U.S. patent application number 11/188901 was filed with the patent office on 2005-12-15 for conducting luminescent organic compounds.
This patent application is currently assigned to FUJITSU LIMITED. Invention is credited to Sotoyama, Wataru, Yoshida, Hiroaki.
Application Number | 20050274946 11/188901 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 19135018 |
Filed Date | 2005-12-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050274946 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Yoshida, Hiroaki ; et
al. |
December 15, 2005 |
Conducting luminescent organic compounds
Abstract
An electrically conducting organic compound comprising a
condensed polycyclic aromatic compound containing from 8 to 14
condensed rings and being solubilized in a solvent by the
introduction of a functional group into any condensed ring of the
compound. The electrically conducting organic compound is used as a
constituent element in the production of electronic devices.
Inventors: |
Yoshida, Hiroaki; (Kawasaki,
JP) ; Sotoyama, Wataru; (Kawasaki, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
ARENT FOX PLLC
1050 CONNECTICUT AVENUE, N.W.
SUITE 400
WASHINGTON
DC
20036
US
|
Assignee: |
FUJITSU LIMITED
|
Family ID: |
19135018 |
Appl. No.: |
11/188901 |
Filed: |
July 26, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11188901 |
Jul 26, 2005 |
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10107450 |
Mar 28, 2002 |
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6940092 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
257/40 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C07C 2603/54 20170501;
C07C 15/56 20130101; H01B 1/121 20130101; H01L 51/0545 20130101;
H01B 1/12 20130101; H01L 51/0056 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
257/040 |
International
Class: |
H01L 029/08 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Oct 15, 2001 |
JP |
2001-317095 |
Claims
1. An electrically conducting organic compound comprising a
condensed polycyclic aromatic compound containing from 8 to 14
condensed rings, in which any one of the condensed rings has a
functional group introduced therein.
2. The electrically conducting organic compound as defined in claim
1, wherein the functional group is an alkyl group, an aryl group,
an ether group or a silane group.
3. The electrically conducting organic compound defined in claim 1,
which is an ovalene derivative represented by the following formula
(I): 8wherein R.sub.1 to R.sub.8, which may be the same or
different, each represents a hydrogen atom or an arbitrary
substituent, provided that at least two of R.sub.1 to R.sub.8 are
an alkyl group, an aryl group, an ether group or a silane group; or
a bianthrene derivative represented by the following formula (II):
9wherein R.sub.1to R.sub.6, which may be the same or different,
each represents a hydrogen atom or an arbitrary substituent,
provided that at least two of R.sub.1 to R.sub.6 are an alkyl
group, an aryl group, an ether group or a silane group.
4. The electrically conducting organic compound defined in claim 1,
which is an ovalene derivative represented by the following
formula: 10
5. The electrically conducting organic compound defined in claim 1,
which is a bianthrene derivative represented by the following
formula: 11
6. The electrically conducting organic compound defined in claim 1,
which has a field effect mobility of 0.001 cm.sup.2/Vs or more.
7. The electrically conducting organic compound defined in claim 1,
which has a molecular weight of from 350 to 2,000.
8-21. (canceled)
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is based upon and claims a priority of
Japanese Patent Application No. 2001-317095, filed Oct. 15, 2001,
the contents being incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to an electrically conducting
organic compound and, more specifically, the present invention
relates to an organic semiconductor which can be used in the
production of electronic devices such as transistors, particularly
to an organic semiconductor applicable to flexible electronic
devices such as electronic paper. The present invention also
relates to electronic devices using this organic semiconductor.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] In the field of electronic display, liquid crystal displays
and organic EL displays are improving in their performance and also
making rapid progress toward higher precision and larger size. On
the other hand, a display showing excellent portability by having,
like paper, both good visibility and flexibility, namely, a
flexible property capable of changing a shape by fold-bending, a
so-called electronic paper, is keenly demanded. To realise this
electronic paper, it is essential that a thin film transistor can
be formed on a plastic substrate or, in other words, a flexible
circuit for driving a picture element can be realized. However,
currently existing electronic circuits mainly comprising an
inorganic material such as polycrystalline silicon or amorphous
silicon require a large-scale process such as high temperature and
high vacuum and, taking account of the heat resistance and high
production cost of the plastic substrate, these circuits are
applicable, at best, to only a part of an instrument and cannot be
used widely in practice. In order to solve these problems,
attention is being focused on an organic semiconductor having
excellent flexibility, requiring no high-temperature/vacuum
process, such as vapor deposition, and allowing an inexpensive
printing means to be applied.
[0006] The means for the film formation of an organic semiconductor
are roughly classified into vacuum process, such as vapor
deposition, and spin coating, casting or printing from a solution.
In the case of applying an organic semiconductor to a device such
as field effect transistor, the vapor deposition method capable of
ensuring good crystallinity in molecule has been heretofore
predominantly used so as to achieve as high a carrier mobility as
possible. As for representative organic semiconductors formed by
the vapor deposition method, oligothiophene (see, H. Akimichi et
al., Applied Physics Letters, 58(14), Apr. 8, 1991), pentacene
(see, C. D. Dimitrakopoulos et al., Applied Physics Letters, 80(4),
Aug. 15, 1996), copper phthalocyanine and the like have been
reported. On the other hand, as for representative organic
semiconductors formed by casting, spin coating or printing from a
solution, polythienylene vinylene (see, H. Fuchigami et al.,
Applied Physics Letters, 63(10), Sep. 6, 1993), polyalkylthiophene
(see, A. Tsumura et al., Applied Physics Letters, Vol. 49, P. 1210
(1986), and Journal American Chemical Society, vol. 117, p. 233
(1995)) and the like have been reported. In addition, a film
formation example where the LB (Langmuir-Blodgett) method is
applied for forming a single molecular film or controlling the
orientation property of molecule with an attempt to bring out a new
function, has been also reported (see, J. Paloheimo et al., Applied
Physics Letters, 56(12), Mar. 19, 1990). The method for calculating
the field effect mobility of these molecules is described in detail
in these publications.
[0007] Incidentally, in the case of using such an organic
semiconductor as the channel layer of a field effect transistor,
its field effect mobility is approximately from 0.1 to 0.01
cm.sup.2/Vs and this is about several figures lower than that of an
amorphous silicon semiconductor (up to 1 cm.sup.2/Vs) even in a
vapor deposition system which is reported to give a high mobility.
In the case of forming the film from a solution, the field effect
mobility is usually further lower, by about 1 or 2 figures, due to
the difficulty in controlling the molecular orientation. In other
words, a most important problem in realizing an organic
semiconductor is how high field effect mobility can be achieved by
a simple and easy production process. To have high mobility, the
organic semiconductor generally must have a .pi.-conjugate system
largely extended within the molecule and furthermore, the organic
semiconductor molecule must be oriented in the conductive
direction. The oligothiophene, polythiophene and poly(p-phenylene
vinylene) referred to above are a linear electrically conducting
polymer where the .pi.-conjugate system runs along the main chain.
On the other hand, the material system where the .pi.-conjugate
system is planarly extended includes condensed polycyclic aromatic
molecules such as ovalene, coronene and bianthrene. With respect to
conventionally known means for controlling the orientation of
organic semiconductor molecules, Japanese Unexamined Patent
Publication (Kokai) No. 9-83040 discloses a technique of coating a
.pi.-conjugate polymer, such as polythiophene, on an orientation
film substrate subjected to a rubbing treatment, or orienting the
molecules on an orientation film by introducing a liquid
crystalline substituent as a side chain or by applying an external
force such as magnetic field or electric field.
[0008] However, the orientation force on an organic semiconductor
by the orientation film is weak and, at present, a sufficiently
high molecular orientation cannot be attained. The introduction of
a crystalline substituent incurs a problem such that the conduction
path of the charge carrier is decreased due to the presence of the
substituent not contributing to the electrical conductivity and the
mobility is rather reduced. The organic semiconductor where the
.pi.-conjugate system is planarly extended, such as pentacene,
phthalocyanine and ovalene, has almost no solubility in a solvent
and since the film is formed by vapor deposition, the cost is a
great problem.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The present invention is directed to solve the above
problems in prior art techniques, and an object of the present
invention is to provide an electrically conducting organic compound
which can exhibit a high field effect mobility and at the same
time, can be produced by a simple and easy process at a low
cost.
[0010] Another object of the present invention is to provide an
electrically conducting organic compound useful for the production
of electronic devices such as electronic paper.
[0011] Still another object of the present invention is to provide
a high-performance electronic device having flexibility.
[0012] These objects and other objects of the present invention
will be appreciated from the preferred embodiments described
hereinafter.
[0013] In one aspect, the present invention resides in an
electrically conducting organic compound comprising a condensed
polycyclic aromatic compound containing from 8 to 14 condensed
rings, and being solubilized in a solvent by introducing a
functional group into any condensed ring of the aromatic
compound.
[0014] In another aspect, the present invention resides in an
electronic device characterized by having a structure comprising,
as a member thereof, a constituent element formed of the
electrically conducting organic compound of the present
invention.
[0015] Preferably, the electronic device of the present invention
is a sheet-form display device comprising a sheet-form display
functional layer and at least one layer containing a constituent
element for allowing the sheet-form display functional layer to
function, wherein the constituent element comprises the
electrically conducting organic compound of the present invention.
The sheet-form display device includes various forms but a typical
example thereof is electronic paper.
[0016] As described in detail below, accordingly to the present
invention, a side chain substituent such as an alkyl group is
introduced as a functional group into a condensed polycyclic
aromatic compound in which the .pi.-conjugate system is planarly
extended and which has high mobility, such as ovalene, whereby good
solubility in a solvent can be ensured and an electronic device
having desired properties can be manufactured without impairing the
high field effect mobility even by an easy process of forming a
thin film from a solution system, such as casting or printing.
