Sensor device

Abstract

The sensor device of the embodiment includes: an electrostatic capacitance touch panel having a plurality of electrodes; an input device configured such that a resonance circuit including a first conductor and a second conductor is covered by a non-conductor; and a sensor controller that controls the touch panel. When the input device is arranged on the touch panel or when the input device arranged on the touch panel is operated, each of the first conductor and the second conductor is capacitively coupled with at least one of the plurality of electrodes of the touch panel. The sensor controller applies a voltage to each of the plurality of electrodes of the touch panel based on the resonance frequency of the resonance circuit, thereby detecting the position of the first conductor and the second conductor on the touch panel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a sensor device. Background Art

[0002] Generally, as an interface of a display device, a sensor (for example, a touch panel) that detects contact or proximity of an object such as a finger is put to practical use.

[0003] In recent years, it has been disclosed that an input device is arranged (mounted) on a touch panel for use.

[0004] In this case, the user can operate the input device arranged on the touch panel, but the user's operation of the input device needs to be detected with high accuracy.

[0005] Prior art literature

[0006] Patent Literature

[0007] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2017 / 094234 Summary of the invention

[0008] Technical problem to be solved by the invention

[0009] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a sensor device capable of detecting a user's operation with high accuracy.

[0010] Technical solutions for solving technical problems

[0011] The sensor device of the embodiment includes: an electrostatic capacitance touch panel having a plurality of electrodes; an input device configured such that a resonance circuit including a first conductor and a second conductor is covered by a non-conductor; and a sensor controller that controls the touch panel. When the input device is arranged on the touch panel or when the input device arranged on the touch panel is operated, each of the first conductor and the second conductor is capacitively coupled with at least one of the plurality of electrodes of the touch panel. The sensor controller detects the position of the first conductor and the second conductor on the touch panel by applying a voltage to each of the plurality of electrodes of the touch panel based on the resonance frequency of the resonance circuit. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Figure 1 It is a perspective view showing an example of the appearance of the sensor device according to the embodiment.

[0013] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a sensor device.

[0014] Figure 3FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a cross-sectional structure of a display device equipped with a sensor device.

[0015] Figure 4 It is a diagram showing an example of a planar structure of an input device.

[0016] Figure 5 This is a diagram for explaining an example of the circuit configuration of a resonance circuit provided inside the input device.

[0017] Figure 6 This is a diagram for explaining the basic principle of a touch detection operation using a resonance circuit.

[0018] Figure 7 : is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between each voltage and the detection value output from the detector during the touch detection operation.

[0019] Figure 8 : is a diagram showing an example of detection values ​​of a touch detection operation.

[0020] Fig. 9 This is a diagram for explaining a case where a user's finger is located at a position facing a driving electrode.

[0021] Fig.10 This is a diagram for explaining a case where a user's finger is located at a position facing a driving electrode.

[0022] Fig.11 It is a diagram showing a state in which electric charges are accumulated in the driving electrode system.

[0023] Fig.12 It is a diagram showing a state in which electric charges are accumulated in the detector system.

[0024] Fig.13 This is a diagram for explaining the difference in detection values ​​when the drive electrode is driven at a non-resonant frequency and a resonant frequency.

[0025] Fig.14 : is a flowchart showing an example of the first process of the sensor controller.

[0026] Fig.15 This is a diagram for explaining that a display writing operation and a touch detection operation are performed in a time-sharing manner.

[0027] Fig.16 : is a flowchart showing an example of the second process of the sensor controller.

[0028] Fig.17 : is a flowchart showing an example of the third process of the sensor controller.

[0029] Fig.18: is a flowchart showing an example of the fourth process of the sensor controller.

[0030] Fig.19 : is a flowchart showing an example of the fifth process of the sensor controller.

[0031] Fig. 20 : is a flowchart showing an example of the fifth process of the sensor controller.

[0032] Fig.21 : is a flowchart showing an example of the sixth process of the sensor controller.

[0033] Fig. 22 It is a diagram showing a planar structure of another example of the input device.

[0034] Fig.23 This is a diagram showing an example of a planar structure of another example of the input device.

[0035] Fig.24 It is a diagram showing another example of the resonance circuit provided inside the input device.

[0036] Fig.25 This is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a sensor device according to the second embodiment.

[0037] Fig.26 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a cross-sectional structure of a display device equipped with a sensor device.

[0038] Fig. 27 This is a diagram for explaining the basic principle of a touch detection operation using a resonance circuit.

[0039] Fig.28 This is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between each voltage during the touch detection operation, the detection value output from the detector, and the state of the switch.

[0040] Fig.29 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of detection values ​​in a touch detection operation.

[0041] Fig.30 This is a diagram for explaining a case where the position of the input device cannot be detected.

[0042] Fig.31 This is a diagram for explaining a case where the position of the input device cannot be detected.

[0043] Fig.32 It is a diagram showing an example of a planar structure of an input device.

[0044] Fig.33 This is a diagram for explaining the positional relationship between a conductor, a driving electrode, and a detecting electrode included in the input device.

[0045] Fig.34 This is a diagram for explaining the positional relationship between a conductor, a driving electrode, and a detecting electrode included in the input device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] Below, while referring to the attached Figure 1 The present embodiment is described while the following description is given. It should be noted that the disclosure is only an example, and the contents that can be easily thought of by a person skilled in the art regarding appropriate changes to the main purpose of protecting the invention are of course included in the scope of the present invention. In addition, in order to make the description clearer, the drawings sometimes schematically show the width, thickness, shape, etc. of each part compared to the actual form, but it is ultimately an example and does not limit the interpretation of the present invention. In addition, in this specification and the drawings, the same figure numbers are marked for the constituent elements that perform the same or similar functions as those described above in the drawings that have already appeared, and repeated detailed descriptions are sometimes appropriately omitted.

[0047] Figure 1 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the appearance of the sensor device of the present embodiment. The sensor device 1 of the present embodiment includes a capacitive touch panel 2 as a sensor capable of detecting contact or approach of an object such as a finger (hereinafter referred to as touch detection).

[0048] As an electrostatic capacitance type touch panel 2, for example, there are touch panels that perform self-electrostatic capacitance (Self) touch detection and mutual electrostatic capacitance (Mutual) touch detection. In this embodiment, the case of using a touch panel 2 that performs self-electrostatic capacitance touch detection (hereinafter referred to as a self-electrostatic capacitance touch panel 2) is described.

[0049] It should be noted that although Figure 1 Although not shown in the figure, the touch panel 2 is mounted on a display device (display panel), for example. In this case, the touch panel 2 can be formed on the display surface of the display device, or can be configured to be integrated with the display device. The display device is, for example, a liquid crystal display device using a liquid crystal layer, but can also be an organic electroluminescence (EL: Electro Luminescence) display device using an organic light-emitting layer or an LED display device using an LED (Light Emitting Diode: Light Emitting Diode).

[0050] The sensor device 1 of the present embodiment further includes an input device that is arranged (mounted) on the touch panel 2. The input device of the present embodiment includes, for example, input devices 3a to 3d.

[0051] The input device 3 a is, for example, an input device configured as a knob that is rotatable around a rotation axis. The user can place the input device 3 a (knob) on the touch panel 2 to rotate the input device 3 a.

[0052] The input device 3 b is an input device configured as a handle that is rotatable around a rotation axis. The user can perform an operation to rotate the input device 3 b by placing the input device 3 b (handle) on the touch panel 2 .

[0053] The input device 3c is configured as a button that can switch between a pressed state (first state) and a non-pressed state (second state). The user can place the input device 3c (button) on the touch panel 2 to press the input device 3c.

[0054] The input device 3d is an input device that includes a member (first member) that is extended in at least one direction and a member (second member) that is slidable along the member. The user can slide the second member of the input device 3d relative to the first member by placing the input device 3d (slider) on the touch panel 2.

[0055] exist Figure 1 In the example shown, input devices 3a to 3d are arranged on the touch panel 2, but it is sufficient if at least one of the input devices 3a to 3d is arranged on the touch panel 2. In addition, although the input devices 3a to 3d are described here, the input device of this embodiment can be any component arranged (installed) on the touch panel 2 for use, such as a joystick, a jog dial (wheel), etc.

[0056] Figure 2 An example of the configuration of the sensor device 1 according to this embodiment is shown. Figure 2 As shown, the sensor device 1 includes a touch panel 2 , an input device 3 , and a sensor controller 4 .

