Light emitting elements, light emitting devices including light emitting elements and methods for manufacturing such light emitting elements and/or devices

An emitting device includes a first electrode on a base substrate, a second electrode on the base substrate, a third electrode on the base substrate, an emitting structure on and/or at a same level as the first electrode, a first pattern on the base substrate being electrically connected to the first electrode, and a plurality of second patterns on the base substrate, wherein at least one of the second patterns is arranged on a first side of the first pattern and is electrically connected to the second electrode and at least another one of the second patterns is arranged on a second side of the first pattern and is electrically connected to the third electrode, the first side opposing the second side.

BACKGROUND

Embodiments relate to light emitting elements, light emitting devices including such light emitting elements, and methods of manufacturing such light emitting elements and/or devices. More particularly, embodiments relate to light emitting devices including light emitting elements adapted for local dimming and/or improved light efficiency. Light emitting devices may include light emitting elements that are individually accessible and/or have improved light efficiency as compared to conventional elements and/or devices. Embodiments also relate to methods of manufacturing such light emitting elements and/or devices.

2. Description of the Related Art

LEDs generally emit light as a result of electroluminescence, i.e., recombination of electron-hole pairs. Electron-hole pairs may be recombined as a result of electric current at a semiconductor p-n junction. When electrons and holes recombine, energy may be given off in the form of photons.

While LEDs are already being used in a wide variety of applications, there is a need for improved light emitting elements, e.g., LEDs, having improved light efficiency.

SUMMARY

Embodiments are therefore directed to light emitting elements, light emitting devices employing such light emitting elements and methods of fabricating such light emitting elements and/or devices, which substantially overcome one or more of the problems due to the limitations and disadvantages of the related art.

It is therefore a feature of an embodiment to provide an improved light emitting element.

It is therefore a separate feature of an embodiment to provide an improved light emitting device that is individually accessible.

It is therefore a separate feature of an embodiment to provide a light emitting device having improved light efficiency.

It is therefore a separate feature of an embodiment to provide an improved light emitting apparatus including a plurality of light emitting devices that are individually accessible.

It is therefore a separate feature of an embodiment to provide a method of fabricating an improved light emitting device that is individually accessible and/or has improved light efficiency.

It is therefore a separate feature of an embodiment to provide a light emitting device employable by an LCD back light unit adapted for a local dimming operation and/or having improved light efficiency.

At least one of the above and other features and advantages may be realized by providing an emitting device, including a first electrode on a base substrate, a second electrode on the base substrate, a third electrode on the base substrate, an emitting structure on and/or at a same level as the first electrode, a first pattern on the base substrate being electrically connected to the first electrode, and a plurality of second patterns on the base substrate, at least one of the second patterns being arranged on a first side of the first pattern and being electrically connected to the second electrode and at least another one of the second patterns being arranged on a second side of the first pattern and being electrically connected to the third electrode, the first side opposing the second side.

The emitting structure may include a first conductive pattern, an emitting pattern and a second conductive pattern, the first electrode may be electrically connected to the first conductive pattern, the second electrode may be electrically connected to the second conductive pattern and the third electrode may be electrically connected to the second conductive pattern.

The first electrode may include a plurality of protrusions defining at least one light emitting region and at least one non-light emitting region, the second electrode and the third electrode may overlap the at least one non-light emitting region.

The emitting structure may include a first conductive pattern, an emitting pattern and a second conductive pattern, and a portion of the first electrode may be at a same level as the emitting pattern relative to the base substrate.

The first electrode may include a first portion extending substantially along a first direction and a second portion extending substantially along a second direction, the first direction crossing the second direction.

The second electrode and the third electrode may be arranged on a same level relative to the base substrate.

The device may include a first ohmic pattern between the emitting structure and the first electrode.

The first pattern and the second pattern may be on a first face of the base substrate, and the device may further include a third pattern and a fourth pattern on a second face of the base substrate, the first pattern may be electrically connected to the third pattern by way of a via extending through the base substrate and the second pattern may be electrically connected to the fourth pattern by way of a via extending through the base substrate.

The first electrode may be arranged on a conductive substrate, the conductive substrate being electrically connected to the first pattern.

Each of the second electrode and the third electrode may be electrically connected to the corresponding second pattern by way of a wire or a conductive resin.

At least one of the above and other features and advantages may be separately realized by providing an emitting apparatus, including a plurality of light emitting devices, each of the light emitting devices including a first electrode on a base substrate, a second electrode on the base substrate and an emitting structure between the first electrode and the second electrode, a plurality of first patterns spaced apart from each other and extending parallel to each other along a first direction on the base substrate, each of the first patterns being connected to and overlapping the first electrodes of at least two corresponding ones of the light emitting devices, and a plurality of second patterns spaced apart from each other on the base substrate, the second electrodes of the light emitting devices being connected to corresponding ones of the second patterns, the second patterns being arranged in groups, and the second patterns of each of the groups being indirectly electrically connected to each to other and arranged along a second direction crossing the first direction.

The second patterns of each of the groups may be indirectly electrically connected together by way of the light emitting devices connected with the corresponding group of the second patterns, and/or a corresponding one of lower conductive patterns extending along a plane below a surface of the substrate on which the first patterns and the second patterns are arranged, the second patterns being electrically connected to the corresponding one of the lower conductive patterns by way of vias extending through an insulating layer arranged between the first and second patterns and the lower conductive pattern.

The second patterns of each of the groups may be connected together by way of the second electrodes of the light emitting devices of the corresponding group.

Each of the light emitting devices may include a third electrode connected to another of the second patterns of the corresponding group such that the second patterns of each group may be electrically connected by way of electrical connections between corresponding ones of the second patterns and the respective second electrodes, corresponding ones of the second electrodes and third electrodes, and corresponding ones of the third electrodes and corresponding other ones of the second patterns.

The emitting structure may include an emitting pattern, a first conductive pattern and a second conductive pattern, and the second conductive pattern of the light emitting devices may be connected to the second electrode and the third electrode.