Furthermore, by imparting a functionality to the functional group
itself introduced into the condensed polycyclic aromatic compound,
the molecules can be oriented at the time of coating and drying the
aromatic compound. For example, by introducing a functional group
having liquid crystallinity or a long-chain alkyl group, a desired
molecular orientation can be attained.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing one construction
example of the electrically conducting thin film transistor of the
present invention;
[0018] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the sheet-form display device
in a fundamental embodiment of the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 3 is a view schematically showing the sheet-form
display device in another embodiment of the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 4 is a view for explaining an electronic newspaper as
one embodiment of the sheet-form display device of the present
invention;
[0021] FIG. 5 is a view for explaining an electronic book as one
embodiment of the sheet-form display device of the present
invention;
[0022] FIG. 6 is a view for explaining an electronic catalogue as
one embodiment of the sheet-form display device of the present
invention;
[0023] FIGS. 7A and 7B are views for explaining a display board
system as one embodiment of the sheet-form display device of the
present invention;
[0024] FIG. 8A and 8B are views for explaining a communication tool
as one embodiment of the sheet-form display device of the present
invention;
[0025] FIG. 9 is a view for explaining an electronic wallpaper
system as one embodiment of the sheet-form display device of the
present invention;
[0026] FIG. 10 is a view for explaining an electronic conference
document as one embodiment of the sheet-form display device of the
present invention;
[0027] FIG. 11 is a view for explaining a display device for
electronic conference system as one embodiment of the sheet-form
display device of the present invention;
[0028] FIG. 12 is a view for explaining a display device capable of
being housed in a pen as one embodiment of the sheet-form display
device of the present invention;
[0029] FIGS. 13A and 13B are views for explaining a paper-form
display device as one embodiment of the sheet-form display device
of the present invention;
[0030] FIGS. 14A and 14B are views for explaining an electronic
price tag as one embodiment of the sheet-form display device of the
present invention;
[0031] FIG. 15 is a view for explaining an intelligent road sign as
one embodiment of the sheet-form display device of the present
invention;
[0032] FIGS. 16A and 16B are views for explaining an intelligent
electronic ticket as one embodiment of the sheet-form display
device of the present invention;
[0033] FIG. 17 is a view for explaining a display device for a
global education system as one embodiment of the sheet-form display
device of the present invention;
[0034] FIG. 18 is a view for explaining the sheet-form display
device of the present invention, where a display layer and an
electrode are integrally constructed; and
[0035] FIG. 19 is a view for explaining another embodiment of the
sheet-form display device of the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0036] The electrically conducting organic compound and the
electronic device according to the present invention each can be
advantageously practiced in various embodiments.
[0037] As described above, the electrically conducting organic
compound of the present invention is a condensed polycyclic
aromatic compound. In this aromatic compound, a functional group is
introduced as a side chain into a condensed ring and thereby the
compound is solubilized in a solvent. Examples of the functional
group which is suitably used for this purpose include, but are not
limited to, an alkyl group such as methyl group, ethyl group, butyl
group and hexyl group; an aryl group such as phenyl group; an ether
group such as polyethylene oxide group; an alkoxy group such as
methoxy group, ethoxy group and propoxy group; a liquid crystal
group such as mesogene group; a silane group such as
permethyloligosilane group, perethyloligosilane group,
permethylpolysilane group and perethylpolysilane group; and a
combination or a composite material of these groups. This
functional group may be substituted, if desired, or may be
variously modified insofar as the effect of the present invention
is not hindered, such that the aromatic compound is solubilized in
a solvent without lowering the mobility thereof. Examples of the
solvent as used herein include, but are not limited to, toluene,
xylene, acetonitrile, tetrahydrofuran, chloroform and ethanol.
Accordingly, the condensed polycyclic aromatic compound of the
present invention may be dissolved in this solvent to a
predetermined concentration to provide a coating solution, coated
on a substrate or the like by a coating method such as casting, dip
coating or spin coating, or by a printing method such as screen
printing, and then cured. This film formation method can be
performed simply and easily at a low cost as compared with
conventional vapor deposition method and the like.
[0038] The condensed polycyclic aromatic compound of the present
invention must have a molecular weight large enough to ensure the
solubility in a solvent by the introduction of a side chain.
Accordingly, the number of condensed rings contained is suitably
from about 8 to 14. In other words, the condensed polycyclic
aromatic compound usually has a molecular weight of preferably from
about 350 to 2,000, more preferably from 350 to 1,000. Of course,
insofar as a desired activity effect can be provided, the aromatic
compound may have a number of condensed rings or a molecular weight
other than those described above. If the number of condensed rings
contained is less than 8, the electrical conduction of the
.pi.-conjugate system lowers and the mobility disadvantageously
decreases, whereas if it exceeds 14, there may arise a problem such
as abrupt decrease of the solubility in a solvent even if a
functional group is introduced.
[0039] The condensed polycyclic aromatic compound of the present
invention includes various aromatic compounds satisfying the
above-described requirements. In particular, the compounds in which
usefulness has been discovered by the present inventors are an
ovalene derivative represented by the following formula (I): 1
[0040] wherein R.sub.1 to R.sub.8, which may be the same or
different, each represents a hydrogen atom or an arbitrary
substituent, provided that at least two of R.sub.1 to R.sub.8 are
an alkyl group, an aryl group, an ether group or a silane group;
or
[0041] a bianthrene derivative represented by the following formula
(II): 2
[0042] wherein R.sub.1 to R.sub.6, which may be the same or
different, each represents a hydrogen atom or an arbitrary
substituent, provided that at least two of R.sub.1 to R.sub.6 are
an alkyl group, an aryl group, an ether group or a silane group. If
desired, these aromatic compounds may be used in combination.
[0043] Typical examples of these ovalene derivative and bianthrene
derivative can be represented, for example, by the following
formulae: 3
[0044] The condensed polycyclic aromatic compound of the present
invention has a high field effect mobility and the field effect
mobility calculated according to the method described in the
publications described above is usually from about 0.001 to 0.03
cm.sup.2/Vs. If the field effect mobility is less than 0.001
cm.sup.2/Vs, there arises a problem such that the response speed of
the electronic device is very slow.
[0045] The condensed polycyclic aromatic compound of the present
invention can be advantageously prepared using a synthetic method
commonly used for the production of compounds such as ovalene and
bianthrene. At this time, the functional group for solubilizing the
compound in a solvent can be introduced in accordance with a
general method of adding a substituent to an aromatic ring. For
example, in the case of introducing a hexyl group
(--C.sub.6H.sub.13) into an aromatic ring of ovalene, the hydrogen
atom in the periphery of the aromatic ring of ovalene is replaced
by a chlorine atom (Cl) and, then, the chlorine atom is reacted
with C.sub.6H.sub.13MgBr, whereby a hexyl group can be easily
introduced.
[0046] The condensed polycyclic aromatic compound of the present
invention can be advantageously used as one constituent element in
various electronic devices by making good use of its excellent
properties such as high mobility, appropriate orientation force and
flexibility. The term "constituent element" as used herein means
parts and units constituting the electronic device such as display
device and the like of the present invention and is sometimes
called "an element". Examples of the constituent element include,
but are not limited to, various elements, including a power source
element, such as a driving circuit, a control circuit, a
communication circuit and an acoustic signal conversion element. It
is also possible that the display functional element is the
constituent element.
[0047] Typical examples of the sheet-form display device as a
typical example of the electric device include the following
devices, however, the sheet-form display device of the present
invention is not limited thereto.
[0048] (1) A sheet-form display device characterized in that the
device is constructed by an integrally molded sheet-form display
functional layer and a sheet-form power source layer, the
sheet-form display functional layer has one pair of opposing
electrode plates with at least one electrode plate being
transparent and performs a predetermined display operation by
causing changes in the optical absorption or the optical reflection
property, and the sheet-form power source layer supplies to the
display functional layer an electric power necessary for driving
the layer.
[0049] (2) The sheet-form display device as described in (1) above,
wherein the display element for use in the sheet-form display
functional layer is an electrophoretic display element which
performs a predetermined display operation by enclosing a
dispersion system containing electrophoretic particles into a space
between one pair of opposing electrode plates with at least one
electrode plate being transparent, changing the distribution state
of the electrophoretic particles within the dispersion system under
the action of a display control voltage applied between the
electrodes, and thereby causing changes in the optical absorption
or optical reflection property.
[0050] (3) The sheet-form display device as described in (1) above,
wherein the display element for use in the sheet-form display
functional layer is a microcapsule inversion-type display element
which performs a predetermined display operation by enclosing
colored particulate microcapsules capable of inversion according to
the direction of an electric field applied into a space between one
pair of opposing electrode plates with at least one electrode plate
being transparent, changing the orientation direction of the
microcapsules under the action of a display control voltage applied
between the electrodes, and thereby causing changes in the optical
absorption or optical reflection property.
[0051] (4) The sheet-form display device as described in (1) above,
wherein the display element for use in the sheet-form display
functional layer is a polymer dispersion-type liquid crystal
element obtained by providing micropores on a polymer substance and
enclosing a liquid crystal compound in the micropores.
[0052] (5) The sheet-form display device as described in (1) above,
wherein the display element for use in the sheet-form display
functional layer is an element capable of providing an
electroluminescence phenomenon by causing changes in the optical
absorption or optical reflection property under the action of an
electric current passing through between one pair of opposing
electrode plates with at least one electrode plate being
transparent.
[0053] (6) The sheet-form display device as described in (1) above,
wherein the display element for use in the sheet-form display
functional layer is an element capable of providing an
electrochromism phenomenon by causing changes in the optical
absorption or optical reflection property under the action of an
electric current passing through between one pair of opposing
electrode plates with at least one electrode plate being
transparent.
