Touch sensor and display device

Abstract

A touch sensor and a display device are provided. The touch sensor includes: a substrate layer; a first electrode member arranged on the substrate layer along a first direction and spaced apart along a second direction, each including a first opening and a first touch electrode electrically connected along the first direction; a second electrode member arranged on the substrate layer along a second direction and spaced apart along the first direction, each including a second opening and a second touch electrode electrically connected along the second direction; a first strain gauge including a portion located in the first opening and arranged in a first electrode row of the first electrode member; a second strain gauge including a portion located in the second opening and arranged in a first row of the second touch electrodes; a first signal line connected to one end of the first strain gauge; a second signal line connected to the other end of the first strain gauge and spaced apart from the first signal line; a third signal line connected to one end of the second strain gauge and the second signal line; and a fourth signal line connected to the other end of the second strain gauge and spaced apart from the third signal line.

Description

[0001] This application claims the priority benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2018-0135081 filed on November 6, 2018 in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a touch sensor and a display device. Background Art

[0003] Electronic devices such as smart phones, tablet PCs, digital cameras, laptop computers, navigation devices, and smart TVs that can display images include display devices for displaying images. Such display devices include a display panel for generating and displaying images and various input devices.

[0004] Recently, a touch sensor that recognizes a touch input has been widely used in a display device of a smart phone or a tablet PC. Due to its convenience, the touch sensor is gradually replacing an existing physical input device such as a keyboard. Summary of the invention

[0005] There has been research into using a pressure sensor for detecting the magnitude of pressure on a display device and a touch sensor for detecting a touched position to replace the existing physical buttons.

[0006] Aspects of the present disclosure provide a touch sensor for sensing pressure.

[0007] It should be noted that the objects of the present disclosure are not limited to the above objects; and other objects of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description.

[0008] According to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, there are provided a touch sensor capable of sensing pressure of a touch input as well as a position of the touch input and a display device including the touch sensor.

[0009] It should be noted that the effects of the present disclosure are not limited to those described above, and other effects of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description.

[0010] An embodiment of a touch sensor includes: a base layer; a first electrode member arranged on the base layer in a first direction and separated from each other in a second direction intersecting the first direction, each first electrode member including a first opening and a plurality of first touch electrodes electrically connected to each other in the first direction; a second electrode member arranged on the base layer in a second direction and separated from each other in the first direction, each second electrode member including a second opening and a plurality of second touch electrodes electrically connected to each other in the second direction intersecting the first direction; a first strain gauge including a portion located in the first opening and arranged in a first electrode row among the electrode rows of the first electrode member; a second strain gauge including a portion located in the second opening and arranged in a first row among the rows of second touch electrodes; a first signal line connected to one end of the first strain gauge; a second signal line connected to the other end of the first strain gauge and separated from the first signal line; a third signal line connected to one end of the second strain gauge and the second signal line; and a fourth signal line connected to the other end of the second strain gauge and separated from the third signal line.

[0011] In a touch sensor, a first strain gauge includes: a plurality of first resistance lines electrically connected to each other in a first direction; and a plurality of second resistance lines electrically connected to each other in the first direction, and wherein each first resistance line and each second resistance line are located in a first opening in a first electrode row and are separated from each other in the first opening.

[0012] In the touch sensor, the first electrode component also includes a first connecting portion, each of which connects two first touch electrodes that are adjacent to each other in the first direction among the first touch electrodes, and the second electrode component also includes a second connecting portion, each of which connects two second touch electrodes that are adjacent to each other in the second direction among the second touch electrodes, and the second connecting portion is insulated from the first connecting portion, wherein the first touch electrode, the second touch electrode, the first resistance line and the second resistance line are located in the same first layer, one of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion is located in a second layer different from the first layer, and the other of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion is located in the first layer.

[0013] In a touch sensor, a first strain gauge includes: first connecting lines, each of which connects two first resistance lines among the first resistance lines that are adjacent to each other in a first direction; and second connecting lines, each of which connects two second resistance lines among the second resistance lines that are adjacent to each other in the first direction, and wherein the first connecting lines and the second connecting lines are located in a second layer.

[0014] In the touch sensor, the first strain gauge also includes a first connection pattern, which is connected to the first resistance line and the second resistance line and is located in the same layer as the first resistance line or the second resistance line, and wherein the first connection pattern is located in the outermost first opening of the first electrode row within the first opening.

[0015] The touch sensor may also include: an insulating layer, arranged on the base layer, wherein the first connecting line and the second connecting line are arranged on the base layer, wherein the insulating layer is arranged on the first connecting line and the second connecting line, and wherein the first touch electrode, the second touch electrode, the first resistance line and the second resistance line are arranged on the insulating layer.

[0016] In the touch sensor, the base layer includes a first encapsulation inorganic layer, an encapsulation organic layer disposed on the first encapsulation inorganic layer, and a second encapsulation inorganic layer disposed on the encapsulation organic layer, and wherein the first connection line and the second connection line are disposed on the second encapsulation inorganic layer.

[0017] In a touch sensor, the first electrode component also includes a first connecting portion, each of which connects two first touch electrodes that are adjacent to each other in a first direction among the first touch electrodes, and the second electrode component also includes a second connecting portion, each of which connects two second touch electrodes that are adjacent to each other in a second direction among a plurality of second touch electrodes, and the second connecting portion is insulated from the first connecting portion, wherein the first touch electrode, the second touch electrode and the first resistance line are located in the same first layer, one of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion is located in a second layer different from the first layer, and the other of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion is located in the first layer, and the second resistance line is located in the second layer.

[0018] In a touch sensor, the first electrode component also includes a first connecting portion, each of which connects two first touch electrodes that are adjacent to each other in a first direction among the first touch electrodes, and the second electrode component also includes a second connecting portion, each of which connects two second touch electrodes that are adjacent to each other in a second direction among the second touch electrodes, and the second connecting portion is insulated from the first connecting portion, wherein the first touch electrode and the second touch electrode are located in the same first layer, one of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion is located in a second layer different from the first layer, and the other of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion is located in the first layer, and the first resistance line and the second resistance line are located in the second layer.

[0019] In the touch sensor, the second strain gauge includes: a plurality of third resistance lines electrically connected to each other in a first direction; and a plurality of fourth resistance lines electrically connected to each other in the first direction; third connection lines, each of which connects two third resistance lines among the third resistance lines that are adjacent to each other in the first direction; and fourth connection lines, each of which connects two fourth resistance lines among the fourth resistance lines that are adjacent to each other in the first direction, wherein each third resistance line and each fourth resistance line are located in a second opening in the first row and are separated from each other in the second opening.

[0020] In the touch sensor, an area of ​​the second opening is larger than an area of ​​the first opening.

[0021] The touch sensor may also include: a third strain gauge located in a second electrode row among the electrode rows of the first electrode member that is adjacent to the first electrode row in the second direction, and including a portion of the first opening located in the second electrode row; and a fourth strain gauge located in a second row among the rows of second touch electrodes that is adjacent to the first row in the second direction, and including a portion of the second opening located in the second row, wherein the first row is located between the first electrode row and the second electrode row along the second direction, and the second electrode row is located between the first row and the second row along the second direction.

[0022] The touch sensor may also include: a fifth signal line connected to one end of the third strain gauge and the fourth signal line; a sixth signal line connected to the other end of the third strain gauge; a seventh signal line connected to one end of the fourth strain gauge and the sixth signal line; and an eighth signal line connected to the other end of the fourth strain gauge.

[0023] In a touch sensor, a sensing area having a first electrode member and a second electrode member and a peripheral area around the sensing area are defined in a base layer, wherein a third signal line is connected to the second signal line in the peripheral area, a fifth signal line is connected to the fourth signal line in the peripheral area, and a seventh signal line is connected to the sixth signal line in the peripheral area.

[0024] The touch sensor may also include: a Wheatstone bridge circuit, including a first node to which a driving voltage is applied, a second node to which a reference voltage is applied, a first output node and a second output node, wherein the first signal line and the eighth signal line are electrically connected to the first node, the third signal line is electrically connected to the second output node, the fifth signal line is electrically connected to the second node, and the seventh signal line is electrically connected to the first output node.

[0025] In a touch sensor, a base layer includes a first region and a second region adjacent to the first region in a first direction, wherein the first strain gauge also includes: a first conductive pattern electrically connected to the first resistance line in the first direction and having a shape different from that of the first resistance line; and a second conductive pattern connected to the second resistance line in the first direction and having a shape different from that of the second resistance line, wherein the first conductive pattern and the second conductive pattern are located in a first opening in the first region and are separated from each other, and wherein the first resistance line and the second resistance line are located in the first opening in the second region.

[0026] In the touch sensor, the first conductive pattern and the second conductive pattern have a mesh structure.

[0027] The touch sensor may also include: a dummy pattern located in a different area compared to the second strain gauge, wherein the dummy pattern is arranged in a second opening located in the different area among the second openings and is separated from the second touch electrode, and wherein the first touch electrode, the second touch electrode and the dummy pattern are located in the same first layer, and the first touch electrode and the second touch electrode are made of the same material.

[0028] The touch sensor may further include: a plurality of noise sensing electrodes located in a different region than the first strain gauge and electrically connected to each other in a first direction, wherein each noise sensing electrode is located in the first opening in the different region and is spaced apart from the first touch electrode.

[0029] The touch sensor may further include: a controller configured to remove noise in a signal sensed by the first electrode member based on a noise signal sensed by the noise sensing electrode.

[0030] An embodiment of a touch sensor includes: a base layer; a plurality of touch electrodes, which are disposed on the base layer and arranged in a first direction and each have an opening; and a strain gauge, including a plurality of first resistance lines electrically connected to each other in the first direction, a plurality of second resistance lines electrically connected to each other in the first direction, and a connection pattern connecting one of the first resistance lines with a corresponding one of the second resistance lines, wherein each first resistance line is located in the opening and separated from the touch electrode, and each second resistance line is located in the opening and separated from the touch electrode and the first resistance line.

[0031] In the touch sensor, the first resistance line or the second resistance line is located in the same layer as the touch electrode and is made of the same material as the touch electrode.

[0032] In the touch sensor, the first resistance line and the second resistance line are located in different layers from the touch electrode.

[0033] The touch sensor may further include: a noise sensing electrode located in a different region compared to the strain gauge, wherein the noise sensing electrode is located in the opening in the different region and is spaced apart from the touch electrode.

[0034] In a touch sensor, the noise sensing electrodes are located in the same layer as the touch electrodes and are made of the same material as the touch electrodes.

[0035] An embodiment of a display device includes: a base substrate; a light emitting diode disposed on the base substrate; a thin film encapsulation layer disposed on the light emitting diode; a touch electrode disposed on the thin film encapsulation layer and including an opening; and a strain gauge, wherein the strain gauge includes a first resistance line and a second resistance line located in the opening and separated from the touch electrode, a first connection line connected to the first resistance line and located in a different layer from the touch electrode, a second connection line connected to the second resistance line, separated from the first connection line and located in the same layer as the first connection line, and a connection pattern connected to the first resistance line and the second resistance line and located in the same layer as the touch electrode or the first connection line. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] The above and other aspects and features of the present disclosure will become more apparent by describing in detail exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0037] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A block diagram of a touch sensor shown in FIG.

[0039] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A diagram of a touch sensor of the present invention, specifically, a plan view showing a sensor portion of the touch sensor and a connection relationship between the sensor portion and a controller;

[0040] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An enlarged plan view of the first strain gauge, the second strain gauge, the third strain gauge and the fourth strain gauge shown in FIG.

[0041] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 An enlarged plan view of part Qa;

[0042] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 5 Schematic diagram of an example of the structure of the first layer of the sensor portion shown in;

[0043] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 An enlarged plan view of a portion Q1;

[0044] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 an enlarged plan view of a portion Q2;

[0045] Fig. 9 yes Figure 6 an enlarged plan view of a portion Q3;

[0046] Fig.10 It is shown Fig. 9 A modified plan view of the example shown in;

[0047] Fig.11 yes Figure 6 an enlarged plan view of a portion Q4;

[0048] Fig.12 yes Fig.11 A modified plan view of the example shown in;

[0049] Fig.13 It is shown Figure 5 Schematic diagram of an example of a second layer of a sensor portion shown in FIG.

[0050] Fig.14 is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken along the line X1-X1';

[0051] Fig.15 is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken along line X2-X2';

[0052] Fig.16 is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken along line X3-X3';

[0053] Fig.17 is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken along line X4-X4';

[0054] Fig.18 is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken along line X5-X5';

[0055] Fig.19 is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken along line X6-X6';

[0056] Fig. 20 is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken along line X7-X7';

[0057] Fig.21 is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken along line X8-X8';

[0058] Fig. 22 is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken along line X9-X9';

[0059] Fig.23 is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken along line X10-X10';

[0060] Fig.24 It shows that according to Figure 6 A diagram of the structure of the first layer of the modification of the example shown in;

[0061] Fig.25 It shows that according to Fig.13 A diagram of the structure of the second layer of the modification of the example shown in;

[0062] Fig.26 yes Fig.16 A modified cross-sectional view of the example shown in FIG.

[0063] Fig. 27 yes Fig.17 A modified cross-sectional view of the example shown in FIG.

[0064] Fig.28 yes Fig.18 A modified cross-sectional view of the example shown in FIG.

[0065] Fig.29 yes Fig.19 A modified cross-sectional view of the example shown in FIG.

[0066] Fig.30 yes Fig. 20 A modified cross-sectional view of the example shown in FIG.

[0067] Fig.31 yes Fig.21 A modified cross-sectional view of the example shown in FIG.

[0068] Fig.32 yes Fig. 22 A modified cross-sectional view of the example shown in FIG.

[0069] Fig.33 yes Fig.23 A modified cross-sectional view of the example shown in FIG.

[0070] Fig.34 It shows that according to Figure 6 A diagram of the structure of the first layer of another modification of the example shown in;

[0071] Fig.35 It shows that according to Fig.13 A diagram of the structure of the second layer of another modification of the example shown in;

[0072] Fig.36 yes Fig.16A cross-sectional view of another modification of the example shown in FIG.

[0073] Fig.37 yes Fig.17 A cross-sectional view of another modification of the example shown in FIG.

