable for generating white light, then the
say that none of the color Subregions is luminous; brightness of the light emitted by the illumination device
1000 can also be set in a particularly simple manner by the
0640 all the first color subregions 50 of the luminous energization of this color Subregion.
means 100 are luminous, and the second color subre 0653 FIG. 41 shows, in a schematic plan view, a further
gions 51 are not luminous, exemplary embodiment of a luminous means 100 described
0641 all the second color subregions 51 of the lumi here. The luminous means 100 has at least two color subre
nous means 100 are luminous, and the first color subre gions 51 and 50. The color subregions can be arranged for
gions 50 are not luminous, and example in a manner corresponding to the color Subregions of
0642 the first and the second color subregions 50, 51 the multicolored luminous means described in conjunction
are luminous, such that the luminous means 100 emits with FIGS. 35A, 35B, 35C, 36, 37,38, 39, 40A, 40B.
light of the first and of the second color. 0654. In the case of the luminous means 100 described in
0643 FIG.40A shows, in a schematic plan view, an exem conjunction with FIG. 41, the first and second color subre
plary embodiment of an illumination device 1000 described gions 50, 51 are reverse-connected in parallel with one
here. The illumination device 1000 comprises a plurality of another. That is to say that if the luminous means 100 is
multicolored luminous means 100 as described for example energized in a first direction, for example the first color sub
in conjunction with FIG. 35A, 35B, 35C, 36, 37 or 39. regions 50 are connected in the forward direction, such that
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010
37

they generate light of the first color. The second color subre 0666. In conjunction with FIG. 43, a further exemplary
gions 51 are then connected in the reverse direction, such that embodiment of aluminous means described here is explained
no light is generated in the second color Subregions. with reference to a schematic sectional illustration.
0655 By simple reversal of the current direction, in a next 0667. In this exemplary embodiment, a controller 11 is
time step the second color Subregions 51 can be energized in arranged jointly with the organic layer stack of the luminous
the forward direction, such that light of the second color is means 100 on the first main surface 101 of the substrate 1. In
generated. The first color subregions 50 are then connected in this case, the controller 11 can contain an organic material, for
the reverse direction, Such that no light is generated in the first example. The controller can then advantageously be pro
color subregions 50. duced by means of the same production methods as the active
0656. In this case, the color subregions 50 can be inte region 5. This enables the luminous means 100 to be produced
grated onto a common Substrate. Furthermore, it is also pos in a particularly cost-effective manner. The controller 11 is
sible for the color subregions to be individual, small luminous electrically conductively connected to the organic layer stack
means that are reverse-connected in parallel with one another. of the luminous means 100 either via additional electrical
0657 Such a luminous means 100 is preferably driven by leads 9 such as, for example bonding wires 902 or by means
means of a controller 11 into which a pulse width modulation of the first and second electrodes 2, 3. The controller 11 is
circuit 12 is integrated. The pulse width modulation circuit 12 Suitable for energizing the active region 5 of the luminous
is suitable for generating for first time periods current which means 100 in a predeterminable manner.
has a first current direction. For second time periods, the pulse 0668. In particular, it is also possible that the controller 11
width modulation circuit 12 is Suitable for generating current can be set externally—for example by a user of the luminous
which has a second current direction, which is directed oppo means 100. That is to say that a user can set a specific oper
site to the first current direction. ating state of the luminous means 100 via the controller 11. As
0658. The controller 11 of the luminous means 100 can is furthermore shown in FIG. 43, the controller 11 and the
either be integrated into the luminous means 100 or it is organic layer stack of the luminous means 100 are encapsu
arranged outside the luminous means. The luminous means lated by a common encapsulation 6. The encapsulation 6 is
100 is energized by a power supply 10 via the controller 11. one of the encapsulations 6 presented in connection with the
0659 FIG. 42 shows, in a schematic sectional illustration, luminous means 100 described further above. That is to say
aluminous means 100 in accordance with a further exemplary that the encapsulation 6 is formed for example by a glass, a
embodiment of a luminous means 100 described here. plastic film, a plastic-glass-plastic laminate, a metal film, a
0660. The substrate of the luminous means 100 comprises metallic sheet, a cap or a thin-film encapsulation. The encap
an active region 5. The active region comprises at least a first sulation 6 and/or the substrate 1 of the luminous means 100
electrode 2, an organic layer stack 4 and a second electrode 3. are embodied in light-transmissive fashion.
0661. A photodetector 65 is arranged on the substrate at a 0669 FIG. 44 shows a further exemplary embodiment of a
distance from the organic layer stack. luminous means 100 described here, in a schematic plan view.