[0054] (7) A sheet-form display device characterized in that the
device is constructed by integrally molded sheet-form display
functional layer and sheet-form power source layer, the sheet-form
display functional layer has one electrode plate and performs a
predetermined display operation by causing changes in the optical
absorption or optical reflection property under the action of an
electric field applied between the electrode plate and a
predetermined writing electrode or an electric current passing
through between those two electrodes, and the sheet-form power
source layer supplies to the display functional layer an electric
power necessary for driving the layer.
[0055] (8) The sheet-form display device as described in (7) above,
wherein the display element for use in the sheet-form display
functional layer is an electrophoretic display element which has
one electrode plate and a dispersion system capable of
electrophoresis under the action of an electric field applied
between the electrode plate and a predetermined writing electrode
and which performs a predetermined display operation by changing
the distribution state of the electrophoretic particles within the
dispersion system under the action of a display control voltage
applied between those two electrodes and thereby causing changes in
the optical absorption or optical reflection property.
[0056] (9) The sheet-form display device as described in (7) above,
wherein the display element for use in the sheet-form display
functional layer is a microcapsule inversion-type display element
which has one electrode plate and performs a predetermined display
operation by enclosing colored particulate microcapsules capable of
inversion according to an electric field applied into a space
between the electrode plate and a predetermined writing electrode,
changing the orientation direction of the microcapsules under the
action of a display control voltage applied between those two
electrodes, and thereby causing changes in the optical absorption
or optical reflection property.
[0057] (10) The sheet-form display device as described in (7)
above, wherein the display element for use in the sheet-form
display functional layer is an element capable of providing an
electrochromism phenomenon by causing changes in the optical
absorption or optical reflection property according to an electric
current passed through between the electrode plate and a
predetermined writing electrode.
[0058] (11) The sheet-form display device as described in (1) or
(7) above, wherein the display element for use in the sheet-form
display functional layer is a magnetic display element.
[0059] (12) The sheet-form display device as described in (1) or
(7) above, wherein the power source element for use in the
sheet-form power source layer is a sheet-form primary battery
having a pair of electrodes capable of allowing an irreversible
oxidation reduction reaction to proceed, with the electrodes being
connected by a sheet-form electrolyte.
[0060] (13) The sheet-form display device as described in (1) or
(7) above, wherein the power source element for use in the
sheet-form power source layer is a sheet-form secondary battery
having a pair of electrodes capable of allowing a reversible
oxidation reduction reaction to proceed, with the electrodes being
connected by a sheet-form electrolyte.
[0061] (14) The sheet-form display device as described in (1) or
(7) above, wherein the power source element for use in the
sheet-form power source layer is a sheet-form photocell (or solar
battery) capable of generating an electric power upon irradiation
by light.
[0062] (15) The sheet-form display device as described in (1) or
(7) above, wherein the power source element for use in the
sheet-form power source layer is a sheet-form thermoelectromotive
battery capable of converting the difference in heat directly into
an electric power.
[0063] (16) The sheet-form display device as described in (1) or
(7) above, wherein the power source element for use in the
sheet-form power source layer is a sheet-form capacitor element
having a pair of electrodes and being formed by bonding these two
electrodes with a dielectric material or an electrolyte.
[0064] (17) A sheet-form display device constructed by integrally
molding (a) a sheet-form display functional layer, (b) a sheet-form
power source layer and (c) a layer for both or one of a driving
circuit and a control circuit.
[0065] (18) A sheet-form display device having a display function
and a communication function, which is constructed by integrally
molding (a) a sheet-form display functional layer, (b) a sheet-form
power source layer and (c) a layer for a communication circuit and
both or one of a driving circuit and a control circuit.
[0066] (19) The sheet-form display device as described in (18)
above, wherein the communication circuit is a circuit using an
electromagnetic wave energy, a light energy or an acoustic energy
as the transfer means.
[0067] (20) A sheet-form display device having a display function
and an acoustic conversion function, which is constructed by
integrally molding (a) a sheet-form display functional layer, (b) a
sheet-form power source layer and (c) an acoustic signal conversion
element layer capable of converting an acoustic signal into an
electric signal, converting an electric signal into an acoustic
signal or performing these two conversions.
[0068] (21) A sheet-form display device having a display function
and an acoustic conversion function, which is constructed by
integrally molding (a) a sheet-form display functional layer, (b) a
sheet-form power source layer, (c) an acoustic signal conversion
element layer capable of converting an acoustic signal into an
electric signal, converting an electric signal into an acoustic
signal or performing these two conversions, and (d) a layer for
both or one of a driving circuit and a control circuit.
[0069] (22) A sheet-form display device having a display function
and an acoustic conversion function, which is constructed by
integrally molding (a) a sheet-form display functional layer, (b) a
sheet-form power source layer, (c) an acoustic signal conversion
element layer capable of converting an acoustic signal into an
electric signal, converting an electric signal into an acoustic
signal or performing these two conversions, and (d) a layer for a
communication circuit and both or one of a driving circuit and a
control circuit.
[0070] (23) A sheet-form display device constructed by integrally
molding (a) a sheet-form display functional layer, and (b) a layer
for at least one of a driving circuit, a control circuit and a
communication circuit.
[0071] (24) A sheet-form display device comprising at least (a) a
sheet-form display element and (b) an element for external
connection. In one example, this sheet-form display device can
display the information from an electronic or electric instrument
by inserting an electrode terminal (may be designed to withdraw
outside from the sheet-form display device on use) provided on the
end face of the sheet-form display element into the connection
means (e.g., slot) provided on the exterior
electronic.cndot.electric instrument to connect with an electrode
terminal within the slot. In this case, the necessary elements such
as driving circuit and control circuit may be all or partially
provided in the sheet-form display device side or in the side of
instrument to which the device is connected.
[0072] (25) A sheet-form display device added with an input
function by providing an input element as the data input means in
any of the above-described sheet-form display devices. Examples of
the data input element include a so-called touch sensor-type
keyboard. This can be integrated into, for example, a part of a
display element.
[0073] Examples of the electronic device which can be suitably used
in the practice of the present invention include, but are not
limited to, an organic thin film transistor such as a FET (field
effect transistor). The organic thin film transistor of the present
invention can be advantageously realized particularly in the form
of a so-called electronic paper. Other than the organic thin film
transistor, examples of the electronic device include a diode.
[0074] This is described more specifically. FIG. 1 is a view
schematically showing an organic thin film transistor 10 as one
example of the electronic device according to the present
invention. This organic thin film transistor 10 can be
manufactured, for example, as follows.
[0075] On a substrate 1 made of a flexible plastic material such as
polyethersulfone (PES) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a gate
electrode 4 is formed by appropriate means such as sputtering of
gold or etching. Thereafter, on the surface of the substrate 1 with
the gate electrode 4, an organic material having a high dielectric
constant, such as polyacrylonitrile, polyvinylidene fluoride or
cyanoethylated pullulan, is coated and cured to form a gate
insulating film 2. If desired, the gate insulating film 2 may be
subjected to an orientation treatment to impart a function as an
orientation film or an orientation film (not shown) may be further
formed on the gate insulating film 2. In this case, examples of the
orientation film formed on the gate insulating film include, but
are not limited to, a polyimide film subjected to a rubbing
treatment, a polyimide film irradiated with a polarized ultraviolet
ray, and a polyimide or polyvinyl cinnamate film polymerized to
orient the molecules toward a specific direction using a polarized
ultraviolet ray. Subsequently, on this gate insulating film 2, a
source electrode 5 and a drain electrode 6 are disposed to provide
a transistor substrate. Here, the gate, source and drain electrode
materials of the transistor each may be any material insofar as it
does not adversely affect the function of the transistor obtained.
For example, in addition to the above-described metals such as
gold, an inorganic compound material or an electrically conducting
polymer material, such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or tin oxide
(SnO.sub.2), can be used as the electrode material.
[0076] After manufacturing a transistor substrate as such, the
electrically conducting organic compound according to the present
invention is dissolved in an appropriate solvent such as toluene
and the obtained coating solution is coated on the transistor
substrate by a casting method, a dip coating method or a spin
coating method, and cured. Then, a channel layer 3 is formed as
shown in the Figure. The thickness of the channel layer 3 varies
depending on the kind of the transistor but is generally from about
10 to 500 nm. In place of coating, the coating solution of the
electrically conducting organic compound may be printed by printing
or the like. For example, the coating solution may also be printed
only on the selected portion of the substrate using a mask by
applying a screen printing method. Furthermore, a printing process
comprising the steps of temporarily attaching the solution to a
rubber disc or the like and then transferring it to a predetermined
position on the substrate may also be used. For the purpose of
preventing the intermingling of impurities or the permeation of
moisture into the channel layer 3 formed, a protective layer such
as moisture-proof film may be provided insofar as it does not
inhibit the activity of the transistor.
[0077] The organic thin film transistor 10 produced through such a
series of production processes can contribute to the reduction in
the cost because the amount of electric current passing between the
source electrode and the drain electrode can be modulated by the
gate voltage and a high field effect mobility equal to that in
conventional organic semiconductor compounds formed by vapor
evaporation can be achieved by coating or printing of a solution.
Furthermore, although the substrate used here for the purpose of
explanation is a flexible plastic substrate, same effects can be
obtained also in the case of an Si substrate or other non-flexible
substrates. Accordingly, the electrically conducting organic
compound of the present invention can be applied not only to a
field effect transistor produced on a plastic substrate but also to
other electronic devices where high field effect mobility and
reduction of the cost by a simple and easy process are
required.
[0078] The electronic device of the present invention includes
various sheet-form display devices. These display devices are
manufactured such that a display element, which has been heretofore
dealt with as an independent element, is integrated with various
elements including a power source element for allowing the display
element to function, such as a driving circuit, a control circuit,
a communication circuit and an acoustic conversion element, whereby
the space factor can be improved and formation of the display part
to have a large area and also ultrathin formation of the display
device itself can be realized.