[0074] Fig.38 yes Fig.18 A cross-sectional view of another modification of the example shown in FIG.

[0075] Fig.39 yes Fig.19 A cross-sectional view of another modification of the example shown in FIG.

[0076] Fig.40 yes Fig. 20 A cross-sectional view of another modification of the example shown in FIG.

[0077] Fig.41 yes Fig.21 A cross-sectional view of another modification of the example shown in FIG.

[0078] Fig.42 yes Fig. 22 A cross-sectional view of another modification of the example shown in;

[0079] Fig.43 yes Fig.23 A cross-sectional view of another modification of the example shown in;

[0080] Fig.44 yes Figure 5 an enlarged plan view of a portion Q5;

[0081] Fig.45 is along Fig.44 A cross-sectional view of an example of a sensor portion and a display panel taken along line X11-X11' in FIG.

[0082] Fig.46 is a diagram for illustrating an operation of detecting a touch position according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0083] Fig.47 It is schematically shown Figure 3 A plan view of the arrangement of the first strain gauge, the second strain gauge, the third strain gauge, the fourth strain gauge, the first signal line to the eighth signal line, and the connection of the Wheatstone bridge circuit shown in FIG.

[0084] Fig.48 is a circuit diagram for illustrating an operation of detecting a touch pressure of a touch sensor according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, and specifically, is electrically connected to Fig.47 A Wheatstone bridge circuit of a first strain gauge, a second strain gauge, a third strain gauge and a fourth strain gauge shown in FIG.

[0085] Fig.49 is a plan view showing a sensor portion of a touch sensor according to another exemplary embodiment and a connection relationship between the sensor portion and a controller;

[0086] Fig.50 yes Fig.49 An enlarged plan view of the first strain gauge, the second strain gauge, the third strain gauge and the fourth strain gauge shown in FIG.

[0087] Fig.51 yes Fig.49 An enlarged view of a portion Qb;

[0088] Fig.52 It is shown Fig.51 Schematic diagram of an example of the structure of the first layer of the sensor portion shown in;

[0089] Fig.53 yes Fig.52 an enlarged plan view of a portion Q6;

[0090] Fig.54 It is shown Fig.51 A diagram showing an example of a structure of a second layer of a sensor portion shown in FIG.

[0091] Fig.55 is along Fig.51 A cross-sectional view taken along the line Xa-Xa';

[0092] Fig.56 It shows that according to Fig.52 A diagram of the structure of the first layer of the modification of the example shown in;

[0093] Fig.57 It shows that according to Fig.54 A diagram of the structure of the second layer of the modification of the example shown in;

[0094] Fig.58 It shows that according to Fig.52 A diagram of the structure of the first layer of another modification of the example shown in;

[0095] as well as

[0096] Fig.59 It shows that according to Fig.54 2 is a diagram of the structure of the second layer of another modification of the example shown in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0097] By referring to the detailed description of the embodiments and the accompanying drawings below, the features of the inventive concept and its implementation method can be more easily understood. However, the inventive concept can be implemented in many different forms and should not be interpreted as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. On the contrary, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the concept of the inventive concept to those skilled in the art, and the inventive concept will be limited only by the claims. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements.

[0098] The terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the inventive concept. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms "a", "one", and "the" are also intended to include the plural forms. It will also be understood that the term "comprising" and / or its variations when used in this specification, indicates the presence of stated features, wholes, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, wholes, steps, operations, elements, components and / or their groups.

[0099] It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "bound to" another element or layer, the element or layer may be directly on, directly connected to, or directly bound to the other element or layer, or there may be intervening elements or layers. Conversely, when an element or layer is referred to as being "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly bound to" another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0100] It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. can be used here to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish an element, component, region, layer or part from another element, component, region, layer or part. Therefore, without departing from the teaching of the inventive concept, the first element, first component, first region, first layer or first part discussed below can be named as the second element, second component, second region, second layer or second part.

[0101] Exemplary embodiments of the subject matter of the invention are described herein with reference to plan views and perspective views of schematic diagrams of idealized exemplary embodiments of the subject matter of the invention. As such, variations in the shapes of the illustrations, such as those caused by manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances, are expected. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to specific features, but may include deviations depending on the manufacturing process. Therefore, the regions shown in the drawings have schematic properties, and the shapes of the regions shown in the drawings are only for illustrating specific shapes, rather than for limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

[0102] The drawings are not drawn to scale, and relative sizes of various elements in the drawings are depicted schematically and are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0103] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0104] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating a display device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A block diagram of a touch sensor is shown in FIG.

[0105] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the display device 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes a touch sensor TSM and a display panel 300, and may further include a display panel driver 400. The touch sensor TSM includes a sensor part 100 and a controller 200.

[0106] It should be noted that although the sensor section 100 and the display panel 300 are Figure 1 In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the sensor portion 100 and the display panel 300 are separated from each other, but this is for convenience of illustration, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the sensor portion 100 and the display panel 300 may be integrally formed.

[0107] The display panel 300 includes a display area DA and a non-display area NDA surrounding at least a portion of the display area DA. In the display area DA, a plurality of scan lines 310, a plurality of data lines 320, and a plurality of pixels P connected to the scan lines 310 and the data lines 320 may be disposed. In the non-display area NDA, lines for supplying various driving signals and / or a power supply voltage for driving the pixels P may be disposed.

[0108] The type of the display panel 300 is not specifically limited thereto. For example, the display panel 300 may be a self-luminous display panel, such as an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED panel), a quantum dot light-emitting display panel (QLED panel), a micro light-emitting diode display panel (micro LED display panel), and a nano light-emitting diode display panel (nano LED display panel). Alternatively, the display panel 300 may be a non-luminous display panel, such as a liquid crystal display panel (LCD panel), an electrophoretic display panel (EPD panel), and an electrowetting display panel (EWD panel). When the display panel 300 is a non-luminous display panel, the display device 1 may further include a backlight unit for supplying light to the display panel 300. In the following description, for ease of description, an organic light-emitting display panel is used as an example of the display panel 300.

[0109] The display panel driver 400 is electrically connected to the display panel 300 to supply signals required for driving the display panel 300. For example, the display panel driver 400 may include at least one of a scan driver for supplying scan signals to the scan lines 310, a data driver for supplying data signals to the data lines 320, and a timing controller for driving the scan driver and the data driver. In some exemplary embodiments, the scan driver, the data driver, and / or the timing controller may be (but not limited to) integrated into a single display IC (D-IC). For example, in another exemplary embodiment, at least one of the scan driver, the data driver, and the timing controller may be integrated into the display panel 300 or mounted on the display panel 300.

[0110] The sensor portion 100 may be disposed on at least one region of the display panel 300. For example, the sensor portion 100 may be formed on at least one surface of the display panel 300 so that the sensor portion 100 overlaps the display panel 300. For example, the sensor portion 100 may be disposed on a surface (e.g., an upper surface) from which an image is displayed, of the two surfaces of the display panel 300. Alternatively, the sensor portion 100 may be directly formed on at least one of the two surfaces of the display panel 300, or may be formed inside the display panel 300. For example, the sensor portion 100 may be directly formed on an outer surface of a top substrate (or a thin film encapsulation layer) or a bottom substrate of the display panel 300 (e.g., an upper surface of the top substrate or a lower surface of the bottom substrate), or may be directly formed on an inner surface of the top substrate or the bottom substrate (e.g., a lower surface of the top substrate or an upper surface of the bottom substrate).

[0111] The sensor portion 100 includes a sensing area SA and a peripheral area NSA surrounding at least a portion of the sensing area SA. In some exemplary embodiments, the sensing area SA may be an area of ​​the sensor portion 100 that senses a touch input, and the peripheral area NSA may be an area of ​​the sensor portion 100 that does not sense a touch input. In some exemplary embodiments, the sensing area SA may be aligned with the display area DA of the display panel 300, and the peripheral area NSA may be aligned with the non-display area NDA of the display panel 300. For example, the sensing area SA of the sensor portion 100 may overlap with the display area DA of the display panel 300, and the peripheral area NSA of the sensor portion 100 may overlap with the non-display area NDA of the display panel 300.

[0112] A plurality of first electrode members 120 and a plurality of second electrode members 130 for detecting a touch input may be disposed in the sensing area SA of the sensor part 100 .

[0113] The first electrode members 120 may extend in a first direction x and may be spaced apart from each other in a second direction y intersecting the first direction x. That is, the first electrode members 120 extending in the first direction x may be spaced apart in the second direction y to form electrode rows.

[0114] The second electrode members 130 may extend in the second direction y and may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction x. The second electrode members 130 may be spaced apart and insulated from the first electrode members 120. That is, the second electrode members 130 extending in the second direction y may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction x to form columns.

[0115] The shape, size and / or orientation of the first electrode member 120 and the second electrode member 130 are not particularly limited thereto. As a non-limiting example, the first electrode member 120 and the second electrode member 130 may be as follows: Figure 3 The structure shown in , which will be described later.

[0116] The first electrode member 120 and the second electrode member 130 may be electrically connected to the controller 200. In some exemplary embodiments, the second electrode member 130 may be a driving electrode member that receives a driving signal Ts for detecting a touch from the controller 200, and the first electrode member 120 may be a sensing electrode member that outputs a sensing signal Rs for detecting a touch to the controller 200.

[0117] The first and second electrode members 120 and 130 may overlap at least one of electrodes of the display panel 300. For example, when the display panel 300 is an organic light emitting display panel, the first and second electrode members 120 and 130 may overlap a cathode electrode or the like of the display panel 300.

[0118] The strain gauge 150 may be provided in the sensing area SA of the sensor part 100 to detect a touch pressure. The length or cross-sectional area of ​​the strain gauge 150 may change when an external force is applied so that the resistance value may change. The strain gauge 150 may be separated from the first electrode member 120 and the second electrode member 130 and may be insulated from the first electrode member 120 and the second electrode member 130.

[0119] In some exemplary embodiments, at least a portion of the strain gauge 150 may extend in the first direction x like the first electrode member 120 .

[0120] In some embodiments, the strain gauge 150 may include a first strain gauge 150a, a second strain gauge 150b, a third strain gauge 150c, and a fourth strain gauge 150d. The strain gauge 150 will be described in detail later.

[0121] In the sensing area SA of the sensor part 100 , a noise sensing electrode member 170 for sensing noise may be further provided.

[0122] The noise sensing electrode member 170 may be electrically connected to the controller 200 and may be electrically connected to the touch detector 230 which will be described in more detail later. The noise sensing electrode member 170 may sense noise generated in the sensor part 100 and may provide it to the touch detector 230 as a noise sensing signal Ns.

[0123] The noise sensing electrode members 170 may extend in a first direction x and may be spaced apart from each other in a second direction y intersecting the first direction x. In some exemplary embodiments, the noise sensing electrode members 170 may be spaced apart from the first electrode member 120 , the second electrode member 130 , and the strain gauge 150 .

[0124] The controller 200 may be electrically connected to the sensor part 100 to supply the driving signal Ts to the sensor part 100, and may receive the sensing signal Rs from the sensor part 100 in response to the driving signal Ts, thereby detecting a touch position. In addition, the controller 200 may be electrically connected to the strain gauge 150 to detect a touch pressure.

[0125] In some exemplary embodiments, the controller 200 may further include a touch driver 210 , a touch detector 230 , and a pressure detector 250 .

[0126] The touch driver 210 may provide a driving signal Ts for detecting a touch input to the second electrode member 130 .

[0127] The touch detector 230 may receive a sensing signal Rs from the first electrode member 120 in response to the driving signal Ts, and detect whether there is a touch input and / or the position of the touch input (if there is). In some exemplary embodiments, the sensing signal Rs may be a change in the mutual capacitance between the first electrode member 120 and the second electrode member 130. More specifically, when a touch input is made, the capacitance changes at the point where the touch input is made or at the periphery of the point where the touch input is made. The touch detector 230 may receive the amount of change in the mutual capacitance between the first electrode member 120 and the second electrode member 130 as the sensing signal Rs, and may detect whether there is a touch input and / or the position of the touch input (if there is) by using the received sensing signal Rs. In addition, the touch detector 230 may receive a noise sensing signal Ns from the noise sensing electrode member 170, and may use the noise sensing signal Ns to remove or eliminate the noise included in the sensing signal Rs.

[0128] In some exemplary embodiments, the touch detector 230 may include one or more amplifiers for amplifying the received sensing signal Rs, an analog-to-digital converter coupled to the output terminal of the amplifier, and a processor. Fig.46 The touch detector 230 is described in more detail.

[0129] The pressure detector 250 may be electrically connected to the strain gauge 150, and may detect a touch pressure based on a change in a resistance value of the strain gauge 150. In some exemplary embodiments, the pressure detector 250 may include a Wheatstone bridge circuit electrically connected to each of the first strain gauge 150a, the second strain gauge 150b, the third strain gauge 150c, and the fourth strain gauge 150d.

[0130] In some exemplary embodiments, the touch driver 210, the touch detector 230, and the pressure detector 250 may be integrated into a single touch IC. However, it will be understood that this is merely illustrative.

[0131] In some other exemplary embodiments, the touch driver 210 and the touch detector 230 may be integrated into a single touch IC, and the pressure detector 250 may be located outside the touch IC. For example, the pressure detector 250 may be provided on the display panel 300, or may be provided on a separate flexible circuit board.

[0132] In the following, reference will be made to Figures 3 to 23 The touch sensor TSM is described in more detail.

[0133] Figure 3 yes Figure 21 is a diagram of a touch sensor, specifically, a plan view showing a sensor portion of the touch sensor and a connection relationship between the sensor portion and a controller. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An enlarged plan view of the first strain gauge, the second strain gauge, the third strain gauge and the fourth strain gauge shown in FIG. Figure 5 yes Figure 3 An enlarged plan view of portion Qa. Figure 6 It is shown Figure 5 Schematic diagram of an example of the structure of the first layer of the sensor part shown in FIG. Figure 7 yes Figure 6 An enlarged plan view of portion Q1. Figure 8 yes Figure 6 An enlarged plan view of portion Q2. Fig. 9 yes Figure 6 An enlarged plan view of portion Q3. Fig.10 It is shown Fig. 9 A modified plan view of the example shown. Fig.11 yes Figure 6 An enlarged plan view of portion Q4. Fig.12 It is shown Fig.11 A modified plan view of the example shown. Fig.13 It is shown Figure 5 Schematic diagram of an example of the structure of the second layer of the sensor portion shown in FIG. Fig.14 is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken along line X1-X1'. Fig.15 is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken along line X2-X2'. Fig.16 is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken along line X3-X3'. Fig.17 is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken along line X4-X4'. Fig.18 is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken along line X5-X5'. Fig.19 is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken along line X6-X6'. Fig. 20 is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken along line X7-X7'. Fig.21 is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken along line X8-X8'. Fig. 22 is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken along line X9-X9'. Fig.23 is along Figure 5 A cross-sectional view taken along line X10-X10'.

