Patent Description:
Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a light-emitting module.

Recently, efforts aiming to a reduction in energy consumption have been regarded as important. From such background, a Light-emitting Diode (LED) whose power consumption is comparatively small attracts attention as a next-generation light source. The LED features downsizing, small amount of heat generation, and good responsiveness. In view of this, the LED has been widely used as a display device, for example, for indoor, for outdoor, for stationary, and for movement; and an optical device such as an indicator lamp, various kinds of switches, a signal device, and a general illumination.

A wire bonding method has been conventionally used to mount this kind of LED to a wiring board. However, the wire bonding method is not suitable for mounting a LED chip to a flexible material such as a flexible substrate. Therefore, techniques for mounting the LED chip without the use of the wire bonding method have been variously proposed.

In a conventional module, the LED chip is disposed between one set of light transmissive films where light transmissive electrodes are formed. This kind of module is required to efficiently supply electric power to the LED chip while securing light transmissive property and flexibility of the module.

This kind of module is required to include a conductor pattern on the light transmissive substrate without sacrificing light transmissive property. However, when the plurality of conductor patterns are disposed on the substrate, a light transmittance at regions between the conductor patterns differs from a light transmittance at regions where the conductor patterns are formed. In view of this, depending on a shape and a positional relationship of the conductor patterns, the light transmittance possibly varies in the entire module. Especially, in the case where the plurality of conductor patterns are gaplessly disposed on the substrate, lines along outer edges of the conductor patterns stand out, also losing limpidity in appearance.

Patent literature <NUM>: Publication No. <CIT>.

<CIT> relates to a foil comprising an electrically conductive structure embedded in a barrier layer, wherein the foil is suitable for manufacturing an electro-optic component that facilitates an electric connection to both electrodes while not limiting the dimensions of the electro-optic component to predetermined dimensions.

<CIT> relates to a light-transmissive light-emitting device equipped with light-emitting elements.

<CIT> relates to a light-emitting device having improved convenience and availability of transparent light.

<CIT> relates to touchscreen sensors reducing the visibility of conductive micro pattern elements.

The present disclosure has been made under the above-described circumstances, and the one object is to achieve uniformity of light transmittance of a module.

To achieve the above-described object, with a light-emitting module according to an embodiment, for example, a first mesh pattern and a second mesh pattern adjacent to one another among a plurality of mesh patterns have a boundary. Line patterns of the first mesh pattern and line patterns of the second mesh pattern are collocated along the boundary in a state of being adjacent to one another.

The following describes the first embodiment of the present disclosure with reference to the drawings. An XYZ coordinate system constituted of an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis perpendicular to one another is used for explanation.

<FIG> is a perspective view of a light-emitting module <NUM> according to the embodiment. <FIG> is a developed perspective view of the light-emitting module <NUM>. As apparent with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the light-emitting module <NUM> includes a light-emitting panel <NUM>, a flexible cable <NUM>, a connector <NUM>, and a reinforcing plate <NUM>.

<FIG> is a side view of the light-emitting panel <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the light-emitting panel <NUM> includes one set of light transmissive films <NUM> and <NUM>, a resin layer <NUM>, which is formed between the light transmissive films <NUM> and <NUM>, and eight pieces of light-emitting elements <NUM><NUM> to <NUM><NUM>, which are disposed inside the resin layer <NUM>.

The light transmissive films <NUM> and <NUM> are rectangular films having the longitudinal direction in the X-axis direction. The light transmissive film <NUM> has the thickness of around <NUM> to <NUM> and has light transmissive property to visible light. A total light transmittance of the light transmissive film <NUM> is preferably around <NUM> to <NUM>%. The total light transmittance means total light transmittance measured compliant with the Japanese Industrial Standards JISK7375: <NUM>.

The light transmissive films <NUM> and <NUM> have flexibility and the flexural modulus is around <NUM> to <NUM> kgf/mm<NUM> (excluding zero). The flexural modulus is a value measured by a method compliant with ISO178 (JIS K7171: <NUM>).

As the material of the light transmissive films <NUM> and <NUM>, for example, a polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), a polycarbonate (PC), a polyethylene succinate (PES), an arton (ARTON), and an acrylic resin are considered for use.

Among one set of the light transmissive films <NUM> and <NUM>, a conductor layer <NUM> with a thickness of around <NUM> to <NUM> is formed on a lower surface (-Z-side surface in <FIG>) of the light transmissive film <NUM>.

<FIG> is a plan view of the light-emitting module <NUM>. As apparent with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the conductor layer <NUM> is constituted of an L-shaped mesh pattern 23a, which is formed along the +Y-side outer edge of the light transmissive film <NUM>, and rectangular mesh patterns 23b to 23i, which are collocated along the -Y-side outer edge of the light transmissive film <NUM>. The mesh patterns 23a to 23i are made of a metallic material such as a copper (Cu) and an argentum (Ag). In the light-emitting module <NUM>, a distance D between the mesh patterns 23a to 23i is about <NUM> or less.

As apparent with reference to <FIG>, in the light-emitting module <NUM>, the light transmissive film <NUM> has a length in the X-axis direction shorter than that of the light transmissive film <NUM>. In view of this, the +X-side ends of the mesh pattern 23a and the mesh pattern 23i constituting the conductor layer <NUM> are exposed.

The resin layer <NUM> is formed between the light transmissive films <NUM> and <NUM>. The resin layer <NUM> has light transmissive property to the visible light.

The resin layer <NUM> has a Vicat softening temperature in a range of <NUM> or more to <NUM> or less and a tensile storage elastic modulus from <NUM> to <NUM> in a range of <NUM> GPa or more to <NUM> GPa or less. The tensile storage elastic modulus of the resin layer <NUM> at the Vicat softening temperature is <NUM> MPa or more. A melting temperature of the resin layer <NUM> is <NUM> or more or preferably higher than the Vicat softening temperature by <NUM> or more. A glass-transition temperature of the resin layer <NUM> is preferably -<NUM> or less. The resin layer <NUM> is a thermoplastic resin, for example, a thermoplastic elastomer. As the elastomer used for the resin layer <NUM>, for example, an acrylic-based elastomer, an olefin-based elastomer, a styrene-based elastomer, an ester-based elastomer, and an urethane-based elastomer are considered.

The light-emitting element <NUM><NUM> is a square LED chip with one side of <NUM> to <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the light-emitting element <NUM><NUM> is an LED chip with a four-layer structure constituted of a base substrate <NUM>, an N-type semiconductor layer <NUM>, an active layer <NUM>, and a P-type semiconductor layer <NUM>. The light-emitting element <NUM><NUM> has a rated voltage of about <NUM> V.