0662. The photodetector 65 can be produced for example In this exemplary embodiment of the luminous means, both a
jointly with the organic layer stack and the electrodes on the photodetector 65. Such as was explained in conjunction with
active region 5. The photodetector 65 comprises at least a first FIG. 42, and a controller 11, such as was described in greater
electrode, a second electrode 3 and a photodetecting layer detail in conjunction with FIG. 43, are arranged jointly on the
sequence 66 arranged between the two electrodes. The pho first main surface 101 of the substrate 1 of the luminous
todetecting layer sequence 66 comprises an organic material. means 100. This enables a particularly compact and autono
The photodetecting layer sequence 66 therefore comprises at mous luminous means 100. The photodetector is preferably
least one layer which contains an organic material. connected to the controller 11, which is suitable for energiz
0663. In this case, it is possible, in particular, for the pho ing the organic layer stack of the luminous means 100
todetector 65 to be constructed in just the same way as the depending on measured values determined by the photode
organic layer stack between the two electrodes of the lumi tector 65. The measured values can be for example the bright
nous means 100. ness and/or the color locus of the light generated by the
0664. The photodetector 65 is provided for detecting the organic layer stack 4 of the luminous means 100. Further
brightness and/or the color locus of the light generated by the more, it is possible for the photodetector 65 additionally or
active region 5. For, this purpose, the photodetector 65 can be alternatively to be provided for detection of the ambient light.
connected to a controller 11 comprising a corresponding In this case, the organic layer stack is also energized in a
evaluation circuit. The controller 11 is preferably likewise manner dependent on the ambient brightness.
arranged on the first main surface 101 of the substrate 1 of the 0670. In the exemplary embodiment of the luminous
luminous means 100. As an alternative, it is possible for the means 100 described in conjunction with FIG. 44, it is pos
controller 11 to be arranged outside the luminous means 100. sible, in particular, for the organic layer stack, the photode
0665 As illustrated in the schematic sectional illustration tector 65 and the controller 11 to contain at least one organic
in FIG. 42, the photodetector 65 and the organic layer stack material in each case. These elements of the luminous means
can be encapsulated by a common encapsulation 6. The 100 can be produced by the same production methods. This
encapsulation is one of the encapsulations presented in con enables the luminous means 100 to be produced in a particu
nection with the luminous means 100 described further larly simple and cost-effective manner.
above. That is to say that the encapsulation 6 is formed for 0671. A further exemplary embodiment of a luminous
example by a glass, a plastic film, a plastic-glass-plastic lami means 100 described here is explained in conjunction with the
nate, a metal film, a metallic sheet, a cap or a thin-film encap schematic sectional illustration in FIG. 45.
sulation. The encapsulation 6 and/or the substrate 1 of the 0672. In accordance with the exemplary embodiment
luminous means 100 are embodied in light-transmissive fash described in conjunction with FIG. 45, the organic layer stack
1O. comprises—in contrast to some of the exemplary embodi
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

ments of the luminous means described further above a Summary, that the color and brightness of the light generated
plurality of layers 403, 404, 405 provided for generating light. by the luminous means 100 can be set by means of the pulse
0673. Each of these layers provided for generating light width modulated circuit 12.
forms a color subregion of the luminous means 100. That is to 0685. The controller 11 can additionally be connected to a
say that the color Subregions of the luminous means are photodetector 65. The photodetector 65 is suitable for
arranged vertically one above another in this exemplary example, as described in conjunction with FIGS. 42 and 43,
embodiment. The different layers provided for generating for detecting the color locus and/or the brightness of the light
light preferably differ with regard to their emitter material. generated by the luminous means 100. The setting of a spe
The layers are therefore suitable for generating light of mutu cific color locus of the light generated by the luminous means
ally different colors during operation of the luminous means. 100 is then possible by regulation in a manner dependent on
By way of example, the first layer 403 provided for generating the values determined by the photodetector 65. That is to say
light is suitable for generating red light. The second layer 404 that the controller 11 comprises a regulating circuit that can
is then Suitable for generating green light. The fourth layer set a specific color locus of the light generated by the lumi
405 provided for generating light is suitable for generating nous means 100. In this case, the desired color locus can
blue light. preferably be predetermined by a user from outside the lumi
OS CalS.
0674. The following emitter materials are suitable for 0686. In conjunction with FIG. 48A, one possibility for
example for generating light of the specified color: use of a multicolored luminous means 100 such as has been
0675 blue. DPVBi 4,4'-bis(2,2-diphenylethen-1-yl)- described in conjunction with one of the previous exemplary
diphenyl embodiments is explained with reference to a schematic plan
0676 blue: SEB-020 view.