The first electrodes, the second electrodes and the third electrodes may overlap the corresponding one of the first patterns.

The first patterns and the second patterns may extend along a same plane parallel to a plane along which the substrate extends.

The light emitting devices may include one of the second patterns on one side thereof and an adjacent one of the second patterns of a same one of the groups on a second side thereof, the first side opposing the second side, and the first patterns may extend between corresponding adjacent ones of the second patterns.

The first electrode may include at least one protrusion defining a light emitting region and a non-light emitting region, the second electrode overlapping the non-light emitting region.

The first electrode may include a reflective material.

At least one of the above and other features and advantages may be separately realized by providing an emitting apparatus, including a plurality of emitting devices on a base substrate, each of the emitting devices including a first electrode, a second electrode, a third electrode, and an emitting structure on the base substrate, a plurality of first patterns spaced apart from each other on the base substrate, the first electrode of each of the emitting devices overlapping and being electrically connected to a corresponding one of the first patterns, a plurality of second patterns spaced apart from each other on the base substrate, each of the light emitting devices being arranged between two corresponding adjacent ones of the second patterns, wherein, for each of the light emitting devices, the second electrode is connected to one of the corresponding adjacent ones of the second patterns and the third electrode is connected to the other of the corresponding adjacent ones of the second patterns.

Each of the first electrodes may include two protruding portions defining a cavity and an upper portion of the cavity may be wider than a lower portion of the cavity.

Each of the first electrodes may include at least one protrusion.

The first electrode may include two protrusions that substantially define a light emitting region and two connecting regions of the light emitting device, the second electrode may overlap one of the connecting regions and the third electrode may overlap another of the connecting regions.

The first patterns may have a striped pattern such that each of the first patterns defines a row and the second patterns are arranged in groups such that the second patterns of each of the groups are aligned to define columns crossing the rows.

The rows may extend along a first direction and the columns may extend along a second direction, the first direction crossing the second direction.

The emitting devices corresponding to each of the groups of second patterns may be aligned along the corresponding columns defined by the corresponding second patterns.

The emitting devices may be arranged in columns that are parallel to and offset relative to the columns defined by the second patterns.

The emitting apparatus may further include a phosphor layer on the light emitting devices, wherein the phosphor layer includes a transparent resin, wherein phosphor is at least one of dispersed within the transparent resin, on the transparent resin and/or between the transparent resin and the light emitting device.

At least one of the above and other features and advantages may be separately realized by providing a method of biasing an emitting device, including a first electrode on a base substrate, a second electrode on the base substrate, a third electrode on the base substrate, an emitting structure including an emitting pattern between a first conductive pattern and a second conductive pattern, a first pattern on the base substrate being electrically connected to the first electrode, a plurality of second patterns on the base substrate, at least one of the second patterns being arranged on a first side of the first pattern and being electrically connected to the second electrode and at least another one of the second patterns being arranged on a second side of the first pattern and being electrically connected to the third electrode, the first side opposing the second side, the method including applying a first bias to the first conductive pattern through the first pattern and the first electrode, and applying a second bias to the second conductive pattern through the second patterns on the first and the second side of the first pattern and the second and the third electrodes.

The first bias and the second bias may be one of current or voltage, and the first bias may be one of positive and negative and the second bias may be the other of positive and negative.

At least one of the above and other features and advantages may be separately realized by providing a method of fabricating an emitting device, including forming an emitting structure including a conductive pattern, an emitting pattern and another conductive pattern on a substrate, patterning the emitting structure to define at least one trench, forming a first electrode substantially and/or completely on a first side of the emitting structure, forming a second electrode substantially and/or completely on a second side of the emitting structure to form an intermediate structure, the first side being different from the second side of the emitting pattern, arranging the intermediate structure on a base substrate including a first pattern and a plurality of second patterns such that the first electrode overlaps and is electrically connected to the first pattern, and electrically connecting the second electrode to a corresponding one of the second patterns by way of a way of a wire or a conductive resin.

The method may further include forming a third electrode on the second side of the emitting structure, and electrically connecting the third electrode to another corresponding one of the second patterns by way of a wire or a conductive resin.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Korean Patent Application No. 10-2008-0055995, filed on Jun. 13, 2008, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, and entitled: “LIGHT EMITTING ELEMENT, LIGHT EMITTING DEVICE, AND FABRICATING METHOD OF THE LIGHT EMITTING ELEMENT,” is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

In the figures, the dimensions of layers and regions may be exaggerated for clarity of illustration. It will also be understood that when an element is referred to as being “on” another element, it can be directly on the other element, or intervening elements may also be present. Further, it will be understood that when an element is referred to as being “under” another element, it may be directly under, and one or more intervening element may also be present. In addition, it will also be understood that when an element is referred to as being “between” two elements, it may be the only element between the two elements, or one or more intervening elements may also be present. Additionally, it will be understood that when an element is referred to as being “between” two elements, it may be physically arranged between facing/overlapping portions of the two elements, it may be physically arranged such that one of the elements is below it and the other element is above it, or it may be such that it is along a path of, e.g., current flow between the two elements. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the specification.

Exemplary embodiments of light emitting devices employing one or more aspects of the invention will be described below. It should be understood that while the exemplary apparatus may be described employing one of the exemplary light emitting devices described above, embodiments are not limited thereto. Other light emitting devices employing one or more aspects of the invention may be employed.

FIG. 1illustrates a cross-sectional view of a first exemplary embodiment of a light emitting device11employing one or more aspects of the invention.FIG. 2illustrates a top-side view of the light emitting device11ofFIG. 1.FIG. 3illustrates an exemplary schematic diagram of an exemplary arrangement of a plurality of the light emitting devices11ofFIG. 1.

Referring toFIGS. 1 and 2, the light emitting device11may include a light emitting element100and a circuit board301. The circuit board301may include wires330_1,330_2, first pattern310_1and second patterns320_1,320_2and a base substrate309. The light emitting element100may include an emitting structure110, a first electrode140, a second electrode151, a third electrode152, a first ohmic layer130, an insulation layer120, a conductive substrate200and an intermediate layer210. The emitting structure110may include a first conductive pattern112, an emitting pattern114, and a second conductive pattern116.