The base substrate <NUM> is a sapphire substrate or a semiconductor substrate. The N-type semiconductor layer <NUM> with a shape identical to this base substrate <NUM> is formed on the top surface of the base substrate <NUM>. The active layer <NUM> and the P-type semiconductor layer <NUM> are laminated in order on the top surface of the N-type semiconductor layer <NUM>. A cutout is formed at a corner part on the -Y-side and the -X-side of the active layer <NUM> and the P-type semiconductor layer <NUM> laminated on the N-type semiconductor layer <NUM>. The surface of the N-type semiconductor layer <NUM> is exposed from this cutout. The use of one having light transmissive property as the base substrate <NUM> radiates light from both upper and lower surfaces of the light-emitting element.

A pad <NUM> is formed at the part of the N-type semiconductor layer <NUM> exposed from the active layer <NUM> and the P-type semiconductor layer <NUM> for electrical connection to the N-type semiconductor layer <NUM>. A pad <NUM> is formed at a corner part on the +X-side and the +Y-side of the P-type semiconductor layer <NUM> for electrical connection to the P-type semiconductor layer <NUM>. The pads <NUM> and <NUM> are made of a copper (Cu) or a gold (Au) and includes bumps <NUM> and <NUM> on the top surfaces. The bumps <NUM> and <NUM> are made of a metal such as a gold (Au) and a gold alloy. As the bumps <NUM> and <NUM>, instead of the metal bump, a solder bump shaped to a hemispherical shape may be used. In a light-emitting element <NUM>, the bump <NUM> functions as a cathode electrode and the bump <NUM> functions as an anode electrode.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the light-emitting element <NUM><NUM> constituted as described above is disposed between the mesh patterns 23a and 23b. While the bump <NUM> is connected to the mesh pattern 23a, the bump <NUM> is connected to the mesh pattern 23b.

<FIG> is drawing illustrating the enlarged mesh patterns 23a and 23b. As apparent with reference to <FIG>, the mesh patterns 23a and 23b are constituted of a plurality of line patterns LX parallel to the X-axis and a plurality of line patterns LY parallel to the Y-axis. The mesh patterns 23a to 23i each include a connecting pad P to which the bumps <NUM> and <NUM> of the light-emitting element <NUM> are connected.

The respective line widths of the line patterns LX and LY are about <NUM> and are formed at pitches of about <NUM>. As indicated by the arrow in <FIG>, end portions of the line patterns LX constituting the mesh pattern 23a project every other line pattern LX at the boundary parallel to the Y-axis among boundaries of the mesh patterns 23a and 23b. Similarly, end portions of the line patterns LX constituting the mesh pattern 23b project every other line pattern LX at the boundary of the mesh patterns 23a and 23b parallel to the Y-axis. In view of this, at the boundary of the mesh patterns 23a and 23b, the line patterns LX of the mesh pattern 23a and the line patterns LX of the mesh pattern 23b are arranged in alternation along this boundary.

End portions of the line patterns LY constituting the mesh pattern 23a project every other line pattern LY at the boundary parallel to the X-axis among boundaries of the mesh patterns 23a and 23b. Similarly, end portions of the line patterns LY constituting the mesh pattern 23b project every other line pattern LY at the boundary of the mesh patterns 23a and 23b parallel to the X-axis. In view of this, at the boundary of the mesh patterns 23a and 23b, the line patterns LY of the mesh pattern 23a and the line patterns LY of the mesh pattern 23b are arranged in alternation along this boundary.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the light-emitting element <NUM><NUM> is disposed across the mesh patterns 23a and 23b so as to traverse the boundary. The bump <NUM> is connected to the connecting pad P disposed at the mesh pattern 23a, and the bump <NUM> is connected to the connecting pad P disposed at the mesh pattern 23b.

The mesh patterns 23c to 23i are also formed similarly to the mesh patterns 23a and 23b illustrated in <FIG>. Other light-emitting elements <NUM><NUM> to <NUM><NUM> also have a configuration similar to the light-emitting element <NUM><NUM>.

The light-emitting element <NUM><NUM> is disposed between the mesh patterns 23b and 23c, and the bumps <NUM> and <NUM> are connected to the respective mesh patterns 23b and 23c. Hereinafter, similarly, the light-emitting element <NUM><NUM> is disposed across the mesh patterns 23c and 23d. The light-emitting element <NUM><NUM> is disposed across the mesh patterns 23d and 23e. The light-emitting element <NUM><NUM> is disposed across the mesh patterns 23e and 23f. The light-emitting element <NUM><NUM> is disposed across the mesh patterns 23f and <NUM>. The light-emitting element <NUM><NUM> is disposed across the mesh patterns <NUM> and <NUM>. The light-emitting element <NUM><NUM> is disposed across the mesh patterns <NUM> and 23i. Thus, the mesh patterns 23a to 23i and the light-emitting elements <NUM><NUM> to <NUM><NUM> are connected in series. In the light-emitting panel <NUM>, the light-emitting elements <NUM> are disposed at intervals of <NUM>.

<FIG> is a side view of the flexible cable <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the flexible cable <NUM> is constituted of a base material <NUM>, a conductor layer <NUM>, and a coverlay <NUM>.

The base material <NUM> is a rectangular member having the longitudinal direction in the X-axis direction. This base material <NUM> is, for example, made of a polyimide and includes the conductor layer <NUM> on the top surface. The conductor layer <NUM> is formed by patterning a copper foil pasted to the top surface of the polyimide. As illustrated in <FIG>, the conductor layer <NUM> of this embodiment is constituted of two conductor patterns 43a and 43b.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the conductor layer <NUM>, which is formed on the top surface of the base material <NUM>, is coated by the coverlay <NUM> on which vacuum thermocompression bonding is performed. This coverlay <NUM> has a length shorter than the base material <NUM> in the X-axis direction. In view of this, end portions on the -X-side of the conductor patterns 43a and 43b constituting the conductor layer <NUM> are exposed. The coverlay <NUM> has an opening 42a from which the end portions on the +X-side of the conductor patterns 43a and 43b are exposed.

As apparent with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the flexible cable <NUM> configured as described above is bonded to the light-emitting panel <NUM> while the conductor patterns 43a and 43b exposed from the coverlay <NUM> are in contact with the end portions on the +X-side of the mesh patterns 23a and 23i of the light-emitting panel <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the connector <NUM> is a rectangular parallelepiped-shaped component. A cable extended from a DC power supply is connected to the connector <NUM>. The connector <NUM> is implemented on the end portion on the +X-side of the top surface of the flexible cable <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, when the connector <NUM> is implemented on the flexible cable <NUM>, a pair of respective terminals 50a of the connector <NUM> are connected to the conductor patterns 43a and 43b constituting the conductor layer <NUM> via the opening 42a disposed at the coverlay <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the reinforcing plate <NUM> is a rectangular plate-shaped member having the longitudinal direction in the X-axis direction. The reinforcing plate <NUM> is, for example, made of an epoxy resin and an acrylic. As illustrated in <FIG>, this reinforcing plate <NUM> is pasted to the lower surface of the flexible cable <NUM>. In view of this, the flexible cable <NUM> can be bent between the -X-side end of the reinforcing plate <NUM> and the +X-side end of the light-emitting panel <NUM>.