[0134] Reference Figures 3 to 23The sensor portion 100 includes a base layer 110, a first electrode member 120, a second electrode member 130, a first strain gauge 150a, a second strain gauge 150b, a third strain gauge 150c, and a fourth strain gauge 150d, and may further include a noise sensing electrode member 170. The sensor portion 100 may further include a dummy electrode 190.

[0135] The base layer 110 may include a sensing area SA and a peripheral area NSA. The base layer 110 is used as a base of the sensor portion 100, and in some exemplary embodiments may be one of the constituent layers of the display panel 300. For example, in an exemplary embodiment in which the sensor portion 100 and the display panel 300 are integrally formed, the base layer 110 may be at least one of the constituent layers of the display panel 300. For example, the base layer 110 may be a thin film encapsulation layer of the display panel 300. Alternatively, in some exemplary embodiments, the base layer 110 may be a rigid substrate or a flexible substrate. For example, the base layer 110 may be a rigid substrate made of glass or tempered glass, or a flexible substrate in the form of a thin film made of a flexible plastic material. For convenience, in the following description, it is assumed that the base layer 110 is composed of at least one of the constituent layers of the display panel 300 (e.g., a layer including a thin film encapsulation layer).

[0136] In the sensing area SA of the base layer 110, a first electrode member 120, a second electrode member 130 insulated from the first electrode member 120, and first, second, third, and fourth strain gauges 150a, 150b, 150c, and 150d insulated from the first and second electrode members 120 and 130 may be provided.

[0137] As described above, the first electrode members 120 may extend in the first direction x and may be spaced apart from each other in the second direction y. Each of the first electrode members 120 spaced apart from each other in the second direction y may form an electrode row. Figure 3 In the example shown in , eight first electrode members 120 are arranged in the second direction y, including a first electrode row RE1, a second electrode row RE2, a third electrode row RE3, a fourth electrode row RE4, a fifth electrode row RE5, a sixth electrode row RE6, a seventh electrode row RE7, and an eighth electrode row RE8 arranged in this order in the second direction y. However, it will be understood that the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The number of first electrode members 120 can vary as needed.

[0138] The first electrode member 120 may include a plurality of first touch electrodes 121 arranged in the first direction x and a plurality of first connection parts 123 each electrically connecting the first touch electrodes 121 adjacent to each other in the first direction x. In the following description of exemplary embodiments, the term "connection" may include physical connection and / or electrical connection.

[0139] In some exemplary embodiments, the first touch electrode 121 may be located in the first layer L1. The first touch electrode 121 may have a rhombus or rectangular shape, but is not limited thereto. The first touch electrode 121 may have any of various shapes such as a triangle, other types of quadrilaterals, a pentagon, a circle, and a bar.

[0140] The first touch electrode 121 may include a conductive material. For example, the conductive material may include a metal or an alloy thereof. Examples of metals may include gold (Au), silver (Ag), aluminum (Al), molybdenum (Mo), chromium (Cr), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), copper (Cu), platinum (Pt), etc. In addition, the first touch electrode 121 may be made of a transparent conductive material. Examples of transparent conductive materials may include silver nanowires (AgNW), indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), antimony zinc oxide (AZO), indium tin zinc oxide (ITZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), tin oxide (SnO 2 ), carbon nanotubes, graphene, etc.

[0141] In some exemplary embodiments, the first touch electrode 121 may be composed of a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure. When the first touch electrode 121 has a multi-layer structure, the first touch electrode 121 may include a plurality of metal layers. For example, the first touch electrode 121 may have a three-layer structure of titanium (Ti) / aluminum (Al) / titanium (Ti).

[0142] In some exemplary embodiments, the first touch electrodes 121 may have a mesh structure so that they are not visible to the user. When the first touch electrodes 121 have a mesh structure, the first touch electrodes 121 may be arranged so that they do not overlap with the light emitting area of ​​the display panel 300. In other words, mesh holes overlapping with the light emitting area may be defined in the first touch electrodes 121 having the mesh structure.

[0143] In some exemplary embodiments, the first touch electrodes 121 spaced apart from each other in the second direction y may form an electrode column. Figure 3 In the example shown in FIG. 1 , eight first touch electrodes 121 forming a first electrode column CE1, a second electrode column CE2, a third electrode column CE3, a fourth electrode column CE4, a fifth electrode column CE5, a sixth electrode column CE6, a seventh electrode column CE7, and an eighth electrode column CE8 arranged in the first direction x are arranged as a single column. However, it will be understood that the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The number of electrode columns of the first touch electrodes 121 may vary as desired.

[0144] Each of the first touch electrodes 121 may include a first opening OP1. For example, at least a central portion of each of the first touch electrodes 121 may be open so that a layer disposed thereunder may be exposed therethrough. For example, when the insulating layer IL is disposed under the first touch electrode 121, a portion of the insulating layer IL may be exposed through the first opening OP1.

[0145] The first connection portion 123 may electrically connect the first touch electrodes 121 adjacent to each other in the first direction x, and may contact the first touch electrode 121. In some exemplary embodiments, the first connection portion 123 may be implemented as a bridge connection pattern. In some exemplary embodiments, the first connection portion 123 may be disposed in a second layer L2 different from the first layer L1 in which the first touch electrode 121 is disposed.

[0146] In some exemplary embodiments, the insulating layer IL may be disposed between the first touch electrode 121 and the first connection portion 123. In some exemplary embodiments, the first connection portion 123 located in the second layer L2 may be disposed on the base layer 110, the insulating layer IL may be disposed above the first connection portion 123, and the first touch electrode 121 located in the first layer L1 may be disposed on the insulating layer IL. In addition, the first connection portion 123 may be connected to the first touch electrode 121 through a first contact hole CH1 formed in the insulating layer IL and contact the first touch electrode 121.

[0147] The insulating layer IL may include an insulating material. In some exemplary embodiments, the insulating material may be an inorganic insulating material or an organic insulating material. The inorganic insulating material may include at least one of aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, silicon oxide, silicon oxynitride, zirconium oxide, and hafnium oxide. The organic insulating material may include at least one selected from the group consisting of acrylic resin, methacrylic resin, polyisoprene, vinyl resin, epoxy resin, urethane resin, cellulose resin, siloxane resin, polyimide resin, polyamide resin, and perylene resin.

[0148] The first connection portion 123 may include a conductive material. In some exemplary embodiments, the first connection portion 123 may include the same material as the first touch electrode 121, or may include at least one of the materials selected from the materials listed above as the materials of the first touch electrode 121. In some exemplary embodiments, the first connection portion 123 may be composed of a single layer or multiple layers. For example, the first connection portion 123 may have a three-layer structure of titanium (Ti) / aluminum (Al) / titanium (Ti). However, it will be understood that the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The first connection portion 123 may be made of a material different from that of the first touch electrode 121.

[0149] Although the drawings show that each of the first connection parts 123 is disposed between the first touch electrodes 121 adjacent to each other along the first direction x, the number of the first connection parts 123 is not limited thereto. For example, two or more first connection parts 123 may be disposed between two first touch electrodes 121 adjacent to each other along the first direction x.

[0150] As described above, the second electrode members 130 may extend in the second direction y and may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction x. Each of the second electrode members 130 spaced apart from each other in the first direction x may form a column. Figure 3 In the example shown in FIG. 1 , seven second electrode members 130 are arranged in the first direction x, including a first column CO1, a second column CO2, a third column CO3, a fourth column CO4, a fifth column CO5, a sixth column CO6, and a seventh column CO7 arranged in the reverse first direction x. However, it will be understood that the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The number of second electrode members 130 may vary as desired.

[0151] The second electrode member 130 may include a plurality of second touch electrodes 131 arranged in the second direction y and a second connection part 133 electrically connecting the second touch electrodes 131 adjacent to each other in the second direction y.

[0152] The second touch electrodes 131 may be electrically connected to each other in the second direction y. In addition, the second touch electrodes 131 may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction x.

[0153] In some exemplary embodiments, the second touch electrodes 131 spaced apart from each other in the first direction x may form a plurality of rows. Figure 3 In the example shown in FIG. 1 , seven second touch electrodes 131 forming a first row RO1, a second row RO2, a third row RO3, a fourth row RO4, a fifth row RO5, a sixth row RO6, a seventh row RO7, and an eighth row RO8 arranged in the first direction x are arranged in a single row. However, it will be understood that the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The number of rows of the second touch electrodes 131 may vary as desired.

[0154] In some exemplary embodiments, each row of the second touch electrodes 131 may be located between every two electrode rows of the first electrode member 120. For example, the first row RO1 may be located between the first electrode row RE1 and the second electrode row RE2, and the second row RO2 may be located between the second electrode row RE2 and the third electrode row RE3. That is, the rows of the second touch electrodes 131 and the rows of the first electrode members 120 may be repeatedly and alternately arranged in the second direction y.

[0155] Each of the second touch electrodes 131 may include a second opening OP2. For example, at least a central portion of each of the second touch electrodes 131 may be open so that a layer disposed thereunder may be exposed therethrough. For example, when the insulating layer IL is disposed under the second touch electrode 131, a portion of the insulating layer IL may be exposed through the second opening OP2.

[0156] In some exemplary embodiments, the area of ​​the second opening OP2 may be different from the area of ​​the first opening OP1. For example, the area of ​​the second opening OP2 may be greater than the area of ​​the first opening OP1.

[0157] In some exemplary embodiments, the second touch electrode 131 and the first touch electrode 121 may be located on the same layer (ie, the first layer L1). When viewed from the top, the second touch electrode 131 may have, but is not limited to, a rhombus shape. The second touch electrode 131 may have any of various shapes such as a triangle, a quadrilateral other than a rhombus, a pentagon, a circle, and a bar.

[0158] The second connection portion 133 may electrically connect the second touch electrodes 131 adjacent to each other in the second direction y and may contact the second touch electrodes 131. In some exemplary embodiments, the second connection portion 133 may be disposed in the same first layer L1 as the first and second touch electrodes 121 and 131.

[0159] The second connection portion 133 may be insulated from the first connection portion 123 and intersect the first connection portion 123. In some exemplary embodiments, an insulating layer IL may be disposed between the second connection portion 133 and the first connection portion 123.

[0160] The second touch electrodes 131 and the second connection portions 133 may include a conductive material. In some exemplary embodiments, the second touch electrodes 131 and the second connection portions 133 may be made of the same conductive material as the first touch electrodes 121 .

[0161] In some exemplary embodiments, when the first touch electrode 121 has a mesh structure, the second touch electrode 131 and the second connection portion 133 may have a mesh structure like the first touch electrode 121 .

[0162] In some exemplary embodiments, the second touch electrode 131 may be a driving electrode receiving a driving signal Ts for detecting a touch position, and the first touch electrode 121 may be a sensing electrode outputting a sensing signal Rs for detecting a touch position.

[0163] The first strain gauge 150a may be located in one electrode row of the first electrode member 120. For example, the first strain gauge 150a may be located in the first electrode row RE1.

[0164] The first strain gauge 150 a may include a first resistance line 151 a , a second resistance line 153 a , a first connection line 155 a , a second connection line 157 a , and a first connection pattern 159 a .

[0165] The first resistance line 151a and the second resistance line 153a may be located in the first opening OP1 formed in each first touch electrode 121 of the first electrode row RE1, and may be separated from the first touch electrode 121. In addition, the first resistance line 151a and the second resistance line 153a may be separated from each other in the first opening OP1. In some exemplary embodiments, the first resistance line 151a and the second resistance line 153a may not overlap each other when viewed from the top.

[0166] The first resistance line 151a and the second resistance line 153a may meander in a predetermined pattern. When a pressure having a certain strength acts on the sensor portion 100 of the touch sensor TSM, the length of the first resistance line 151a and / or the length of the second resistance line 153a changes. Therefore, the resistance value of the first strain gauge 150a changes, and the strength of the touch pressure can be determined based on the changed resistance value.

[0167] In some exemplary embodiments, Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. 1 , each of the first resistance line 151 a and the second resistance line 153 a may have a shape including two or more bent portions and a portion extending in a direction intersecting the first direction x and the second direction y.

[0168] Alternatively, the shape of the first resistance line 151 a and the shape of the second resistance line 153 a may be variously changed.

[0169] In some exemplary embodiments, the first resistance line 151a and the second resistance line 153a may be located in the same first layer L1 as the first touch electrode 121 and the second touch electrode 131. For example, when the first touch electrode 121 and the second touch electrode 131 are disposed on the insulating layer IL, the first resistance line 151a and the second resistance line 153a may also be disposed on the insulating layer IL.

[0170] The first resistance line 151a and the second resistance line 153a may include a conductive material. In some exemplary embodiments, the first resistance line 151a and the second resistance line 153a may be made of the same material as the first touch electrode 121 and the second touch electrode 131.

[0171] When the first touch electrode 121 and the second touch electrode 131 have a mesh structure, the first resistance line 151a and the second resistance line 153a may be formed by removing a portion of the mesh structure. When the first resistance line 151a and the second resistance line 153a are formed by removing a portion of the mesh structure, in some exemplary embodiments, the branch portions BPa connected to the first resistance line 151a and / or the second resistance line 153a and spaced apart from each other may be as shown in FIG. Fig.10 The figure is further shown as being located in the first opening OP1.

[0172] The branch portion BPa may be a remaining portion after a portion of the mesh structure has been removed. The branch portion BPa may be separated from the first touch electrode 121, and may be disposed in the same first layer L1 as the first resistance line 151a and the second resistance line 153a, and may be made of the same material as the first resistance line 151a and the second resistance line 153a.