0677 green: Irppy-fac-tris(2-phenylpyridyl)iridiuxn 0687 In this exemplary embodiment, the luminous means
complex 100 is applied to a textile garment 27. The luminous means
0678 red: TER-012 100 is fixed to the garment 27 for example by means of a
0679 red: DCM2: 4-(dicyanomethylene)-2-methyl-6- hook-and-loop fastening 34 arranged at the second main Sur
(julolidine-4-ylvinyl)-4H-pyran face 102 of the substrate of the luminous means; in this
respect, also see FIG. 49.
0680 The remaining elements of the luminous means 100 0688. As illustrated in a schematic illustration in FIG.
such as, for example, the substrate 1, the first electrode 2, the 48B, the luminous means 100 is connected to a controller 11,
second electrode 3 and the encapsulation 6 are embodied in which can comprise a pulse width modulation circuit, for
accordance with one of the other exemplary embodiments of example. The wearer of the garment 27 can set the brightness
luminous means 100.
and color of the light generated by the luminous means 100 by
0681 FIG. 46 shows the luminous means 100 illustrated in means of the controller 11. Furthermore, it is possible for the
conjunction with FIG. 45, in a schematic perspective dia controller 11 to be provided for setting the brightness and/or
gram. The luminous means is connected to a controller 11 color of the light generated by the luminous means 100 in a
suitable for setting the color of the light generated by the manner dependent on measured values determined by the
luminous means 100. For this purpose, the controller 100 sensor 67.
preferably comprises a pulse width modulation circuit 12. 0689. The sensor 67 can be for example a sensor suitable
Depending on the electric field strength established upon for determining body temperature, pulse rate and/or skin
energization of the luminous means 100 between the first resistance of the wearer of the garment 27.
electrode 2 and the second electrode 3 in the layer stack 4, it 0690 An increased body temperature can be signaled for
is possible to control the recombination of the charge carriers example by the generation of red light by the luminous means
in the organic layer Stack 4 in Such a way that the recombi 100. A low temperature can be signaled by the generation of
nation predominantly takes place in a specific, predeter blue light by the luminous means 100.
minable layer provided for generating light. That is to say that 0691. Overall, the garment 27 together with the luminous
in this way it is possible for example to effect a setting that the means 100 forms an illumination device in the case of which
recombination takes place principally in the layer 404 pro the garment 27 is provided as the carrier. The power supply 10
vided for generating light. In this way, predominantly green of the luminous means 100 can be effected for example by a
light is then generated by the luminous means 100. battery integrated into the garment 27 or the luminous means
0682. In this case, the field strength in the organic layer 1OO.
stack 4 can be set by the pulse width modulation circuit 12 of 0692. The luminous means 100 is used for example as a
the controller 11. The electric field strength can be regulated flirtation indicator. The wearer of the garment 27 comprising
for example by means of the pulse duration and the pulse the luminous means 100 can then signal his/her willingness to
height of the pulse-width-modulated signal. flirt via the setting of the color of the light generated by the
0683. As illustrated schematically in FIG. 47, the color in luminous means 100.
the CIE standard chromaticity diagram of the light generated 0693. Furthermore, a use of such a garment 27 comprising
by the luminous means 100 is dependent on whether the pulse luminous means 100 in medical or military applications is
width modulation circuit 12 generates a pulse-width-modu also conceivable. The luminous means 100 enables a simple
lated signal having a short pulse duration 20 or the luminous monitoring of specific body functions such as body tempera
means 100 is energized by means of a continuous current ture, skin resistance and pulse rate of the wearer of the gar
1210. ment 27.
0684. In this case, the pulse height of the pulse-width 0694 FIG. 49 shows, in a schematic sectional illustration,
modulated signal essentially determines the brightness of the an exemplary embodiment of a luminous means described
light generated by the luminous means 100. That is to say, in here. The luminous means 100 is for example a flexible and/or
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010
39

multicolored luminous means 100 such as has been described electrical contact-connection, a mechanical fixing of the
in conjunction with exemplary embodiments explained fur luminous means 100 also takes place by means of an inter
ther above. ference fit.