[0079] In the present invention, for obtaining such a specific
sheet-form display device, each element is formed using a printing
technique and a laminating technique which are advantageous in
producing these elements in the sheet form.
[0080] For example, the display device 11 schematically shown in
FIG. 2 according to a fundamental embodiment of the present
invention comprises a display functional layer 12 and a power
source layer 14 which are both in a sheet form. The display
functional layer 12 can be formed from various sheet-form elements
capable of exerting a display function based on various principles.
In the display device 11 shown, the display functional layer 12 is
composed of a display layer 12a and a pair of electrodes 12b and
12c sandwiching the display layer. For the display functional layer
12, the electrically conducting organic compound of the present
invention can be used.
[0081] In the case of a sheet-form display device comprising a
combination of an electrophoretic display element and a power
source element, a display device where a sheet-form display element
and a sheet-form power source element are integrated can be
manufactured as follows. A microcapsule having enclosed therein
electrophoretic particles is printed on a flexible substrate such
as transparent electrode vapor deposited polyester using a
technique such as screen printing, roller printing, ink jet
printing and electrophotography and then, combined with a counter
electrode, one part electrode material of the power source element
is coated on the back surface of the substrate, an electrolyte
sheet is placed thereon, a sheet having coated thereon another part
electrode material is further attached thereon, and these members
are subjected to a lamination process.
[0082] Other than the above-described display element applying the
principle of electrophoresis, a display element according to an
arbitrary display method applying a principle suitable for the
formation of a sheet-form display may be employed, such as a
display element applying the rotation of a colored microcapsule by
an electric field, a so-called polymer dispersion-type liquid
crystal element where a liquid crystal is stuffed into micropores
provided on a polymer material, a display element applying the
electrochromism or electroluminescence, and a display element
according to a magnetic recording system of moving fine particles
having magnetism by the control of the magnetism.
[0083] For example, the electrochromic display (ECD) as a display
element applying the electrochromism is an element which utilizes
the light absorptivity (absorbance) varying by the oxidation or
reduction reaction and displays this variation as a change in
color.
[0084] Such an element is composed of an electrochromic thin film,
a display electrode, a counter electrode and an electrolyte and,
when the electrochromic thin film formed on the display electrode
is oxidized or reduced according to the electric potential of the
display electrode, a change in color is seen.
[0085] At least either one of the display electrode and the counter
electrode is a transparent electrode and the change in color of the
electrochromic thin film can be observed from the outside.
[0086] For the transparent electrode, an electrically conducting
polymer thin film such as tin oxide, tin-doped indium oxide or
polyaniline can be used.
[0087] For the electrochromic thin film, the electrically
conducting organic compound of the present invention can be
used.
[0088] For the electrolyte, a liquid electrolyte obtained by
dissolving a lithium salt such as LiClO.sub.4, LiBF.sub.4,
LiPF.sub.6, LiCF.sub.3SO.sub.3 in a nonaqueous solvent such as
propylene carbonate, acetonitrile or .gamma.-butyrolactone, or a
so-called solid electrolyte obtained by adding a resin such as
acrylonitrile or polyethylene oxide to a solvent such as lithium
salt and propylene carbonate and forming the mixture into a
semisolid or solid state through melting under heat, cooling and
curing with a crosslinking agent can be used.
[0089] The electroluminescent (EL) device, as a display device
applying electroluminescence, is a generic term for completely
solid devices which self-emit light upon passage of an electric
current. Heretofore, inorganic EL devices such as ZnS/Mn have been
developed, however, these have a problem in that the driving
voltage is as high as about 100 V and a sufficiently high luminance
cannot be obtained. On the other hand, in recent years, development
of organic electroluminescent (organic EL) devices suitable for
thin-type displays has proceeded. The organic EL device emits light
by itself, has excellent visibility, can respond quickly, can be
made lightweight and thin, and can be driven at a low voltage of
several volts or less. Therefore, its application to an inexpensive
large-area full color flat panel display is expected and studies
are being made thereon at present (see, Nikkei Electronics, page
99, Jan. 29, 1996).
[0090] The organic EL device in general has an operation principle
close to the operation principle of light emitting diode (LED) and
uses a light emitting layer (an organic semiconductor thin film
having an ability of emitting fluorescent light), a carrier
transporting layer and a pair of counter electrodes sandwiching
those layers. The light emission phenomenon is based on the
principle that when an electric field is applied between two
electrodes, an electron is injected from the cathode, a hole is
injected from the anode, and the recombination of electrons and
holes in the light emitting layer causes a return of the energy
level, from the conduction band to the valence electron band, while
releasing the generated energy difference as light energy.
[0091] For each of the light emitting layer and the carrier
transporting layer, a .pi. electron organic semiconductor substance
is generally used. For the light emitting layer substance, the
electrically conducting organic compound of the present invention
is used. For the hole transporting layer as the carrier
transporting layer, a triphenylamine derivative (TAD) or the like
is used and for the electron transporting layer, an oxadiazole
derivative (PBD) or the like is used.
[0092] From the standpoint for seeking variety in the emission
color and the long-term storage stability of the light emitting
layer, substrates over a wide range are used for the light emitting
layer and even a light emitting layer using a system of an
amorphous polymer medium mixed with a fluorescent dye molecule or
using a polymer alone such as poly-p-phenylene derivative (PPV)
have been proposed.
[0093] The light emitting layer and the carrier (hole and electron)
transporting layers disposed in both sides of the light emitting
layer are interposed between the cathode electrode as an electron
injecting electrode and the anode electrode for injecting holes,
thereby constructing a laminate body.
[0094] The laminate body constructed by the above-described layers
is usually disposed on a substrate.
[0095] The substrate is a support of the EL device and a
transparent substrate such as glass or plastic is generally used.
Preferred examples of the plastic include polyethylene
terephthalate, polycarbonate, polymethyl methacrylate, polysulfone,
polybutene, polymethyl pentene and the like.
[0096] On the substrate, a transparent electrode is provided as the
anode electrode. For the transparent electrode material, an indium
tin oxide (ITO) thin film or a tin oxide film can be used. Also, a
metal having a large work function, such as aluminum or gold, or an
electrically conducting polymer such as polyaniline,
poly(3-methylthiophene) or polypyrrole may be used. The
electrically conducting organic compound of the present invention
may also be used.
[0097] As for the method for manufacturing the anode electrode, a
vacuum deposition method or a sputtering method may be used.
However, in the case of an electrically conducting polymer, a film
can be formed directly on the substrate by using a soluble
electrically conducting polymer, by coating a mixed solution with
an appropriate binder resin on the substrate or by the electrolytic
polymerization. The film thickness of the anode electrode is
selected to give a visible light transmittance of 60% or more,
preferably 80% or more, and in this case, the film thickness is
generally from 10 to 1,000 nm, preferably from 20 to 500 nm.
[0098] The film thickness of the light emitting layer is usually
from 10 to 200 nm, preferably from 20 to 80 nm. As for the organic
light emitting substance used in this light emitting layer, a
compound having a high fluorescent quantum yield, a high electron
injection yield from the cathode electrode and a high electron
mobility is effective. An oxyquinoline-based complex such as
8-hydroxyquinoline-aluminum complex (AlQ.sub.3) is used and a
diphenyl anthracene-based compound, a naphthostyryl-based pigment
(NSD), a coumarin derivative, a pyran derivative or a rubrene-based
compound is contained.
[0099] For the cathode electrode, various metal materials can be
used and Mg, Li, Ca and alloys thereof, each having a small work
function, are preferred. Examples thereof include a
magnesium-aluminum alloy, a magnesium-silver alloy, a
magnesium-indium alloy, an aluminum-lithium alloy and aluminum. In
the present invention, when a power source layer is combined, it is
preferred that this cathode electrode material can be used in
common as the electrode materials for the battery.
[0100] As for the electron transporting substance between the light
emitting layer and the cathode electrode layer, a substance having
a large electron affinity and a high electron mobility is
necessary. Examples of the substances which can be used include
cyclopentadiene derivatives, bis-styrylbenzene derivatives,
oxadiazole derivatives, triazole derivatives, p-phenylene compounds
or polymers, and phenanthroline derivatives.
[0101] On the other hand, as for the hole transporting material
between the light emitting layer and the anode electrode layer, a
material having a low injection barrier from the anode electrode
and having a high hole mobility is used. Examples of the material
which can be used include aromatic diamine-based compounds such as
N,N'-diphenyl-N,N'-bis(3-methylp- henyl)-1,1'-biphenyl-4,4'-diamine
(TPD) and 1,1'-bis(4-di-p-tolylaminophen- yl)cyclohexane, hydrazone
compounds, and tetraphenylbutadiene compounds. Also, polymer
materials such as poly-N-vinylcarbazole and polysilane may be
used.
[0102] In the case of a display element of electrophoresis type,
microcapsule inversion type or electrochromism type, it may be
possible to provide only one electrode sheet in the display element
of the display device and rewrite the display information in the
display element by applying an electric field from an external
writing electrode or by passing an electric current. FIG. 3
schematically shows a sheet-form display device according to this
embodiment. In this Figure, 20 is a sheet-form display device,
where 22 is a display functional layer composed here of a display
layer 22a and an electrode 22b, and a writing electrode 26 is
disposed in the side opposing the electrode 22b. In this case, a
writing device such as printer or hand scanner is necessary outside
the display device.
[0103] In the present invention, various display elements can be
used, however, on taking account of flexibility or foldability of
the display device manufactured using that display element, a
display element of a type where rotary balls (spherical rotators)
or electrophoretic particles are contained in a microcapsule is
more preferred.