[0057] As described above, the touch panel 2 is a self-capacitive touch panel, and is provided with a plurality of transparent electrodes (hereinafter referred to as drive electrodes) 21. The plurality of drive electrodes 21 are arranged in a matrix in a touch detection area 2a for detecting contact or approach of an object to the touch panel 2. Specifically, the plurality of drive electrodes 21 are arranged, for example, in a first direction X, and are also arranged in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction X. It should be noted that the touch detection area 2a is, for example, an area that coincides with the display area of ​​a display device equipped with the touch panel 2. The plurality of drive electrodes 21 are connected to the sensor controller 4 via wiring.

[0058] The input device 3 is arranged on the touch panel 2. The input device 3 is Figure 1 At least one of the input devices 3a to 3d shown in the figure may be used. In the following description, it is mainly described that the input device 3 arranged on the touch panel 2 is the above-mentioned input device 3a (knob).

[0059] It should be noted that the input device 3 is arranged on the touch panel 2, but for convenience, the area 2b where the input device 3 is arranged in the touch detection area 2a (that is, the area overlapping with the input device 3) is called the input device area (first area). On the other hand, for convenience, the area 2c other than the input device area 2b in the touch detection area 2a is called the input device outside area (second area).

[0060] The sensor controller 4 detects the user's operation on the input device 3 by applying a predetermined voltage (drive signal COM) to each of the plurality of drive electrodes 21. In addition, the sensor controller 4 can also detect, for example, the user's finger contacting or approaching the input device outer area 2c (that is, the user's operation performed by the finger). It should be noted that in this embodiment, the operation is described as being performed by the user's finger in addition to the input device 3, but the operation can also be performed using other objects such as a pen instead of the user's finger.

[0061] The detection result by the sensor controller 4 is output to, for example, an external host device 10. In the host device 10, a process corresponding to the detection result (user operation) is executed.

[0062] It should be noted that a plurality of pixels (not shown) are arranged in a matrix in the display area of ​​the display device equipped with the touch panel 2. Each of the plurality of pixels includes a pixel switch (TFT: Thin Film Transistor) and a pixel electrode. The sensor controller 4 is connected to the gate drive circuit 5, etc., and supplies a gate control signal to the pixel switch (gate electrode) included in each of the plurality of pixels via the gate drive circuit 5. Thus, the sensor controller 4 writes an image signal, for example, output from the host device 10, to each of the plurality of pixels via the signal line, and displays an image in the display area of ​​the display device.

[0063] That is, in this embodiment, the sensor controller 4 functions as a display and touch detection IC (driving unit), and performs the action of displaying an image on the display device (display area) and detecting the position of an object on the touch panel 2 (that is, detecting the user's operation). In the following description, for convenience, the action of displaying an image on the display device (first action) is referred to as a display writing action. In addition, in the following description, for convenience, the action of detecting the position of an object on the touch panel 2 (second action) is referred to as a touch detection action.

[0064] It should be noted that each of the plurality of driving electrodes 21 described above may also be used as an electrode for image display (common electrode).

[0065] Figure 3 An example of a cross-sectional structure of a display device DSP equipped with the sensor device 1 is shown. The display device DSP includes a display panel PNL and an illumination device IL. In one example, the display panel PNL is a liquid crystal display panel, for example, and includes a first substrate SUB1, a second substrate SUB2, and a liquid crystal layer LC.

[0066] The first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2 are bonded together by a sealant SE. A liquid crystal layer LC is held between the first substrate SUB1 and the second substrate SUB2.

[0067] The display panel PNL incorporates the touch panel 2 of the sensor device 1. That is, the first substrate SUB1 includes a driving electrode (common electrode) 21 and pixel electrodes PE of the touch panel 2. For example, one driving electrode 21 faces a plurality of pixel electrodes PE.

[0068] The optical element OD1 including the polarizing plate PL1 is located between the first substrate SUB1 and the lighting device IL and is bonded to the first substrate SUB1. The optical element OD2 including the polarizing plate PL2 is located between the second substrate SUB2 and the cover member CV (cover glass) and is bonded to the second substrate SUB2. The cover member CV is bonded to the optical element OD2 by a transparent adhesive AD.

[0069] It should be noted that although Figure 3 Although not shown in the figure, the sensor controller 4 is arranged on the first substrate SUB1, for example, and is connected to the host device 10 via a flexible wiring substrate or the like connected to the first substrate SUB1.

[0070] The input device 3 is provided (arranged) on the surface CVa of the cover member CV. In the present embodiment, the input device 3 includes two conductors (a first conductor and a second conductor) 31a and 31b, and the conductors 31a and 31b are configured to be covered by the non-conductor 32. When the input device 3 is arranged on the touch panel 2, the conductors 31a and 31b are, for example, in contact with the touch panel 2 (cover member CV). That is, when the input device 3 is arranged on the touch panel 2, the touch panel 2 (sensor controller 4) can detect contact or proximity (that is, touch) based on the conductors 31a and 31b included in the input device 3.

[0071] It should be noted that in Figure 3 In the embodiment, it is assumed that the input device 3 is the input device 3a described above, and the non-conductor 32 is formed in the shape of a knob. In this case, the input device 3 is formed in the shape of a cylinder extending along the rotation axis O. In addition, the conductors 31a and 31b are held by the non-conductor 32 formed in the shape of a knob, and are arranged on a part of a circle centered on the rotation axis O.

[0072] In addition, the input device 3 has Figure 3 The fixed body 33 shown is arranged (mounted) on the touch panel 2 (surface CVa) via the fixed body 33 .

[0073] Although in Figure 3 The display device DSP is shown as an in-cell type in which the touch panel 2 is built into the display panel PNL. The display device DSP can also be an out-cell type or an on-cell type in which the touch panel 2 is arranged to overlap with the display panel PNL.

[0074] When the input device 3 is arranged on the touch panel 2 as described above, for example, the user's operation corresponding to the position of the conductors 31a and 31b on the touch panel 2 that changes by rotating the input device 3 (knob) is detected. Specifically, for example, when the position of the conductor 31a (or 31b) on the touch panel 2 moves from a first position to a second position, the touch panel 2 (sensor controller 4) can detect the operation of rotating the input device 3 so that the position of the conductor 31a on the touch panel 2 moves from the first position to the second position.

[0075] Here, the input device 3 of this embodiment is sometimes operated directly by the user's fingers (that is, bare hands), but it is also assumed that it is operated by non-conductive materials such as gloves. It is cumbersome to perform different actions (touch detection actions) when operating directly with fingers and when operating with gloves, etc., so in this embodiment, it is assumed that the above-mentioned conductors 31a and 31b are not electrically connected to the outside of the input device 3.

[0076] However, the user's operation of the input device 3 (that is, the position of the conductors 31a and 31b on the touch panel 2) is detected based on the change in the self-electrostatic capacitance of the driving electrode 21 when the conductors 31a and 31b are in contact with or close to the touch panel 2. Then, as described above, when the conductors 31a and 31b are not electrically connected to the outside, the detection value (sensor signal) for the conductors 31a and 31b becomes smaller, thereby becoming a major factor in false detection.

[0077] Therefore, in this embodiment, a resonance circuit including the conductors 31 a and 31 b is formed inside the input device 3 , and a touch detection operation is performed based on a potential change caused by resonance generated by electric field coupling.

[0078] It should be noted that Figure 4 An example of a planar structure of the input device 3 (input device 3a) is shown. Figure 4 As shown, a resonance circuit (LC circuit) including conductors 31a and 31b, an inductor L, and a capacitor C is provided inside the input device 3 (non-conductor 32) of the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, when the input device 3 is arranged on the touch panel 2, the conductors 31a and 31b are capacitively coupled with the drive electrodes 21 arranged at positions opposite to the conductors 31a and 31b.

[0079] Next, refer to Figure 5 An example of the circuit configuration of the resonance circuit provided inside the input device 3 will be described.

[0080] like Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , the conductors 31 a and 31 b provided in the input device 3 function as a capacitive coupling unit that performs capacitive coupling with the drive electrode 21 of the touch panel 2 when a voltage is applied to the drive electrode 21. Figure 5 In the example shown, the sizes of the capacitive coupling parts (areas of the conductors 31a and 31b in contact with or close to the touch panel 2) are different, but the sizes of the capacitive coupling parts may be the same.