0695) A hook-and-loop fastening 34 is applied to the sec 0704. In conjunction with FIG. 54, a further possibility of
ond main surface 102 of the substrate 1, remote from the first the configuration of the connection locations 70 of the lumi
main Surface of the Substrate 1. The hook-and-loop fastening nous means 100 in FIG. 52 is shown in a schematic perspec
34 is for example adhesively bonded onto the second main tive diagram. In this case, the connection locations 70 are
surface 102 of the substrate 1, remote from the first main embodied as connection plugs 72. The connection plug in
surface of the substrate 1. With the hook-and-loop fastening FIG. 54 is embodied in the manner of a jack plug. The con
nection plug 72 has a first electrically conductive region 76a,
34, the luminous means 100 is mechanically connected to a which is electrically conductively connected for example to
textile material, for example a garment 27 or a curtain 25. the first electrode 2 of the luminous means 100. Furthermore,
(0696. In conjunction with FIG.50, a further possibility for the connection plug 72 has a second electrically conductive
use of a multicolored luminous means Such as has been region 76b, which is electrically conductively connected to
described for example in connection with one of the above the second electrode 3 of the luminous means 100. Electri
figures is explained with reference to a schematic perspective cally insulating regions 77 isolate the two electrically con
diagram. In this case, the luminous means 100 is fixed to an ductive regions 76a, 76b from one another.
item 33 of furniture, for example on a table top. The fixing of (0705. In conjunction with FIG.55, a further possibility of
the luminous means 100 can be effected by means of an configuration for the connection locations 70 of the luminous
adhesive layer for example as explained in conjunction with means 100 as illustrated in FIG. 52 is shown in a schematic
FIG.32. The color of the light emitted by the luminous means plan view. In this case, the connection location 70 is embod
100 can be set depending on the user's desire. Such an item 33 ied as a connection plug 72, wherein the electrically conduc
of furniture can be used not only for use domestically but also tive regions 76a, 76b are arranged laterally alongside one
for product presentations. another. In this case, the conductive regions 76a, 76b are
0697 FIG. 51 shows, in a schematic perspective diagram, embodied in cylindrical fashion.
the use of multicolored luminous means 100 as room lighting, 0706 An exemplary embodiment of a luminous means
for example as ceiling or wall luminaries. 100 described here is explained in greater detail with refer
0698. Depending on the user's desire, in this way the room ence to the schematic perspective diagram in FIG. 56.
can be illuminated with light of a specific color and/or a (0707. In contrast to the exemplary embodiment in FIG.52.
specific color temperature. In this case, it is possible, in par in this exemplary embodiment the connection locations 70
ticular, for the multicolored luminous means 100 to be a are arranged at the side surfaces 105 of the substrate 1 of the
flexible, light-transmissive and/or reflective luminous means luminous means 100. In this case, the connection locations 70
1OO. can be embodied as explained in conjunction with FIGS. 53,
0699 FIG. 52 shows a schematic perspective illustration 54 and 55. That is to say that the connection locations are
of an exemplary embodiment of a luminous means 100 embodied as connection pins or connection plugs.
described here. 0708. The arrangement of the connection locations 70 at
the side surfaces 105 of the luminous means as shown in FIG.
0700 Substrate 1, electrodes 2, 3, organic layer stack 4 56 enables, in a particularly simple manner, the connection
and encapsulation 6 of the luminous means 100 are embodied and electrical contact-connection of a plurality of luminous
in accordance with any other luminous means described here. means 100 embodied in the same way to forman illumination
(0701. In the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 52, electrical device having an extended luminous Surface. In this case, the
connection locations 70 are formed at the second main Sur luminous Surface of the illumination device is composed of
face 102 of the substrate 1 of the luminous means 100. In the the light-emitting front sides of the luminous means of the
exemplary embodiment described in conjunction with FIG. illumination device.
42, the connection locations 70 are embodied as connection 0709. A further exemplary embodiment of a luminous
locations which project from the substrate. The connection means 100 is described in conjunction with the schematic
locations 70 are connected to the first electrode 2 and the perspective diagram in FIG. 57. In this exemplary embodi
second electrode 3 of the substrate for example by means of ment, the connection locations 70 are formed at the second
the electrical leads described further above and serve for main surface 102 of the substrate 1 of the luminous means
making electrical contact with the luminous means 100 from 100. In this case, the connection locations 70 are formed by
outside the luminous means 100. cutouts or perforations in the substrate 1.