Referring toFIG. 1, the wire330_1may electrically connect the second electrode151to the second pattern320_1. The wire330_2may electrically connect the third electrode152to the second pattern320_2. The conductive substrate200may be electrically connected to the first pattern310_1by, e.g., a conductive resin (not shown) therebetween. In such cases, e.g., the first electrode140may be electrically connected to the first pattern310_1by way of the intermediate layer210, the conductive substrate200and the conductive resin.

Referring toFIG. 3, the light emitting apparatus1100may include a plurality of the light emitting elements100electrically connected to respective portions of the first patterns310_1to310—nand the second patterns320_1to320—n+1. For example, in some embodiments, n×m light emitting elements100may be arranged in a matrix-like manner. The first patterns310_1to310—nand/or the second patterns320_1to320—n+1 may be formed on the base substrate309.

As shown inFIG. 3, in some embodiments, each of the emitting elements100may be electrically connected with a respective first pattern310_1to310—n+1 and a respective second pattern320_1_1to320—n+1_m. More particularly, e.g., as shown in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 3, each of the light emitting elements100may be at least partially overlapping with a respective one of the first patterns310_1to310—nand each of the light emitting elements100may be electrically connected with at least one, e.g., two, of the second patterns320_1_1to320—n+1_m.

Each of the first patterns310_1to310—nmay be electrically connected to a plurality of light emitting elements100of the light emitting apparatus1100. In embodiments, the respective light emitting elements100connected with a respective one of the first patterns310_1to310—nmay be connected to each other in parallel. The respective light emitting elements100connected to respective ones of the second patterns320_1_1to320—n+1_m may be connected to each other in parallel. Such parallel connection(s) may enable improved individual accessibility during driving of the light emitting elements100.

In some embodiments, the first patterns310_1to310—nmay have a striped-type pattern. In such embodiments, e.g., there may be 1 to n first patterns310_1to310—nextending along a first direction DR1and defining n rows (y1to yn). The first patterns310_1to310—nmay extend parallel to each other. The first patterns310_1to310—nmay extend between respective corresponding portions of the second patterns320_1_ to320—n+1_m. For example, the first pattern310_2in the second row y2, may be electrically connected to m light emitting elements100_1to100—m.

Each of the second patterns320_1_1to320—n+1_m may be physically separate, e.g., completely spaced apart, from the other second patterns320_1_1to320—n+1_n. Each of the second patterns320_1_1to320—n+1_m may be conductive patterns. The second patterns320_1to320—n+1 may be arranged in groups, e.g., columns1to m, corresponding to an arrangement of the light emitting elements100of the light emitting apparatus1100. Each of the second patterns, e.g.,320_1_1to320—n+1_m may have, e.g., a rounded shape, e.g., circular, or polygonal shape, e.g., a rectangle, square circle, etc.

More particularly, e.g., in embodiments, the second patterns320_1_1to320—n+1_m may define columns x1to xm extending along a second direction DR2. The first direction D1may be perpendicular to the second direction D2. Respective portions1to m of the ones of the second patterns320_1_1to320—n+1_m arranged between a plurality, e.g., two, of the first patterns, e.g., between310_1and310_2, may be connected to a plurality, e.g., two, of the light emitting elements100. Further, the light emitting elements100may each be connected to one or more respective adjacent ones of the second patterns in the corresponding column and the corresponding adjacent rows of the second patterns. For example, in the exemplary n×m matrix of light emitting elements100, the light emitting element100_2—mof the second row y2and the m-th column xm may be connected to the adjacent second patterns320_2—mand320_3—m.

In embodiments, each of the second patterns320may be independent patterns on the substrate309, the second patterns320arranged along a same column x along the second direction DR2may be electrically connected indirectly, e.g., by way of the light emitting elements100arranged along the respective column x. That is, the second patterns320of a respective column x may not be directly connected to each other. In some embodiments, respective ones of the second patterns320of a respective column x may be connected together by way of two or more intervening elements, e.g., respective wire330, respective light emitting element100.

Referring toFIG. 3, in some embodiments, the second patterns320may be arranged on opposing sides of the respective first patterns310. For example, the second patterns320_1_1to320_2_1may be arranged on opposing sides the respective first pattern310_1. The opposing sides may correspond to sides that extend along a same plane, e.g., non-edge sharing sides having one or more other sides therebetween. More particularly, e.g., the light emitting elements100of a respective column x1to xm may be aligned with respective second patterns320_1_1to320—n+1 along, e.g., the second direction DR2.

The base substrate309may have, e.g., a polygonal, circular or oval shape. The base substrate309may include a printed circuit board (PCB), metal core printed circuit board (MCPCB), epoxy, Si, Si alloy, strained Si, SiC, and/or SiGe, etc.

The first electrode140may be on the intermediate layer210. The first electrode140may include, e.g., a reflective material such that at least some of the light L generated at the emitting pattern114and emitted onto the first electrode140may be reflected away from the first electrode140. For example, the first electrode140may include Ag, Al, etc.

In some embodiments, e.g., the first electrode140may include a bottom portion140aand one or more side portions140b. The bottom portion140amay conform to a shape of the intermediate layer210and/or the conductive substrate200, e.g., extends substantially along a plane parallel to the intermediate layer210. The side portion(s)140bmay extend along a direction(s) that crosses the plane along which the bottom portion140aof the first electrode140extends. For example, referring toFIG. 1, the side portions140bof the first electrode140may generally extend at an angle of greater than 90° relative to the bottom portion140asuch that a distance between facing lower portions, e.g., portions that are relatively closer to the conductive substrate200, of the respective side portions140bis less than a distance between facing upper portions, e.g., portions that are relatively further away from the conductive substrate200, of the respective side portions140b.