The following describes a method for manufacturing the light-emitting panel <NUM> constituting the above-described light-emitting module <NUM>. First, the light transmissive film <NUM> made of PET is prepared. As illustrated in <FIG>, the mesh-like conductor layer <NUM> is formed on the entire surface of the light transmissive film <NUM> using, for example, a subtract method or an additive method. Cutting this conductor layer <NUM> using laser forms the mesh patterns 23a to 23i.

The conductor layer <NUM> is cut by irradiating laser light to the conductor layer <NUM>, which is formed on the surface of the light transmissive film <NUM>. A laser spot of the laser light is moved along the dotted line illustrated in <FIG>. Thus, the conductor layer <NUM> is cut along the dotted line and as illustrated in <FIG>, the mesh patterns 23a to 23i are formed.

<FIG> is a drawing illustrating the enlarged conductor layer <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, to move the laser spot and cut the conductor layer <NUM>, as illustrated by the dotted line in the drawing, the laser spot is moved zigzag with amplitude smaller than the arrangement pitches of the line patterns LX and LY. Accordingly, at the boundary of the adjacent mesh patterns, the end portions of one mesh pattern and the end portions of the other mesh pattern are arranged in alternation along the boundary.

As illustrated in <FIG>, this embodiment preliminarily forms the connecting pad P at the conductor layer <NUM>. The connecting pad P is disposed corresponding to the position on which the light-emitting element <NUM> is implemented when the conductor layer <NUM> is formed. When the laser spot of the laser light moves on the surface of the conductor layer <NUM> along the dotted line illustrated in <FIG>, a part of the line patterns LX and LY near the movement path of the laser spot melt and sublime. This cuts out the mesh patterns 23a to 23i and the pair of connecting pads P electrically insulated to one another are formed. The light-emitting panel <NUM> includes the pair of connecting pads P at positions indicated by the ∘ marks in <FIG>.

Next, as illustrated in <FIG>, a thermoplastic resin <NUM> is disposed on the surface of the light transmissive film <NUM> on which the mesh patterns 23a to 23i are formed. The light-emitting elements <NUM><NUM> to <NUM><NUM> are disposed on the thermoplastic resin <NUM>. At this time, the light-emitting elements <NUM><NUM> to <NUM><NUM> are positioned such that the connecting pads P formed at the mesh patterns 23a to 23i are positioned immediately below the bumps <NUM> and <NUM> of the light-emitting elements <NUM><NUM> to <NUM><NUM>.

Next, as illustrated in <FIG>, the light transmissive film <NUM> where the thermoplastic resin <NUM> is disposed at the lower surface is disposed on the top surface side of the light transmissive film <NUM>. The light transmissive films <NUM> and <NUM> are heated and pressurized under vacuum atmosphere for press bonding. Accordingly, first, the bumps <NUM> and <NUM> formed on the light-emitting element <NUM> penetrate the thermoplastic resin <NUM>, reach the mesh patterns 23a to 23i, and are electrically connected to these mesh patterns 23a to 23i. Then, the thermoplastic resin <NUM> is gaplessly filled between the conductor layer <NUM>, the light transmissive films <NUM> and <NUM>, and the light-emitting element <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the thermoplastic resin <NUM> becomes the resin layer <NUM> that holds the light-emitting element <NUM> between the light transmissive films <NUM> and <NUM>. Through the above-described processes, the light-emitting panel <NUM> is completed.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the flexible cable <NUM> to which the reinforcing plate <NUM> is pasted is connected to the light-emitting panel <NUM> configured as described above. Implementing the connector <NUM> to this flexible cable <NUM> completes the light-emitting module <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>.

With the light-emitting module <NUM> configured as described above, when a DC voltage is applied to the conductor patterns 43a and 43b illustrated in <FIG> via the connector <NUM>, the light-emitting element <NUM> constituting the light-emitting panel <NUM> emits the light. Since the rated voltage of the light-emitting element <NUM> is approximately <NUM> V, a voltage around <NUM> V is applied to the conductor patterns 43a and 43b of the light-emitting module <NUM>.

As described above, as illustrated in <FIG>, with the light-emitting module <NUM> according to the embodiment, the end portions of the line patterns LX and LY constituting the one mesh pattern and the end portions of the line patterns LX and LY constituting the other mesh pattern project at the boundary between one set of the adjacent mesh patterns. The line patterns of the one mesh pattern and the line patterns of the other mesh pattern are disposed in alternation along the boundary. Thus, a gap (a slit) between the mesh patterns 23a to 23i is not a straight line but becomes a zigzag shape, in other words, a wave shape. This disperses parts where the light transmittance is high; therefore, the boundary of the mesh patterns constituting the light-emitting module <NUM> becomes unnoticeable.

For example, in the case where only the line patterns of the one mesh pattern project at the boundary of the mesh patterns or the line patterns of both of the adjacent mesh patterns do not project at the boundary, the regions with high transmittance concentrate along the boundary of the mesh patterns. In this case, the boundary of the mesh patterns stands out. Meanwhile, this embodiment disposes the end portions of the line patterns extending from the different mesh patterns in alternation along the boundary. Accordingly, the boundary of the mesh patterns becomes unnoticeable.

With this embodiment, the light-emitting element <NUM> is connected with the mesh patterns 23a to 23i. These mesh patterns 23a to 23i are constituted of a metal thin film with the line width of about <NUM>. This ensures sufficiently securing the light transmissive property and the flexibility of the light-emitting panel <NUM>.

With this embodiment, the conductor layer <NUM> constituted of the mesh patterns 23a to 23i is formed on the top surface of the light transmissive film <NUM> among one set of the light transmissive films <NUM> and <NUM>. In view of this, the light-emitting panel <NUM> according to the embodiment becomes thinner than a light-emitting panel where conductor layers are formed on both the top surface and the lower surface of the light-emitting element <NUM>. This ensures improving the flexibility and a degree of light transmissive property of the light-emitting panel <NUM>.