[0081] In addition, in the resonance circuit provided in the input device 3, the inductor L and the capacitor C are connected in parallel between the conductors 31a and 31b. Figure 5 In the resonance circuit shown, a resistor R is also provided.

[0082] In this embodiment, such a resonant circuit is used to detect, for example, a change (movement) in the position of the capacitive coupling portion relative to the touch detection area 2a (driving electrode 21) when the user operates the input device 3. It should be noted that a change in the area (that is, the contact area) of the capacitive coupling portion may also be detected.

[0083] Below, refer to Figure 6 The basic principle of the touch detection operation using the resonance circuit provided inside the input device 3 is described. Figure 6 The resistor R is omitted from the resonant circuit shown.

[0084] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the touch detection (action) is performed by the self-electrostatic capacitance method. Figure 6 As shown, the driving electrode 21 is alternately connected to a prescribed voltage Vdd and a detector 23 via a switch 22 (that is, the connection is switched).

[0085] exist Figure 6 , the operation of the resonant circuit when a voltage is applied to the drive electrode 21 disposed at a position opposite to the conductor 31b is described. In this case, the voltage of the conductor 31a (capacitive coupling portion) is set to V1, the voltage of the conductor 31b (capacitive coupling portion) is set to V2, and the voltage of the drive electrode 21 is set to V3. In this embodiment, each of the plurality of drive electrodes 21 is driven sequentially, so when a voltage is applied to the drive electrode 21 disposed at a position opposite to the conductor 31b, the conductor 31a is connected to GND.

[0086] It should be noted that in such a resonant circuit, for example, when one of the drive electrodes 21 disposed at a position opposite to the capacitive coupling portion (conductors 31a and 31b) is used as a reference, resonance occurs when the other vibrates at a resonant frequency. When resonance occurs in the resonant circuit, the conductors 31a and 31b resonate in anti-phase.

[0087] In addition, if Figure 6 As shown, the capacitance (electrostatic capacitance) between the conductor 31a and the electrode on the touch panel 2 side is set to C1, the capacitance of the capacitor C included in the resonance circuit is set to C2, and the capacitance between the conductor 31b and the drive electrode 21 arranged at a position opposite to the conductor 31b is set to C3. The capacitance on the detector 23 side is also set to C4.

[0088] Here, Figure 7 An example of the relationship between the voltages V1 to V3 in the above-described touch detection operation and the detection value (output) output from the detector 23 is shown.

[0089] At the moment when the switch 22 is switched to Vdd at time t1 of the touch detection operation, current does not flow through the inductor L of the resonance circuit, and thus a potential difference is generated between V1 and V2 due to the capacitance distribution of the GND-C1-C2-C3-Vdd system.

[0090] Next, since a potential difference is generated between V1 and V2, a current starts to flow through the inductor L during a period from time t1 to time t2 (that is, resonance starts at a resonance frequency determined by the inductor L and the capacitor C).

[0091] It should be noted that at time t2 (that is, half the period of the resonance), the direction of the voltage between V2 and V1 becomes opposite to that at time t1.

[0092] When the switch 22 is switched from Vdd to the detector 23 side at time t2, the potential of the drive electrode 21 disposed at a position opposite to the conductor 31b drops to GND, and thus a potential difference is generated between V1 and V2 by capacitance distribution in the same manner as when the switch 22 is switched to Vdd at time t1. It should be noted that the potential difference generated at this time is a potential difference opposite to that at time t1. In the resonant circuit of this embodiment, since the two overlap, the potential difference between V1 and V2 becomes larger.

[0093] It should be noted that, in the detector 23, at the moment when the switch 22 is switched to the detector 23 side at time t2, the charge already charged to the drive electrode 21 system is charged to C4. It should be noted that the potential on the output side of the detector 23 becomes negative. During the period from time t2 to t3, V2 gradually increases, so the charge is further charged to C4. It should be noted that Figure 7 The period from time t2 to time t3 shown corresponds to the detection period of touch detection.

[0094] like Figure 8 As shown, by repeating the above-mentioned operation, the amplitude of the resonance in the resonance circuit increases, and the charge charged to the detector 23 in each detection period increases.

[0095] Here, the case where a voltage is applied to the drive electrode 21 facing the conductor 31 b based on the resonance frequency (that is, the drive electrode 21 is driven at the resonance frequency) is described, but the same operation is performed when a voltage is applied to the drive electrode 21 facing the conductor 31 a.

[0096] Next, refer to Fig. 9 and Fig.10 The following briefly describes the case where the user's finger is located at a position opposite to the drive electrode 21 (that is, the drive electrode 21 and GND have capacitance). Fig. 9 and Fig.10 In the above Figure 6 to Figure 8 The same parts are marked with the same reference numerals.

[0097] exist Fig.10 When the switch 22 is connected to the Vdd side at time t1 shown, the electric charge is charged to the driving electrode 21 system during the period from time t1 to time t2. Fig.11 The state in which the charge q is accumulated in C3 (A system) when the switch 22 is connected to Vdd is shown.

[0098] Next, at time t2, when switch 22 is connected to detector 23, the potential of drive electrode 21 system becomes GND due to virtual short circuit. At this time, since there is no potential difference, there is no charge in C3. Therefore, the charged charge q is charged to C4, and a potential difference is generated at both ends of C4. It should be noted that Fig.12 The state in which the charge q is accumulated in C4 (B system) when the switch 22 is connected to the detector 23 is shown.

[0099] When the driving electrode 21 and GND have capacitance, negative charges are pre-charged by repeating the above-mentioned operation.

[0100] It should be noted that, when the capacitive coupling portion that performs capacitive coupling with the driving electrode 21 is not GND, if a potential difference is generated between both ends of C3, electric charges are also charged in the same manner.

[0101] That is, for example, even if the input device 3 is not provided with a resonance circuit and the input device 3 has only a conductor structure, electric charge can be charged, but the detection value in this case is small.

[0102] On the other hand, in the present embodiment, as described above, by providing a configuration in which a resonance circuit including the conductors 31 a and 31 b is provided inside the input device 3 , it is possible to increase the detection value.

[0103] Here, the touch panel 2 generally detects changes starting from the state when the power of the touch panel 2 is turned on (that is, when it is started). Therefore, when the input device 3 is already arranged on the touch panel 2 when the power of the touch panel 2 is turned on, the initial state of the input device 3 (that is, the initial position of the conductors 31a and 31b) cannot be detected.

[0104] However, in this embodiment, by setting the above-mentioned resonant circuit structure inside the input device 3, for example, even if the input device 3 (that is, conductors 31a and 31b) is configured in the same position, the detection value is different when the touch detection action is performed based on the non-resonant frequency and when the touch detection action is performed based on the resonant frequency.

[0105] Below, refer to Fig.13 The difference in detection value when the drive electrode 21 disposed at a position facing the conductor 31a or 31b is driven at a non-resonant frequency and a resonant frequency will be described. Fig.13 The upper half of shows the case where the driving electrode 21 is driven at a non-resonant frequency (that is, a voltage is applied to the driving electrode 21 at a non-resonant frequency). Fig.13 The lower half of exemplifies a case where the driving electrode 21 is driven at the resonance frequency (that is, a voltage is applied to the driving electrode 21 at the resonance frequency).

[0106] like Fig.13 As shown in the upper half of , when the driving electrode 21 is driven at a frequency different from the resonant frequency of the resonant circuit (input device 3) (that is, a non-resonant frequency), the resonance of the resonant circuit becomes smaller, so the detection value becomes smaller. On the other hand, when the driving electrode 21 is driven at the resonant frequency of the resonant circuit, the input device 3 side resonates and the detection value becomes larger.

[0107] It should be noted that Fig.13 The waveform of the input device 3 shown in the upper half of FIG. 1 is incorrect, but when the drive electrode 21 is driven at a non-resonant frequency, it is different from the waveform of the input device 3 shown in FIG. Fig.13 Compared with the waveform of the input device 3 when the drive electrode 21 is driven at the resonance frequency shown in the lower half, the amplitude becomes smaller.

[0108] In this embodiment, as described above, by utilizing the different detection values ​​that can be obtained in the touch detection action based on the non-resonant frequency and the touch detection action based on the resonant frequency, when the power of the touch panel 2 (the display device DSP mounted on the sensor device 1) is turned on, the initial state of the input device 3 (the initial position of the conductors 31a and 31b) is detected.