Adjacent or corresponding ones of the side portions140bmay together define protrusion(s)141in the first electrode140of the light emitting element100. In some embodiments, the first electrode140may include at least one protrusion141defining a groove118between the first electrode140and the conductive substrate200. The exemplary light emitting element100ofFIG. 1illustrates an exemplary embodiment with two protrusions141and two grooves118. Further, in some embodiments, e.g., the protrusion(s)141and/or the side portion(s)140bof the first electrode140may define one or more cavities142a,142b. More particularly, e.g., the first electrode140may define one or more cavities142acorresponding to one or more light emitting regions (e.g., 2ndregion) of the light emitting element100and one or more other cavities142bcorresponding to one or more non-light emitting regions (e.g., 1stand 3rdregions) of the light emitting element100. Embodiments are not limited thereto as, e.g., one, some or all the plurality of regions of the light emitting element100resulting from the cavities, e.g.,142a,142b, may correspond to light emitting or non-light emitting regions of the light emitting element100. The protrusion(s)141may include, e.g., an inverted substantially-U-like or an inverted substantially-V-like shape.

Further, in some embodiments, a portion(s)140cof first electrode140may extend above a level of the emitting pattern114. That is, e.g., referring toFIG. 1, at least some of the emitting structure110may be arranged within the cavity142a, e.g., bowl-shaped cavity, defined by the side portions140b. More particularly, e.g., the portion(s)140cof the first electrode140may be embedded into a portion of the first conductive pattern112. It should be understood, that in some embodiments, the first electrode140may be completely and/or substantially flat, i.e., not include any side portion(s)140bor protrusions141.

The first insulation layer120may be on the first electrode140. More particularly, the first ohmic layer130may be on a portion of the first electrode140within the light emitting region(s) (2ndRegion) and not on a portion of the first electrode140within the non-light emitting region(s) (1stRegion, 3rdRegion). The insulation layer120may include a nitride layer, an oxide layer and/or, more particularly, an oxide-nitride layer, an aluminum-oxide layer and/or an aluminum-nitride layer.

The first ohmic layer130may electrically connect the first electrode140and the emitting structure110. The ohmic layer130may include, e.g., at least one of ITO (Indium Tin Oxide), Zn, ZnO, Ag, Ti, Al, Au, Ni, In2O3, SnO2, Cu, W and Pt. The first ohmic layer130may at least partially fill openings defined by the pattern(s) of the first insulation layer120. Referring toFIG. 1, the first ohmic layer130and the first insulation layer120may together form a layer in the light emitting element100.

Referring toFIG. 1, the emitting structure110may include the first conductive pattern112, the emitting pattern114and the second conductive pattern116, which may be successively laminated together. The second conductive pattern116may be on the first insulation layer120and/or the first ohmic pattern130. The emitting pattern114may be on the second conductive pattern116. The emitting pattern114may be at a same and/or higher level than the first electrode140and at a lower level than the second electrode151,152. The first conductive pattern112may be on the emitting pattern114.

As discussed above, in some embodiments, the first electrode140may include side portion(s)140band/or protrusion(s)141. In such embodiments, e.g., a bottom portion of the emitting structure110may include a shape that corresponds to such side portion(s)140band/or protrusion(s)141. For example, referring toFIG. 1, the side portion(s)140band/or the protrusions141may extend between respective portions of the emitting structure110. More particularly, e.g., the protrusion141may extend between a portion of the emitting structure110within the cavity(ies)142aand other portion(s) of the emitting structure110within the cavity(ies)142b. Referring toFIG. 1, the protrusions141may extend above a level of the second conductive pattern116and the emitting pattern114and may extend only partially into the first conductive pattern112, i.e., to a level below an upper surface of the first conductive pattern112.

Each of the first conductive pattern112, the emitting pattern114and/or the second conductive pattern116may include InxAlyGa(1-x-y)N, where 0≦x≦1 and 0≦y≦1. More particularly, e.g., the first conductive pattern112, the emitting pattern114and/or the second conductive pattern116may include GaN, e.g., AlGaN, InGaN, etc. In embodiments, the first conductive pattern112may be one of n-type or p-type, and the second conductive pattern116may be the other of p-type or n-type. The emitting pattern114may correspond to a region of the light emitting element100that generates light as a result of recombination of carriers of the first and second conductive patterns112,116. Further, a surface of the first conductive pattern112may be textured to raise light extraction efficiency.

The second electrode151and/or the third electrode152may be on the first conductive pattern112. The second electrode151and/or the third electrode152may be electrically connected with the first conductive pattern112. The second electrode151and/or the third electrode152may include, e.g., ITO, Cu, Ni, Cr, Au, Ti, Pt, Al, V, W, Mo and/or Ag. The second electrode151and/or the third electrode152may be at a level higher than the first electrode140and/or the emitting pattern114. More particularly, the second electrode151and/or the third electrode152may overlap the cavity(ies)142bcorresponding to the non-light emitting region (1stRegion, 3rdRegion, respectively) and may not overlap the cavity142acorresponding to the light emitting region (2ndRegion). In the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 1that includes two non-light emitting regions (1stRegion, 3rdRegion), the second electrode151overlaps one of the non-light emitting regions (3rdRegion) and the third electrode152overlaps another of the non-light emitting regions (1stRegion). More particularly, e.g., the second electrode151and the third electrode152may be arranged so as not to block light being emitted from the emitting structure110. Each of the first electrode140, the second electrode151and the third electrode152may be separate from one another.

Referring toFIG. 1, exemplary operation of the light emitting device11shown inFIG. 1will be described below. For example, in some embodiments, the first conductive pattern112may be n-type and the second conductive pattern116may be p-type. In such embodiments, a first bias, e.g., a positive bias (V+ or I+) may be applied to the second conductive pattern116through the first pattern310_1, the first electrode140and the first ohmic pattern130and a second bias, e.g., a negative bias (V− or I−) may be applied to the first conductive pattern112via the second pattern320_1and the second electrode151and/or the second pattern320_2and the third electrode152. A forward bias may be applied to the emitting structure110, and light may be generated at the emitting pattern114. During forward bias operation, current may flow from the first electrode140to the second electrode151and the third electrode152. While forward bias operation is described above, embodiments are not limited to such a forward bias operation. Further, the insulation layer120may regulate current. In embodiments in which current may flow through all and/or substantially all regions of the emitting pattern114, light efficiency may be improved, e.g., higher.