This embodiment describes the case where the end portions of the line patterns LX and LY constituting the one mesh pattern and the end portions of the line patterns LX and LY constituting the other mesh pattern are disposed in alternation at the boundary of one set of the adjacent mesh patterns. The configuration is not limited to this. For example, the end portions of the line patterns LX and LY constituting the one mesh pattern and the end portions of the line patterns LX and LY constituting the other mesh pattern may be alternately disposed at every plural pieces along the boundary.

For example, the end portions of the line patterns LX and LY constituting the one mesh pattern and the end portions of the line patterns LX and LY constituting the other mesh pattern may be alternately arranged at every two pieces at the boundary between one set of the adjacent mesh patterns.

For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, this embodiment describes the case where the end portions of the one mesh pattern 23a and the end portions of the other mesh pattern 23b projecting at the boundary between the adjacent mesh patterns are parallel. The configuration is not limited to this. As illustrated in <FIG>, the end portions of the one mesh pattern 23a does not have to be parallel to the end portions of the other mesh pattern 23b.

While the embodiment uses the thermoplastic resin as the resin layer <NUM>, a thermosetting resin may be used. Additionally, while the embodiment forms the mesh-like conductor layer <NUM> and then cuts the conductor layer <NUM> using the laser to form the mesh patterns 23a to 23i, the configuration is not limited to this. A solid conductor layer is formed on the entire surface and then a mesh process of the conductor layer and a cutting-out process of the mesh patterns 23a to 23i may be simultaneously performed by one-time photoetching. The mesh patterns 23a to 23i may be formed by one-time printing process.

The mesh patterns 23a and 23i may be extracted with the mesh patterns and the conductor patterns stacked and brought into contact at the peripheral portion of the light-emitting panel. Conductor layers (solid regions) on which the mesh process is not performed may be left at the ends of the mesh patterns 23a and 23i, and the conductor patterns may be stacked on and brought into contact with the conductor layers.

While the embodiment connects the eight pieces of LEDs in series and the power lines and the series-connecting wiring parts are configured as the mesh patterns, a two-dimensional array where the series-connected LEDs are additionally connected in series may be configured.

While the first embodiment describes the case where a line width d1 of the thin film conductors constituting the mesh pattern is <NUM> and an arrangement pitch d2 of the thin film conductors is about <NUM>, the values of the line width d1 and the arrangement pitch d2 can be variously changed. However, it is preferable that the line width d1 is in a range of <NUM> or more to <NUM> or less, and the arrangement pitch d2 is in a range of <NUM> or more to <NUM> or less.

<FIG> illustrates a correspondence table expressing transmittances Pe1 of the mesh pattern (the conductor layer) itself corresponding to the line widths d1 of the mesh pattern and the arrangement pitches d2 of the mesh pattern. The unit of the line widths d1 and the arrangement pitches d2 is micron (µm). With reference to <FIG>, to secure the light transmissive property of the light-emitting module <NUM>, it is considered to set the line width d1 and the arrangement pitch d2 such that, for example, the transmittance Pe becomes <NUM>% or more. It is also considered to set the line width d1 and the arrangement pitch d2 such that a sheet resistance of the mesh pattern becomes <NUM>Ω (<NUM>Ω/□) or less.

For example, with the line width d1 of the mesh pattern of <NUM>, the arrangement pitch d2 of the mesh pattern where the transmittance Pe1 of the mesh pattern becomes <NUM>% or more and the sheet resistance of the mesh pattern becomes <NUM>Ω or less is <NUM>. With the line width d1 of the mesh pattern of <NUM>, the arrangement pitch d2 of the mesh pattern where the transmittance Pe1 becomes <NUM>% or more and the sheet resistance of the mesh pattern becomes <NUM>Ω or less is <NUM> to <NUM>. Similarly, the arrangement pitch d2 where the transmittance Pe1 of the mesh pattern becomes <NUM>% or more and the sheet resistance of the mesh pattern becomes <NUM>Ω or less is <NUM> to <NUM> with d1 of <NUM>, <NUM> to <NUM> with d1 of <NUM>, <NUM> to <NUM> with d1 of <NUM>, <NUM> to <NUM> with d1 of <NUM>, and <NUM> with d1 of <NUM>.

This secures the light transmissive property of the light-emitting module <NUM> and also ensures decreasing the resistance of the mesh pattern. It is only necessary to select the line width and the arrangement pitch of the mesh pattern from the above-described d1 and d2 ranges. The above-described example specifies the upper limit of d2 by the sheet resistance and a similar specification of the argentum (Ag) mesh.

The transmittance may be set configuring the mesh pattern (the conductor layer) and the light transmissive film as one unit. The transmittance of a PET film with the thickness of <NUM> is approximately <NUM>%. In this case, a transmittance Pe2 of the unit constituted of the conductor layer <NUM> and the light transmissive film <NUM> is preferably a value obtained by multiplying the transmittance Pe1 in the correspondence table illustrated in <FIG> by <NUM>●<NUM> (= <NUM>%).

For example, the transmittances Pe2 in the correspondence tables illustrated in <FIG> become the values found by multiplying the transmittance Pe1 by <NUM>. <NUM> (= <NUM>%). In the case where the conductor layer <NUM> is formed on the light transmissive film <NUM>, the line width d1 and the arrangement pitch d2 of the mesh pattern need to be set such that the transmittances Pe2 illustrated in <FIG> (the Ag mesh) and <FIG> (the Cu mesh) become <NUM>% or more.

For example, with the conductor layer <NUM> being made of the argentum (Ag), to set the transmittance Pe2 of <NUM>% or more and the sheet resistance of the mesh pattern of <NUM>Ω (<NUM>Ω/□) or less, the line width d1 and the arrangement pitch d2 need to be set corresponding to the matrix colored in the correspondence table illustrated in <FIG>. This secures the light transmissive property of the light-emitting module <NUM> and also ensures decreasing the resistance of the mesh pattern. Here, the sheet resistance <NUM>Ω corresponds to almost <NUM>% of the transmittance Pe2.

With the conductor layer <NUM> made of the argentum, the sheet resistance becomes around <NUM>Ω/□ or less when the line width d1 of <NUM> and the arrangement pitch d2 of <NUM>, or the line width d1 of <NUM> and the arrangement pitch d2 of <NUM>.

With the conductor layer <NUM> made of the copper (Cu), to set the sheet resistance of the mesh pattern to <NUM>Ω (<NUM>Ω/□) or less, the line width d1 and the arrangement pitch d2 need to be set corresponding to the matrix colored in the correspondence table illustrated in <FIG>. This secures the light transmissive property of the light-emitting module <NUM> and also ensures decreasing the sheet resistance of the mesh pattern. While in the range surrounded by a frame f1 in <FIG>, the sheet resistance of the mesh pattern becomes <NUM>Ω (<NUM>Ω/□) or less, the line width d1 is too small relative to the arrangement pitch d2. In view of this, d1 and d2 corresponding to this range may be removed from the setting values of the line width and the arrangement pitch.