[0173] The first connection line 155a may electrically connect the first resistance lines 151a adjacent to each other in the first direction x, and may contact the first resistance line 151a. The second connection line 157a may electrically connect the second resistance lines 153a adjacent to each other in the first direction x, and may contact the second resistance line 153a. The first connection line 155a and the second connection line 157a may be separated from each other and not contact the first electrode member 120 and the second electrode member 130. In some exemplary embodiments, the first connection line 155a and the second connection line 157a may be located in the same second layer L2 as the first connection portion 123a, and may be made of the same material as the first connection portion 123a.

[0174] In some exemplary embodiments, the insulating layer IL may be disposed between the first resistance line 151a and the first connection line 155a and between the second resistance line 153a and the second connection line 157a. For example, the first resistance line 151a and the second resistance line 153a may be disposed on the insulating layer IL, and the first connection line 155a and the second connection line 157a may be disposed under the insulating layer IL.

[0175] The first resistance line 151a and the first connection line 155a may be connected to each other and may contact each other through a third contact hole CH3 formed in the insulating layer IL. The second resistance line 153a and the second connection line 157a may be connected to each other and may contact each other through a fourth contact hole CH4 formed in the insulating layer IL.

[0176] In some exemplary embodiments, the first connection pattern 159a may be located in the first opening OP1 formed in the first electrode row RE1 and the first electrode column CE1. That is, the first connection pattern 159a may be disposed in the outermost first opening OP1 of the first electrode row RE1 in the first direction x. The first connection pattern 159a may connect the first resistance line 151a to the second resistance line 153a. In some exemplary embodiments, the first connection pattern 159a may be located in the first layer L1 with the first touch electrode 121 and the second touch electrode 131, and may include the same conductive material as the first touch electrode 121 and the second touch electrode 131.

[0177] When viewed from the top, the first strain gauge 150a including the first resistance wire 151a, the first connection wire 155a, the second resistance wire 153a, the second connection wire 157a, and the first connection pattern 159a may have a shape extending from one side of the sensor portion 100 to the other side along the first direction x and then extending from the other side to the one side along the first direction x. Therefore, both ends of the first strain gauge 150a may be located adjacent to one side of the sensing area SA, for example, at Figure 3 The middle is located adjacent to the left side of the sensing area SA.

[0178] The second strain gauge 150b may be positioned in one row of the second touch electrodes 131. For example, the second strain gauge 150b may be located in the first row RO1.

[0179] The second strain gauge 150 b may include a third resistance wire 151 b , a fourth resistance wire 153 b , a third connection wire 155 b , a fourth connection wire 157 b , and a second connection pattern 159 b .

[0180] The third resistance line 151b and the fourth resistance line 153b may be positioned in the second opening OP2 formed in each second touch electrode 131 of the first row RO1. The third resistance line 151b and the fourth resistance line 153b may be spaced apart from the second touch electrode 131. The third resistance line 151b and the fourth resistance line 153b may be spaced apart from each other in the second opening OP2.

[0181] The third resistance line 151b and the fourth resistance line 153b may form a predetermined pattern. Fig.11 As shown in FIG. 1 , each of the third resistance line 151 b and the fourth resistance line 153 b may have a shape including two or more bent portions and a portion extending in a direction intersecting the first direction x and the second direction y.

[0182] Alternatively, the shape of the third resistance line 151 b and the shape of the fourth resistance line 153 b may be variously changed.

[0183] In some exemplary embodiments, the third resistance line 151b and the fourth resistance line 153b may be located in the same first layer L1 as the first touch electrode 121 and the second touch electrode 131. The third resistance line 151b and the fourth resistance line 153b may include a conductive material, and in some exemplary embodiments, the third resistance line 151b and the fourth resistance line 153b may be made of the same material as the first touch electrode 121 and the second touch electrode 131.

[0184] In some exemplary embodiments, the third resistance line 151b and the fourth resistance line 153b may be formed by removing a portion of the mesh structure. In this case, the branch portions BPb connected to the third resistance line 151b and / or the fourth resistance line 153b and separated from each other may be as shown in FIG. Fig.12 As shown in FIG. 1 , the MOSFET is further located in the second opening OP2 .

[0185] The branch portion BPb may be a remaining portion after a portion of the mesh structure has been removed. The branch portion BPb may be separated from the second touch electrode 131, and may be disposed in the same first layer L1 as the third resistance line 151b and the fourth resistance line 153b, and may be made of the same material as the third resistance line 151b and the fourth resistance line 153b.

[0186] The third connection line 155b may electrically connect the third resistance lines 151b adjacent to each other in the first direction x and may contact the third resistance line 151b. In addition, the fourth connection line 157b may electrically connect the fourth resistance lines 153b adjacent to each other in the first direction x and may contact the fourth resistance line 153b.

[0187] The third connection line 155b and the fourth connection line 157b may be separated from the first electrode member 120 and the second electrode member 130 and may not contact the first electrode member 120 and the second electrode member 130. In addition, the third connection line 155b may be separated from the fourth connection line 157b. In some exemplary embodiments, the third connection line 155b and the fourth connection line 157b may be located in the same second layer L2 as the first connection portion 123a and may be made of the same material as the first connection portion 123a.

[0188] In some exemplary embodiments, the insulating layer IL may be disposed between the third resistance line 151b and the third connection line 155b and between the fourth resistance line 153b and the fourth connection line 157b. The third resistance line 151b and the third connection line 155b may be connected to each other and may contact each other through a fifth contact hole CH5 formed in the insulating layer IL. The fourth resistance line 153b and the fourth connection line 157b may be connected to each other and may contact each other through a sixth contact hole CH6 formed in the insulating layer IL.

[0189] In some exemplary embodiments, the second connection pattern 159b may be positioned in the second opening OP2 located in the first row RO1 and the first column CO1. The second connection pattern 159b may be located in the second opening OP2 and may connect the third resistance line 151b with the fourth resistance line 153b. In some exemplary embodiments, the second connection pattern 159b may be located in the same first layer L1 as the first touch electrode 121 and the second touch electrode 131, and may include the same conductive material as the first touch electrode 121 and the second touch electrode 131.

[0190] The third strain gauge 150c may be located in one electrode row of the first electrode member 120, and may be located in an electrode row different from that of the first strain gauge 150a. For example, the third strain gauge 150c may be located in the second electrode row RE2.

[0191] The third strain gauge 150c may include a fifth resistance wire 151c, a sixth resistance wire 153c, a fifth connection wire 155c, a sixth connection wire 157c, and a third connection pattern 159c. The fifth resistance wire 151c, the sixth resistance wire 153c, the fifth connection wire 155c, the sixth connection wire 157c, and the third connection pattern 159c are substantially the same as the first resistance wire 151a, the second resistance wire 153a, the first connection wire 155a, the second connection wire 157a, and the first connection pattern 159a, respectively; therefore, redundant descriptions will be omitted. Therefore, the description will focus on the differences.

[0192] The fifth and sixth resistance lines 151c and 153c may be located in the first opening OP1 formed in each first touch electrode 121 of the second electrode row RE2 and may be spaced apart from the first touch electrode 121. In addition, the fifth and sixth resistance lines 151c and 153c may be spaced apart from each other in the first opening OP1.

[0193] In some exemplary embodiments, when viewed from the top, the fifth resistance line 151c and the sixth resistance line 153c may have the same Fig. 9When the first touch electrode 121 has a mesh structure, the branch portions connected to the fifth resistance line 151c and the sixth resistance line 153c may be similar to Fig.10 As shown in FIG. 1 , the first opening OP1 of the second electrode row RE2 is further arranged in the first opening OP1 of the second electrode row RE2.

[0194] In some exemplary embodiments, the fifth and sixth resistance lines 151 c and 153 c may be located in the same first layer L1 as the first and second touch electrodes 121 and 131 , and may include the same conductive material as the first and second touch electrodes 121 and 131 .

[0195] The fifth connection line 155c may electrically connect the fifth resistance lines 151c adjacent to each other in the first direction x and may contact the fifth resistance line 151c. In addition, the sixth connection line 157c may electrically connect the sixth resistance lines 153c adjacent to each other in the first direction x and may contact the sixth resistance line 153c.

[0196] The fifth resistance line 151c and the fifth connection line 155c may be connected to each other and may contact each other through a seventh contact hole CH7 formed in the insulating layer IL. The sixth resistance line 153c and the sixth connection line 157c may be connected to each other and may contact each other through an eighth contact hole CH8 formed in the insulating layer IL.

[0197] In some exemplary embodiments, the fifth and sixth connection lines 155c and 157c may be located in the same second layer L2 as the first connection portion 123a, and may be made of the same material as the first connection portion 123a.

[0198] In some exemplary embodiments, the third connection pattern 159c may be located in the first opening OP1 formed in the second electrode row RE2 and the first electrode column CE1. The third connection pattern 159c may connect the fifth resistance line 151c to the sixth resistance line 153c. In some exemplary embodiments, the third connection pattern 159c may be located in the same first layer L1 as the first touch electrode 121 and the second touch electrode 131, and may include the same conductive material as the first touch electrode 121 and the second touch electrode 131.

[0199] The fourth strain gauge 150d may be located in one row of the second touch electrodes 131, and may be located in a row different from the second strain gauge 150b. For example, the fourth strain gauge 150d may be located in the second row RO2.

[0200] The fourth strain gauge 150d may include a seventh resistance wire 151d, an eighth resistance wire 153d, a seventh connection wire 155d, an eighth connection wire 157d, and a fourth connection pattern 159d.

[0201] The seventh resistance line 151d, the eighth resistance line 153d, the seventh connection line 155d, the eighth connection line 157d, and the fourth connection pattern 159d are substantially the same as the third resistance line 151b, the fourth resistance line 153b, the third connection line 155b, the fourth connection line 157b, and the second connection pattern 159b, respectively; therefore, redundant description will be omitted. Therefore, the description will focus on the differences, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0202] The seventh resistance line 151d and the eighth resistance line 153d may be located in the second opening OP2 in the second row RO2. The seventh resistance line 151d and the eighth resistance line 153d may be spaced apart from the second touch electrode 131. The seventh resistance line 151d and the eighth resistance line 153d may be spaced apart from each other in the second opening OP2.

[0203] In some exemplary embodiments, when viewed from the top, the seventh resistance line 151d and the eighth resistance line 153d may have the same Fig.11 When the second touch electrode 131 has a mesh structure, the branch portions connected to the seventh resistance line 151d and the eighth resistance line 153d may be similar to Fig.12 As shown in FIG. 1 , the second opening OP2 of the second row RO2 is further arranged.

[0204] In some exemplary embodiments, the seventh and eighth resistance lines 151 d and 153 d may be located in the same first layer L1 as the first and second touch electrodes 121 and 131 , and may include the same conductive material as the first and second touch electrodes 121 and 131 .

[0205] The seventh connection line 155d may electrically connect the seventh resistance lines 151d adjacent to each other in the first direction x and may contact the seventh resistance line 151d. In addition, the eighth connection line 157d may electrically connect the eighth resistance lines 153d adjacent to each other in the first direction x and may contact the eighth resistance line 153d.

[0206] The seventh resistance line 151d and the seventh connection line 155d may be connected to each other and may contact each other through a ninth contact hole CH9 formed in the insulating layer IL. The eighth resistance line 153d and the eighth connection line 157d may be connected to each other and may contact each other through a tenth contact hole CH10 formed in the insulating layer IL.

[0207] In some exemplary embodiments, the seventh and eighth connection lines 155d and 157d may be located in the same second layer L2 as the first connection portion 123a, and may be formed of the same material as the first connection portion 123a.

[0208] In some exemplary embodiments, the fourth connection pattern 159d may be positioned in the second opening OP2 located in the second row RO2 and the first column CO1. The fourth connection pattern 159d may connect the seventh resistance line 151d with the eighth resistance line 153d. In some exemplary embodiments, the fourth connection pattern 159d may be located in the same first layer L1 as the first touch electrode 121 and the second touch electrode 131, and may include the same conductive material as the first touch electrode 121 and the second touch electrode 131.

[0209] Similar to the first strain gauge 150a, each of the second strain gauge 150b, the third strain gauge 150c, and the fourth strain gauge 150d may extend from one side of the sensor portion 100 to the other side along the first direction x, and then extend from the other side to the one side along the first direction x. Therefore, both ends of the second strain gauge 150b, both ends of the third strain gauge 150c, and both ends of the fourth strain gauge 150d may be aligned with one side of the sensing area SA (e.g., at Figure 3 is positioned adjacent to the left side of the sensing area SA).

[0210] The dummy electrode 190 may be disposed in a row where neither the second strain gauge 150b nor the fourth strain gauge 150d is disposed in the second opening OP2 of the second touch electrode 131. The dummy electrode 190 may be located in the second opening OP2. Figure 3 In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the dummy electrode 190 is disposed in the second openings OP2 located in the third row RO3, the fourth row RO4, the fifth row RO5, the sixth row RO6, the seventh row RO7, and the eighth row RO8. Since the second opening OP2 is formed in each second touch electrode 131, there is a difference in the reflectivity of external light. As a result, the pattern may be viewed as a stain from the outside of the display device 1. In this regard, the dummy electrode 190 reduces the difference in the reflectivity of external light, making it difficult to see the pattern from the outside.

[0211] In some exemplary embodiments, the dummy electrode 190 may have the same shape as the second opening OP2. For example, if the second opening OP2 has a rhombus shape, the dummy electrode 190 may also have a rhombus shape.

[0212] The dummy electrode 190 may be disposed in the second opening OP2 and may be spaced apart from the second touch electrode 131. That is, the dummy electrode 190 may be an island-shaped conductive pattern. In some exemplary embodiments, the dummy electrode 190 may be in a floating state.

[0213] The dummy electrode 190 may be located in the same first layer L1 as the first touch electrode 121 , the second touch electrode 131 , and the first resistance line 151 a , and may be made of the same conductive material as the first touch electrode 121 , the second touch electrode 131 , and the first resistance line 151 a .

[0214] In some exemplary embodiments, when the second touch electrodes 131 have a grid structure, the dummy electrodes 190 may also have a Figure 8 The grid structure shown in .