[0104] Examples of the power source element which can be used
include those belonging to a so-called primary battery species
using, as the electrode material, zinc/graphite, manganese dioxide
or lithium/manganese dioxide, or zinc/air; those belonging to a
secondary battery species using, as the electrode material, nickel
cadmium- or lithium-occludable carbon/lithium-occludable metal
oxide, or lithium metal/electrically conducting polymer; those
belonging to single crystal silicon or amorphous silicon species,
polysilicon species, or solar battery species such as organic
pigment type and inorganic pigment type; those belonging to a
thermoelectric conversion battery species utilizing the Seebeck
effect; and those belonging to capacitors such as electrolytic
capacitor and electrical double layer capacitor. Among these, in
the species of a primary battery, a secondary battery and a
capacitor utilizing an electrochemical reaction, a so-called solid
electrolyte obtained by solidifying an electrolyte is preferably
used.
[0105] In the sheet-form display device of the present invention, a
layer containing a circuit necessary for driving and controlling
the display element may be integrally incorporated in addition to
the display functional layer and the power source layer. In this
case, the layer containing such a circuit must be a layer of not
impairing the flexibility of the device.
[0106] Specific embodiments of the sheet-form display device
according to the present invention are described below, however,
the present invention is, of course, not limited to the following
embodiments.
[0107] (1) Electronic Newspaper which Receives Information via
Internet, Satellite Broadcast, etc. and Displays Only the Desired
Information and which can be Read Even when Folded in a Free Form;
Foldable Electronic Book and Magazine; and Electronic Catalogue
having Additionally Input Means Capable of Making Order for
Commodities:
[0108] (1-1) Electronic Newspaper:
[0109] Examples of Form:
[0110] From tabloid to newspaper size, thin like paper, and
foldable.
[0111] Examples of Function:
[0112] Receiving, data memory, switchover of picture plane,
enlargement/reduction of displayed information, etc.
[0113] Examples of Constituent Element:
[0114] Display part, driving circuit, power source, communication
(receiving) circuit, control circuit, memory, touch key, etc.
[0115] Examples of Application:
[0116] FIG. 4 shows the appearance. Via an antenna line (not shown)
provided in the periphery of the display part 451 in a newspaper
size, a newest article is received at a predetermined time and
stored in the memory. A nominated article of higher priority is
displayed at a predetermined position. The layer exclusive of the
display layer, which is slightly inferior in the flexibility and
foldability, is provided in a minimum size for folding of the
electronic newspaper 450 at a designated position (slashed area 452
in the Figure) and other parts can be freely folded. When the
newspaper is folded at predetermined positions shown by the broken
lines in the Figure, it can be compactly folded to a minimum size.
Since the displayed information is held even in the folded state,
the article can be seen like a newspaper. In a part of the display
plane (another slashed area 453 in the Figure), a transparent thin
layer as a touch input key for performing a switch operation by the
change or the like in the electrostatic capacitance or resistance
value is provided and by this key operation, the information stored
in the memory can be sequentially displayed.
[0117] (1-2) Electronic Book and Magazine
[0118] Examples of Form:
[0119] From small book to large magazine size, and thin like paper,
a plurality of sheets can be bound at one end and can be turned or
rolled up.
[0120] Examples of Function:
[0121] Receiving, data memory, switchover of picture plane,
enlargement/reduction, automatic renewal of picture plane in
agreement with turning, selection of page, input of memo.
[0122] Examples of Constituent Element:
[0123] Display part, driving circuit, power source, communication
(receiving) circuit, control circuit, memory, input means, cover,
etc.
[0124] Examples of Application:
[0125] FIG. 5 shows the appearance. A plurality of sheets are bound
at the back cover 461 and an electronic circuit or an electronic
part is housed in this part to enable use of even parts inferior in
the shape variance. The display is made on the both surfaces of the
display layer and the page can be turned like a book. When turned
to the final page, the sensor inside the back cover perceives the
action of turning back to the first page and the following page is
automatically renewed and displayed. A touch key may also be
provided on the back or front paper surface, so that, in addition
to the control of reception and display, the switchover of display
can be controlled by the key input. Furthermore, a touch position
sensor may be provided throughout the display plane, so that a
handwritten letter or illustration can be input as the digital
information into the display plane utilizing the writing pressure
of a pen or using an electronic pen to which an electric field or
the like can be applied, and the digital information can be stored
in the display and memory. Such information as a memo is associated
with the page information of a book or the like and setting of an
automatic display of the page can also be attained.
[0126] (1-3) Electronic Catalogue Additionally having Input
Means
[0127] Examples of Function:
[0128] Receiving and sending, data memory, switchover of picture
plane, enlargement/reduction, input, etc.
[0129] Examples of Constituent Element:
[0130] Display part, driving circuit, power source, communication
(sending and receiving) circuit, control circuit, memory, input
means, cover, etc.
[0131] Examples of Application:
[0132] FIG. 6 shows the appearance. This device has an input means
for the inputting by a touch key or an electronic pen and the
information of commodity 471 is displayed. The necessary field is
previously registered and after receiving renewal notification by
communication, the commodity information is automatically renewed.
The information from commodity list to detail can be displayed by
switching over the picture plane. Based on the personal information
input as a default by the communication function, an order can be
made by one switching operation and an electronic account can be
settled from the registered account. Other than the registered
field, various commodities can be searched for and displayed and
can be ordered.
[0133] (2) Display Board (Electronic Circulating Notice) System
Capable of Attaching or Detaching to Wall and Automatically
Receiving and Renewing Regional Information:
[0134] Examples of Form:
[0135] From A4 to A3 size (foldable into A4 size), slightly
foldable board, and attachable/detachable to wall, etc.
[0136] Examples of Function:
[0137] Receiving and sending, data memory, switchover of picture
plane, enlargement/reduction, input, individualization of parts
(constituent element), signal display, etc.
[0138] Examples of Constituent Element:
[0139] Display part, driving circuit, power source, communication
(sending and receiving) circuit, control circuit, memory, input
means, signal display means, etc.
[0140] Examples of Application:
[0141] FIGS. 7A and 7B show the appearance of a display board
system 480. A system having respective means for terminal
connection, receiving and sending, data memory, switchover of
picture plane, enlargement/reduction and input is provided on a
wall. In the portion 481 fixed to the wall, a communication circuit
and signal means (not shown) is provided, a display and input part
482 having provided therein a driving circuit, a control circuit, a
power source and the like is removably fixed there, and a
paper-like display device 483 is set in the display and the input
part 482. The information is automatically renewed and the renewal
of data is informed by the signal means (which generates a signal
such as light or sound) provided in the system. The device
additionally has input means 484 such as key pad or electronic pen.
The input information can be confirmed and sent at the display part
in whichever state the input means 484 is fixed to the wall or
removed therefrom. Only the display element 483 can be removed and
carried. In this case, information is displayed and held without
power supply. In the display and input part 482, input by the key
operation or hand writing can be made on a desk or the like even in
the state removed from the wall. The interchange of data among
respective departments separated into individual sites can be
performed through the electrode, communication means or the like
provided at the terminal part of each department.
[0142] (3) Communication Tool for Enabling to Call Partner Only by
Operation of Button (having Input Function) Displayed on Picture
Plane, to Make Conversation while Seeing Partner on Picture Plane
and to Send Information Input from Picture Plane as it is to
Partner:
[0143] Examples of Form:
[0144] From A4 to A3 size (foldable into A4 size), thin like paper
at least in the display part, can be folded or rolled up.
[0145] Examples of Function:
[0146] Receiving and sending, data memory, switchover of picture
plane, enlargement/reduction, inputting, sound, input of image,
etc.
[0147] Examples of Constituent Element:
[0148] Display part, driving circuit, power source, communication
(sending and receiving) circuit, control circuit, memory, input
means, voice input and output means, image input and output means,
etc.
[0149] Examples of Application:
[0150] FIGS. 8A and 8B show the appearance. Using only the input
using a key 491, communication can be made and conversation can be
made while seeing the partner. The image information 492 from an
image input means (not shown) such as camera or scanner can be
input and sent. The display plane may be rolled in such a manner
that the key input part is positioned in a center, a touch key (not
shown) may be formed in a part of the display plane and, in the
case where an input operation is not necessary, the key input part
may be erased from the picture plane. The input may also be made by
hand writing using an electronic pen 493.
[0151] (4) Electronic Wallpaper System Capable of Freely Changing
Color Pattern or Design by Electric Signal:
[0152] Examples of Form:
[0153] Lengthy form (for example, a width of 60 cm or more, a
length of tens of meter or more), wallpaper-like thickness.
[0154] Examples of Function:
[0155] Renewal of image, etc.
[0156] Examples of Constituent Element:
[0157] Receiving, data memory, switchover of picture plane, input,
etc.
[0158] Examples of Application:
[0159] FIG. 9 shows the appearance. The wallpaper part 501 is
constructed of microcapsules having enclosed therein display
particles (e.g., electrophoretic particles) and a display element
comprising a common electrode and on the wall face 502, an
individual electrode, a driving/control circuit, a power source and
the like are provided. As such, the control circuit and the like
are not integrated with the wallpaper part 501, so that the
wallpaper can be cut at an arbitrary portion and made to function
by attaching it on a wall. In this case, signals of an arbitrary
display pattern can be input and displayed by a separately provided
controlling device 503 (may be provided on a wall face 502). A
power source is required only when the display pattern is changed,
and no power source is necessary for holding the pattern. By
earthing the surface, the attachment of dust or trash due to static
electrification can be preserved and in turn contamination can be
prevented. In the case of protecting the common electrode (not
shown) of the wallpaper part 501, an electrically conducting resin
or the like is thinly coated on the surface. According to the
season or use end of the room, the pattern suitable for the
situation can be selected and displayed. Not only the pattern of
the wallpaper but also a picture or a photograph can be displayed
and by displaying a window frame, the outdoor scene can be freely
produced and displayed. Of course, the display can be applied to a
ceiling. By reinforcing the protective layer and thereby imparting
durability, the wallpaper can be used also as an outer wall surface
and, according to the season, the color can be changed or the
decoration for Christmas can be displayed. When a common electrode
of the display element is provided in the wall surface side and
connected to a control means, the pattern on the wallpaper surface
can be changed using input means having also a driving circuit,
such as writing stick.