With the conductor layer <NUM> made of the copper, the sheet resistance becomes around <NUM>Ω/□ or less when the line width d1 of <NUM> and the arrangement pitch d2 of <NUM>, or the line width d1 of <NUM> and the arrangement pitch d2 of <NUM>.

As described above, the transmittance of the mesh pattern is preferably <NUM>% or more. Considering the mesh pattern and the light transmissive film <NUM> as a unit, the transmittance may be configured to be <NUM>% or more. Alternatively, considering the mesh pattern, the light transmissive film <NUM>, and the resin layer <NUM> as a unit, the total transmittance may be configured to be <NUM>% or more, <NUM>% or more, or <NUM>% or more. Further, considering the mesh pattern, the light transmissive films <NUM> and <NUM>, and the resin layer <NUM> as a unit, the total transmittance may be configured to be <NUM>% or more, <NUM>% or more, or <NUM>% or more.

The sheet resistance of the mesh pattern is preferably <NUM>Ω (<NUM>Ω/□) or less. With the mesh pattern made of the argentum (Ag), obtaining the sheet resistance below <NUM>Ω is also possible. Accordingly, the mesh pattern with the sheet resistance of <NUM>Ω/□ or less, for example, <NUM>Ω/□ or less can be easily achieved using the argentum, an argentum alloy, or a similar material. By the use of the copper (Cu), obtaining the sheet resistance less below <NUM>Ω is also possible. Accordingly, the mesh pattern with the sheet resistance of <NUM>Ω/□ or less, for example, <NUM>Ω/□ or less can be achieved using the copper, a copper alloy, or a similar material.

As the mesh pattern, in addition to the argentum (Ag) and the copper (Cu), an alloy and a compound of these materials may be used. For example, with the argentum, Ag-Cu, Ag-Cu-Sn, and a silver chloride (Ag-Cl), and with the copper, Cu-Cr and a similar material are applicable.

Regarding the line width d1 of the mesh pattern and the arrangement pitch d2 of the mesh pattern, the larger line width d1 and arrangement pitch d2 make the line of the mesh pattern stand out. In view of this, the line width d1 is preferably set to <NUM> or less and d2 to <NUM> or less. Preferably, the line width d1 is <NUM> or less and the arrangement pitch d2 is <NUM> or less, and more preferably the line width d1 is <NUM> or less and the arrangement pitch d2 of <NUM> or less. As one example, the line width d1 is <NUM> or less and the arrangement pitch d2 is <NUM> or less.

The film thickness of the mesh pattern is configured to be <NUM> to <NUM>. The one shown in <FIG> where the line width d1 of <NUM> and the arrangement pitch d2 of <NUM> to <NUM> has an elongate shape, closing to an isolation pattern. Therefore, the use of the one with the smaller arrangement pitch d2 is preferable so as not to fall over the line pattern. The preferable ratio of the line width/arrangement pitch (d1/d2) in terms of reliability is <NUM> or more.

The following describes the second embodiment of the present disclosure with reference to the drawings. Like reference numerals designate corresponding or identical elements throughout the first embodiment and the second embodiment, and therefore such elements will not be further elaborated here. A light-emitting module 10A according to the embodiment differs from the light-emitting module <NUM> according to the first embodiment in that the light-emitting elements <NUM> are connected in parallel.

<FIG> is a plan view of the light-emitting module 10A according to the embodiment. As illustrated in <FIG>, the light-emitting module 10A is a module having the longitudinal direction in the Y-axis direction. This light-emitting module 10A includes <NUM> pieces of light-emitting elements <NUM><NUM> to <NUM><NUM> as a light source.

As apparent with reference to <FIG>, the light-emitting module 10A includes one set of the light transmissive films <NUM> and <NUM>, the resin layer <NUM> formed between the light transmissive films <NUM> and <NUM>, and the <NUM> pieces of the light-emitting elements <NUM><NUM> to <NUM><NUM> disposed inside the resin layer <NUM>.

Among one set of the light transmissive films <NUM> and <NUM>, the conductor layer <NUM> with the thickness of around <NUM> to <NUM> is formed on the lower surface of the light transmissive film <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the conductor layer <NUM> is constituted of a plurality of mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM>. The mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM> are each made of a metallic material such as the copper (Cu) and the argentum (Ag).

The respective mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM> are shaped in an L shape. The mesh pattern <NUM> is disposed at a region on the left side (the -X-side) of the light transmissive film <NUM> along the outer edge on the -X-side of the light transmissive film <NUM>. The mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM> are disposed in order from this mesh pattern <NUM> to the inside. The mesh pattern <NUM> is disposed at a region on the right side (the +X-side) of the light transmissive film <NUM> along the outer edge on the +X-side of the light transmissive film <NUM>. The mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM> are disposed in order from this mesh pattern <NUM> to the inside.

In the light-emitting module 10A, the mesh pattern <NUM> is opposed to the mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM> so as to interpose a center line CL passing through the center of the light transmissive film <NUM> and parallel to the Y-axis. Similarly, the mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM> are opposed to the mesh pattern <NUM>, the mesh pattern <NUM> is opposed to the mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM>, the mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM> are opposed to the mesh pattern <NUM>, and the mesh pattern <NUM> is opposed to the mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM>.

<NUM> pieces of the light-emitting elements <NUM><NUM> to <NUM><NUM> are disposed at regular intervals on the center line CL and are disposed across one set of the mesh patterns mutually opposed via the center line CL. In view of this, configuring the mesh pattern <NUM> as a common pattern, the light-emitting elements <NUM><NUM> to <NUM> and the mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM> are mutually connected in parallel. Hereinafter, similarly, configuring the mesh pattern <NUM> as the common pattern, the light-emitting elements <NUM><NUM> to <NUM><NUM> and the mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM> are mutually connected in parallel. Configuring the mesh pattern <NUM> as a common pattern, the light-emitting element <NUM><NUM> to <NUM><NUM> and the mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM> are mutually connected in parallel. Configuring the mesh pattern <NUM> as a common pattern, the light-emitting elements <NUM><NUM> to <NUM><NUM> and the mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM> are mutually connected in parallel. Configuring the mesh pattern <NUM> as a common pattern, the light-emitting elements <NUM><NUM> to <NUM><NUM> and the mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM> are mutually connected in parallel.

As described above, with the light-emitting module 10A according to the embodiment, the respective light-emitting elements <NUM><NUM> to <NUM><NUM> are connected in parallel to the mesh patterns <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> as the common patterns. Accordingly, based on the common patterns, applying predetermined voltages to the respective mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM>, <NUM> to <NUM>, <NUM> to <NUM>, <NUM> to <NUM>, and <NUM> to <NUM> connected to the respective light-emitting elements <NUM><NUM> to <NUM><NUM> allows individually driving the respective light-emitting elements <NUM><NUM> to <NUM><NUM>.