FIG. 4illustrates an exemplary schematic diagram of the light emitting apparatus1100ofFIG. 3. Referring toFIG. 4, the light emitting apparatus1100may include emitting device controller(s)15and LED driver integrated circuit (LDI) controller(s)20. The emitting device controller(s)15and the LDI controller(s)20may independently drive each of the light emitting elements100of the light emitting apparatus1100. More particularly, e.g., the light emitting elements100of the light emitting apparatus1100may be connected in parallel. Therefore, by parallel connecting the plurality of light emitting elements100within the light emitting apparatus1100, it may be possible to individually access each of the plurality of light emitting elements100. Accordingly, such a light emitting apparatus1100may be capable of an optimized local dimming operation. Local dimming may improve contrast of an image being displayed.

FIG. 5illustrates an exemplary schematic diagram of the light emitting device11ofFIG. 1during an operating state employing local dimming. As shown inFIG. 5, when, e.g., columns x1and x2and rows y1, y2and y3are selected by the controllers15,20and the other rows x3to xm and columns y4to yn are not selected, light may be emitted from the light emitting elements100in region B and light may not be emitted from the light emitting elements100not in region B. Such selective control of a light emitting state of the light emitting elements100may help improve contrast of a display apparatus.

FIG. 6illustrates a cross-sectional view of a light emitting device12according to a second exemplary embodiment employing one or more aspects of the invention. In general, only differences between the light emitting device12and the light emitting device11ofFIG. 1will be described below.

Referring toFIG. 6, the light emitting device12may include a light emitting device100aincluding a first electrode240. The first electrode240may include a bottom portion240aand side portion(s)240b. However, in contrast to the first electrode140of the exemplary light emitting element100ofFIG. 1, the first electrode240of the exemplary light emitting element100adoes not include protrusions141. The side portions240bof the first electrode240of the exemplary light emitting element100amay define a cavity242. More particularly, the first electrode240of the light emitting apparatus12may include only one cavity242. The emitting pattern114may be at least partially within the cavity242. The second electrode151and the third electrode152may at least partially overlap the cavity242. More particularly, e.g., the second electrode151and the third electrode152may arranged so as to substantially overlap the side portions240bof the first electrode240.

FIG. 7illustrates a cross-sectional view of a light emitting device13according to a third exemplary embodiment employing one or more aspects of the invention. In general, only differences between the light emitting device13and the light emitting device11ofFIG. 1will be described below.

Referring toFIG. 7, the light emitting device13may include a light emitting device400including a first electrode340. The first electrode340may conform to a shape of the intermediate layer210and/or a side of the conductive substrate200on which it is arranged. For example, if the first electrode340is arranged on a side of the conductive substrate200that is substantially planar, the first electrode340may extend substantially along a plane. In contrast to the first electrode140of the light emitting element100ofFIG. 1, the first electrode340of the light emitting device300may not include any side portion(s)140band/or any protrusion(s)141. Further, the first electrode340of the light emitting device400may not define any cavities. In the exemplary light emitting element400, the first electrode340is arranged only along a bottom of the emitting structure110.

FIG. 8illustrates a cross-sectional view of a light emitting device14according to a fourth exemplary embodiment employing one or more aspects of the invention.

Further, one or more aspects of the invention may be applied to a lateral type light emitting device. Referring toFIG. 8, e.g., the light emitting device14may include a lateral type light emitting element500. The light emitting element500may include a first electrode540, a second electrode551, a third electrode552, an emitting structure510and a substrate220. The emitting structure510may include an emitting pattern514between a first conductive pattern512and a second conductive pattern516. The second conductive pattern516may be on, e.g., directly on, the substrate220. The substrate220may include, e.g., Al2O3, ZnO, Si and/or SiC, etc. The first electrode540may be on the first conductive pattern512. The second electrode551and the third electrode552may be on respective portions of the second conductive pattern516. The substrate220may be arranged on the first pattern310_1. The first electrode540may be connected via a wire330_3to the respective first pattern310_1. The second electrode551may be connected via the wire330_1to the respective second pattern320_1and the third electrode552may be connected via the wire330_2to the respective second pattern320_2. The light emitting element500may not include an ohmic pattern between the substrate201and the second conductive pattern516. As shown inFIG. 8, in such embodiments, the first electrode540may be further away from an upper surface of the substrate220relative to the second and third electrodes551,552. More particularly, e.g., the emitting pattern514and the first conductive pattern512may be further away from the upper surface of the substrate220than a surface(s) of the second conductive pattern516on which the second and third electrodes551,552may be respectively arranged.

FIG. 9illustrates an exemplary schematic diagram of first and second conductive patterns310_1to310—n,320_1to320—n+1 and first, second and third electrodes540,551,552of a light emitting apparatus1401employing a plurality of the light emitting devices14ofFIG. 8.FIG. 10illustrates another exemplary schematic diagram of first and second conductive patterns310_1to310—n,320_1to320—n+1 and second and third electrodes540,551,552of a light emitting apparatus1402employing a plurality of the light emitting devices14ofFIG. 8. In general, only differences between respective light emitting apparatus1401,1402ofFIGS. 9 and 10and the light emitting apparatus1100ofFIG. 3will be described below. More particularly, in the exemplary light emitting apparatus1401,1402ofFIGS. 9 and 10, the first electrode540of the respective light emitting element500a,500bmay be electrically connected to the respective first pattern310_1via the respective wire330_3.