[0160] (5) Large Picture Plane Television Fixed on Wall:
[0161] Examples of Form:
[0162] About tens of inches or more, can be rolled up and can be
removed.
[0163] Examples of Function:
[0164] Receiving (selection of channel, control), display, voice
output, etc.
[0165] Examples of Constituent Element:
[0166] Display part, voice output (speaker), power source,
communication (receiving), channel selection switch, etc.
[0167] Examples of Application:
[0168] The device can be moved to an arbitrary place and displayed
by fixing it to a wall. Since lightweight, the device can be
displayed by fixing it even to a ceiling or the like.
[0169] (6) Windable Electronic Conference Document:
[0170] Examples of Form:
[0171] From A4 to A3 size (foldable into A4 size), thin like paper,
a plurality of sheets may be superposed one on another and can be
rolled up.
[0172] Examples of Function:
[0173] Receiving and sending, data memory, switchover of picture
plane, enlargement/reduction, input, etc.
[0174] Examples of Constituent Element:
[0175] Display part, driving circuit, power source, communication
(sending and receiving) circuit, control circuit, memory, input
means, etc.
[0176] Examples of Application:
[0177] FIG. 10 shows the appearance. Several sheets are bound and a
plurality of sheets are inserted to a binding member 511
constructed to contain a power source, a driving circuit, a control
circuit, a memory and communication function means. The feeling of
turning pages is realized, the information can be received by the
communication and stored in a memory, and the necessary information
can be retrieved on the display plane and displayed. Furthermore,
this electronic conference document can be taken up around the
binding member 511. The function and the construction are the same
as those of the previously described electronic book or electronic
catalogue. In addition thereto, by removing each display layer from
the binding member (back cover part) 511, the document sheets can
be compared by taking one by one with a hand or may be displayed by
placing those side by side like paper on a desk or the like.
[0178] (7) Display Apparatus of an Electronic Conference System
which can Perform a Conference having a Feeling of Being at a
Conference Room:
[0179] Examples of Form:
[0180] Several meters or more in length, rigidity of allowing
gentle bending.
[0181] Examples of Function:
[0182] Receiving and sending, data memory, switchover of picture
plane, input, voice and image input, etc.
[0183] Examples of Constituent Element:
[0184] Display part, driving circuit, power source, communication
(sending and receiving) circuit, control circuit, memory, input
means, voice input and output means, image input and output means,
etc.
[0185] Examples of Application:
[0186] FIG. 11 shows the appearance of an electric conference
system display device 520. Since the display can surround the
conference attendance, the on-site feeling is elevated. The device
is vertically placed to cover almost all of the visual field and a
plurality of members are displayed on a large image plane by the
image input means. The display can contain the positional
relationship of partner members. The related data can be
distributed by the communication and can be discussed by the
conversation.
[0187] (8) Display Device like Paper, Capable of Being Housed in
Writing too such as Pen or Being Folded Small:
[0188] (8-1) Display Device Capable Being Housed in Pen, etc.:
[0189] Examples of Form:
[0190] About A6 size, can be rolled up.
[0191] Examples of Function:
[0192] Receiving, data memory, switchover of picture plane,
etc.
[0193] Examples of Constituent Element:
[0194] Display part, driving circuit, power source, communication
(receiving) circuit, control circuit, memory, input means, etc.
[0195] Examples of Application:
[0196] FIG. 12 shows an example of a display device 530 which is
folded inside a pen 531. This display device 530 is in a form
capable of being folded inside pen 531 and, on use, is
appropriately pulled out. The device is connected at the edge with
a driving circuit, a communication circuit, a control circuit, a
power source (not shown) and the like provided inside the pen 531
and by these elements, information is received through an antenna
(not shown) provided in the body of the pen 531, displayed and
renewed. The image plane is controlled using a switch (not shown)
provided in the body of the pen 531 or a touch key (not shown)
provided on the display plane of the display device 530. Since the
display device 530 is pulled out on use, this device preferably has
a rigidity like a film sheet to facilitate handling.
[0197] (8-2) Small Foldable Display Device:
[0198] Examples of Form:
[0199] From A4 to A3 size when unfolded, foldable into about A6
size.
[0200] Examples of Function:
[0201] Receiving, data memory, switchover of picture plane,
etc.
[0202] Examples of Constituent Element:
[0203] Display part, driving circuit, power source, communication
(receiving) circuit, control circuit, memory, input means, etc.
[0204] Examples of Application:
[0205] The same appearance as that of an electronic newspaper
described in (1-1). A driving circuit, a communication circuit, a
control circuit, a power source and the like are formed within the
range of A6 as a final size when folded. This device can be folded
like paper or rolled up and housed in a pocket. When necessary, the
device can be taken out and unfolded to confirm the contents.
[0206] (9) Paper-Form Display Device Capable of Being Looked at by
Spreading Many Sheets on Desk, Being Bound to Store the Information
without Power Supply, and Being Erased or Rewritten, if
Necessary:
[0207] Examples of Form:
[0208] From A4 to A3 size, having thickness and flexibility large
enough to enable bending or folding.
[0209] Examples of Function:
[0210] Receiving and sending, data memory, switchover of picture
plane, enlargement/reduction, input, etc.
[0211] Examples of Constituent Element:
[0212] Display part, driving circuit, power source, communication
(sending and receiving) circuit, control circuit, memory, input
means, etc.
[0213] Examples of Application:
[0214] FIG. 13A shows the appearance. As the display information
can be held, it is possible to separate the driving part and use
only the display part 541 like paper. Also, as shown in FIG. 16B,
the device can be bound by means of a clip 542 or the like while
holding the display information. In the case of renewing the
display, as described in the electronic conference document of (6),
the device is mounted on a binding member (back cover) (not shown)
self-containing a control circuit and the like.
[0215] (10) Swinging Poster Hung in Bus, Electric Car, etc.,
Electronic Poster, Banner Poster, POP Poster Each Capable of
Renewing the Display Content by Communication:
[0216] Examples of Form:
[0217] A3 size or more, flexibility of allowing rolling up, thin
like paper.
[0218] Examples of Function:
[0219] Receiving and sending, data memory, switchover of picture
plane, input, etc.
[0220] Examples of Constituent Element:
[0221] Display part, driving circuit, power source, communication
(sending and receiving) circuit, control circuit, memory, input
means, etc.
[0222] Examples of Application:
[0223] In addition to the automatic renewal of information by
communication, a system such as a suspended poster enables
acquisition of information, order for advertised commodity and
settlement of account therefor through the connection with a
potable information terminal of an individual person by means of
communication or the like. In the electronic poster, POP poster and
banner poster, the information of bargain sale or time service can
be renewed in real time by the communication according to season,
day, hour time, change or taste of customers, etc. This device has
input means capable of displaying or erasing and enables an order
directly from the poster. In use of a banner poster, the
information can be renewed by the communication once fixed and
therefore, times or labors for exchanging the poster can be saved
or danger in the exchanging work can be evaded.
[0224] (11) Electronic Price Tag for Food, Displaying Information
Such as Production Place or Recipe:
[0225] Examples of Form:
[0226] About business card size, slightly bendable sheet form.
[0227] Examples of Function:
[0228] Display, memory, power source, receiving, data output.
[0229] Examples of Constituent Element:
[0230] Display part, driving circuit, power source, communication
(sending and receiving) circuit, control circuit, memory, touch
key, etc.
[0231] Examples of Application:
[0232] FIGS. 14a and 14B show the appearance of an electronic price
tag. As shown in FIG. 14A, while fixing a price tag 550 on the
commodity 551, the display can be rewritten by communication. As
shown in FIG. 14B, commodity information such as product name,
weight, price, production place, harvest day, acceptable eat time
and product grade, a recipe using the commodity and the information
of other food materials necessary for the recipe are displayed by
operating a button 552 on the display surface and thereby switching
over the information. The information as it is can be input into an
information portable remote terminal and the information can be
used for the management of a household economy or stock.
Furthermore, consumers may bring it home, input the data into the
information home appliance such as refrigerator and use it for
stock management. The price tag after use is returned to the store
and reused at the store by renewing the information or the
like.
[0233] (12) Automatic Payment System by Electronic Price Tag,
Capable of Settling Account Only by Passing through Gate:
[0234] Examples of Form:
[0235] About business card size, slightly bendable sheet form.
[0236] Examples of Function:
[0237] Display of sum, operation, communication (sending and
receiving).
[0238] Examples of Constituent Element:
[0239] Display part, driving circuit, power source, communication
(sending and receiving) circuit, control circuit, memory, touch
key, etc.
[0240] Examples of Application:
[0241] A sending function is added to the electronic price tag of
(11) above and the commodity information is sent in respondence to
the access signal from the liquidation gate. The content
transmitted is recorded and the account is settled by the direct
debit from the previously registered account of a credit card or
the like. Also, account details can be displayed on a separate
sheet-form display device so that the purchaser can confirm.
[0242] (13) System Capable of Displaying Price of Commodity by
Electronic Price Tag, Displaying Total Price or Clearing Account by
Putting Commodity into Shopping Basket (or by Taking it Out):
[0243] Examples of Form:
[0244] About business card size, slightly bendable sheet form.
[0245] Examples of Function:
[0246] Display of sum, operation, communication (sending and
receiving).
[0247] Examples of Constituent Element:
[0248] Display part, driving circuit, power source, communication
(sending and receiving) circuit, control circuit, memory, touch
key, etc.