While the embodiment does not mention an emitted light color of the light-emitting element <NUM>, for example, implementing a light-emitting element 30R, which emits the light in red, a light-emitting element <NUM>, which emits the light in blue, a light-emitting element 30B, which emits the light in green, and a similar light-emitting element allows the light-emitting module to emit the lights in various colors.

While the embodiment describes the light-emitting module 10A including <NUM> pieces of the light-emitting elements <NUM> disposed at the regular intervals, the configuration is not limited to this. By disposing the light-emitting elements 30R, <NUM>, and 30B close to the extent that the colors of the lights from the respective light-emitting elements 30R, <NUM>, and 30B are mixed, the light-emitting module may emit the light in neutral tint.

<FIG> is a drawing illustrating a light-emitting module 10B using the light-emitting elements 30R, <NUM>, and 30B disposed close to one another as a light source. As illustrated in <FIG>, the light-emitting module 10B includes five sets of the light-emitting elements 30R, <NUM>, and 30B. The light-emitting elements 30R, <NUM>, and 30B of each set are disposed to have an L-shape. The two light-emitting elements <NUM> and 30B are disposed so as to be adjacent to the light-emitting element 30R. A distance d between the light-emitting element 30R and the light-emitting element <NUM> and a distance d between the light-emitting element 30R and the light-emitting element 30B are around <NUM> to <NUM>.

In the light-emitting module 10B, the light-emitting elements 30R, <NUM>, and 30B each emit the lights in red, blue, and green are disposed close to one another. The respective light-emitting elements 30R, <NUM>, and 30B can individually emit the lights. In view of this, individually driving the light-emitting elements 30R, <NUM>, and 30B allows the light-emitting module <NUM> to emit the lights in red, blue, green, white, and neutral tint.

As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, while this embodiment describes the case where the light-emitting module <NUM> includes the L-shaped mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM>, the mesh patterns are not limited to the shape but any given shape can be determined. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the conductor layer <NUM> may be constituted of a mesh pattern <NUM> as a common pattern, which is connected to all the light-emitting elements 30R, <NUM>, and 30B of the light-emitting module <NUM>, rectangular mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM>, and mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM>, which bend at a plurality of sites.

<FIG> are connecting examples of the connecting pad P to the mesh patterns. The connecting examples are applicable to both the first embodiment and the second embodiment.

<FIG> illustrates an example where the connecting pad P is connected to the mesh patterns by one line pattern. <FIG> are examples of a high-density RGB light-emitting module and are examples where the connecting pads P are connected to two line patterns. <FIG> is a drawing illustrating mesh pattern at a peripheral area of the light-emitting module as one example. <FIG> is a drawing illustrating mesh pattern at the intermediate portion of the light-emitting module as one example. <FIG> is another connecting example of the connecting pads P to the mesh pattern.

In <FIG>, additional line patterns LP to connect the line patterns LX and LY to the connecting pads P is formed in addition to the existing line patterns LX and LY.

It is preferable for the connecting of the connecting pads P to the mesh patterns to include the line patterns LP such that the number of line patterns directly connected to the connecting pads P becomes two or more. Disposing the additional line patterns LP ensures improving strength of the mesh pattern. Additionally, reliability against a pattern loss due to a process failure caused by dust or a similar matter is enhanced.

Connecting the plurality of line patterns to the connecting pads P allows decreasing currents flowing through the respective line patterns LX and LY. This allows preventing disconnection of the line patterns LX and LY and a similar failure due to overcurrent. Accordingly, if by any chance, even if any of the plurality of line patterns LX and LY is disconnected, the electric power can be continuously supplied to the light-emitting element <NUM> implemented to the connecting pad P via a good line pattern. Thus, the additional line pattern LP can be disposed as a reinforcing pattern.

The light-emitting module including the plurality of light-emitting elements possibly has a limit in extension of a power supply line using a one-layer wiring layer. <FIG> are drawings illustrating examples of a light-emitting module where a wiring of the light-emitting module is multilayered.

To configure a light transmission type light-emitting module into multilayer, it is considered to configure the mesh patterns to be a multilayer, and the respective layers are used as lower-layer wirings and upper-layer wirings.

<FIG> are drawings describing a light-emitting module including the light transmissive film <NUM> (the PET film) where mesh patterns <NUM> and <NUM> are formed on front and back surfaces. The light-emitting elements can be implemented to the front and back surfaces of the light transmissive film <NUM>. <FIG> is a plan view of the light transmissive film <NUM>. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view of the light transmissive film <NUM>. <FIG> is a drawing illustrating a light-emitting module formed through lamination of the light transmissive films <NUM>. In this light-emitting module, the two light transmissive films <NUM> are disposed between one set of light transmissive films <NUM>. The light transmissive films <NUM> are mutually laminated via an adhesive layer <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the mesh patterns <NUM> and <NUM> formed on the light transmissive film <NUM> are indicated by respective solid lines and dashed lines. The line patterns of the mesh patterns <NUM> and <NUM> are displaced by a <NUM>/<NUM> pitch from one another. Connecting portions <NUM> are disposed at sites where the mesh patterns <NUM> and <NUM> overlap. The connecting portion <NUM> can be formed by, for example, disposing a through-hole on the light transmissive film <NUM>, filling this through-hole with a conductive paste, and performing plating. The mesh patterns <NUM> and <NUM> are electrically connected by the connecting portions <NUM>.

Similar to the first to the third embodiments, the light-emitting element such as the LED is connected to one of the mesh patterns among the mesh patterns <NUM> and <NUM> on the light transmissive films <NUM>. In the case where a space is formed between the light transmissive films, this space is filled with a resin. Black circles in <FIG> indicate sites where the connecting portions <NUM> or the mutual mesh patterns <NUM> and <NUM> can be connected. The mesh patterns <NUM> and <NUM> on the upper side and the lower side are each processed into a desired wiring shape. Light-emitting elements such as the LEDs may be separately connected to the mesh patterns <NUM> and <NUM> on both the front and back surfaces of the light transmissive film <NUM>. That is, a first light-emitting element may be connected to one of the front and the back of the mesh pattern <NUM>, and a second light-emitting element may be connected to the other front or back of the mesh pattern <NUM>.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view illustrating the light transmissive film <NUM> (the PET film) where the mesh pattern <NUM> is formed and the light transmissive film <NUM> (the PET film) where the mesh pattern <NUM> is formed. The mesh patterns <NUM> and <NUM> are formed at the respective opposed surfaces of the light transmissive films <NUM> and <NUM>.