[0215] The noise sensing electrode member 170 may be positioned in the electrode row of the first electrode member 120, and may be disposed on an electrode row different from the electrode row on which the first strain gauge 150a and the third strain gauge 150c are disposed. For example, the noise sensing electrode member 170 may be disposed in the third electrode row RE3, the fourth electrode row RE4, the fifth electrode row RE5, the sixth electrode row RE6, the seventh electrode row RE7, and the eighth electrode row RE8, and may be spaced apart from each other in the second direction y.

[0216] Each of the noise sensing electrode members 170 may include a noise sensing electrode 171 and a third connection portion 173 .

[0217] The noise sensing electrode 171 may be disposed in the first opening OP1 of the first touch electrode 121 and may be spaced apart from the first touch electrode 121. In some exemplary embodiments, the noise sensing electrode 171 may be located in the same first layer L1 as the first touch electrode 121 and may be made of the same material as the first touch electrode 121.

[0218] In some exemplary embodiments, when the first touch electrode 121 has a mesh structure, the noise sensing electrode 171 may also have a mesh structure. Figure 7 The grid structure shown in .

[0219] In some exemplary embodiments, an area of ​​the first opening OP1 may be smaller than an area of ​​the second opening OP2 , and thus an area of ​​the noise sensing electrode 171 may be smaller than an area of ​​the dummy electrode 190 .

[0220] The third connection portion 173 may electrically connect two noise sensing electrodes 171 located in the same electrode row and adjacent to each other in the first direction x. In some exemplary embodiments, the third connection portion 173 may be located in the same second layer L2 as the first connection portion 123 and may be made of the same material as the first connection portion 123.

[0221] In some exemplary embodiments, the noise sensing electrode 171 may be connected to the third connection portion 173 through a second contact hole CH2 formed in the insulating layer IL.

[0222] The third connection part 173 may be spaced apart from the first electrode member 120 , the second electrode member 130 , the first strain gauge 150 a , the second strain gauge 150 b , the third strain gauge 150 c , and the fourth strain gauge 150 d .

[0223] In some exemplary embodiments, Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , the lines 901 , 903 , 903 ′, and 905 and the signal lines 9111 , 9112 , 9113 , 9114 , 9115 , 9116 , 9117 , and 9118 may be disposed in the peripheral area NSA of the base layer 110 .

[0224] For example, the wires 901, 903, 903', and 905 may include a first wire 901 connected to the corresponding first electrode member 120, a second wire 903 connected to the corresponding second electrode member 130, a third wire 903' connected to the other end of the corresponding second electrode member 130, and a fourth wire 905 connected to the corresponding noise sensing electrode member 170. As used herein, the other end of the second electrode member 130 refers to the opposite side of the second electrode member 130 to the end connected to the second wire 903. That is, the wire connected to the second electrode member 130 may have a double wiring structure, and thus the RC delay caused by the resistance of the second electrode member 130, etc., may be reduced. However, it will be understood that the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Figure 3 Unlike that shown in FIG. 1 , the second wire 903 may be connected to one end of the second electrode member 130, and no other wire may be connected to the other end of the second electrode member 130. That is, in other exemplary embodiments, the wire connected to the second electrode member 130 may have a single wiring structure.

[0225] The signal lines 9111 , 9112 , 9113 , 9114 , 9115 , 9116 , 9117 , and 9118 may include a first signal line 9111 , a second signal line 9112 , a third signal line 9113 , a fourth signal line 9114 , a fifth signal line 9115 , a sixth signal line 9116 , a seventh signal line 9117 , and an eighth signal line 9118 .

[0226] The first signal line 9111 may be connected to one end of the first strain gauge 150a, and the second signal line 9112 may be connected to the other end of the first strain gauge 150a. The third signal line 9113 may be connected to one end of the second strain gauge 150b, and the fourth signal line 9114 may be connected to the other end of the second strain gauge 150b. The fifth signal line 9115 may be connected to one end of the third strain gauge 150c, and the sixth signal line 9116 may be connected to the other end of the third strain gauge 150c. The seventh signal line 9117 may be connected to one end of the fourth strain gauge 150d, and the eighth signal line 9118 may be connected to the other end of the fourth strain gauge 150d.

[0227] In some exemplary embodiments, the second signal line 9112 may be connected to the third signal line 9113 , the fourth signal line 9114 may be connected to the fifth signal line 9115 , and the sixth signal line 9116 may be connected to the seventh signal line 9117 .

[0228] Pad portions TP1 and TP2 may be disposed in a peripheral area NSA of the base layer 110. The pad portions TP1 and TP2 may be electrically connected to the lines 901, 903, 903', and 905 and the signal lines 9111, 9112, 9113, 9114, 9115, 9116, 9117, and 9118. The controller 200 may be electrically connected to the pad portions TP1 and TP2.

[0229] In some exemplary embodiments, the pad portions TP1 and TP2 may include a first pad portion TP1 and a second pad portion TP2 that are separated from each other in the first direction x. For example, the first pad portion TP1 may be connected to the second line 903, the third line 903', and the fourth line 905. The second pad portion TP2 may be connected to the first line 901. In addition, the first pad portion TP1 may be connected to the first signal line 9111, the third signal line 9113, the fifth signal line 9115, the seventh signal line 9117, and the eighth signal line 9118. However, it will be understood that this is merely illustrative. For example and optionally, the first pad portion TP1 and the second pad portion TP2 may not be separated from each other, but may form a single pad portion. In addition, the lines and signal lines connected to the first pad portion TP1 and the second pad portion TP2 may be changed differently.

[0230] In the touch sensor TSM according to the above exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the first touch electrode 121, the second touch electrode 131, the first resistance line 151a, the second resistance line 153a, the third resistance line 151b, the fourth resistance line 153b, the fifth resistance line 151c, the sixth resistance line 153c, the seventh resistance line 151d and the eighth resistance line 153d are located in the same first layer L1, so there is an advantage that they can be produced at the same time in the same process and the manufacturing process can be simpler. In addition, since the first touch electrode 121, the second touch electrode 131, the first resistance line 151a, the second resistance line 153a, the third resistance line 151b, the fourth resistance line 153b, the fifth resistance line 151c, the sixth resistance line 153c, the seventh resistance line 151d and the eighth resistance line 153d are located in the same first layer L1, there is an advantage that the touch sensor TSM can have a pressure sensing capability with a reduced thickness.

[0231] In addition, since the connecting lines 155a, 157a, 155b, 157b, 155c, 157c, 155d and 157d are located in the same second layer L2 as the first connecting part 123, there is an advantage that the connecting lines 155a, 157a, 155b, 157b, 155c, 157c, 155d and 157d of the strain gauge 150 can be formed simultaneously in the same process and thus the manufacturing process becomes simpler.

[0232] In addition, since the touch sensor TSM includes the noise sensing electrode member 170, it is possible to suppress malfunction of the touch sensor TSM and improve the sensitivity of the sensor. In addition, since the noise sensing electrode 171 is provided in the first layer L1 and the third connection portion 173 is provided in the second layer L2, the manufacturing process of the touch sensor TSM can be made simpler and the thickness of the touch sensor TSM having noise sensing capability can be reduced.

[0233] In addition, since some of the signal lines 9111, 9112, 9113, 9114, 9115, 9116, 9117 and 9118 are connected to each other in the peripheral area NSA and only some of the signal lines are connected to the pad portions TP1 and TP2, the area occupied by the signal lines 9111, 9112, 9113, 9114, 9115, 9116, 9117 and 9118 of the peripheral area NSA can be reduced, and the area occupied by the pad portion (for example, the first pad portion TP1) can be reduced.

[0234] In some other exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the structure of the touch sensor TSM, especially the positions of the first resistance line 151a, the second resistance line 153a, the third resistance line 151b, the fourth resistance line 153b, the fifth resistance line 151c, the sixth resistance line 153c, the seventh resistance line 151d and the eighth resistance line 153d can be changed.

[0235] Fig.24 It shows that according to Figure 6 An example of a modified structure of the first layer is shown in FIG. Fig.25 It shows that according to Fig.13 Schematic diagram of the structure of the second layer of the modification of the example shown in FIG. Fig.26 yes Fig.16 A modified cross-sectional view of the example shown in FIG. Fig. 27 yes Fig.17 A modified cross-sectional view of the example shown in FIG. Fig.28 yes Fig.18 A modified cross-sectional view of the example shown in FIG. Fig.29 yes Fig.19 A modified cross-sectional view of the example shown in FIG. Fig.30 yes Fig. 20 A modified cross-sectional view of the example shown in FIG. Fig.31 yes Fig.21 A modified cross-sectional view of the example shown in FIG. Fig.32 yes Fig. 22 A modified cross-sectional view of the example shown in FIG. Fig.33 yes Fig.23 A modified cross-sectional view of the example shown in FIG.

[0236] Reference Figures 24 to 33 , in some modifications, with Figure 6 as well as Figures 13 to 23Different from the example shown in FIG. 1 , the first resistance line 151a, the second resistance line 153a, the third resistance line 151b, the fourth resistance line 153b, the fifth resistance line 151c, the sixth resistance line 153c, the seventh resistance line 151d and the eighth resistance line 153d can be set in a different layer from the first touch electrode 121 and the second touch electrode 131. For example, the first touch electrode 121 and the second touch electrode 131 can be set in the first layer L1_1, and the first resistance line 151a, the second resistance line 153a, the third resistance line 151b, the fourth resistance line 153b, the fifth resistance line 151c, the sixth resistance line 153c, the seventh resistance line 151d and the eighth resistance line 153d can be set in the second layer L2_1 (in the second layer L2_1, the connecting lines 155a, 157a, 155b, 157b, 155c, 157c, 155d and 157d and the first connecting part 123 are set) and can be made of the same material as the connecting lines 155a, 157a, 155b, 157b, 155c, 157c, 155d and 157d and the first connecting part 123.

[0237] According to the modification, the first, second, third, and fourth connection patterns 159 a , 159 b , 159 c , and 159 d may be located in the same second layer L2_1 as the first connection portion 123 , and may be made of the same material as the first connection portion 123 .

[0238] Fig.34 It shows that according to Figure 6 2 is a diagram of the structure of the first layer of another modification of the example shown in FIG. Fig.35 It shows that according to Fig.13 2 is a diagram of the structure of the second layer of another modification of the example shown in FIG. Fig.36 yes Fig.16 A cross-sectional view of another modification of the example shown in FIG. Fig.37 yes Fig.17 A cross-sectional view of another modification of the example shown in FIG. Fig.38 yes Fig.18 A cross-sectional view of another modification of the example shown in FIG. Fig.39 yes Fig.19 A cross-sectional view of another modification of the example shown in FIG. Fig.40 yes Fig. 20 A cross-sectional view of another modification of the example shown in FIG. Fig.41 yes Fig.21 A cross-sectional view of another modification of the example shown in FIG. Fig.42 yes Fig. 22 A cross-sectional view of another modification of the example shown in FIG. Fig.43 yes Fig.23 A cross-sectional view of another modification of the example shown in FIG.

[0239] Reference Figures 34 to 43 ,and Figure 6 as well as Figures 13 to 23 Unlike the example shown in FIG. 1 , in some other modifications, the first resistance line 151a, the third resistance line 151b, the fifth resistance line 151c, and the seventh resistance line 151d may be located in the same first layer L1_2 as the first touch electrode 121 and the second touch electrode 131, and may be made of the same material as the first touch electrode 121 and the second touch electrode 131. The second resistance line 153a, the fourth resistance line 153b, the sixth resistance line 153c, and the eighth resistance line 153d may be located in the same second layer L2_2 as the connection lines 155a, 157a, 155b, 157b, 155c, 157c, 155d, and 157d and the first connection portion 123, and may be made of the same material as the connection lines 155a, 157a, 155b, 157b, 155c, 157c, 155d, and 157d and the first connection portion 123.

[0240] In some exemplary embodiments, when the first connection portion 123 and the first touch electrode 121 are made of different materials, the first resistance line 151a, the third resistance line 151b, the fifth resistance line 151c and the seventh resistance line 151d may be made of a material different from that of the second resistance line 153a, the fourth resistance line 153b, the sixth resistance line 153c and the eighth resistance line 153d.

[0241] In the accompanying drawings, when viewed from the top, the first resistance line 151a and the second resistance line 153a do not overlap each other. However, it will be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to this. The first resistance line 151a and the second resistance line 153a are located in different layers, so the first resistance line 151a and the second resistance line 153a overlap each other. In addition, the overlapping relationship between the third resistance line 151b and the fourth resistance line 153b, the overlapping relationship between the fifth resistance line 151c and the sixth resistance line 153c, and the overlapping relationship between the seventh resistance line 151d and the eighth resistance line 153d can also be modified as the overlapping relationship between the first resistance line 151a and the second resistance line 153a.

[0242] According to this modification, the first, second, third, and fourth connection patterns 159 a , 159 b , 159 c , and 159 d may also be located in the same second layer L2_2 as the first connection portion 123 , and may be formed of the same material as the first connection portion 123 .

[0243] In the first electrode column CE1, the first resistance line 151a may be connected to the first connection pattern 159a through the eleventh contact hole CH11 formed in the insulating layer IL, and the fifth resistance line 151c may be connected to the third connection pattern 159c through the thirteenth contact hole CH13 formed in the insulating layer IL. In addition, in the first column CO1, the third resistance line 151b may be connected to the second connection pattern 159b through the twelfth contact hole CH12 formed in the insulating layer IL, and the seventh resistance line 151d may be connected to the fourth connection pattern 159d through the fourteenth contact hole CH14 formed in the insulating layer IL.

[0244] In addition to the above, the structure of the sensor part 100 may be variously modified.

[0245] For example, the first electrode row RE1 and the second electrode row RE2 have Figures 24 to 33 In the structure shown in FIG. 1 , the first row RO1 and the second row RO2 may be Figures 34 to 43 Alternatively, the first electrode row RE1 and the first row RO1 may have Figures 24 to 33 In the structure shown in FIG. 1 , the second electrode row RE2 and the second electrode row RO2 may be Figures 34 to 43 Furthermore, the above-described exemplary embodiments may be modified in various ways.

[0246] Similarly, according to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the base layer 110 of the sensor part 100 may be a thin film encapsulation layer of an organic light-emitting display panel. In such a case, the base layer 110 may be implemented as a multilayer including at least one organic layer and an inorganic layer, or as a single layer including a combination of organic materials and inorganic materials. For example, the base layer 110 may be implemented as a multilayer including at least two inorganic layers and at least one organic layer disposed between the inorganic layers. In this way, in a display device in which the base layer 110 is implemented as a thin film encapsulation layer of an organic light-emitting display panel, the electrodes of the sensor part 100 and the elements of the display panel 300 may be arranged on different surfaces of the base layer 110.