0702. Furthermore, the connection locations 70 of the 0710 FIG. 58 shows, in a schematic plan view, a first
luminous means 100 described in conjunction with FIG. 52 possibility for the configuration of the connection locations
serve for mechanical fixing of the luminous means 100 to 70 of the luminous means 100 in FIG. 57. In this case, the
another luminous means 100 or on a carrier. connection location 70 is embodied as an electrically conduc
(0703 FIG.53 shows a first possibility for the embodiment tive cutout 73 or contact hole. By pressing in a connection pin
of the connection locations 70 in the exemplary embodiment as shown in FIG. 53, for example, the luminous means 100
of the luminous means 100 as described in conjunction with can be electrically contact-connected and mechanically fixed
FIG. 52. In this case, the connection locations 70 of the via the electrically conductive cutout.
luminous means 100 are embodied as connection pins 71. The 0711. The schematic plan view in FIG.59 shows a further
connection pins are embodied in cylindrical fashion, for exemplary embodiment for the connection locations 70 of the
example. The connection pins are pressed into corresponding luminous means 100 described in conjunction with FIG. 57.
connection holes for the contact-connection and fixing of the In this case, the connection locations 70 are embodied as
luminous means 100. Preferably, in this case in addition to the connection sockets 74. Each connection socket 74 has two
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010
40

electrically conductive regions 76a, 76b which are connected luminous means 100. The luminous means 100 have connec
to a respective electrode 2, 3 of the luminous means 100. By tion locations which are arranged at the side surfaces 105 of
way of example, such a connection Socket 74 can be electri the substrate 1 and which are embodied alternately as elec
cally contact-connected by means of a connection plug 72 as trically conductive cutouts 73 and contact pins 71. The con
shown in FIG. 54. tact pins 71 of a first luminous means engage into correspond
0712 FIG. 60 shows, in a schematic plan view, a further ing electrically conductive cutouts 73 of a second luminous
embodiment of the connection locations 70 of the luminous means. The connection of contact pins 71 and electrically
means 100 in FIG. 57. In this case, the electrically conductive conductive cutouts 73 produces both an electrical and a
regions 76a, 76b are embodied as electrically conductive— mechanical connection between the luminous means 100 of
for example metallic—coatings of a connection Socket which the illumination device 1000.
are arranged in the substrate 1 of the luminous means 100. In 0719. The mechanical connection between two respective
this case, the electrically conductive regions 76a and 76b are luminous means 100 is imparted by an interference fit, for
arranged laterally alongside one another. By way of example, example. For this purpose, the diameter of each contact pin 71
Such a connection Socket 74 can be electrically contact-con is chosen to be equal to or greater than or equal to the diameter
nected by means of a connection plug 72 as shown in FIG.55. of each electrically conductive cutout 73. By press-fitting the
0713 The schematic perspective diagram in FIG. 61 contact pin 71 into the corresponding electrically conductive
shows a further exemplary embodiment of aluminous means cutout 73, a mechanical connection is imparted which can be
100 described here. In contrast to the luminous means released again only by a large mechanical force being
described in conjunction with FIG. 57, the connection loca applied.
tions are embodied as cutouts in the side surfaces 105 of the 0720. As an alternative, the connection locations can be
substrate 1 of the luminous means 100. In this case, the embodied as contact plugs—such as have been described in
concrete configuration of the connection locations 70 can be conjunction with FIGS. 54 and 55—and as corresponding
effected in accordance with the connection locations 70 connection sockets—such as have been described in conjunc
described in conjunction with FIGS. 58, 59 and 60. tion with FIGS. 59 and 60. This enables an electrical and
0714 FIG. 62A shows, in a schematic perspective dia mechanical connection of the luminous means 100. In this
gram, a further exemplary embodiment of a luminous means case, the mechanical connection of the luminous means 100
100 described here. In this exemplary embodiment, the elec can be released by a relatively low mechanical force being
trical contact-connection and the mechanical fixing of the applied. This permits a particularly simple replacement of a
luminous means are realized by mutually separate elements. defective luminous means 100 from the illumination device
The mechanical fixing of the luminous means is effected by 1OOO.
means of mechanical connectors 78. In the exemplary 0721. In conjunction with FIGS. 66 and 65, a further
embodiment in FIG. 62A, the mechanical connectors are exemplary embodiment of the illumination device 1000 is
arranged at the second main surface 102 of the substrate 1 of described with reference to schematic perspective diagrams.
the luminous means 100. The mechanical connectors 78 are In this exemplary embodiment, the luminous means 100 are
embodied as clips which engage into corresponding cutouts applied to a carrier embodied as a carrier grid 81. The carrier
in order to fix the luminous means 100. grid 81 has connection locations 82 embodied as contact
0715 FIG. 62B shows, in a schematic perspective illustra holes, for example, Such as have been described in greater
tion, a pin connection 75 in an excerpt enlargement. detail in conjunction with FIG. 58. As an alternative, the
0716 For the electrical contact-connection of the lumi contact locations 82 can be embodied as connection sockets
nous means, the luminous means 100 has a pin connection 75, Such as have been explained in greater detail in conjunction
which is likewise arranged at the second main surface 102 of with FIGS. 59 and 60.