As apparent with reference to <FIG>, the mesh patterns <NUM> and <NUM> are indicated by the respective solid lines and dashed lines. The line patterns of the mesh patterns <NUM> and <NUM> are displaced by a <NUM>/<NUM> pitch from one another. The connecting portions <NUM> are disposed at sites where the mesh patterns <NUM> and <NUM> overlap to connect the mesh patterns <NUM> and <NUM>.

Similar to the first to the third embodiments, the light-emitting elements are connected to the mesh patterns <NUM> and <NUM> on the light transmissive films <NUM> and <NUM>. A space between the light transmissive films <NUM> and <NUM> is filled with the resin. The mesh patterns <NUM> and <NUM> are connected using, for example, <NUM>Ω resistance or a dummy chip. After the mesh patterns <NUM> and <NUM> are extracted from the space between the light transmissive films <NUM> and <NUM>, the mesh patterns <NUM> and <NUM> may be connected to one another. While the light-emitting elements such as the LEDs are connected to one of the mesh patterns <NUM> and <NUM>, the light-emitting elements such as the LEDs may be separately connected to both the mesh patterns <NUM> and <NUM> as desired. That is, the first light-emitting element may be connected to the mesh pattern <NUM> and the second light-emitting element may be connected to the mesh pattern <NUM>.

As the light-emitting element of this example, in addition to the light-emitting element of one surface with two electrodes type, which is described in the first to the third embodiments, a light-emitting element of electrode-on both-surfaces type, which has electrodes on both surfaces, is also applicable. In the case of the use of the light-emitting element of the electrode-on both-surfaces type, one electrode is connected to the mesh pattern <NUM> and the other electrode is connected to the mesh pattern <NUM>.

It is also possible that one conductor layer of multilayer wiring is constituted of a mesh pattern and the other is constituted of a light transmissive conductive film such as an ITO. It is also possible that the multilayer wiring part is disposed only at the peripheral portion of the light-emitting module and a base wiring pattern such as the mesh pattern to which the light-emitting element is connected itself is configured to have a multilayer wiring structure.

<FIG> are drawings illustrating examples of other mesh patterns. <FIG> illustrates a mesh pattern MP1 where line patterns are inclines by <NUM>°. <FIG> illustrates a mesh pattern MP2 where line patterns are formed of curved lines. <FIG> illustrates a mesh pattern MP3 where line patterns form circles. <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> illustrate mesh patterns MP4, MP5, and MP6 where line patterns have polygonal shapes.

The light-emitting modules according to the first to the fourth embodiments can be used for applications such as a display, a decoration, and an illumination. However, in the case where a grid pattern such as a stripe and a mesh is present close to the mesh pattern that the light-emitting module has, a moire possibly occurs between both. Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, the mesh pattern, the grid pattern, and a similar pattern constituted of the high transmittance part and the low transmittance part are referred to as a grid pattern for convenience.

For example, in the case where the light-emitting modules of the first to the fourth embodiments are used as a backlight for a liquid crystal display device in close contact with a liquid crystal display, a displacement of pitches with a pixel array of the opposite side possibly results in the moire. The mesh pattern MP1 illustrated in <FIG> inclines the line patterns on the light-emitting module side by <NUM>° with respect to the grid pattern of the target such as the stripe and the mesh. The mesh pattern MP1 is, for example, formed in a state inclined with respect to a side of a square or rectangular light-emitting panel by <NUM> degrees. Thus, inclining the line patterns of the mesh pattern MP1 with respect to the target such as the liquid crystal display ensures preventing the moire.

With the mesh pattern MP2 illustrated in <FIG> where the line patterns are formed into the curved lines and the mesh pattern MP3 illustrated in <FIG> where the line patterns form the circles, the line patterns and the grid pattern of the target do not linearly intersect with one another, thereby bringing an effect of preventing the moire. Additionally, the mesh patterns MP4, MP5, and MP6 illustrated in <FIG>, <FIG>, and FIG. 26F where the respective line patterns have the polygonal shapes (excluding the square shapes) generate a diagonal component in the line patterns, thereby also bringing the effect of preventing the moire.

While the examples of the mesh pattern where the light-emitting module is applied as the backlight for the liquid crystal display device are described above, in the case where the two mesh patterns on the upper and the lower sides are present in the light-emitting module like the fourth embodiment, the mesh patterns according to <FIG> are applicable.

In the case where the mesh pattern illustrated in <FIG> is used, it is only necessary that the line patterns of the one mesh pattern among the two mesh patterns on the upper and the lower sides are inclined with respect to the line patterns of the other mesh pattern by <NUM>°. In the case where the mesh patterns illustrated in <FIG> are used, it is only necessary to combine the mesh patterns as necessary for application. For example, the one mesh pattern is configured as a pattern formed of a regular tetragon and the other mesh pattern is configured to be any one of the mesh patterns illustrated in <FIG>. It is also possible to combine the mesh patterns illustrated in <FIG>.

While the embodiments of the present disclosure are described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments. For example, while the embodiment describes the case where the light-emitting element <NUM> is disposed on the center line CL, the configuration is not limited to this. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the light-emitting elements <NUM> may be disposed on a curved line L1. <FIG> is a drawing developing a part of a cone in a planar surface. This light-emitting module has a curved surface in a finished state (an assembled state), and light-emitting elements are arranged in a straight line at the peripheral area of the cone.

In this case, it is considered that mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM> constituting the conductor layer <NUM> are formed into a fan shape having a pair of outer edges perpendicular to the curved line L1. Forming the mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM> into the fan shape allows the sizes and the shapes of the respective mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM> to be uniform. This makes current densities of the respective mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM> constant, ensuring reducing heat generation and a frequency of disconnection of the line patterns LX and LY.

The shape of the mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM> constituting the conductor layer <NUM> is not the fan shape but may be, for example, a strip shape as illustrated in <FIG> having outer edges parallel to one another. In this case, the shapes and the sizes of the mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM> possibly differ from one another depending on the shape of the conductor layer <NUM>. However, since the outer edges of the mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM> are parallel to one another, these light-emitting elements <NUM> can be connected to the mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM> without changing the degree of the light-emitting element <NUM>. Accordingly, to implement the light-emitting elements <NUM> using, for example, a mounter, the positioning of the light-emitting elements <NUM> to the mesh patterns <NUM> to <NUM> is facilitated.

In <FIG> and <FIG>, the conductor layer <NUM> is constituted of the mesh patterns. However, the configuration is not limited to the mesh pattern, and a configuration where the conductor layer <NUM> is constituted of the light transmissive conductive films such as the ITOs is also applicable. A slit between the mesh patterns and the ITO patterns may be a straight line shape or may be the zigzag shape exemplified in the first embodiment.