[0247] Fig.44 yes Figure 6 An enlarged plan view of portion Q5. Fig.45 is along Fig.44 A cross-sectional view of an example of a sensor portion and a display panel taken along line X11-X11' in FIG.

[0248] Reference Fig.44 and Fig.45, the sensor part 100 may include a thin film encapsulation layer of a display panel (e.g., an organic light emitting display panel) 300 as a base layer 110. In other words, the display panel 300 and the sensor part 100 may be formed integrally. In the following description, the base layer 110 and the thin film encapsulation layer may be represented by the same reference numerals. For ease of explanation, Fig.45 Only a light emitting element (eg, (organic) light emitting diode, OLED) and a single thin film transistor (TFT) connected thereto among elements provided in each pixel of the display panel 300 are shown.

[0249] The display panel 300 includes a base substrate 330, a light emitting diode OLED disposed on one surface of the base substrate 330, and a thin film encapsulation layer 110 disposed over the light emitting diode OLED to cover at least one light emitting diode OLED. In addition, according to some exemplary embodiments, the display panel 300 may further include at least one thin film transistor TFT connected to the light emitting diode OLED. The thin film transistor TFT may be disposed between the base substrate 330 and the light emitting diode OLED.

[0250] In addition, the display panel 300 may further include one or more power lines, signal lines and / or capacitors (not shown).

[0251] According to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the base substrate 330 may be a rigid substrate or a flexible substrate, and the material of the base substrate 330 is not particularly limited thereto. For example, the base substrate 330 may be a thin film substrate having flexibility.

[0252] The buffer layer BFL is disposed on the surface of the base substrate 330. The buffer layer BFL can prevent impurities from diffusing from the base substrate 330 and can improve the flatness of the base substrate 330. The buffer layer BFL can be implemented as a single layer or as two or more layers. The buffer layer BFL can be an inorganic insulating layer made of an inorganic material. For example, the buffer layer BFL can be formed of silicon nitride, silicon oxide, silicon oxynitride, etc.

[0253] The thin film transistor TFT is disposed on the buffer layer BFL. The thin film transistor TFT includes an active layer ACT, a gate electrode GE, a source electrode SE, and a drain electrode DE. According to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the active layer ACT is disposed on the buffer layer BFL and may be made of a semiconductor material. For example, the active layer ACT may be a semiconductor pattern made of polycrystalline silicon, amorphous silicon, an oxide semiconductor, etc. A region of the active layer ACT (e.g., a region overlapping the gate electrode GE) may not be doped with impurities, while the remaining region may be doped with impurities.

[0254] The gate insulating layer GI may be disposed on the active layer ACT, and the gate electrode GE may be disposed on the gate insulating layer GI. In addition, the interlayer dielectric layer ILA may be disposed on the gate electrode GE, and the source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE may be disposed on the interlayer dielectric layer ILA. The source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE may contact and be electrically connected to the active layer ACT through corresponding contact holes CHA passing through the gate insulating layer GI and the interlayer dielectric layer ILA.

[0255] According to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, a passivation layer PSV is disposed over the source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE. The passivation layer PSV may cover the thin film transistor TFT.

[0256] The light emitting diode OLED is formed on the passivation layer PSV. The light emitting diode OLED may include a first electrode EL1, a second electrode EL2, and an emission layer EML disposed between the first electrode EL1 and the second electrode EL2. According to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the first electrode EL1 of the light emitting diode OLED may be, but is not limited to, an anode electrode. The first electrode EL1 of the light emitting diode OLED contacts one electrode (e.g., drain electrode DE) of the thin film transistor TFT via a contact hole CHB penetrating the passivation layer PSV and is electrically connected to the one electrode of the thin film transistor TFT.

[0257] A pixel defining layer PDL for defining a light emitting area PXA of each pixel is disposed on one side of the base substrate 330 on which the first electrode EL1 of the light emitting diode OLED is formed. The pixel defining layer PDL may expose the upper surface of the first electrode EL1 and may protrude from the base substrate 330 along the periphery of each pixel area.

[0258] The emission layer EML is disposed in the light emitting area PXA surrounded by the pixel defining layer PDL. For example, the emission layer EML may be disposed on the exposed surface of the first electrode EL1. According to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the emission layer EML may have a multilayer thin film structure including at least a light generating layer. For example, the emission layer EML may include a hole injection layer, a hole transport layer, a light generating layer, a hole blocking layer (HBL), an electron transport layer (ETL), and an electron injection layer (EIL). According to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the color of the light generated in the emission layer EML may be, but is not limited to, one of red, green, and blue. For example, the color of the light generated in the emission layer EML may be one of magenta, cyan, and yellow.

[0259] The second electrode EL2 of the light emitting diode OLED may be disposed on the emission layer EML. The second electrode EL2 of the light emitting diode OLED may be a cathode electrode.

[0260] A thin film encapsulation layer 110 covering the second electrode EL2 of the light emitting diode OLED may be disposed on the second electrode EL2 of the light emitting diode OLED. The thin film encapsulation layer 110 seals the light emitting diode OLED. The thin film encapsulation layer 110 includes at least one inorganic layer (hereinafter referred to as an encapsulation inorganic layer). The thin film encapsulation layer 110 may also include at least one organic layer (hereinafter referred to as an encapsulation organic layer). The encapsulation inorganic layer protects the light emitting diode OLED from moisture / oxygen, and the encapsulation organic layer protects the light emitting diode OLED from foreign matter such as dust particles. By using the thin film encapsulation layer 110 to seal the light emitting diode OLED, the thickness of the display device 1 may be reduced and the display device 1 may have flexibility.

[0261] The thin film encapsulation layer 110 may be composed of multiple layers or a single layer. For example, the thin film encapsulation layer 110 may include a first encapsulation inorganic layer 111, an encapsulation organic layer 112, and a second encapsulation inorganic layer 113 stacked in this order on the second electrode EL2.

[0262] In some exemplary embodiments, each of the first encapsulation inorganic layer 111 and the second encapsulation inorganic layer 113 may be made of silicon nitride, aluminum nitride, zirconium nitride, titanium nitride, hafnium nitride, tantalum nitride, silicon oxide, aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, tin oxide, cerium oxide, silicon oxynitride (SiON), lithium fluoride, or the like.

[0263] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the encapsulating organic layer 112 may be made of acrylic resin, methacrylic resin, polyisoprene, vinyl resin, epoxy resin, urethane resin, cellulose resin and / or perylene resin.

[0264] It is to be noted that the structure of the thin film encapsulation layer 110 is not limited to the above example. The stacking structure of the thin film encapsulation layer 110 may be changed in various ways.

[0265] The elements of the second layer L2 may be disposed on the thin film encapsulation layer 110. The insulating layer IL may be disposed on the second layer L2, and the first layer L1 may be disposed on the insulating layer IL. In the drawings, the first touch electrode 121 is shown as an element of the first layer L1. As described above, the first touch electrode 121 may have a mesh structure to prevent the first touch electrode 121 from being visible to the user, and may be disposed to overlap with the light emitting area PXA. In other words, a mesh hole overlapping with the light emitting area PXA may be defined in each first touch electrode 121 having a mesh structure.

[0266] In the display device 1 according to the above exemplary embodiment, the display panel 300 may be implemented as an organic light emitting display panel having a thin film encapsulation layer 110, and the elements of the sensor part 100 are disposed on the thin film encapsulation layer 110. For example, the connection lines 155a, 157a, 155b, 157b, 155c, 157c, 155d, and 157d, the first connection part 123, and the third connection part 173 may be disposed on the thin film encapsulation layer 110, the insulating layer IL may be disposed on the aforementioned elements, and the first touch electrode 121, the second touch electrode 131, the second connection part 133 and the resistance lines 151a, 153a, 151b, 153b, 151c, 153c, 151d, and 153d, the noise sensing electrode 171, the dummy electrode 190, etc. may be disposed on the insulating layer IL.

[0267] In the following, reference will be made to Fig.46 An operation of detecting a touch position by the controller 200 is described in detail.

[0268] Fig.46 is a diagram for illustrating an operation of detecting a touch position according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0269] Reference Fig.46 , the touch driver 210 can be Figure 3 The second line 903 and the third line 903' shown in FIG. 1 provide the driving signal Ts to the second electrode members 130. In some exemplary embodiments, the driving signal Ts may be provided to each second electrode member 130 sequentially.

[0270] The touch detector 230 may be configured as follows: Figure 3 The first line 901 shown in FIG. 1 receives a sensing signal Rs from the first electrode member 120. In some exemplary embodiments, as described above, the sensing signal Rs may include information about the amount of change in mutual capacitance between the first electrode member 120 and the second electrode member 130. When the driving signal Ts is applied to the second electrode member 130, a mutual capacitance Cm is formed between the second electrode member 130 and the first electrode member 120. When a touch input is made, the mutual capacitance Cm changes, and the sensing signal Rs may include information about the amount of the changed mutual capacitance.

[0271] In some exemplary embodiments, the touch detector 230 may include at least one amplifier 231 such as an operational (OP) amplifier, an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 233 , and a processor 235 .

[0272] The amplifier 231 may include a first input terminal 231a, a second input terminal 231b, and an output terminal 231c. According to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the first input terminal 231a of the amplifier 231 (e.g., an inverting input terminal of an OP amplifier) ​​may be electrically connected to the first electrode member 120 via a first line 901. The sensing signal Rs may be input to the first input terminal 231a.

[0273] According to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the second input terminal 231b of the amplifier 231 (eg, the non-inverting input terminal of the OP amplifier) ​​may be connected via a Figure 3 The fourth line 905 shown in FIG. 1 is electrically connected to the noise sensing electrode member 170. The noise sensing signal Ns may be input to the second input terminal 231b of the amplifier 231. Therefore, the reference voltage of each amplifier 231 fluctuates along with the voltage fluctuation of the corresponding noise sensing electrode member 170. That is, the reference potential of each amplifier 231 may vary according to the potential (voltage level) of the noise sensing electrode member 170.

[0274] The potential of the noise sensing electrode member 170 may vary according to a noise signal introduced into the sensor portion 100 from the display panel 300, etc. For example, the potential of the noise sensing electrode member 170 may vary in response to common mode noise introduced into the sensor portion 100 from the display panel 300, etc.

[0275] Therefore, by further arranging the noise sensing electrode member 170 in the sensing area SA and changing the reference potential of the amplifier 231 by using the noise sensing signal Ns sensed by the noise sensing electrode member 170, it is possible to remove or eliminate the common mode noise introduced into the sensor part 100. Specifically, the first electrode member 120 and the noise sensing electrode member 170 as the sensing electrode member have corresponding ripples in response to the common mode noise. Specifically, the first electrode member 120 and the noise sensing electrode member 170 extend in the same direction in the sensing area SA and are arranged at positions corresponding to each other, so they receive noise signals of the same or very similar shape and / or size. In addition, the first electrode member 120 is electrically connected to the first input terminal 231a of the amplifier 231 via the first line 901, and the noise sensing electrode member 170 is electrically connected to the second input terminal 231b of the amplifier 231 via the fourth line 905 different from the first line 901. Therefore, the noise component (ripple) included in the sensing signal Rs received from the first electrode member 120 can be effectively eliminated. Therefore, a signal can be output from the output terminal 231 c of the amplifier 231 after noise is removed.

[0276] In some exemplary embodiments, the capacitor C and the reset switch SW may be connected in parallel between the first input terminal 231 a and the output terminal 231 c of the amplifier 231 .

[0277] Although the amplifier 231 is implemented as a non-inverting amplifier in the above example, it will be understood that the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In another exemplary embodiment, the amplifier 231 may be implemented as an inverting amplifier, etc.

[0278] An output terminal 231 c of the amplifier 231 may be electrically connected to the analog-to-digital converter 233 .

[0279] The analog-to-digital converter 233 may receive an analog signal to convert it into a digital signal. According to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the number of the analog-to-digital converters 233 may be equal to the number of the first electrode members 120. Alternatively, in another exemplary embodiment, the first electrode members 120 may share a single analog-to-digital converter 233. In such a case, a switching circuit for channel selection may be additionally provided.

[0280] The processor 235 processes the converted signal (digital signal) from the analog-to-digital converter 233 and detects the touch input based on the result of the signal processing. For example, the processor 235 can comprehensively analyze the first sensing signal amplified by the amplifier 231 and converted by the analog-to-digital converter 233 to detect whether there is a touch input and its position (if any). According to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the processor 235 can be implemented as a microprocessor (MPU). In such a case, the memory required for driving the processor 235 can be additionally provided in the touch detector 230. It should be noted that the configuration of the processor 235 is not limited thereto. As another example, the processor 235 can be implemented as a microcontroller (MCU) or the like.

[0281] The touch sensor TSM according to the above exemplary embodiment can effectively remove the noise signal introduced from the display panel 300, etc., and can improve the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Therefore, the malfunction of the touch sensor TSM due to the noise signal can be suppressed, and the sensitivity can be improved.

[0282] In the following, reference will be made to Fig.47 and Fig.48 An operation of detecting a touch pressure by the controller 200 is described in detail.

[0283] Fig.47 It is schematically shown Figure 3 2 is a plan view of the arrangement of the first strain gauge, the second strain gauge, the third strain gauge, the fourth strain gauge, the first signal line to the eighth signal line, and the connection of the Wheatstone bridge circuit shown in FIG. Fig.48is a circuit diagram for illustrating an operation of detecting a touch pressure of a touch sensor according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, and specifically illustrates a circuit diagram electrically connected to Fig.47 1 and 2. The Wheatstone bridge circuit of the first strain gauge, the second strain gauge, the third strain gauge and the fourth strain gauge shown in FIG.

[0284] Reference Fig.47 and Fig.48 , the first strain gauge 150a may include one end E1a and another end E2a both located at one side (e.g., the left side) of the sensing area SA. As described above, the end E1a of the first strain gauge 150a may be connected to the first signal line 9111, and the end E2a of the first strain gauge 150a may be connected to the second signal line 9112.