Referring toFIG. 9, other than employing the light emitting elements500ofFIG. 14instead of the light emitting elements100ofFIG. 1, the light emitting apparatus1401substantially corresponds to the light emitting apparatus11ofFIG. 3. More particularly, the light emitting apparatus14aofFIG. 9, may include a plurality of light emitting elements500aarranged similarly to the light emitting elements100ofFIG. 3on the base substrate309. The first electrode540of each of the light emitting elements500amay be electrically connected to the respective first pattern310_1to310—nvia the respective wire330_3, the second electrode551of each of the light emitting elements500amay be electrically connected to the respective portion of the respective second pattern320_1to320—n+1 via the wire330_1and the third electrode552of each of the light emitting elements500amay be electrically connected to the respective portion of the respective second pattern320_1_1to320—n+1_m. Referring toFIG. 9, e.g., each of the light emitting elements500amay be arranged between corresponding adjacent ones the second patterns320_1_1to320—n+1_m, e.g., the light emitting element500a—1_m may be arranged between the second patterns320_1—mand320_2—mcorresponding to the adjacent rows y1and y2and the respective mth column with which the respective light emitting element500a—1_m is associated.

Referring toFIG. 10, other than the arrangement of light emitting elements500brelative to the second patterns320_1to320—n+1 on the base substrate309, the light emitting apparatus1402substantially corresponds to the light emitting apparatus1401ofFIG. 9. In the exemplary apparatus1100,1401ofFIGS. 3 and 9, the respective light emitting elements100,500amay be arranged so as to be completely and/or substantially aligned with the respective second patterns320_1_1to320—n+1_m such that the respective second patterns320_1_1to320—n+1_m and the respective light emitting elements100,500atogether define the respective columns x1to xm. In the exemplary apparatus1402ofFIG. 10, the respective light emitting elements500bare arranged so as to be offset from the respective second patterns320_1to320—n+1. That is, the respective light emitting elements500bmay be partially and/or completely offset relative to the respective second patterns320_1_1to320—n+1_m. For example, the light emitting elements500bmay be arranged such that each light emitting element500band corresponding respective second patterns320_1_1to320—n+1_m define a triangle. Even with such an arrangement, respective ones of the light emitting elements500band the corresponding respective ones of the second patterns320_1_1to320—n+1_m may define respective columns x1to xm. It should be understood that while this alternative exemplary arrangement of the light emitting elements500bis illustrated, other embodiments, e.g., light emitting element100ofFIG. 3, may also employ such an arrangement. Further, it should be understood that embodiments may also employ other arrangements.

FIG. 11illustrates a cross-sectional view of a light emitting device15according to a fifth exemplary embodiment employing one or more aspects of the invention.

Referring toFIG. 11, the light emitting device15may substantially correspond to the light emitting device described above, e.g.,11ofFIG. 1, but including the light emitting element500ofFIG. 8. More particularly, the light emitting elements500may be flipped over the base substrate309and first, second and third electrodes540,551,552may be electrically connected to the base substrate309via conductive resin, e.g., solder bumps335. For example, the first electrode540may be electrically connected to the respective first patterns310_1via a respective one of the solder bumps335, the second and third electrodes551,552may be electrically connected to the respective second patterns320_1to320—n+1 via respective ones of the solder bumps335. More particularly, when the light emitting element500is flipped over the circuit301, the first electrode540may at least partially overlap the respective first pattern310_1to310—nand the respective solder bump335may be therebetween, the second electrode551may at least partially overlap the respective portion of the second pattern320_1to320—n+1 and the respective solder bump335may be therebetween, and the third electrode552may at least partially overlap the respective portion of the second pattern320_1to320—n+1 and the respective solder bump335may be therebetween.

FIG. 12illustrates an exemplary schematic diagram of first and second conductive patterns310_1to310—nand320_1to320—n+1 and first, second and third electrodes540,551,552of a light emitting apparatus1500including a plurality of the light emitting devices15ofFIG. 11.

Referring toFIG. 12, the exemplary light emitting apparatus1500ofFIG. 12substantially corresponds to the exemplary light emitting apparatus1100ofFIG. 3, but including the light emitting devices500ofFIG. 11instead of the light emitting elements100ofFIG. 1. Accordingly, in the exemplary light emitting apparatus1500ofFIG. 12, no wires may be employed to electrically connect the first, second and third electrodes540,551,552to the respective first or second patterns310_1to310—nor320—nto320—n+1. It should be understood that the schematic diagram ofFIG. 12is merely intended to illustrate an exemplary arrangement of the electrodes540,551,552and patterns310_1to310—nand320—nto320—n+1, and not as a view of the apparatus. That is, e.g., the electrodes540,551,552may not be visible from a top view of the apparatus15. Further, the first patterns310_1to310—nmay be electrically separated from the second patterns320_1to320—n+1.

FIG. 13illustrates a cross-sectional view of a light emitting device16according to a sixth exemplary embodiment employing one or more aspects of the invention. In general, only differences between the light emitting device11ofFIG. 1and the light emitting device16ofFIG. 13will be described below. In contrast to the light emitting element100ofFIG. 1, the light emitting element600may not include the second electrode152and the wire330_2.

Referring toFIG. 13, the light emitting device16may include a light emitting element600, a base substrate609, a second pattern620_1, a via340and a third pattern350_1. The second pattern620_1may be connected to the second electrode151via the wire330_1. The second pattern620_1may be connected to the third pattern350_1by way of the via340. That is, e.g., the second electrode151may be electrically connected with the third pattern350_1by way of the wire330_1, the second pattern320_1and the via340. The third pattern350_1may be on the base substrate609. The third pattern350_1may extend below the light emitting element600on the base substrate609. For example, the first pattern310_1and/or the second pattern620_1may extend at a second pattern level on the base substrate609and the third pattern350_1may extend at a first pattern level on the base substrate609. The first pattern level may be different from, e.g., below, the second pattern level.

Referring toFIGS. 1 and 13, the light emitting element600may include a first electrode640. The first electrode640may include a bottom portion640aand side portion(s)640b. The first electrode640may include a single protrusion141defining a single groove181. The respective side portions640bof the first electrode640may define cavities642a,642b. The cavity642amay correspond to a light emitting region and the cavity642bmay correspond to a non-light emitting region.