the substrate 1. The pin connection 75 comprises a plurality of 0722 Contact pins 71 or contact plugs 72 such as have
pins 75a. At least one of the pins 75a makes contact with the been described in conjunction with FIGS. 53,54 and 55 form
first electrode 2, and at least one second pin 75b makes the connection locations 70 of the luminous means 100. The
contact with the second electrode 3. Further pins 75c can be connection locations 70 engage into corresponding connec
provided for example for making contact with a controller 11 tion locations 82 of the carrier grid 81. Preferably, a multi
integrated into the luminous means 100. plicity of luminous means 100 are electrically contact-con
0717. In conjunction with FIG. 63A, a further exemplary nected and mechanically fixed on the carrier grid 81. The
embodiment of a luminous means 100 described here is elu illumination device 1000 is supplied with the operating cur
cidated in a schematic plan view. In this exemplary embodi rent required for operation of the luminous means 100 by a
ment, too, the mechanical connectors 78 are arranged sepa power supply 10.
rately with respect to the electrical connection locations 70 of 0723. A further exemplary embodiment of an illumination
the luminous means 100. Both the mechanical connectors 78 device 1000 described here is explained in conjunction with
and the electrical connection locations 70 are arranged at the FIGS. 69 and 65. In this exemplary embodiment, the illumi
side surfaces 105 of the substrate 1 of the luminous means nation device 1000 has a carrier plate 80 comprising a mul
100. The excerpt enlargement in FIG. 63B shows a connec tiplicity of connection locations 82. Corresponding connec
tion location 70. The connection location has for example an tion locations 70 of the luminous means 100 engage into the
electrically conductive cutout 73 for example a contact connection locations 82 of the carrier plate 80. For the case
hole—and also a connection pin 71 Such as had been where the connection locations 70 of the luminous means are
explained in greater detail in conjunction with FIGS. 58 and embodied as connection pins 71 or connection plugs 72, the
53, respectively. connection locations 82 of the carrier plate are embodied as
0718 FIG. 64 shows a schematic plan view of an exem electrically conductive cutouts 73 or connection sockets 74.
plary embodiment of an illumination device 1000 described For the case where the connection locations 70 of the lumi
here. The illumination device 1000 comprises at least two nous means 100 are embodied as electrically conductive cut
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010

outs 73 or connection sockets 74, the connection locations 82 with a controller 11 such as has been described further above.
of the carrier plate 80 are embodied as connection pins 71 or A further controller 11a of the illumination device 1000 Sup
connection plugs 72. plies the luminous means 100 with the required operating
0724. The illumination device 1000 such as has been current and also control signals for the controllers 11 of the
described in conjunction with FIGS. 67 and 65 is energized luminous means 100.
by a power supply 10. (0733. In conjunction with FIG. 72, a further exemplary
0725. In conjunction with FIG. 68, a further exemplary embodiment of an illumination device 1000 described here is
embodiment of an illumination device 1000 described here is explained with reference to a schematic perspective illustra
elucidated in a schematic perspective illustration. The illumi tion. The illumination device 1000 has a multiplicity of lumi
nation device 1000 has a carrier embodied in the form of a nous means 100 which are either directly connected to one
cable or rod system. The cable or rod system comprises at another by means of the connection and connecting tech
least two cables or rods 83 which are composed of an elec niques described above or which are applied to a carrier in the
trically conductive material and which run Substantially par manner described above and are electrically connected
allel to one another. The luminous means 100 of the illumi thereto.
nation device 1000 are energized via the cables or rods 83. 0734. An optical element 60 is disposed downstream of
0726 For the mechanical fixing and electrical contact the luminous means 100 at their light-emitting front side, said
connection at the cables or rods 83, the luminous means 100 optical element being formed by a diffuser plate, for example.
has two connection locations embodied as connection rails The optical element can be formed for example by a light
84, which are arranged at mutually opposite side surfaces 105 transmissive plate—for example a glass plate—into which
of the substrate 1 of the luminous means 100. light-scattering particles are introduced. As an alternative, it
0727. The connection rails 84 are embodied in the manner is possible for the surface of the radiation-transmissive plate
of cut-open cylinders. The connection rails 84 extend over the to be roughened, such that a diffuse scattering of the light
entire length of the side surface 105 of the substrate 1 to which passing through takes place on account of light refraction in
they are fixed. the course of passing through the plate. The light from the
0728. The connection rails 84 engage into the cables or luminous means 100 is scattered by the diffuser plate in such
rods 83 of the carrier of the illumination device 1000 prefer away that the individual luminous means are no longer sepa
ably so loosely that the luminous means 100 of the illumina rately perceptible by the observer. A large-area illumination
tion device 1000 can be displaced along the cables or the rods device 1000 having a particularly large, homogeneous lumi
83 by application of a relatively low mechanical force. A nous surface is realized in this way. In this case, the luminous
particularly simple positioning of the luminous means 100 surface of the illumination device is composed of the light
along the cables or rods 83 is possible in this way. The lumi emitting front sides of the luminous means of the illumination
nous means 100 can even be displaced along the cables or device.