[0285] The second strain gauge 150b may include one end E1b and another end E2b both located at one side (e.g., left side) of the sensing area SA. The end E1b of the second strain gauge 150b may be connected to the third signal line 9113, and the end E2b of the second strain gauge 150b may be connected to the fourth signal line 9114.

[0286] The third strain gauge 150c may include one end E1c and another end E2c both located at one side (e.g., left side) of the sensing area SA. The end E1c of the third strain gauge 150c may be connected to the fifth signal line 9115, and the end E2c of the third strain gauge 150c may be connected to the sixth signal line 9116.

[0287] The fourth strain gauge 150d may include one end E1d and another end E2d both located at one side (e.g., left side) of the sensing area SA. The end E1d of the fourth strain gauge 150d may be connected to the seventh signal line 9117, and the end E2d of the fourth strain gauge 150d may be connected to the eighth signal line 9118.

[0288] In some exemplary embodiments, Fig.47 As shown in the figure, one end E1a and the other end E2a of the first strain gauge 150a, one end E1b and the other end E2b of the second strain gauge 150b, one end E1c and the other end E2c of the third strain gauge 150c, and one end E1d and the other end E2d of the fourth strain gauge 150d can all be located on one side of the sensing area SA (for example, the left side of the sensing area SA in the figure).

[0289] As described above, in the peripheral area NSA, the second signal line 9112 can be connected to the third signal line 9113, the fourth signal line 9114 can be connected to the fifth signal line 9115, and the sixth signal line 9116 can be connected to the seventh signal line 9117. As a result, the area occupied by the signal lines can be reduced.

[0290] The pressure detector 250 may include a Wheatstone bridge circuit WB.

[0291] The Wheatstone bridge circuit WB includes a first node N1, a second node N2, a first output node N3, and a second output node N4. In some exemplary embodiments, a driving voltage Vd may be applied to the first node N1, and a reference voltage Vref may be applied to the second node N2. For example, the reference voltage Vref may be a ground voltage.

[0292] In some exemplary embodiments, the Wheatstone bridge circuit WB may further include a first element 253 connected to the first output node N3 and the second output node N4 and a second element 255 connected to the first node N1 and the second node N2.

[0293] The first element 253 may sense the current flow between the first output node N3 and the second output node N4. For example, the first element 253 may be a current detector or a voltage measurer.

[0294] The second element 255 may be a voltage supply element for supplying voltages to the first node N1 and the second node N2. In some exemplary embodiments, the second element 255 may supply a driving voltage Vd to the first node N1 and a reference voltage Vref to the second node N2.

[0295] The first strain gauge 150 a , the second strain gauge 150 b , the third strain gauge 150 c , and the fourth strain gauge 150 d may be electrically connected to a Wheatstone bridge circuit WB.

[0296] More specifically, in some exemplary embodiments, the end E1a of the first strain gauge 150a may be electrically connected to the first node N1 via the first signal line 9111, and the other end E2a of the first strain gauge 150a may be connected to the second output node N4 via the second signal line 9112 and the third signal line 9113. In addition, the end E1b of the second strain gauge 150b may be electrically connected to the second output node N4 via the third signal line 9113, and the other end E2b of the second strain gauge 150b may be connected to the second node N2 via the fourth signal line 9114 and the fifth signal line 9115. In addition, the end E1c of the third strain gauge 150c may be electrically connected to the second node N2 via the fifth signal line 9115, and the other end E2c of the third strain gauge 150c may be connected to the first output node N3 via the sixth signal line 9116 and the seventh signal line 9117. In addition, the end E1d of the fourth strain gauge 150d may be electrically connected to the first output node N3 via the seventh signal line 9117 , and the other end E2d of the fourth strain gauge 150d may be connected to the first node N1 via the eighth signal line 9118 .

[0297] According to this exemplary embodiment, as described above, the first strain gauge 150 a , the second strain gauge 150 b , the third strain gauge 150 c , and the fourth strain gauge 150 d may be electrically connected to each other to form a Wheatstone bridge circuit WB.

[0298] In some exemplary embodiments, when no touch input is performed or when no external force is applied, the resistance value Ra of the first strain gauge 150a, the resistance value Rb of the second strain gauge 150b, the resistance value Rc of the third strain gauge 150c, and the resistance value Rd of the fourth strain gauge 150d may all be substantially equal.

[0299] When the touch input is not made to the sensor part 100, the resistance value Ra of the first strain gauge 150a, the resistance value Rb of the second strain gauge 150b, the resistance value Rc of the third strain gauge 150c, and the resistance value Rd of the fourth strain gauge 150d may remain equal. For example, a value obtained by multiplying the resistance value Ra of the first strain gauge 150a by the resistance value Rc of the third strain gauge 150c may be substantially equal to a value obtained by multiplying the resistance value Rb of the second strain gauge 150b by the resistance value Rd of the fourth strain gauge 150d. That is, when the touch input is not made to the sensor part 100, the voltage at the first output node N3 may be equal to the voltage at the second output node N4.

[0300] When a touch input is made to the sensor portion 100, the shape of at least one of the first strain gauge 150a, the second strain gauge 150b, the third strain gauge 150c, and the fourth strain gauge 150d may be deformed due to the strength of the touch. As the shape is deformed, at least one of the resistance value Ra of the first strain gauge 150a, the resistance value Rb of the second strain gauge 150b, the resistance value Rc of the third strain gauge 150c, and the resistance value Rd of the fourth strain gauge 150d may change. As a result, a voltage difference is generated between the first output node N3 and the second output node N4. In addition, by measuring the voltage difference or the amount of current generated by the voltage difference using the first element 253, the strength of the touch or the pressure of the touch can be detected.

[0301] It should be noted that the electrical connection between the first strain gauge 150a, the second strain gauge 150b, the third strain gauge 150c and the fourth strain gauge 150d and the Wheatstone bridge circuit WB1 can be changed in various ways. Fig.48 In the embodiment of the present invention, the position of the first strain gauge 150a can be interchanged with the position of the second strain gauge 150b.

[0302] That is, the touch sensor TSM according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure can detect the position of the touch by using the first electrode member 120, the second electrode member 130 and the touch driver 210, and can detect the intensity of the pressure by using the first strain gauge 150a, the second strain gauge 150b, the third strain gauge 150c, the fourth strain gauge 150d and the pressure detector 250.

[0303] The touch sensor TSM according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may detect a touched position by using the first electrode member 120 , the second electrode member 130 , and the touch driver 210 , and may detect a magnitude of pressure by using the strain gauge 150 and the pressure detector 250 .

[0304] The strain gauge 150 of the touch sensor TSM can be used as an input device for various electronic devices including the display device 1. The strain gauge 150 can be used to replace the physical input button or can be used in combination with the physical input button. For example, the strain gauge 150 and the pressure detector 250 can be used to detect the intensity of the pressure, and a pre-programmed operation of the display device 1 can be output according to the intensity of the pressure. For example, pre-programmed functions such as locking the screen, unlocking the screen, switching a hardware element (e.g., a sensor such as a fingerprint sensor) from a non-operating state to a standby mode or a wake-up mode, switching screens, calling an application, running an application, capturing a screen, and answering a call can be performed.

[0305] Fig.49 is a plan view illustrating a sensor portion of a touch sensor and a connection relationship between the sensor portion and a controller according to another exemplary embodiment. Fig.50 yes Fig.49 An enlarged plan view of the first strain gauge, the second strain gauge, the third strain gauge and the fourth strain gauge shown in FIG. Fig.51 yes Fig.49 A magnified view of portion Qb. Fig.52 It is shown Fig.51 Schematic diagram of an example of the structure of the first layer of the sensor part shown in FIG. Fig.53 yes Fig.52 An enlarged plan view of portion Q6. Fig.54 It is shown Fig.51 Schematic diagram of an example of the structure of the second layer of the sensor portion shown in FIG. Fig.55 is along Fig.51 A cross-sectional view taken along line Xa–Xa′.

[0306] Reference Figures 49 to 51 , the touch sensor TSM_1 according to this exemplary embodiment includes a sensor part 100_1 and a controller 200 .

[0307] The sensor portion 100_1 is substantially the same as the sensor portion 100 of the touch sensor TSM, except that the former further includes a first strain gauge 150a1 and a third strain gauge 150c1. Therefore, the description will focus on the differences.

[0308] Unlike the first strain gauge 150a of the above-described sensor portion 100, the first strain gauge 150a1 further includes a first conductive pattern 152a and a second conductive pattern 154a.

[0309] Unlike the third strain gauge 150c of the above-described sensor portion 100, the third strain gauge 150c1 further includes a third conductive pattern 152c and a fourth conductive pattern 154c.

[0310] As shown in the drawings, the first conductive pattern 152a and the second conductive pattern 154a may be located in the same first layer L1a as the first resistance line 151a, and may be formed of the same material as the first resistance line 151a.

[0311] The first conductive pattern 152a may have a shape different from that of the first resistance line 151a when viewed from the top, and the second conductive pattern 154a may have a shape different from that of the second resistance line 153a when viewed from the top.

[0312] Like the first and second conductive patterns 152a and 154a, the third and fourth conductive patterns 152c and 154c may be located in the same first layer L1a as the first touch electrode 121, and may be formed of the same material as the fifth resistance line 151c.

[0313] On the base layer 110, a first area A11 and a second area A12 adjacent to the first area A11 may be defined in the first direction x. In some exemplary embodiments, the first area A11 may be pre-defined in the touch sensor TSM_1. For example, the first area A11 may be used to replace a physical input button.

[0314] The first conductive pattern 152a and the second conductive pattern 154a may be positioned in the first opening OP1 located in the first area A11 of the first electrode row RE1 and may be spaced apart from the first touch electrode 121. In some exemplary embodiments, the first conductive pattern 152a and the second conductive pattern 154a may be spaced apart from each other in the first opening OP1. The first resistance line 151a and the second resistance line 153a may be disposed in the first opening OP1 located in the second area A12 of the first electrode row RE1 different from the first area A11.

[0315] The third conductive pattern 152c and the fourth conductive pattern 154c may be disposed in the first opening OP1 located in the first area A11 of the second electrode row RE2. The third conductive pattern 152c and the fourth conductive pattern 154c may be separated from the first touch electrode 121. The third conductive pattern 152c and the fourth conductive pattern 154c may be separated from each other in the first opening OP1. The fifth resistance line 151c and the sixth resistance line 153c may be disposed in the first opening OP1 located in the second area A12 of the second electrode row RE2 different from the first area A11.

[0316] The first conductive pattern 152a and the first resistance line 151a adjacent to each other in the first direction x may be electrically connected to each other via a first connection line 155a located in the second layer L2a. In some exemplary embodiments, the first conductive pattern 152a may be connected to the first connection line 155a through a contact hole CHa1 formed in the insulating layer IL. In addition, the second conductive pattern 154a and the second resistance line 153a adjacent to each other in the first direction x may be electrically connected via a second connection line 157a located in the second layer L2a. In some exemplary embodiments, the second conductive pattern 154a may be connected to the second connection line 157a through a contact hole CHa2 formed in the insulating layer IL.

[0317] The third conductive pattern 152c may be connected to the fifth resistance line 151c via the fifth connection line 155c. The fourth conductive pattern 154c may be connected to the sixth resistance line 153c via the sixth connection line 157c. Although not shown in the drawings, a contact hole for connecting the third conductive pattern 152c with the fifth connection line 155c and a contact hole for connecting the fourth conductive pattern 154c with the sixth connection line 157c may be formed in the insulating layer IL.

[0318] In some exemplary embodiments, when the same pressure is applied, the change in length or cross-sectional area of ​​the first conductive pattern 152a may be smaller than the change in length or cross-sectional area of ​​the first resistance line 151a. That is, when the same pressure is applied, the change in resistance value of the first conductive pattern 152a may be smaller than the change in resistance value of the first resistance line 151a.

[0319] Similarly, for the same pressure, the change in the resistance value of the second conductive pattern 154a can be smaller than the change in the resistance value of the second resistance line 153a, for the same pressure, the change in the resistance value of the third conductive pattern 152c can be smaller than the change in the resistance value of the fifth resistance line 151c, and for the same pressure, the change in the resistance value of the fourth conductive pattern 154c can be smaller than the change in the resistance value of the sixth resistance line 153c.

[0320] In some exemplary embodiments, the first conductive pattern 152a and the second conductive pattern 154a may have the following structure: Fig.53 The shapes of the third conductive pattern 152c and the fourth conductive pattern 154c may be substantially the same as the shapes of the first conductive pattern 152a and the second conductive pattern 154a.

[0321] When a user's touch input is performed on the first area A11, the resistance value of the first strain gauge 150a1 and / or the resistance value of the third strain gauge 150c1 changes according to the strength of the touch input. In addition, as the user's temperature changes, the resistance value of the first strain gauge 150a1 and / or the resistance value of the third strain gauge 150c1 will change. Therefore, for the first strain gauge 150a1, the change in the resistance value of the first strain gauge 150a1 may include a component that changes with the shape change during the touch pressure (hereinafter referred to as the pressure resistant component) and a component that changes based on the change in temperature (hereinafter referred to as the temperature resistant component). The temperature resistant component is independent of the magnitude of the touch pressure and therefore acts as noise during pressure detection.

[0322] According to this exemplary embodiment, the first strain gauge 150a1 includes the first conductive pattern 152a and the second conductive pattern 154a located in the first area A11, and the third strain gauge 150c1 includes the third conductive pattern 152c and the fourth conductive pattern 154c located in the first area A11. Therefore, when the user's touch input is performed in the first area A11, the resistance values ​​of the first conductive pattern 152a and the second conductive pattern 154a do not substantially change, and the resistance values ​​of the third conductive pattern 152c and the fourth conductive pattern 154c do not substantially change. Heat generated by the temperature of the user is transferred from the first conductive pattern 152a and the second conductive pattern 154a to the first resistance line 151a and the second resistance line 153a, and is transferred from the third conductive pattern 152c and the fourth conductive pattern 154c to the fifth resistance line 151c and the sixth resistance line 153c. Therefore, based on the temperature change, a change in resistance value occurs in the first strain gauge 150a1 and the third strain gauge 150c1.