[0249] Examples of Application:
[0250] A sending function is added to the electronic price tag
described in (11) above, a display device capable of sending,
receiving and operating is added also to the shopping basket, a
signal is sent from commodity at the time of putting it into the
shopping bag (or taken out from the shopping basket) and the price
of commodity is automatically displayed in the display device of
the basket. The total price is also displayed. In this system, upon
establishment of the purchased commodity, the total price is
confirmed and can be electrically settled.
[0251] (14) Seal-Form Warning Display Medium of Urging Caution Only
at Opening of Door of (at the Getting On and Off) Vehicle such as
Electric Car:
[0252] Examples of Form:
[0253] From about A4 to A3 size, thin like paper,
attachable/detachable on wall or the like.
[0254] Examples of Function:
[0255] Communication (receiving)
[0256] Examples of Constituent Element:
[0257] Display part, driving circuit, power source, communication
(receiving) circuit, control circuit, memory, etc.
[0258] Examples of Application:
[0259] This device is attached in the vicinity of a door for
entrance of a vehicle or on the door itself. The display shows a
general guidance or an advertisement and is indistinguishable or
shows nothing on running of the vehicle but, in response to the
opening/closing of the door, a caution is displayed to call
passengers' attention.
[0260] (15) Electronic Newspaper and Magazine having Printed
Thereon Poster or Advertisement, Capable of Giving Display or
Communication of Detailed Information by Only Touching a
Predetermined Portion of the Advertisement:
[0261] Examples of Form:
[0262] From A4 to A3 size (foldable into A4 size), slightly
bendable sheet form, removable (in the case of poster).
[0263] Examples of Function:
[0264] Receiving and sending, data memory, switchover of picture
plane, input.
[0265] Examples of Constituent Element:
[0266] Display part, driving circuit, power source, communication
(sending and receiving) circuit, control circuit, memory, input
means, etc.
[0267] Examples of Application:
[0268] A transparent touch sensor is provided on the surface and a
touch key is not seen at the display time of advertisement but the
position of touch key is displayed at the input time to enable
input. The connection with a portable information remote terminal
can be made by the communication and by inputting the information
stored as a default at the terminal, and data or the like can be
requested.
[0269] (16) Intelligent Road and Traffic Sign
[0270] Examples of Form:
[0271] One meter square or more, plate form.
[0272] Examples of Function:
[0273] Receiving and sending, switchover of picture plane.
[0274] Examples of Constituent Element:
[0275] Display part, driving circuit, power source, communication
(sending and receiving) circuit, control circuit, memory, etc.
[0276] Examples of Application:
[0277] FIG. 15 shows an example of a road sign. The information for
road guide, including traffic jam information, bypass information,
and reservation conditions of hotel or restaurant in the region is
displayed and renewed in real time by communication. The display
energy is small and energy is not necessary for holding the
display. In the case of a traffic sign, the information on
regulation can be automatically renewed according to the time. By
adding a road monitoring function to the road sign or traffic sign,
the information on traffic jam and the like can be automatically
transmitted.
[0278] (17) Intelligent Electronic Ticket (Railroad Ticket, etc.)
and Commuter Pass:
[0279] Examples of Form:
[0280] Business card or commuter pass size, slightly rigid sheet
form.
[0281] Examples of Function:
[0282] Receiving and sending, data memory, switchover of picture
plane, input, alarm, time display.
[0283] Examples of Constituent Element:
[0284] Display part, driving circuit, power source, communication
(sending and receiving) circuit, control circuit, memory, touch
key, etc.
[0285] Examples of Application:
[0286] FIGS. 16A and 16B show an example of an electronic ticket
570. In FIG. 16A, when the destination is selected at the time of
purchasing the ticket, the surface 572 preferentially provides the
information useful for the passenger other than the display of
place to get on and off and fare which are originally not always
necessary for the passenger. After the purchase of ticket, the
entrance and ticket examination are completed by communication
between the wicket gate and the ticket. This device also has a time
display function and can display the departure time of trains on
which the passenger can get after the hour at that time, the
guidance of the departure platform, the arrival time at the
destination, the service information such as crowding of each train
car obtained by the communication function of ticket, and the
information on changing of cars. These information items may be
displayed at the same time or may be displayed by switching the
picture plane using a switchover button such as a touch key.
Furthermore, as the train comes near to the destination stored in
memory, this is detected by the signal in place of announcement in
the train or by the signal sent from the device disposed at
stations on the way and notified to the passenger by an alarm
(e.g., light, sound, vibration). Therefore, the announcement in the
train is not necessary, as a result, not only comfortable
environment is provided but also by selecting an alarm, convenient
use is provided for (physically) handicapped passengers. On the
back surface 574 shown in FIG. 16B, the display can also be made
and the guidance 575 along the railroad line or an advertisement
576 can be displayed. According to the purpose of taking the train
such as commutation or sight seeing, the kind of information
displayed can be changed or in the case of commuter pass, the
information desired by the passenger can be registered and
displayed. At the time of exiting from the wicket, the ticket can
communicate with the gate in the same manner as at the entrance and
in the case of a general ticket, a system of inserting it into a
ticket-examining machine and thereby performing the communication
may be employed so as to recover the ticket without fail.
[0287] (18) Display Device Affixed to Dashboard, Incapable of Being
Recognized at Ordinary Time but Capable of Displaying Warning,
Information How to Cope, etc. Only at Generation of
Abnormality:
[0288] Examples of Form:
[0289] About A4 size or less, thin like paper, removable.
[0290] Examples of Function:
[0291] Communication (receiving)
[0292] Examples of Constituent Element:
[0293] Display part, driving circuit, power source, communication
(receiving) circuit, control circuit, memory, etc.
[0294] Examples of Application:
[0295] This device fundamentally realizes the same embodiment as
the seal-form warning display medium of (14) and bears the same
color as the dashboard at an ordinary time not to fine the fine
appearance in the automobile, but only at the generation of
troubles, display the optimal action or caution according to the
trouble in respondence to the display signal of the trouble. By
this, the oversight of display can be prevented, the recognition
and comprehension of information can be enhanced, and a smooth and
appropriate action can be taken.
[0296] (19) Electronic Text
[0297] Examples of Form:
[0298] From A4 to A3 size (foldable into A4 size), thin like paper,
a plurality of sheets can be bound or rolled up.
[0299] Examples of Function:
[0300] Receiving and sending, data memory, switchover of picture
plane, enlargement/reduction, input, search.
[0301] Examples of Constituent Element:
[0302] Display part, driving circuit, power source, communication
(sending and receiving) circuit, control circuit, memory, input
means, etc.
[0303] Examples of Application:
[0304] The fundamental construction is same as that of the
electronic catalogue of (1-3) or the communication tool of (3).
This device comprises a plurality of paper-form display elements
having a function of, by communication, displaying information
necessary for study, and searching for detailed information related
to the studied matter, only by a button operation through an
internet or the like, and displaying the information. In addition
to the input means such as touch key capable of performing display
or erasing on the display picture plane according to the use of a
text, this device has a handwriting input function as in the
electronic conference document of (6) and a note function for
enabling storage of the input information.
[0305] (20) Display Device for Use in Global Education System and
Capable of Displaying as if on Paper:
[0306] Examples of Form:
[0307] A4 size or more.
[0308] Examples of Function:
[0309] Receiving and sending, data memory, switchover of picture
plane, enlargement/reduction, input, search, image input, etc.
[0310] Examples of Constituent Element:
[0311] Display part, driving circuit, power source, communication
(sending and receiving) circuit, control circuit, memory, input
means, image input means, etc.
[0312] Examples of Application:
[0313] FIG. 17 shows an example of a display device for a global
education system. The global education system as used herein
includes an electronic blackboard 581 as the same display device as
that of the electronic conference system of (7) and the same
display device 582 as that of the electronic text of (19). By
linking with schools around the world, the contents written on the
electronic blackboard 581 by a teacher can be sent, displayed and
recorded to the display device 582 of students. Individual
communication between the teacher and a student can be supported. A
voice input and output function and an image input function may
also be added.
[0314] A construction example of the sheet-form display device of
the present invention using the electrically conducting resin layer
as a common electrode positioned in the display surface side is
described below by referring to FIG. 18.
[0315] As shown in the Figure, this sheet-form display device 700
has individual electrodes 702 formed on a substrate 701,
microcapsules 703 each containing electrophoretic particles 707 and
being disposed at respective positions corresponding to those
individual electrodes 702 and fixed to the substrate 701 by an
adhesive layer 705, and a common electrode 704 formed from the
electrically conducting organic compound of the present invention
and covering a display layer 706 composed of those microcapsules
703 and the adhesive layer 705. A pair of opposing electrodes are
formed by those individual electrodes 702 and the common electrode
704. The common electrode 704 positioned in the display surface
side of the display device 700 is usually transparent.
[0316] In the display device 700, the optical reflection or optical
absorption of a microcapsule 703 is changed upon application of a
potential difference between the counter electrodes 702 and 704 and
thereby an image is displayed, where, as shown in FIG. 2, the
electrode 704 in the display surface side is stacked on the display
layer 706 and integrated therewith and, as a result, the obtained
sheet-form display device can have a structure such that the
thickness and the glossiness are close to those of paper. For
integrating the common electrode 704 with the display layer 706,
for example, a method of coating the electrically conducting resin
material directly on the display layer 706 or a method of stacking
a previously produced film (not shown) on the display layer 706 can
be used.
[0317] A sheet-form display device having another construction and
its production example are described below by referring to FIG.
19.
[0318] This sheet-form display device contains a display part and a
power source part. The display part is constructed such that a
large number of microcapsules 203 each enclosing a dispersion
system 205 previously encapsulated by the microcapsulation process
are interposed between a pair of transparent electrodes 202 and
202' formed on opposing surfaces (ITO vapor deposition surfaces) of
transparent materials 201 and 201', respectively, where the
dispersion system is prepared by dispersing electrophoretic
particles in a dispersion medium and each transparent electrode
comprises an ITO vapor deposition PET (polyethylene terephthalate)
film. On one transparent material 201' on the side opposite the ITO
deposition surface, an aluminum vapor deposition layer is formed.