rods 83 during operation of the illumination device 1000. (0735. In conjunction with FIG. 73, a further exemplary
Overall, this permits an illumination device 1000 which can embodimentofan illumination device 1000 is illustrated with
be used particularly flexibly. reference to a schematic perspective diagram. The illumina
0729. In conjunction with FIG. 69, an exemplary embodi tion device 1000 can be used for example as a sealing lumi
ment for the interconnection of luminous means 100 of an naire. The illumination device 1000 comprises a plurality of
illumination device 1000 described here is explained with luminous means 100, which either are electrically and
reference to a schematic circuit diagram. In this exemplary mechanically connected to one another by connection loca
embodiment, the luminous means 100 are connected in par tions at the side surfaces 105 of the substrates 1 of the lumi
allel with one another. The luminous means 100 are supplied nous means 100 as described above or which are fixed and
with operating Voltage for example by a Voltage source 10. In electrically contact-connected by means of rods or cables 83.
this case, it is possible for the luminous means 100 each to 0736. A further exemplary embodiment of an illumination
comprise an integrated controller 11. device 1000 is described in conjunction with the schematic
(0730. In conjunction with FIG. 70, a further exemplary perspective illustration in FIG. 74. The illumination device
embodiment of an illumination device 1000 described here is 1000 comprises a base in which the power supply 10 and also
explained with reference to a schematic circuit diagram. In a driving apparatus 11 are integrated. The luminous means
this case, the luminous means 100 of the illumination device 100 of the illumination device 1000 are mechanically fixed
1000 are connected in series with one another. In this case, the and electrically contact-connected by means of rods 83. The
luminous means 100 are Supplied with the necessary operat luminous means described in conjunction with the exemplary
ing current by a current Source 10. In this case, it is possible embodiments above can once again be used as luminous
for the current source 10 to be suitable for the self-identifica means 100.
tion of the number of luminous means 100 of the illumination (0737. The illumination device 1000 described in conjunc
device 1000. The luminous means 100 can furthermore com tion with FIG. 74 is particularly well suited as a standard or
prise an integrated controller 11 Such as has been described table lamp.
further above. 0738. In conjunction with FIG. 75, a display apparatus
0731. The identification of the luminous means 100 can be 1010 is explained in greater detail with reference to a sche
effected for example by a measurement of the current inten matic perspective illustration. The display apparatus 1010
sity or Voltage. In this case, the possible failure of one or a comprises an illumination device 1000 as backlighting for an
plurality of luminous means 100 can also be detected during imaging element 90. The imaging element 90 is an LCD
operation. panel, for example. The LCD panel is backlit directly by the
0732 A further exemplary embodiment of an illumination illumination device 1000. That is to say that the imaging
device 1000 described here is explained in conjunction with element 90 is disposed downstream of the illumination device
FIG. 71. In this case, the luminous means 100 are equipped 1000 in such a way that a large part of the light generated by
US 2010/0157585 A1 Jun. 24, 2010
42

the illumination device 1000 during operation impinges on embodied in such away that it emits light from the cold white
the imaging element 90 and backlights the latter. region of the CIE standard chromaticity diagram during
0739. The illumination device 1000 used here as a back operation. In the present case, the luminous means 100 is
lighting apparatus is embodied for example in accordance embodied such that it is flexible and transmissive to visible
with one of the other exemplary embodiments described here. light. The luminous means 100 is arranged as a cylindrical
In this case, the illumination device comprises at least two lampshade around the incandescent lamp in Such a way that a
luminous means 100 as described here. large part of the light emitted by the second light Source
0740 For homogenizing the light provided for backlight passes through the luminous means. In this way, mixed-col
ing, it is furthermore possible for an optical element 60 to be ored light comprising light from the luminous means 100 and
arranged between the imaging element 90 and the light-emit light from the second light source 370 is emitted during
ting front side of the luminous means 100 of the illumination operation of the illumination device.