[0323] That is, when a touch input is performed, in the first strain gauge 150a1 and the third strain gauge 150c1, the resistance value does not substantially change due to the strength of the touch input, but the resistance value changes due to a temperature change. In addition, when a touch input is performed in the first area A11, in the second strain gauge 150b and the fourth strain gauge 150d, the resistance value changes due to a shape change, and the resistance value changes due to a temperature change. Therefore, by utilizing the change in the resistance value caused by the temperature change in the first strain gauge 150a1 and the third strain gauge 150c1, the component of the temperature change in the change in the resistance value of the second strain gauge 150b and the fourth strain gauge 150d can be compensated.

[0324] According to some modifications, the structure of the touch sensor TSM_1 (especially the positions of the first conductive pattern 152a, the second conductive pattern 154a, the third conductive pattern 152c, and the fourth conductive pattern 154c) may be changed.

[0325] Fig.56 It shows that according to Fig.52 An example of a modified structure of the first layer is shown in FIG. Fig.57 It shows that according to Fig.54 Schematic diagram of the structure of the second layer of the modification of the example shown in FIG.

[0326] Reference Fig.56 and Fig.57 , in some modifications, with Figures 49 to 51 Unlike the example shown in FIG. 1 , the first conductive pattern 152a, the second conductive pattern 154a, the third conductive pattern 152c, and the fourth conductive pattern 152c may be located in a different layer from the first touch electrode 121. For example, the first touch electrode 121 may be located in the first layer L1a_1, and the first conductive pattern 152a, the second conductive pattern 154a, the third conductive pattern 152c, and the fourth conductive pattern 154c may be located in the same second layer L2a_1 as the first connection line 155a and the second connection line 157a.

[0327] Fig.58 It shows that according to Fig.52 2 is a diagram of the structure of the first layer of another modification of the example shown in FIG. Fig.59 It shows that according to Fig.54 2 is a diagram of the structure of the second layer of another modification of the example shown in FIG.

[0328] Reference Fig.58 and Fig.59 ,and Figures 49 to 51 Unlike the example shown in FIG. 1 , in some other modifications, the first conductive pattern 152a and the third conductive pattern 152c (see FIG. 154 ) are Fig.50) may be located in the same first layer L1a_2 as the first touch electrode 121, and the second conductive pattern 154a and the fourth conductive pattern 154c (see Fig.50 ) may be located in the same second layer L2a_2 as the first connection line 155a and the second connection line 157a. In the accompanying drawings, when viewed from the top, the first conductive pattern 152a and the second resistance line 154a do not overlap each other. However, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The first conductive pattern 152a and the second conductive pattern 154a are located in different layers, so the first conductive pattern 152a and the second conductive pattern 154a may overlap each other. The third conductive pattern 152c may be modified similarly to the relationship between the first conductive pattern 152a and the second conductive pattern 154a (see Fig.50 ) and the fourth conductive pattern 154c (see Fig.50 ) between them.

[0329] In the touch sensor and the display device including the touch sensor according to the above exemplary embodiments, since the strain gauge is located in the touch sensor, the magnitude of the pressure can be detected even without a separate pressure sensor. In addition, the strain gauge can be manufactured together during the process of manufacturing the touch electrode and the connection part, and the thickness of the touch sensor is not increased even if the strain gauge is added. In addition, since the strain gauge can be used to replace the physical input button or can be used in combination with the physical input button, various user interfaces can be provided to the user.

[0330] In addition, the touch sensor can eliminate noise introduced from a display panel or the like, and thus can improve touch sensitivity.

[0331] In addition, according to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the touch sensor may compensate for a resistance change due to temperature, and thus may improve detection sensitivity of touch pressure.

[0332] However, the effects of the embodiments are not limited to the effects set forth herein. The above and other effects of the embodiments will become more apparent to those skilled in the art by referring to the claims.

Claims

1. A touch sensor, comprising: Base layer; first electrode members arranged on the base layer in a first direction and spaced apart from each other in a second direction intersecting the first direction, each of the first electrode members including a first opening and a plurality of first touch electrodes electrically connected to each other in the first direction; second electrode members arranged on the base layer in the second direction and spaced apart from each other in the first direction, each of the second electrode members comprising a second opening and a plurality of second touch electrodes electrically connected to each other in the second direction intersecting the first direction; a first strain gauge including a portion located in the first opening and disposed in a first electrode row among the electrode rows of the first electrode member; a second strain gauge including a portion located in the second opening and disposed in a first row among the rows of the plurality of second touch electrodes; a first signal line connected to one end of the first strain gauge; a second signal line connected to the other end of the first strain gauge and separated from the first signal line; a third signal line connected to one end of the second strain gauge and the second signal line; as well as a fourth signal line connected to the other end of the second strain gauge and separated from the third signal line, Wherein, the first strain gauge and the second strain gauge are electrically insulated from the first electrode member and the second electrode member.

2. The touch sensor according to claim 1, wherein: The first strain gauge includes: a plurality of first resistance wires electrically connected to each other in the first direction; and a plurality of second resistance wires electrically connected to each other in the first direction, and Each of the plurality of first resistance lines and each of the plurality of second resistance lines are located in the first opening in the first electrode row and are separated from each other in the first opening.

3. The touch sensor according to claim 2, wherein: The first electrode member further includes a first connection portion, each of which connects two first touch electrodes adjacent to each other in the first direction among the plurality of first touch electrodes, and the second electrode member further includes a second connection portion, each of which connects two second touch electrodes adjacent to each other in the second direction among the plurality of second touch electrodes, and the second connection portion is insulated from the first connection portion, Among them, the multiple first touch electrodes, the multiple second touch electrodes, the multiple first resistance lines and the multiple second resistance lines are located in the same first layer, one of the first connection part and the second connection part is located in a second layer different from the first layer, and the other of the first connection part and the second connection part is located in the first layer.

4. The touch sensor according to claim 3, wherein: The first strain gauge includes: first connecting lines, each of the first connecting lines connecting two first resistance lines among the multiple first resistance lines that are adjacent to each other in the first direction; and second connecting lines, each of the second connecting lines connecting two second resistance lines among the multiple second resistance lines that are adjacent to each other in the first direction, and wherein the first connecting lines and the second connecting lines are located in the second layer.

5. The touch sensor according to claim 4, wherein: The first strain gauge further includes a first connection pattern connected to the plurality of first resistance lines and the plurality of second resistance lines and located in the same layer as the plurality of first resistance lines or the plurality of second resistance lines, and The first connection pattern is located in the outermost first opening of the first electrode row among the first openings.

6. The touch sensor according to claim 4, further comprising: An insulating layer is arranged on the base layer, wherein the first connecting line and the second connecting line are arranged on the base layer, wherein the insulating layer is arranged on the first connecting line and the second connecting line, and wherein the plurality of first touch electrodes, the plurality of second touch electrodes, the plurality of first resistance lines, and the plurality of second resistance lines are arranged on the insulating layer.

7. The touch sensor according to claim 6, wherein: The base layer includes a first encapsulation inorganic layer, an encapsulation organic layer disposed on the first encapsulation inorganic layer, and a second encapsulation inorganic layer disposed on the encapsulation organic layer, and wherein the first connection line and the second connection line are disposed on the second encapsulation inorganic layer.

8. The touch sensor according to claim 2, wherein: The first electrode member further includes a first connection portion, each of the first connection portions connecting two first touch electrodes adjacent to each other in the first direction among the plurality of first touch electrodes, and the second electrode member further includes a second connection portion, each of the second connection portions connecting two second touch electrodes adjacent to each other in the second direction among the plurality of second touch electrodes, and the second connection portion is insulated from the first connection portion, wherein the plurality of first touch electrodes, the plurality of second touch electrodes and the plurality of first resistance lines are located in the same first layer, one of the first connection portion and the second connection portion is located in a second layer different from the first layer, and the other of the first connection portion and the second connection portion is located in the first layer, and the plurality of second resistance lines are located in the second layer.

9. The touch sensor according to claim 2, wherein: The first electrode member further includes a first connection portion, each of the first connection portions connecting two first touch electrodes adjacent to each other in the first direction among the plurality of first touch electrodes, and the second electrode member further includes a second connection portion, each of the second connection portions connecting two second touch electrodes adjacent to each other in the second direction among the plurality of second touch electrodes, and the second connection portion is insulated from the first connection portion, wherein the plurality of first touch electrodes and the plurality of second touch electrodes are located in the same first layer, one of the first connection portion and the second connection portion is located in a second layer different from the first layer, and the other of the first connection portion and the second connection portion is located in the first layer, and the plurality of first resistance lines and the plurality of second resistance lines are located in the second layer.

10. The touch sensor according to claim 2, wherein: The second strain gauge includes: a plurality of third resistance wires electrically connected to each other in the first direction; and a plurality of fourth resistance wires electrically connected to each other in the first direction; third connecting wires, each of the third connecting wires connecting two third resistance wires among the plurality of third resistance wires that are adjacent to each other in the first direction; and fourth connecting wires, each of the fourth connecting wires connecting two fourth resistance wires among the plurality of fourth resistance wires that are adjacent to each other in the first direction, wherein each of the plurality of third resistance wires and each of the plurality of fourth resistance wires are located in the second opening in the first row and are separated from each other in the second opening.

11. The touch sensor according to claim 10, wherein: An area of ​​the second opening is greater than an area of ​​the first opening.

12. The touch sensor according to claim 2, further comprising: a third strain gauge located in a second electrode row adjacent to the first electrode row in the second direction among the electrode rows of the first electrode member and including a portion located in the first opening in the second electrode row; and a fourth strain gauge located in a second row of the rows of the second touch electrodes that is adjacent to the first row in the second direction and includes a portion of the second row that is located in the second opening, wherein the first row is located between the first electrode row and the second electrode row along the second direction and the second electrode row is located between the first row and the second row along the second direction.

13. The touch sensor according to claim 12, further comprising: a fifth signal line connected to one end of the third strain gauge and the fourth signal line; a sixth signal line connected to the other end of the third strain gauge; a seventh signal line connected to one end of the fourth strain gauge and the sixth signal line; and an eighth signal line connected to the other end of the fourth strain gauge.

14. The touch sensor according to claim 13, wherein: A sensing area provided with the first electrode member and the second electrode member and a peripheral area around the sensing area are defined in the base layer, wherein the third signal line is connected to the second signal line in the peripheral area, the fifth signal line is connected to the fourth signal line in the peripheral area, and the seventh signal line is connected to the sixth signal line in the peripheral area.

15. The touch sensor according to claim 13, further comprising: A Wheatstone bridge circuit, comprising a first node to which a driving voltage is applied, a second node to which a reference voltage is applied, a first output node and a second output node, wherein the first signal line and the eighth signal line are electrically connected to the first node, the third signal line is electrically connected to the second output node, the fifth signal line is electrically connected to the second node, and the seventh signal line is electrically connected to the first output node.

16. The touch sensor according to claim 2, wherein: The base layer includes a first region and a second region adjacent to the first region in the first direction, wherein the first strain gauge also includes: a first conductive pattern electrically connected to the plurality of first resistance wires in the first direction and having a shape different from that of the plurality of first resistance wires; and a second conductive pattern connected to the plurality of second resistance wires in the first direction and having a shape different from that of the plurality of second resistance wires, wherein the first conductive pattern and the second conductive pattern are located in the first opening in the first region and are separated from each other, and wherein the plurality of first resistance wires and the plurality of second resistance wires are located in the first opening in the second region.

17. The touch sensor according to claim 16, wherein: The first conductive pattern and the second conductive pattern have a mesh structure.

18. The touch sensor according to claim 1, further comprising a dummy pattern located in a different area than the second strain gauge, wherein: The dummy pattern is disposed in the second opening located in the different area among the second openings and is separated from the plurality of second touch electrodes, and wherein the plurality of first touch electrodes, the plurality of second touch electrodes and the dummy pattern are located in the same first layer, and the plurality of first touch electrodes and the plurality of second touch electrodes are made of the same material.

19. The touch sensor according to claim 1, further comprising: A plurality of noise sensing electrodes are located in a different region than the first strain gauge and are electrically connected to each other in the first direction, wherein each of the plurality of noise sensing electrodes is located in the first opening in the different region and is separated from the plurality of first touch electrodes.

20. The touch sensor according to claim 19, further comprising: A controller is configured to cancel noise in a signal sensed by the first electrode member based on noise signals sensed by the plurality of noise sensing electrodes.

21. A touch sensor, comprising: Base layer; A plurality of touch electrodes are provided on the base layer, arranged in a first direction and each having an opening; as well as A strain gauge, comprising: a plurality of first resistance lines electrically connected to each other in the first direction; a plurality of second resistance lines electrically connected to each other in the first direction; and a connection pattern connecting one of the plurality of first resistance lines to a corresponding one of the plurality of second resistance lines, wherein each of the plurality of first resistance lines is located in the opening and is separated from the touch electrode, and each of the plurality of second resistance lines is located in the opening and is separated from the touch electrode and the plurality of first resistance lines, and Wherein, the strain gauge is electrically insulated from the plurality of touch electrodes.

22. The touch sensor according to claim 21, wherein: The plurality of first resistance lines or the plurality of second resistance lines are located in the same layer as the plurality of touch electrodes and are made of the same material as the touch electrodes.

23. The touch sensor according to claim 21, wherein: The plurality of first resistance lines and the plurality of second resistance lines are located in a different layer from the plurality of touch electrodes.

24. The touch sensor according to claim 21, further comprising: A noise sensing electrode is located in a different region than the strain gauge, wherein the noise sensing electrode is located in the opening in the different region and is separated from the plurality of touch electrodes.

25. The touch sensor according to claim 24, wherein: The noise sensing electrode is located in the same layer as the plurality of touch electrodes and is made of the same material as the plurality of touch electrodes.

26. A display device, comprising: base substrate; A light emitting diode is arranged on the base substrate; A thin film encapsulation layer is disposed on the light emitting diode; A touch electrode, disposed on the thin film encapsulation layer and comprising an opening; as well as A strain gauge, wherein the strain gauge comprises: a first resistance line and a second resistance line, which are located in the opening and separated from the touch electrode; a first connection line, which is connected to the first resistance line and is located in a layer different from the touch electrode; a second connection line, which is connected to the second resistance line, is separated from the first connection line, and is located in the same layer as the first connection line; and a connection pattern, which is connected to the first resistance line and the second resistance line, and is located in the same layer as the touch electrode or the first connection line. Wherein, the strain gauge is electrically insulated from the touch electrode.

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