[0109] Below, refer to Fig.14 The flowchart of the sensor controller 4 is used to describe an example of the processing sequence when detecting the user's operation. Fig.14 The processing shown is performed when the power of the touch panel 2 is turned on. Fig.14 The shown process is referred to as a first process of the sensor controller 4 .

[0110] When the power of the touch panel 2 is turned on, the sensor controller 4 performs a baseline detection operation (step S1). In the baseline detection operation, a voltage is applied to each of the plurality of drive electrodes 21 of the touch panel 2 based on a non-resonant frequency (that is, each of the plurality of drive electrodes 21 is driven at a resonant frequency), so that the detection value of each drive electrode 21 is acquired as a baseline.

[0111] When executing the process of step S1, the sensor controller 4 performs a touch detection operation (step S2). In the touch detection operation, a voltage is applied to each of the plurality of drive electrodes 21 of the touch panel 2 based on the resonance frequency (that is, each of the plurality of drive electrodes 21 is driven at the resonance frequency), thereby acquiring a detection value (hereinafter referred to as a detection line) of each drive electrode 21.

[0112] Next, the sensor controller 4 calculates a difference (Diff) between the detection line acquired by executing the process of step S2 and the base line acquired by executing the process of step S1 .

[0113] Here, as described above, when the input device 3 is configured on the touch panel 2 at the point in time when the power of the touch panel 2 is turned on, the detection value that can be obtained in the baseline detection action based on the non-resonant frequency (the detection value of the driving electrode 21 configured at a position opposite to the conductors 31a and 31b) is different from the detection value that can be obtained in the touch detection action based on the resonant frequency (the detection value of the driving electrode 21 configured at a position opposite to the conductors 31a and 31b).

[0114] Therefore, in this embodiment, by calculating the difference between the detection line and the baseline as described above, the position of the drive electrode 21 that can obtain different detection values ​​when the baseline detection action is performed and when the touch detection action is performed can be detected as the position of the conductors 31a and 31b. In this case, for example, the position of the drive electrode 21 that obtains a detection value greater than a predetermined value (hereinafter referred to as a threshold) is detected. It should be noted that the positions of the conductors 31a and 31b detected in this way are represented by coordinate values ​​in the touch panel 2 (touch detection area 2a).

[0115] Here, the sensor controller 4 determines whether the difference between the detection line and the base line calculated as described above is equal to or greater than a threshold value (that is, whether the input device 3 is arranged on the touch panel 2) (step S3).

[0116] When it is determined that the difference is greater than the threshold value ("Yes" in step S3), the sensor controller 4 detects the position of the drive electrode 21 (that is, the position of the conductors 31a and 31b provided in the input device 3) that has obtained the detection value of the difference greater than the threshold value, and outputs the position (coordinate value) to, for example, the host device 10 (step S4). When the process of step S4 is executed, the process returns to step S2 and the process is repeated.

[0117] Here, the above-mentioned baseline is necessary for detecting an object in contact with or close to the touch panel 2 , but the detection value (detection line) in the touch detection operation may change due to, for example, changes in the environment, etc. Therefore, it is preferable to regularly update the baseline for comparison with the detection line.

[0118] Therefore, when it is determined in step S3 that the difference is not greater than the threshold value ("No" in step S3), the sensor controller 4 updates the baseline detected in step S1 (step S5). In this case, the sensor controller 4 sets the detection line obtained by executing the process of step S2 as the baseline. When executing the process of step S5, the process returns to the above-mentioned step S2 and the process is repeated.

[0119] It should be noted that if the detection line is set as the baseline when the input device 3 is detected, for example, when the input device 3 is not operated (that is, the positions of the conductors 31a and 31b have not changed), the same detection line as the baseline can be obtained, and the positions of the conductors 31a and 31b cannot be detected based on the difference.

[0120] Therefore, when it is determined in the above-mentioned step S3 that the difference is equal to or larger than the threshold value, the process of step S5 (that is, the updating process of the baseline) is not executed.

[0121] Here, the detection of the initial state of the input device 3 when the power of the touch panel 2 is turned on is mainly described, but for example, after executing the processing of step S21, the position (contact position) of the user's finger relative to the input device outer area 2c (area outside the input device area 2b) can also be detected.

[0122] That is, when the touch panel 2 (input device outer region 2 c ) is operated by the user's finger, the difference between the detection line and the base line becomes equal to or larger than the threshold value, and the position of the user's finger can be detected.

[0123] Therefore, in Fig.14In the first processing of the sensor controller 4 shown, step S4 is executed when at least one of the positions of the input device 3 (conductors 31a and 31b) and the user's finger is detected (that is, the difference between the detection line and the baseline is above the threshold), and step S5 is executed when neither the position of the input device 3 nor the user's finger is detected (that is, the difference between the detection line and the baseline is not above the threshold).

[0124] It should be noted that the above-mentioned first process of the sensor controller 4 is repeatedly performed until the power supply of the touch panel 2 (display device DSP on which the sensor device 1 is mounted) is turned off.

[0125] Here, in Fig.14 1 mainly describes the processing related to the touch detection operation for detecting the user's operation, but the sensor controller 4 also performs a display writing operation (an operation of displaying an image) in addition to the touch detection operation.

[0126] In this case, the sensor controller 4 can perform the display writing operation and the touch detection operation in a time-sharing manner. Fig.15 As shown, a period for performing a display writing operation (display period) and a period for performing a touch detection operation (touch detection period) are alternately provided.

[0127] It should be noted that for the convenience of Fig.15 Only three are shown in FIG. 1 , but Sig shows an image signal written to each of a plurality of pixels during display, and Gate shows a gate signal supplied to a plurality of pixels (pixel switches) to which the image signal is written during display. The image signal Sig and the gate signal Gate are supplied in display line units.

[0128] In addition, Fig.15 In the example, the first driving electrode 21 is driven during the first touch detection period, the second driving electrode 21 is driven during the second touch detection period, and the third driving electrode 21 is driven during the third touch detection period. For example, all driving electrodes 21 may be sequentially driven during one touch detection period. It should be noted that in this embodiment, resonance does not occur when all driving electrodes 21 are driven at the same amplitude at the same time, so it is sufficient to drive the driving electrodes 21 in a manner that at least resonance occurs.

[0129] Reference Fig.16 The flowchart of the above is an example of the processing sequence of the sensor controller 4 when the display writing action and the touch detection action are performed in time division. Here, the above-mentioned Fig.14 In the following description, for convenience, Fig.16The shown process is referred to as the second process of the sensor controller 4 .

[0130] When the touch panel 2 is powered on, the above-mentioned Fig.14 The process of step S1 shown corresponds to the process of step S11.

[0131] Next, the sensor controller 4 performs a display writing operation (step S12). It should be noted that, although details are omitted, in the display writing operation, for example, an image is displayed in the display area by writing an image signal (pixel signal) to each of a plurality of pixels arranged in the display area of ​​the display device DSP.

[0132] When executing the processing of step S12, the Fig.14 The processing of steps S2 to S5 shown corresponds to the processing of steps S13 to S16.

[0133] It should be noted that when the process of step S15 or S16 is executed, the process returns to step S12 and the process is repeated.

[0134] As described above, when the display writing operation and the touch detection operation are performed in time division, for example, each of the plurality of drive electrodes 21 can be used also as an electrode for image display (common electrode), thereby achieving a reduction in thickness of the display device DSP.

[0135] Here, although it is preferred that the baseline is updated regularly as described above, Fig.14 and Fig.16 In the processes shown (the first process and the second process of the sensor controller 4), the baseline cannot be updated while the input device 3 is maintained on the touch panel 2. It is also assumed that the input device 3 continues to be used (operated) for a long time, so a structure that updates the baseline even when the input device 3 is arranged on the touch panel 2 is useful.

[0136] Below, refer to Fig.17 The flowchart of FIG. 1 is about an example of the processing sequence of the sensor controller 4 for updating the baseline when the input device 3 is configured on the touch panel 2. Here, the above-mentioned Fig.16 In the following description, for convenience, Fig.17 The shown process is referred to as the third process of the sensor controller 4 .

[0137] When the touch panel 2 is powered on, the above-mentioned Fig.16 The processing of steps S11 to S13 shown corresponds to the processing of steps S21 to S23.

[0138] It should be noted that when the process of step S23 is executed, as described above, the difference between the detection line and the baseline is calculated, and the position of the conductors 31a and 31b of the input device 3 or the position of the user's finger can be detected based on the difference.

