Replication of Leaf Surface Structures on Flat Phosphor-Converted LEDs for Enhanced Angular Color Uniformity

Abstract

We explored the use of biomimetic structures, including those that mimic leaf structures, to enhance the angular color uniformity of flat phosphor-converted light-emitting diodes (pcLEDs). The distinct microstructures found on natural leaf surfaces, such as micro-scale bumps, ridges, and hierarchical patterns, have inspired the design of artificial microstructures that can improve light extraction, scattering, and overall optical performance in LED applications. The effects of these leaf surface microstructures on the phosphor layer of flat pcLEDs were evaluated. An imprinting technique was employed to directly replicate the surface morphology structures from fresh plant leaves. The results indicated that this method provided excellent scattering capability and reduced the disparity in light output between blue and yellow light emissions from flat pcLEDs at various angles. Subsequently, uniform correlated color temperature in the flat pcLEDs was achieved, reducing the yellow ring effect. Furthermore, the availability of diverse wrinkle and surface patterns from a wide range of natural prototypes could reduce design costs compared with traditional mold fabrication, making the method suitable for application in mass production.

Keywords

• phosphor-converted LEDs
• angular color uniformity
• leaf surface microstructure
• imprinting