While the embodiments use the one surface with two electrodes type as the light-emitting element, as one example, a light-emitting element <NUM> of the electrode-on both-surfaces type illustrated in <FIG> is also usable as necessary. The light-emitting element <NUM> is a square LED chip with one side of <NUM> to <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the light-emitting element <NUM> includes a base material <NUM>, a P-type semiconductor layer <NUM>, which is laminated on the top surface of the base material <NUM>, a light-emitting layer (a PN bonded interface or a light-emitting site with double hetero connecting structure or a multiple quantum well structure) <NUM>, and a N-type semiconductor layer <NUM>. The positions of the P-type semiconductor layer <NUM> and the N-type semiconductor layer <NUM> may be inversed. A pad <NUM> is disposed on the top surface of the P-type semiconductor layer <NUM> and a pad <NUM> is disposed on the lower surface of the base material <NUM>. A bump <NUM> is disposed on the pad <NUM>.

<FIG> is a side view of a light-emitting panel 20A including the light-emitting element <NUM>. The light-emitting panel 20A includes conductor layers <NUM><NUM> and <NUM><NUM> on both the light transmissive films <NUM> and <NUM>. For example, the bump <NUM> is connected to the conductor layer <NUM><NUM> via the connecting pad P and the pad <NUM> is connected to the conductor layer <NUM><NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a mesh pattern MP8 constituting the conductor layer <NUM><NUM> and a mesh pattern MP7 constituting the conductor layer <NUM><NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, line patterns of the mesh pattern MP7 and line patterns of the mesh pattern MP8 mutually form an angle of <NUM> degrees. This reduces the moire between the mesh pattern MP7 and the mesh pattern MP8.

Various kinds of combinations are considered as combinations of the mesh pattern of the conductor layer <NUM><NUM> and the mesh pattern of the conductor layer <NUM><NUM>. For example, like a mesh pattern MP9 illustrated in <FIG>, the mesh pattern constituting the conductor layer <NUM><NUM> may be configured as a mesh pattern whose line patterns constitute the polygonal shapes. For example, like a mesh pattern MP11 illustrated in <FIG>, a mesh pattern whose line patterns constitute the polygonal shape is formed at the conductor layer <NUM><NUM>, and like a mesh pattern MP10, a mesh pattern whose line patterns form the curved lines may be formed at the conductor layer <NUM><NUM>. In such case as well, the moire can be reduced between the mesh patterns of the respective conductor layers <NUM><NUM> and <NUM><NUM>.

The first embodiment to the seventh embodiment are described in detail above. As described using <FIG>, the embodiments mainly describe the case where the conductor layer <NUM> is cut using the laser to form the mesh patterns 23a to 23i. However, the configuration is not limited to this. The mesh patterns 23a to 23i may be formed by photolithography, inkjet application, screen-printing, and gravure printing.

As described in <FIG>, while the embodiments describe the case where the resin layer <NUM> is made of the thermoplastic resin <NUM>, the configuration is not limited to this. The resin layer <NUM> may be made of a resin with a thermosetting property or a combination of these resins. A resin layer may be left or may be removed between the back surface of the light-emitting element and the light transmissive film.

While embodiments describe that the mesh pattern is made of the copper or the argentum, the configuration is not limited to this. The mesh pattern may be made of a metal such as a gold (Au) and a platinum (Pt).

The embodiments form the connecting pad P mainly as a wide-width portion of the mesh pattern. While the connecting pad P is generally a wide width extending portion of the mesh pattern, one where a wide-width portion is disposed at an intersection point of a grid to form a connecting pad, one where a grid is embedded to form a connecting pad, and one where a mesh is thickened at a peripheral area of a LED chip for connecting to the LED on a grid are also included in the concept. The embodiments also permit connecting at a side and an intersection point of the usual grid. The embodiments also permit a constitution of a connecting pad by a metal layer at a different layer from a mesh pattern.

In the case where the pitch of the line patterns constituting the mesh pattern according to the embodiments is not the equal pitch, it is considered that the degree of light transmissive property of the light-emitting panel varies. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, in the case where a distance between two mesh patterns MP12 and MP13 adjacent to a mesh pattern MPC is smaller than a pitch of line patterns constituting the respective mesh patterns, the degree of light transmissive property is deteriorated at a boundary between the mesh pattern MP12 and the mesh pattern MP13. In such case, as illustrated in <FIG>, partially thinning out the line patterns of the mesh patterns MP12 and MP13 ensures reducing the variation of the degree of light transmissive property of the light-emitting panel.

The mesh patterns illustrated in <FIG> are also effective to make a gap between the mesh patterns unnoticeable. <FIG> illustrates the case where one line pattern is removed from a two-dimensional mesh pattern to produce the two mesh patterns MP12 and MP13, which are electrically isolated to the right and the left. <FIG> illustrates the case where the two mesh patterns MP12 and MP13 having opposed sides are disposed close to one another. The above-described structures illustrated in <FIG> are effective to make the gap between the mesh patterns MP12 and MP13, which are close to one another as illustrated in <FIG>, unnoticeable. The gap in the vertical direction between the mesh patterns can be formed into the above-described zigzag slits or formed by partially thinning out the opposed line patterns or by combining these methods.

Claim 1:
A light-emitting module (<NUM>) comprising:
a first insulating film (<NUM>) having light transmissive property;
a plurality of conductor patterns (23a-23i);
at least one light-emitting element (<NUM>) connected to any two of the plurality of conductor patterns (23a-23i) and emitting light from both upper and lower surfaces; and
a resin layer (<NUM>) having light transmissive property, the resin layer holds the light-emitting element (<NUM>) to the first insulating film (<NUM>), wherein:
each of the conductor patterns (23a-23i) includes:
a plurality of first line patterns (LX) formed on the first insulating film (<NUM>), the first line patterns (LX) being parallel to one another; and
a plurality of second line patterns (LY) formed on the first insulating film (<NUM>) arranged apart from the first line patterns (LX) and intersecting with the first line patterns (LX), the second line patterns (LY) being parallel to one another, wherein
a first conductor pattern (23a) of the plurality of conductor patterns (23a-23i) and a second conductor pattern (23b) of the plurality of conductor patterns (23a-23i) are arranged adjacent to each other and forming a boundary between the first and second conductor pattern (23a, 23b) such that end portions of the first and second line patterns (LX, LY) of the first and second conductor patterns (23a-23i) project at the boundary such that, at the boundary, the protruding end portions of the first conductor pattern (23a) and the protruding end portions of the second conductor pattern (23b) are arranged in alternation at and along the boundary.