[0139] Here, the detection value of the drive electrode 21 arranged at a position opposite to the conductors 31a and 31b is a detection value based on the resonance in the resonance circuit, and therefore is different from the detection value of the drive electrode 21 arranged at a position opposite to the user's finger. Therefore, the sensor controller 4 can determine whether the position of the conductors 31a and 31b (hereinafter referred to as the position of the input device 3) or the position of the user's finger (hereinafter referred to as the touch position) is detected based on the difference between the above-mentioned detection line and the baseline. It should be noted that, for example, it is also possible to determine whether the position of the input device 3 is detected or the touch position is detected by a pattern of the detection value.

[0140] Therefore, when the process of step S23 is executed, the sensor controller 4 determines whether the position of the input device 3 is detected (step S24).

[0141] When it is determined that the position of the input device 3 is detected ("Yes" in step S24), the sensor controller 4 determines the area on the touch panel 2 where the input device 3 is arranged (that is, the input device area 2b) (step S25). Here, the positions (coordinate values) of the conductors 31a and 31b provided in the input device 3 are detected, and therefore, when the conductors 31a and 31b are arranged at the positions on the touch panel 2 corresponding to the coordinate values, the coordinate values ​​of the area occupied by the input device 3 on the touch panel 2 are determined as the input device area 2b.

[0142] Next, the sensor controller 4 determines whether the touch position has been detected (step S26 ).

[0143] When determining that the touch position has not been detected (No in step S26 ), the sensor controller 4 updates the baseline corresponding to the input device outside area 2 c (step S27 ).

[0144] In this case, the sensor controller 4 determines the area obtained by removing the input device area 2b determined in the above step S25 from the touch detection area 2a as the input device outer area 2c. The sensor controller 4 sets the detection value of the drive electrode 21 arranged at a position overlapping with the input device outer area 2c (that is, the detection line corresponding to the input device outer area 2c) among the detection values ​​obtained by executing the process of step S23 as the baseline corresponding to the input device outer area 2c.

[0145] It should be noted that, when the process of step S27 is executed, the baseline corresponding to the input device outside area 2c is updated, but the baseline corresponding to the input device area 2b is not updated.

[0146] When the process of step S27 is executed, the process returns to step S22 and the process is repeated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the touch position has been detected ("Yes" in step S26), the process of step S27 is not executed, and the process returns to step S22 and the process is repeated.

[0147] When it is determined that the position of the input device 3 is not detected in the above-mentioned step S24 (No in step S24 ), the sensor controller 4 determines whether a touch position is detected (step S28 ).

[0148] When it is determined that the touch position is not detected (No in step S28), the sensor controller 4 updates the baseline corresponding to all touch detection areas 2a (step S29). The processing of step S29 is equivalent to the above-mentioned Fig.16 Step S16 ( Fig.14 In the process of step S5) shown in FIG. 1 , the sensor controller 4 sets the detection line acquired by executing the process of step S23 as the baseline. When executing the process of step S29, the process returns to step S22 and repeats the process.

[0149] It should be noted that, when it is determined in step S28 that the touch position has been detected (“Yes” in step S28 ), the process returns to step S22 and the process is repeated.

[0150] According to the above Fig.17 The third processing of the sensor controller 4 shown in the figure can update the baseline corresponding to the area 2c outside the input device when the touch position is not detected even when the position of the input device 3 is detected (that is, the input device 3 is arranged on the touch panel 2). It should be noted that when both the position of the input device 3 and the touch position are not detected, the baseline corresponding to the touch detection area 2a is updated.

[0151] Thus, by distinguishing the update of the baseline between the area where the input device 3 is configured (input device area 2b) and the area outside the area (input device outside area 2c), the baseline corresponding to the area where the touch position (that is, the position of the user's finger) is detected can be updated even if the input device 3 continues to be configured.

[0152] It should be noted that although Fig.17Although omitted in the flowchart, the position of the input device 3 (conductors 31a and 31b) or the touch position detected by executing the process of step S23 is output to the host device 10, etc. at an arbitrary timing.

[0153] Here, when the third process of the sensor controller 4 is executed, the baseline corresponding to the non-input device area 2c can be updated, but the baseline corresponding to the input device area 2b cannot be updated while the input device 3 is continuously arranged.

[0154] Below, refer to Fig.18 The flowchart of FIG. 1 illustrates an example of the processing sequence of the sensor controller 4 for updating the baseline corresponding to the input device area 2b. Fig.17 In the following description, for convenience, Fig.18 The shown process is referred to as a fourth process of the sensor controller 4 .

[0155] When the touch panel 2 is powered on, the above-mentioned Fig.17 The processing of steps S21 to S25 shown in FIG. 1 corresponds to the processing of steps S31 to S35. Fig.18 In the description, for convenience, the touch detection action performed in step S33 is referred to as the first touch detection action.

[0156] When executing the process of step S35, the sensor controller 4 performs a display writing operation (step S36). It should be noted that the process of step S36 is the same as the process of step S32.

[0157] Next, the sensor controller 4 performs a second touch detection operation (step S37). In the first touch detection operation of step S33 described above, each of the plurality of drive electrodes 21 is driven at a resonant frequency, but in the second touch detection operation of step S37, each of the plurality of drive electrodes 21 is driven at a non-resonant frequency. Thus, the sensor controller 4 acquires the detection value of each drive electrode 21 driven at a non-resonant frequency as a detection line.

[0158] It should be noted that, when the second touch detection operation is performed, the touch position can be detected based on the difference between the detection line obtained by executing the process of step S37 and the baseline obtained by executing the process of step S31. On the other hand, in the baseline detection operation and the second touch detection operation, the plurality of drive electrodes 21 are driven at a non-resonant frequency, and therefore, the position of the input device 3 cannot be detected in the second touch detection operation.

[0159] When executing the process of step S37, the sensor controller 4 updates the baseline corresponding to the input device area 2b (step S38). In this case, the sensor controller 4 sets the detection value of the drive electrode 21 arranged at a position overlapping with the input device area 2b determined in step S35 (that is, the detection line corresponding to the input device area 2b) among the detection values ​​obtained by executing the process of step S37 as the baseline corresponding to the input device area 2b.

[0160] Next, execute Fig.17 The processes of steps S26 and S27 shown correspond to the processes of steps S39 and S40. It should be noted that the input device outside area 2c in step S40 is an area obtained by removing the input device area 2b determined in step S35 from the touch detection area 2a.

[0161] If it is determined in step S39 that the touch position has been detected ("Yes" in step S39), the process of step S40 is not executed, and the process returns to step S32 to repeat the process. If step S40 is executed, the process returns to step S32 to repeat the process.

[0162] In addition, if it is determined in the above-mentioned step S34 that the position of the input device 3 is not detected ("No" in step S34), the same Fig.17 The processes of steps S28 and S29 shown correspond to the processes of steps S41 and S42.

[0163] Note that, when it is determined in step S41 that the touch position has been detected (“Yes” in step S41 ), or when the process of step S42 has been executed, the process returns to step S32 and the process is repeated.

[0164] According to the above Fig.18 The fourth processing of the sensor controller 4 shown, when the position of the input device 3 is detected (that is, the input device 3 is configured on the touch panel 2), uses the detection value (detection line) obtained by driving multiple driving electrodes 21 at a non-resonant frequency to update the baseline corresponding to the input device area 2b.

[0165] That is, by performing the touch detection operation by distinguishing between the resonant drive and the non-resonant drive, the baseline corresponding to the input device area 2 b can be updated even when the input device 3 is continuously arranged.

[0166] It should be noted that in Fig.18The example shown shows a case where the first touch detection action based on the resonant frequency (touch detection at the resonant frequency) and the second touch detection action based on the non-resonant frequency (touch detection at the non-resonant frequency) are performed alternately, but for example, the second touch detection action (update of the baseline) may be performed once for n (n is an integer greater than or equal to 2) first touch detection actions (position detection of the input device 3). The position of the input device 3 as described above can be detected during the first touch detection action, and the touch position can be detected during the first touch detection action and the second touch detection action. Therefore, the reporting rate of the position detection of the input device 3 in this case becomes n / (n+1) of the detection of the touch position.