The electrically conducting organic compound of the present
invention is used for the transparent electrodes 201 and 201'.
[0319] Examples of the electrophoretic particles 204 which can be
used in the dispersion system 205 encapsulated in the microcapsule
203 include general colloid particles or metal fine particles,
organic or inorganic dye, organic or inorganic pigment, ceramic or
glass fine particles, and fine particles of appropriate resin or
rubber. These particles may also be used in combination.
[0320] Examples of the dispersion medium which can be used in the
dispersion system 205 include water, an aqueous solution of
inorganic or organic salt, alcohols, amines, saturated or
unsaturated hydrocarbons, halogenated hydrocarbons, naturally
occurring fats and oils or mineral oils, and synthetic oils.
[0321] If desired, the dispersion system 205 may contain an
inorganic or organic electrolyte, a surfactant or its salt, a
charge controlling agent comprising particles of resin material or
rubber, and a dispersant, a lubricant and a stabilizer each mainly
including a surfactant system.
[0322] The dispersion system 205 is thoroughly mixed by a roll
mill, a ball mill or the like and microencapsulated by the
interfacial polymerization method or the coacervation method. The
film for forming the outer periphery of the microcapsule 203
preferably has a volume resistivity equal to that of the dispersion
system 205.
[0323] This microcapsule 203 is disposed on the surface of one
transparent electrode 202' using a technique such as screen
printing and enclosed between two electrodes by combining it with
the other transparent electrode 202. For enclosing the dispersion
system 205 between two electrodes 202 and 202' by means of the
microcapsule 203, in addition to the above-described method, a
technique of injecting a predetermined amount of microcapsules 203
using an inserting hole (not shown) communicating between two
electrodes may also be used.
[0324] In practice, a substance 207 chemically stable against the
microcapsule 203 and having a refractive index and a volume
resistivity equivalent to those of the microcapsule is preferably
filled into the space between microcapsules 203 and into the space
between the electrode 202 or 202' and the microcapsule 203, through
an injection hole 206 as shown in the Figure.
[0325] The manufacture of a battery 209 as the power source part is
described below.
[0326] To 90 parts by mass of acetonitrile, 10 parts by mass of
pyrrole is added and furthermore, 5 parts by mass of lithium
tetrafluoroborate is added. These are uniformly mixed and then, 50
parts by mass of lithium cobaltate is added. The mixture is gently
stirring and left standing for 10 minutes. The lithium cobaltate is
separated by filtration, washed with acetonitrile and dried at
80.degree. C. for 10 minutes. To 100 parts by mass of the obtained
powder, 3 parts by mass of acetylene black is added and mixed in a
mill. Thereafter, the obtained powder particles are mixed and
kneaded with 50 parts by mass of a 10% N-methylpyrrolidone solution
of polyvinylidene fluoride and the resulting paste is coated on the
vapor deposition aluminum surface of the transparent 201' in the
display part to a thickness of 150 .mu.m and dried at 120.degree.
C. for 30 minutes to prepare a positive electrode foil.
[0327] The solid electrolyte used is an acryl-modified polyethylene
oxide. 100 parts by mass of a 10:1 mixture of end acryl-modified
polyethylene oxide and both ends acryl-modified polyethylene oxide,
and 100 parts by mass of propylene carbonate containing 1M lithium
tetrafluoroborate are mixed, and thereto, 1 part by mass of benzoyl
peroxide is further added to prepare a reaction polymerization
solution.
[0328] On the positive electrode prepared above, a 40 .mu.m-thick
non-fabric is placed, the reaction polymerization solution of solid
electrolyte is cast to a film thickness of 100 .mu.m, and then
ultraviolet light (1 mW/cm.sup.2) of an extra-high pressure mercury
lamp is irradiated thereon for 1 minute to perform the
polymerization, thereby forming a solid electrolyte film in a gel
state.
[0329] On the other hand, 1 part by mass of a 10%
N-methylpyrrolidone solution of polyvinylidene fluoride is mixed
and kneaded with 1 part by mass of graphite-type carbon and the
paste obtained is coated on a negative electrode collector (10
.mu.m-thick copper foil) to a thickness of 100 .mu.m and dried at
120.degree. C. for 30 minutes to produce a negative electrode. This
negative electrode is placed on the above-described half battery
having formed thereon an electrolyte and a pressure of 2
kg/cm.sup.2 (196 kPa) is applied to complete the battery. The
voltages of the positive and negative electrodes can be obtained
through the collectors having supported thereon the respective
corresponding electroactive materials.
[0330] In this way, a sheet-form display device having a display
device and a secondary battery integrated with each other and
having a display function can be obtained.
EXAMPLES
[0331] The present invention is described in greater detail by
referring to the Examples. It should be understood that the present
invention is not limited to the following Examples.
Example 1
[0332] On a substrate plastic sheet comprising polyether sulfone, a
gate electrode was formed by sputtering of gold, cyanoethylated
pullulan dissolved in acetone was coated thereon, and then the
solvent was dried to form an insulating layer having a film
thickness of 150 nm. On this insulating layer, a source electrode
and a drain electrode at an electrode-to-electrode distance,
namely, a channel length, of 5 .mu.m were each formed to a film
thickness of 50 nm by sputtering of gold. On the plastic substrate
with electrodes thus formed, an ovalene derivative having attached
thereto a hexyl group (see, the following formula): 4
[0333] which was dissolved under heating in toluene was coated by
spin coating and then, the solvent was gradually dried to obtain a
channel layer having a film thickness of 100 nm.
[0334] Subsequently, for the thus-manufactured organic thin film
transistor, the mobility of the electrically conducting organic
compound was calculated from the relationships between the drain
voltage and the drain current and between the gate voltage and the
drain current. The mobility was maximally .mu.=0.01 cm.sup.2/Vs at
room temperature.
Example 2
[0335] On a substrate plastic sheet comprising polyether sulfone, a
gate electrode was formed by sputtering of gold and patterning,
cyanoethylated pullulan dissolved in acetone was coated thereon,
and then the solvent was dried to form an insulating layer having a
film thickness of 150 nm. On this insulating layer, a source
electrode and a drain electrode at an electrode-to-electrode
distance, namely, a channel length, of 5 .mu.m were formed each to
a film thickness of 50 nm by sputtering of gold. On the plastic
substrate with electrodes thus formed, a bianthrene derivative
having attached thereto a hexyl group (see, the following formula):
5
[0336] which was dissolved under heating in toluene was coated by
spin coating and then, the solvent was gradually dried while
applying an electric field between the source-drain electrodes to
obtain a channel layer having a film thickness of 100 nm.
[0337] Subsequently, for thus-manufactured organic thin film
transistor, the mobility of the electrically conducting organic
compound was calculated from the relationships between the drain
voltage and the drain current and between the gate voltage and the
drain current. The mobility was maximally .mu.=0.004 cm.sup.2/Vs at
room temperature.
Example 3
[0338] On a substrate plastic sheet comprising polyether sulfone, a
gate electrode was formed by sputtering of gold and patterning,
cyanoethylated pullulan dissolved in acetone was coated thereon,
and then the solvent was dried to form an insulating layer having a
film thickness of 150 nm. On this insulating layer, a source
electrode and a drain electrode at an electrode-to-electrode
distance, namely, a channel length, of 5 .mu.m were formed each to
a film thickness of 50 nm by sputtering of gold. On the plastic
substance with electrodes thus formed, an ovalene derivative having
attached thereto a hexyl group (see, the following formula): 6
[0339] which was dissolved under heating in toluene was coated by
spin coating and then, the solvent was gradually dried to obtain a
channel layer having a film thickness of 100 nm.
[0340] Subsequently, for the thus-manufactured organic thin film
transistor, the mobility of the electrically conducting organic
compound was calculated from the relationships between the drain
voltage and the drain current and between the gate voltage and the
drain current. The mobility was maximally .mu.=0.0015 cm.sup.2/Vs
at room temperature.
[0341] Comparative Example 1
[0342] The procedure described in Example 2 was repeated except
that in this Comparative Example, the gate electrode was formed by
etching of ITO in place of gold and the channel layer was formed by
vacuum deposition in place of spin coating, more specifically, an
unsubstituted bianthrene (see, following formula): 7
[0343] was formed in a vacuum under a pressure of about
1.times.10.sup.-4 Pa at a film formation speed of 0.5 .ANG./s to
obtain a channel layer having a film thickness of 100 nm.
[0344] Subsequently, for the thus-manufactured organic thin film
transistor, the mobility of the electrically conducting organic
compound was calculated from the relationships between the drain
voltage and the drain current and between the gate voltage and the
drain current. The mobility was maximally .mu.=0.0001 cm.sup.2/Vs
at room temperature.
[0345] According to the present invention, a functional group
capable of solubilizing in a solvent is introduced into ovalene,
bianthrene and the like having a molecular skeleton with a
.pi.-conjugate system being planarly extended, whereby a thin film
can be formed from a solution system by an easy film formation
method such as coating or printing. The obtained organic
semiconductor material can be improved in the field effect mobility
as compared with conventional techniques for an organic
semiconductor material manufactured from a solution system and at
the same time, can contribute to the simplification and cost
reduction of the production process of electronic devices such as
field effect transistors. In particular, according to the present
invention, a mobility as high as about two figures or orders in
number in comparison with conventional techniques can be achieved
and this in turn contributes to elevation in the operation rate of
an organic thin film transistor and the like. Furthermore,
according to the present invention, a flexible plastic substrate
can be used and, therefore, electronic paper and the like, which
has attracted attention in recent years, can be easily
realized.
* * * * *