device 1000, said optical element then preferably being 0745) Furthermore, the luminous means 100 and the sec
embodied as a diffuser plate. The optical element can be ond light source 370 are embodied in dimmable fashion, such
formed for example by a light-transmissive plate—for that the proportion of the light from the incandescent lamp
example a glass plate—into which light-scattering particles and the proportion of the light from the luminous means 100
are introduced. As an alternative, it is possible for the surface in the mixed-colored light can be varied. Depending on the
of the radiation-transmissive plate to be roughened, such that proportion of the light from the incandescent lamp and of the
a diffuse scattering of the light passing through takes place on light from the luminous means, the color locus can be regu
account of light refraction in the course of passing through the lated from cold white to warm white by means of a regulator
plate. The light from the luminous means 100 of the illumi 372 in the mount of the illumination device. The illumination
nation device is scattered by the diffuser plate in such a way device in accordance with FIG. 78 is therefore a color-vari
that the individual luminous means are no longer imaged able illumination device.
separately onto the imaging element 90. A large-area illumi 0746 FIG. 79 shows a schematic perspective illustration
nation device 1000 having a particularly large, homogeneous of a further exemplary embodiment of an illumination device
luminous Surface for backlighting the imaging element 90 is 1000 comprising a luminous means 100 and a second light
realized in this way. source 370. The illumination device is provided for being
0741. In conjunction with FIG. 76, an exemplary embodi fixed to the wall. The second light source 370 is a lava lamp.
ment of a coarse-grained display 95 is explained in greater The lava lamp comprises wax introduced into a carrier liquid.
detail with reference to a schematic plan view. The coarse During operation of the lava lamp, wax and carrier liquid are
grained display is embodied as an illumination device com heated from one side, generally from below, such that the
prising a carrier plate 80, to which a plurality of luminous carrier liquid circulates in the lamp on account of convection.
means 100 are applied. The luminous means 100 are arranged Furthermore, the wax forms decorative shapes within the
for example in the manner of a seven-segment display. By carrier liquid on account of the heating. The carrier liquid
energizing specific luminous means 100, a coarse-grained generally has a different color than the wax, such that the lava
display 95 suitable for representing numerals is realized in lamp emits mixed-colored light comprising components of
this way. the color of the wax and components of the color of the carrier
0742 FIG. 77 shows a bathroom with luminous means liquid.
100 embodied as tiles. The luminous means 100 are embod 0747. In the present case, the lava lamp is embodied in
ied for example in accordance with one of the exemplary substantially cylindrical fashion and is fixed to the wall. The
embodiments described further above. They are adhesively luminous means 100 is embodied in flexible fashion and is
bonded by the second main surface 102 of the substrate 1 onto arranged as a half cylinderjacket around the lava lamp in Such
conventional sanitary tiles, by way of example. A power a way that the light which is emitted by the lava lamp and
Supply of these luminous means can be effected by means of which does not radiate to the wall essentially passes through
induction, for example. In this case, it is possible to dispense the luminous means. The luminous means 100 furthermore
with electrical conductor tracks for the connection of the preferably emits light of a color which is not comprised by the
luminous means 100. Therefore, these luminous means are light from the lava lamp. The luminous means can further
particularly well Suited to use in the sanitary sector since the more be embodied in dimmable fashion, for example, such
risk of a short circuit on account of moisture is reduced. that the hue of the light which is emitted by the illumination
0743 Aluminous means which is energized by means of device can be altered in color by dimming the luminous
induction is disclosed for example in the document DE means. In this way, a color-variable illumination device is
102006025115, the disclosure content of which with regard obtained which can bring about particularly impressive color
to the construction of such aluminous means is hereby incor effects. Furthermore, it is possible for the lava lamp also to be
porated by reference. dimmable.
0744 FIG. 78 shows a schematic perspective illustration 0748 FIG. 80A shows a schematic perspective illustration
of an illumination device 1000 comprising a luminous means of an illumination device in accordance with a further exem
100 and a second light source 370 in accordance with one plary embodiment. FIG. 808 shows a sectional illustration of
exemplary embodiment. In the present case, the second light the illumination device in FIG. 80A.
source 370 used is an incandescent lamp that is introduced 0749. The illumination device in accordance with FIGS.
into a mount of a carrier 371. A halogen lamp, for example, 80A and 808 is likewise a color-variable illumination device
could also be used instead of an incandescent lamp as the 1000. The latter comprises a plurality of LEDs 380, mounted
second light source 370. The incandescent lamp is embodied onto a carrier 381, as further, second light sources 370. The
in Such a way that it emits white light having a color locus in LEDs 380 emit light of a first color. Arranged above the LEDs
the warm white region of the CIE standard chromaticity dia is a milky glass pane as optical element 60, through which the
gram during operation. By contrast, the luminous means is light from the LEDs passes during the operation of the illu