[0167] Also refer to Fig.19 and Fig. 20 , another example of the processing sequence of the sensor controller 4 for updating the baseline corresponding to the input device area 2b is described. Fig.17 In the following description, for convenience, Fig.19 and Fig. 20 The shown process is referred to as the fifth process of the sensor controller 4 .

[0168] When the touch panel 2 is powered on, the above-mentioned Fig.17 The processing of steps S21 to S25 shown in FIG. 1 corresponds to the processing of steps S51 to S55. Fig.19 and Fig. 20 In the description, for convenience, the touch detection action performed in step S53 is referred to as the first touch detection action.

[0169] When executing the process of step S55, the sensor controller 4 updates the baseline corresponding to the input device area 2b (step S56). In this case, the sensor controller 4 sets the detection value of the drive electrode 21 arranged at a position overlapping with the input device area 2b determined in step S55 (that is, the detection line corresponding to the input device area 2b) among the detection values ​​obtained by executing the process of step S53 as the baseline corresponding to the input device area 2b.

[0170] When executing the processing of step S56, the Fig.17 The processing of steps S26 and S27 shown corresponds to the processing of steps S57 and S58. It should be noted that, when it is determined in step S57 that the touch position has been detected ("Yes" in step S57), or when the processing of step S58 is executed, the processing of the following step S61 is executed.

[0171] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S54 that the position of the input device 3 is not detected ("No" in step S54), the same Fig.17 The processing of steps S28 and S29 shown corresponds to the processing of steps S59 and S60. It should be noted that, if it is determined in step S59 that the touch position has been detected ("Yes" in step S59), or if the processing of step S60 has been executed, the processing of the following step S61 is executed.

[0172] Next, the sensor controller 4 performs a display writing operation (step S61 ). It should be noted that the process of step S61 is the same as the process of step S52 .

[0173] When executing the process of step S61, the sensor controller 4 performs a second touch detection operation (step S62). The second touch detection operation in step S62 is similar to the above-mentioned Fig.18 That is, in the second touch detection operation of step S62, each of the plurality of drive electrodes 21 is driven at a non-resonant frequency, and the detection value of each drive electrode 21 is acquired as a detection line.

[0174] Here, for example, when it is determined in the above-mentioned step S54 that the position of the input device 3 has been detected (that is, the input device 3 is configured on the touch panel 2), the baseline corresponding to the input device area 2b at the time of executing the processing of step S62 is the detection value obtained in the first touch detection action of step S53 (that is, the detection value based on the resonant frequency).

[0175] On the other hand, in the second touch detection operation in step S62 , a detection value based on a non-resonant frequency is acquired as a detection line.

[0176] In this case, for example, even if the positions of the conductors 31a and 31b of the input device 3 are changed (that is, the input device 3 is operated), or even if the positions of the conductors 31a and 31b are maintained (that is, the input device 3 is not operated), the positions of the conductors 31a and 31b can be detected by calculating the difference between the detection line corresponding to the input device area 2b and the baseline.

[0177] Therefore, the sensor controller 4 can determine whether the position of the input device 3 (that is, the positions of the conductors 31a and 31b) has been detected (step S63).

[0178] If it is determined that the position of the input device 3 has been detected ("Yes" in step S63), the processing of steps S64 to S67 corresponding to the processing of steps S55 to S58 described above is performed. It should be noted that if it is determined in step S66 that the touch position has been detected ("Yes" in step S66), or if the processing of step S67 has been executed, the process returns to step S52 and the processing is repeated.

[0179] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S63 that the position of the input device 3 has not been detected ("No" in step S63), the processing of steps S68 and S69 corresponding to the processing of steps S59 and S60 described above is performed. It should be noted that if it is determined in step S68 that the touch position has been detected ("Yes" in step S68), or if the processing of step S69 has been executed, the process returns to step S52 and the processing is repeated.

[0180] According to the above Fig.19 and Fig. 20 The fifth processing of the sensor controller 4 shown detects the difference with the previous frame by alternately performing a first touch detection action based on a resonant frequency and a second touch detection action based on a non-resonant frequency, thereby being able to take into account both the update of the baseline associated with the input device area 2b and the position detection of the input device 3 (conductors 31a and 31b).

[0181] Here, in Fig.19 and Fig. 20 In the description, the processing is described with consideration of the case where the touch position (that is, the contact position of the user's finger) is detected on the touch panel 2, but a simpler processing may be possible without consideration of the detection of the touch position.

[0182] Fig.21 FIG. 4 shows an example of the processing sequence of the sensor controller 4 when the detection of the touch position is not considered. Fig.21 The processing shown is referred to as the sixth processing of the sensor controller 4. In addition, the sixth processing of the sensor controller 4 is simply described.

[0183] First, the sensor controller 4 performs a baseline detection operation (step S71 ) and acquires the detection value of each drive electrode 21 based on the non-resonance frequency as a baseline according to the baseline detection operation.

[0184] Next, the sensor controller 4 performs a first touch detection operation (step S72 ). According to the first touch detection operation, the detection value of each drive electrode 21 based on the resonance frequency is acquired as a detection line.

[0185] Here, the baseline obtained by executing the processing of step S71 is a baseline based on the non-resonant frequency, and the detection line obtained by executing the processing of step S72 is a baseline based on the resonant frequency. Therefore, the position of the input device 3 (conductors 31a and 31b) can be detected by calculating the difference between the baseline and the detection line.

[0186] When executing the process of step S72 , the sensor controller 4 updates the baseline acquired by executing the process of step S71 based on the detection line acquired by executing the process of step S72 described above (step S73 ).

[0187] Next, the sensor controller 4 performs a second touch detection operation (step S74 ). According to the second touch detection operation, the detection value of each drive electrode 21 based on the non-resonant frequency is acquired as a detection line.

[0188] Here, the baseline updated in step S73 is a baseline based on the resonant frequency, and the detection line obtained by executing the processing of step S74 is a detection line based on the non-resonant frequency. Therefore, by calculating the difference between the baseline and the detection line, the position of the input device 3 (conductors 31a and 31b) can be detected.

[0189] When executing the process of step S74, the sensor controller 4 further updates the baseline updated in step S73 based on the detection line acquired by executing the process of step S74 (step S75). When executing the process of step S75, the process returns to step S72 and the process is repeated.

[0190] Without considering the detection of the touch position by the user's finger, as long as Fig.21 As shown, a first touch detection operation based on a resonant frequency and a second touch detection operation based on a non-resonant frequency are alternately performed, and the baseline is updated using the detection values ​​(detection lines) obtained in the touch detection operations.

[0191] It should be noted that, in the present embodiment, the first to sixth processes are described as the processes of the sensor controller 4, but the sensor controller 4 only needs to execute at least one of the first to sixth processes. In addition, it is also possible to determine which of the first to sixth processes to execute based on, for example, the specifications or performance of the display device DSP (or the sensor device 1). Moreover, the first to sixth processes of the sensor controller 4 may be appropriately combined and executed.

[0192] As described above, in this embodiment, a resonance circuit including conductors 31a and 31b (first and second conductors) is provided inside the input device 3, and when the input device 3 is disposed on the touch panel 2, the conductors 31a and 31b are capacitively coupled with at least one of the plurality of drive electrodes 21 of the touch panel 2. In this embodiment, a voltage is applied to each of the plurality of drive electrodes 21 of the touch panel based on the resonance frequency of the resonance circuit, thereby detecting the positions (coordinate positions) of the conductors 31a and 31b on the touch panel.

[0193] In this case, for example, the position of the conductor 31a is detected by applying a voltage to the drive electrode 21 opposite to the conductor 31a, and the position of the conductor 31b is detected by applying a voltage to the drive electrode 21 opposite to the conductor 31b. It should be noted that the resonant circuit of this embodiment is configured as a circuit in which the inductor L and the capacitor C are connected in parallel between the conductors 31a and 31b.

[0194] In the present embodiment, such a configuration can increase the detection value for detecting the physical state of the input device 3 , thereby suppressing erroneous detection of the input device 3 and detecting the user's operation on the input device 3 arranged on the touch panel 2 with high accuracy.

[0195] It should be noted that the input device 3 in this embodiment is configured as a knob ( Figure 1 In the case of the input device 3a shown in the figure, it is possible to detect the positions of the conductors 31a and 31b when the knob arranged on the touch panel 2 is rotated (that is, to detect the user's operation of rotating the knob).