FIG. 14illustrates a cross-sectional view of a light emitting device17according to a seventh exemplary embodiment employing one or more aspects of the invention. In general, only differences between the light emitting device17ofFIG. 14and the light emitting devices14and16ofFIGS. 8 and 13, respectively, will be described below.

Referring toFIG. 14, the light emitting device17may include a light emitting element700. The light emitting element700may substantially correspond to the light emitting element500ofFIG. 8. Instead of the third electrode552and the wire330_2of the light emitting apparatus14ofFIG. 8, the light emitting device17may include the via340and the third pattern350_1of the light emitting device16FIG. 13.

FIG. 15illustrates a cross-sectional view of a light emitting device18according to an eighth exemplary embodiment employing one or more aspects of the invention. Referring toFIG. 15, the light emitting device18may substantially correspond to the light emitting device17ofFIG. 14, with the light emitting element700arranged in flip-chip manner. That is, instead of employing wires330_1,330_3to electrically connect the first electrode540and the second electrode551to the corresponding first pattern310_1and second pattern320_1, respectively, the light emitting apparatus18may include the solder bumps335respectively connecting the first electrode540to the first pattern310_1and the second electrode551to the second pattern320_1. In the light emitting apparatus18, the second patterns320_1may be electrically connected to the respective third pattern350_1by way of the via340.

FIG. 16illustrates a schematic diagram of an exemplary arrangement of the first patterns310_1to310—n, the second patterns320_1the third patterns350_1to350—min a light emitting apparatus1600including a plurality of the light emitting devices600ofFIG. 13. The exemplary arrangement ofFIG. 16may substantially correspond to the exemplary arrangement ofFIG. 3, including the third patterns350_1to350—m. The third patterns350_1to350—mmay extend along a direction crossing a direction along which the first patterns310_1to310—nextend, e.g., may extend along the second direction DR2. The third patterns350_1to350—mmay have a striped-type pattern. Respective ones of the third patterns350_1to350—mmay extend parallel to each other. The third patterns350_1to350—mmay extend below the respective light emitting elements, e.g.,600. The third patterns350_1to350—mmay define columns x1to xm. The third patterns350_1to350—mmay partially and/or completely overlap with the respective light emitting elements600. The third patterns350_1to350_may be electrically connected to the second patterns320_1to320—n+1 via the respective vias340.

In the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 16, e.g., the second electrode151(seeFIG. 13) may be electrically connected to the respective second pattern320_1to320—n+1 via the respective wire330_1. Embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the light emitting element700ofFIGS. 14 and 15may be employed in some embodiments. In embodiments employing the light emitting apparatus17ofFIG. 14, e.g., the first electrode540may also be electrically connected to the respective first pattern310_1to310—nvia the respective wire330_3. In embodiments employing the light emitting apparatus18ofFIG. 15, e.g., the solder bumps335may be employed instead of the wires330_1,330_3. In such embodiments, similar to the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 12, respective portions of the light emitting element700may overlap with the respective first and/or second patterns310_1to310—nand/or320_1to320—n+1 to be electrically connected thereto via, e.g., the solder bumps335. Although such exemplary modifications may not be illustrated inFIG. 16, it should be understood that such and other modifications are possible.

FIG. 17illustrates a cross-sectional view of a light emitting device19according to a ninth exemplary embodiment employing one or more aspects of the invention. In general, only differences between the exemplary device11ofFIG. 1and the exemplary device19ofFIG. 17will be described below.

Referring toFIG. 17, the light emitting device19may include third pattern(s)312_1and fourth pattern(s)322_2. The first pattern(s)310_1may be electrically connected to respective third pattern(s)312_1by way of via(s)314_1. The second pattern(s)320_1,320_2may be connected to respective fourth pattern(s)322_1,322_2, respectively. In such embodiments, e.g., the first pattern(s), e.g.,310_1to310—n, and the second pattern(s), e.g.,320_1to320—n+1, may be electrically connected to patterns on a plurality of sides, e.g., two sides, e.g., front and back sides, of the base substrate309. While a single or a plurality of vias, e.g.,314_1,324_1,324_2, may be illustrated as electrically connecting the first pattern310_1and/or the second pattern320_1,320_2to the respective third pattern312_1and/or the fourth pattern322_1,322_2, embodiments are not limited thereto, as more and/or less vias may be employed.

FIG. 18illustrates an exemplary arrangement of phosphor employable by a light emitting device20.FIG. 19illustrates a second exemplary arrangement of phosphor employable by a light emitting device21.

Referring toFIGS. 18 and 19, the light emitting devices20,21may substantially correspond to the light emitting device11ofFIG. 1. It should be understood that while the light emitting device11ofFIG. 1is illustrated in the exemplary embodiments ofFIGS. 19 and 20, features of phosphor described herein may be applied to any light emitting device, e.g.,12,13,14,15,16,17,18, etc., including one or more aspects of the invention.

Referring toFIG. 18, the light emitting device20may include a phosphor layer370and a second transparent resin380. The phosphor layer370may include a first transparent resin372and phosphor374. The phosphor374may be dispersed in the phosphor layer370. More particularly, the phosphor374may be dispersed on and/or within the first transparent resin374. The phosphor layer370may be formed over the light emitting element100. For example, the phosphor layer370may completely cover the light emitting element100on the circuit board301. The second transparent resin380may completely cover the phosphor layer370on the circuit board301. The second transparent resin380may include a lens shape. The second transparent resin350may diffuse light generated by the light emitting element100. The phosphor layer370and the circuit board301may together substantially encapsulate the light emitting element100.

Referring toFIG. 18, the phosphor374may be dispersed within the transparent resin372. The phosphor374may absorb light generated by the emitting element100and may convert the light to light of a different wavelength, e.g., different color. The phosphor374may include, e.g., nitride-based and/or oxide-based material that may be activated by lanthanide(s), e.g., Eu, Ce, etc.

