OLED is the next big thing in displays and lighting applications. As well as their familiar use in displays they can also be used as a very efficient and soft lighting source. They can be produced in every form, and it is possible to create transparent and flexible panels in different colours and sizes.
The OLED is expected to be the next generation lighting and to revolutionalize the whole lighting and space concept. OLEDs do not need light distribution elements. Furthermore, in contrast with LED lighting components they are not a point source technology. An OLED lighting panel has ultra thin layers of organic matter! Every layer has a function, but the thickness is less than 1/1000 of a human hair. The thin OLED layer is then sandwiched between positive and negative electrodes, and gives off light when a current is applied.
Top players in OLED light Industry:
- Osram Orbeos
- Philips Lumiblade
- Lumiotec
- General Electricy
- Konica Minolta Velve, Symfos
- Kaneka
- LG CHem
Schematic of OLED light panel
- 1.Positive charged electron holes and negative charged electrons injected from either side to the organic material!
- 2.Electron holes and electrons meet and recombine in the emissive layer.
- 3.The molecules in the organic emissive layer enter an excited high-energy condition (because of point 2).
- 4.The energy level of the organic emissive layer relaxes and the energy is emitted in the form of light.
Advantages of OLED light?
Ultra Slim & Flat
OLEDs provide a light emitting surface which is extremely light-weight, and can be produced thinner than 1.8 mm.
Excellent Color Quality
OLEDs´ natural soft light has excellent color rendering performance while being totally glare-free.
Long Lifetime
OLEDs will be ready to replace the current light source with a light that has a lifetime over 50,000 hours.
Energy Efficiency
OLEDs have already surpassed the efficiency of Halogen, and are expected to reach up to 150 lm/W.
Eco-Friendly
Not only do OLEDs reduce CO₂ emission by consuming less energy but they contain no hazardous substances. They are also recyclable
Unlimited Possibilities
In the near future, you will be looking through a window that illuminates at night. You will have flexible lighting that you can wear. With OLEDs´ transparent and flexible characteristics, it is hard to imagine all the various prospects of new lighting applications.