[0196] In this embodiment, the input device 3 is mainly described as a knob, but the input device 3 may also be a handle ( Figure 1 Input device 3b), button ( Figure 1 The input device 3c) and the sliding member ( Figure 1 The input device 3d) shown, etc.

[0197] Here, Fig. 22 An example of a planar structure of the input device 3c (button) is shown. Fig. 22 As shown, a resonance circuit (LC circuit) including conductors 31a and 31b, an inductor L, and a capacitor C is provided inside the input device 3c (non-conductor 32). In addition, the input device 3 is configured so that when the input device 3 is pressed, the conductors 31a and 31b are in contact with or close to the touch panel 2 (that is, they are capacitively coupled with at least one of the plurality of drive electrodes 21). Thus, by detecting the positions of the conductors 31a and 31b when the input device 3c is pressed, it is possible to detect the operation of the user who presses the input device 3c (button).

[0198] in addition, Fig.23 An example of a planar structure of the input device 3d (slider) is shown. Fig.23 As shown, a resonant circuit (LC circuit) including conductors 31a and 31b, an inductor L, and a capacitor C is provided inside the input device 3c (non-conductor 32). In addition, the input device 3d is configured to enable the second component to slide along the first component formed to extend in one direction. In this case, the conductor 31a is arranged inside the first component, and the conductor 31b is arranged inside the second component. In addition, the conductors 31a and 31b are in contact with or close to the touch panel 2 during the period when the input device 3d is arranged on the touch panel 2. Thus, by detecting the positions of the conductors 31a and 31b when the second component slides along the first component, the user's operation of sliding the second component can be detected.

[0199] Here, the input devices 3c (button) and 3d (slider) have been described, and although the shape and size of the non-conductor 32 are different, the input device 3b (handle) is set to have an internal structure that is substantially the same as that of the input device 3a. Thus, the user's operation of rotating the input device 3b (handle) can be detected.

[0200] It should be noted that if Fig.24 As shown, a resonant circuit including capacitors C1 and C2 may be provided inside the input device 3. According to such an input device 3, when an operation is performed on the input device 3, for example, a change in the resonance caused by a change in the circuit inside the input device 3 (for example, two points in the circuit are short-circuited and it is no longer a resonant circuit, or the capacitance or inductance changes and the resonant frequency changes) can be detected as a user operation. Fig.24 The input device 3 is shown as a button, but Fig.24 The configuration shown can also be applied to input devices other than buttons.

[0201] In the present embodiment, the input device 3 disposed on the touch panel 2 may be any input device as long as a resonant circuit including the conductors 31 a and 31 b is provided therein, and may be an input device other than the above-mentioned input devices 3 a to 3 d .

[0202] In addition, in the present embodiment, when the power of the touch panel 2 is turned on, a voltage is applied to each of the plurality of drive electrodes 21 of the touch panel 2 based on the non-resonant frequency of the resonant circuit to obtain a baseline (a first detection value of each of the plurality of drive electrodes 21). In addition, a voltage is applied to each of the plurality of drive electrodes 21 of the touch panel based on the resonant frequency of the resonant circuit to obtain a detection line (a second detection value of each of the plurality of electrodes 21). In the present embodiment, the positions of the conductors 31a and 31b are detected by comparing the baseline and the detection line.

[0203] In this embodiment, through this configuration, the initial state (initial position of conductors 31a and 31b) of the input device 3 when the touch panel 2 (display device DSP) is powered on (that is, when started) can be detected, and the user's operation based on the position change of conductors 31a and 31b from the initial state can be detected.

[0204] In this embodiment, the plurality of driving electrodes 21 may also be used as electrodes for image display (common electrodes), and the display writing operation (first operation) and the touch detection operation (second operation) may be performed in time division. This configuration can achieve a thinner display device DSP.

[0205] Moreover, in this embodiment, the position of the input device 3 (conductors 31a and 31b) is detected, but when the touch position (the position of other objects such as the user's finger) is not detected from the area 2c outside the input device, the detection line corresponding to the area 2c outside the input device is used to update the baseline corresponding to the area 2c outside the input device.

[0206] In the present embodiment, when the position of the input device 3 is detected, a detection line (third detection value) corresponding to the input device area 2b may be acquired based on the non-resonant frequency, and the baseline corresponding to the input device area 2b may be updated based on the detection line.

[0207] Moreover, in the present embodiment, regardless of the detection and non-detection of the position of the input device 3, a detection line corresponding to the touch detection area 2a is further obtained based on the non-resonance frequency of the resonant circuit (a third detection value of each of the multiple driving electrodes 21 is obtained by applying a voltage to each of the multiple electrodes of the touch panel 2), and the baseline is updated based on the detection line.

[0208] In the present embodiment, by executing the above-described processing, even when the detection value of each drive electrode 21 changes due to a change in the environment, for example, a highly accurate touch detection operation can be performed using an appropriate baseline.

[0209] (Second Embodiment)

[0210] Next, the second embodiment is described. In the aforementioned first embodiment, a sensor device having a self-capacitive touch panel is described, but in this embodiment, the sensor device has a touch panel that performs touch detection using a mutual capacitance method (hereinafter referred to as a mutual capacitance method touch panel), which is different from the first embodiment.

[0211] It should be noted that the appearance of the sensor device of this embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment described above, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted here.

[0212] Fig.25 An example of the configuration of the sensor device 1 according to the present embodiment is shown. Fig.25 In the above Figure 2 The same parts are marked with the same reference numerals, and their detailed description is omitted. Figure 2 Different parts.

[0213] like Fig.25 As shown, the sensor device 1 includes a touch panel 2, an input device 3, a display controller (display driver) 4a, and a touch controller (touch driver) 4b.

[0214] The touch panel 2 is a mutual capacitance touch panel, and includes a plurality of drive electrodes Tx and a plurality of detection electrodes Rx. The plurality of drive electrodes Tx are arranged at intervals in one direction. On the other hand, the plurality of detection electrodes Rx are arranged at intervals in a manner intersecting the drive electrodes Tx. Fig.25 In the example shown, the plurality of driving electrodes Tx extend, for example, in the second direction Y and are arranged side by side in the first direction X. On the other hand, the plurality of detection electrodes Rx extend, for example, in the first direction X and are arranged side by side in the second direction Y. In such a touch panel 2, an area where each of the plurality of driving electrodes Tx intersects with each of the plurality of detection electrodes Rx corresponds to the touch detection area 2a.

[0215] It should be noted that the plurality of driving electrodes Tx also serve as electrodes for image display (common electrodes), for example, and are connected to the display controller 4a via wirings. The plurality of detecting electrodes Rx are connected to the touch controller 4b via wirings.

[0216] The input device 3 is arranged on the touch panel 2. The input device 3 is Figure 1 At least one of the input devices 3a to 3d shown in the figure may be used. In the following description, the case where the input device 3 is the input device 3a will be mainly described.

[0217] The display controller 4a and the touch controller 4b are equivalent to the sensor controller that controls the touch panel 2. The display controller 4a applies a predetermined voltage (drive signal COM) to each of the multiple drive electrodes Tx. As a result, each of the multiple drive electrodes Tx generates a capacitance (mutual electrostatic capacitance) between the detection electrode Rx arranged at a position intersecting with the drive electrode Tx. The touch controller 4b obtains the detection value of the detection electrode Rx and detects the user's operation on the input device 3. In addition, the touch controller 4b can also detect, for example, the contact or approach of the user's finger to the area 2c outside the input device (that is, the operation performed by the user through the finger). The detection result of the touch controller 4b is output to, for example, an external host device 10. In the host device 10, processing corresponding to the detection result (user's operation) is performed.

[0218] It should be noted that the display controller 4 a is connected to a plurality of pixels arranged in a display region of a display device equipped with the touch panel 2 , the gate drive circuit 5 , and the like, and displays an image in the display region.

[0219] Fig.26 FIG. 2 shows an example of a cross-sectional structure of a display device DSP equipped with the sensor device 1. Fig.26 In the above Figure 3 The same parts are marked with the same reference numerals, and their detailed description is omitted. Figure 3 Different parts.

[0220] In the above-described first embodiment, the first substrate SUB1 includes the plurality of driving electrodes 21 , but in the present embodiment, the first substrate SUB1 includes the plurality of driving electrodes (common electrodes) Tx, and the second substrate SUB2 includes the detection electrodes Rx.