Referring toFIG. 19, in some other exemplary embodiments, e.g., the light emitting device21may include phosphor474on the light emitting element100, e.g., directly on the second electrode151, the base substrate309, the first pattern320_1,320_2, etc. More particularly, e.g., the phosphor474may be directly and conformally on the light emitting element100, i.e., along a profile of the light emitting element100and/or the circuit board301. A transparent resin480may be formed over the phosphor474and the light emitting element100.

While exemplary phosphor arrangements are illustrated inFIGS. 18 and 19, it should be understood that embodiments are not limited thereto and other phosphor arrangements may be employed. For example, in some embodiments, a transparent resin may be formed on a light emitting element, e.g.,100, and phosphor may be arranged between that transparent resin and another transparent resin arranged on the phosphor.

FIGS. 20A and 20Billustrate exemplary arrangements of the phosphor layer370and the second transparent resin380ofFIG. 18. In some embodiments, the phosphor layer370and the second transparent resin380may be line-type and/or dot-type, etc. More particularly, referring to the exemplary embodiment ofFIG. 20A, in the line-type manner, a single strip of the phosphor layer370and the second transparent resin350may overlap a plurality of the light emitting elements100. In such embodiments, the light emitting elements, e.g.,100ofFIG. 1, may be arranged, e.g., in a matrix manner. Referring toFIG. 20B, in the dot-type manner, e.g., each portion of the phosphor layer370and the second transparent resin380may overlap a single one of the light emitting elements100.

It is understood that while the exemplary light emitting element100ofFIG. 1is illustrated inFIGS. 20A and 20B, embodiments are not limited thereto, as other light emitting elements, e.g.,200,400,500,600ofFIGS. 6,7,13,14, respectively, may be employed. Further, while the exemplary phosphor layer370and second transparent resin380ofFIG. 18is illustrated inFIGS. 20A and 20B, embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the exemplary phosphor474and transparent resin480ofFIG. 19may be arranged in the dot-type and/or line-type manner ofFIGS. 20A and 20B.

FIG. 21illustrates a diagram of a portion of an exemplary display device24employing the light emitting apparatus1100ofFIG. 3. More particularly, referring toFIG. 21, the light emitting apparatus1100ofFIG. 3may be employed together with a liquid crystal panel390to provide the display device24. While the display device24is illustrated inFIG. 21as an exemplary device that may employ a light emitting element according to one or more aspects of the invention, it should be understood that applications of embodiments described herein are not limited thereto. For example, light emitting elements employing one or more features described herein may be employed in, e.g., digital clocks, remote controls, watches, calculators, cell phones, indicator lights, backlights, etc.

FIGS. 22A,22B,22C,22D,22E,22F,22G and22H illustrate stages in an exemplary method for fabricating the exemplary light emitting element100ofFIG. 1.

Referring toFIG. 22A, to fabricate the light emitting element100ofFIG. 1, a first conductive layer112a, an emitting layer114aand a second conductive layer116amay be successively formed on a substrate900. The first conductive layer112a, the emitting layer114aand the second conductive layer116amay be formed using, e.g., metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD), liquid phase epitaxy, hydride vapor phase epitaxy, molecular beam epitaxy and/or metal organic vapor phase epitaxy, etc. By forming the second block pattern106, the buffer layer104may be used as a seed layer and the first conductive layer112a, the emitting layer114aand the second conductive layer116amay be formed using, e.g., lateral epitaxial overgrowth (LEO).

Referring toFIG. 22B, the emitting structure110may be formed by etching. That is, the first conductive layer112a, the emitting layer114aand/or the second conductive layer116amay be etched to respectively form the first conductive pattern112, the emitting pattern114and the second conductive pattern116. In some embodiments, the emitting structure110may include sloped sides. More particularly, as shown inFIG. 22B, in some embodiments, the structure shown inFIG. 22Amay be etched such that a base portion of the remaining protruding structure(s) is wider than an upper portion thereof, i.e., a width of the groove118decreases towards a base of the groove118.

Referring toFIG. 22C, an insulating layer may be formed on the emitting structure110and patterned to form the insulation layer120. More particularly, e.g., the insulation layer120may be conformally formed on a profile of the emitting structure110. Further, referring toFIG. 22C, portions of the insulating layer, e.g., upper portions of the insulating layer on an upper surface of the second conductive pattern116, may be patterned to form the insulation layer120and to expose respective portions of the second conductive pattern116.

Referring toFIG. 22D, the ohmic layer130may be formed over the second conductive pattern116. More particularly, the ohmic layer130may fill gap(s) that may include resulted from the patterning of the insulation layer120. The first electrode140may be formed on the insulation layer120and/or the ohmic layer130.

Referring toFIG. 22E, a plurality of the resulting structures ofFIG. 22Dmay be bonded on the conductive substrate200. For example, as shown inFIG. 22E, the resulting structure ofFIG. 22Dmay be inverted and bonded to the conductive substrate200. More particularly, a plurality of the resulting structures ofFIG. 22Dmay be inverted and bonded on the intermediate layer210on the substrate200, as shown inFIG. 22F.

Referring toFIG. 22G, e.g., LLO may be used to remove the substrate900. As shown inFIG. 19H, the first conductive pattern112may be exposed as a result of removing the substrate900. Referring toFIG. 22H, the second electrode151and the third electrode152may be formed on the first conductive pattern112. Sawing may then be performed to separate the light emitting elements100from each other. Sawing may then be performed to separate the light emitting elements100from each other.

To obtain the resulting structures illustrates in, e.g.,FIGS. 3,9,10,12and16, the light emitting elements may then be arranged on a substrate including, e.g., first patterns and second patterns according to one or more of the features described above. Respective ones of the first electrodes may be connected to corresponding ones of the first patterns and respective ones of the second and/or third electrodes may be connected to corresponding ones of the second patterns by way of, e.g., a wire, a conductive substrate and/or resin. Further, phosphor layers may be formed over the light emitting elements, e.g.,100,200,300,400,500,600,700, to obtain, e.g., the structures illustrated inFIGS. 20A,20B.