[0221] It should be noted that although Fig.26 Although not shown in the figure, the above-mentioned display controller 4a is, for example, configured on the first substrate SUB1, and the touch controller 4b is, for example, configured on a flexible wiring substrate connected to the second substrate SUB2.

[0222] exist Fig.26 2 shows an embedded display device DSP in which the touch panel 2 is built into the display panel PNL. However, the display device DSP may be an embedded type or an external type in which the touch panel 2 is provided to overlap with the display panel PNL.

[0223] Here, in this embodiment, the configuration of the input device 3 disposed on the touch panel 2 is as described in the aforementioned first embodiment. That is, a resonant circuit (LC circuit) including conductors 31a, 31b, an inductor L, and a capacitor C is provided inside the input device 3. It should be noted that the description of the circuit configuration of the resonant circuit is omitted here.

[0224] Below, use Fig. 27 The basic principle of the touch detection operation using the resonance circuit provided inside the input device 3 is described. Fig. 27 The resistor R is omitted from the resonant circuit shown.

[0225] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the touch detection (action) is performed by mutual electrostatic capacitance, so Fig. 27 As shown, the driving electrode Tx is connected to a predetermined voltage Vdd via a switch 24. In addition, the detection electrode Rx is connected to the detector 25 via a switch 26. It should be noted that the detection electrode Rx is connected to the detector 25 when the switch 26 is in an open state, and is connected to GND when the switch 26 is in a closed state.

[0226] exist Fig. 27 , the operation of the resonant circuit when a voltage is applied to the drive electrode Tx disposed at a position opposite to the conductor 31b is described. In this case, the voltage of the conductor 31a (capacitive coupling portion) is set to V1, the voltage of the conductor 31b (capacitive coupling portion) is set to V2, and the voltage of the drive electrode Tx is set to V3. In this embodiment, each of the plurality of drive electrodes Tx is driven sequentially, so when a voltage is applied to the drive electrode Tx disposed at a position opposite to the conductor 31a, the conductor 31a is connected to GND.

[0227] It should be noted that, in such a resonant circuit, for example, resonance occurs when one of the drive electrodes 21 disposed at a position opposite to the capacitive coupling portion (conductors 31a and 31b) is used as a reference and the other vibrates at a resonant frequency. When resonance occurs in the resonant circuit, the conductors 31a and 31b resonate in anti-phase.

[0228] In addition, Fig. 27, the capacitance (electrostatic capacitance) between the conductor 31a and the electrode on the touch panel 2 side is marked as C1, the capacitance of the capacitor C included in the resonant circuit is marked as C2, the capacitance between the conductor 31b and the driving electrode Tx arranged at a position opposite to the conductor 31b is marked as CTx, the capacitance between the conductor 31b and the detection electrode Rx arranged at a position opposite to the conductor 31b is marked as CRx, and the capacitance between the driving electrode Tx arranged at a position opposite to the conductor 31a and the detection electrode Rx is marked as CTxRx.

[0229] Here, Fig.28 An example of the relationship between the voltages V1 to V3 in the above-described touch detection operation, the detection value (output) output from the detector 25 , and the state of the switch 26 (SW) is shown.

[0230] At the moment when the switch 24 is switched to Vdd at time t1 during the touch detection operation, current does not flow through the inductor L of the resonance circuit, and a potential difference is generated between V1 and V2 due to capacitance distribution.

[0231] In this case, the voltages of V2 and V3 rise, so that a current flows from the detector 25 side into Rx, and the potential on the output side of the detector 25 decreases.

[0232] Next, after time t1 , a potential difference is generated between V1 and V2 , and thus a current starts to flow through the inductor L (that is, resonance starts at a resonance frequency determined by the inductor L and the capacitor C).

[0233] As a result of the current flowing through the inductor L, the potential of V2 decreases, so that the current flows from the detector 25 side into the conductor 31b, and the potential on the output side of the detector 25 increases.

[0234] like Fig.29 As shown, by repeating the above-mentioned operation, the amplitude of the resonance in the resonance circuit increases, and the charge charged to the detector 25 in each detection period increases.

[0235] Here, the case where a voltage is applied to the drive electrode Tx facing the conductor 31 b based on the resonance frequency (that is, the drive electrode Tx is driven at the resonance frequency) is described, but the same operation is performed when a voltage is applied to the drive electrode Tx facing the conductor 31 a.

[0236] It should be noted that the action of the sensor device 1 (touch panel 2) when detecting the user's operation in this embodiment has been described in the first embodiment, so its detailed description is omitted here. The processing performed by the sensor controller 4 in the first embodiment is performed by the display controller 4a and the touch controller 4b in this embodiment. Specifically, the processing of driving each of the multiple drive electrodes Tx at a non-resonant frequency and a resonant frequency and the display writing action are performed by the display controller 4a, and the other processing is performed by the touch controller 4b.

[0237] As described above, in this embodiment, even in the case where the sensor device 1 has a touch panel 2 of a mutual electrostatic capacitance method, by providing a resonant circuit including conductors 31a and 31b inside the input device 3, it is possible to detect the user's operation on the input device 3 configured on the touch panel 2 with high precision in the same way as in the aforementioned first embodiment.

[0238] Here, the sensor device 1 of this embodiment includes a mutual capacitance touch panel 2, but depending on the user's operation on the input device 3, such as Fig.30 As shown in FIG. 1 , the conductors 31 a and 31 b included in the input device 3 may be arranged to face (overlap) the same driving electrode Tx.

[0239] In this case, even if a voltage is applied to the driving electrode Tx facing the conductors 31a and 31b, since no potential difference is generated between the conductors 31a and 31b, the position of the input device 3 (conductors 31a and 31b) cannot be detected.

[0240] In addition, according to different operations of the user on the input device 3, such as Fig.31 As shown in FIG. 1 , the two conductors 31 a and 31 b included in the input device 3 may be arranged to face (overlap) the same detection electrode Rx.

[0241] In this case, the two conductors 31a and 31b resonate in antiphase and cancel each other out, and the detection electrode Rx does not generate a potential, so the potential change caused by the resonance cannot be obtained as a detection value. Therefore, the position of the input device 3 (conductors 31a and 31b) cannot be detected.

[0242] That is, in this embodiment, when the conductors 31 a and 31 b face the same driving electrode Tx or face the same detecting electrode Rx as described above, there is a possibility that the position of the input device 3 cannot be detected.

[0243] Therefore, in this embodiment, when the input device 3 is configured on the touch panel 2, the input device 3 is constructed as follows: the driving electrode Tx (first electrode) opposite to the conductor 31a (first conductor) is different from the driving electrode Tx opposite to the conductor 31b (second conductor), and the detection electrode Rx (second electrode) opposite to the conductor 31a is different from the detection electrode Rx opposite to the conductor 31b.

[0244] Here, Fig.32 FIG. 2 shows an example of a planar structure of an input device 3 (input device 3a) in which the non-conductor 32 is configured in the shape of a knob. Fig.32 , an example is shown in which the conductor 31 b is formed in a C-shape inside the non-conductor 32 .

[0245] According to this input device 3, as Fig.33 As shown in FIG. 1 , the driving electrode Tx facing the conductor 31a can be different from the driving electrode Tx facing the conductor 31b. Fig.34 As shown, the detection electrode Rx opposite to the conductor 31a can be different from the detection electrode Rx opposite to the conductor 31b. In this case, it is possible to avoid Fig.30 and Fig.31 The situation described in is that the position of the input device 3 (conductors 31a and 31b) cannot be detected.

[0246] It should be noted that Fig.32 The input device 3 (conductors 31a and 31b) shown in the figure is an example. If the conductors 31a and 31b are formed so as not to produce a state where the driving electrode Tx facing each of the conductors 31a and 31b is consistent with each other and a state where the detection electrode Rx facing each of the conductors 31a and 31b is consistent with each other, the shape and size of the conductors 31a and 31b may also be consistent with each other. Fig.32 Different than shown.

[0247] In addition, when the input device 3 is a button (input device 3c), for example, if Fig. 22 As shown in FIG. 1 , by forming the conductors 31 a and 31 b , it is possible to avoid a situation where the positions of the conductors 31 a and 31 b cannot be detected.

[0248] Similarly, when the input device 3 is a slider (input device 3d), for example, as described above, Fig.23 As shown in FIG. 1 , by forming the conductors 31 a and 31 b , it is possible to avoid a situation where the positions of the conductors 31 a and 31 b cannot be detected.

[0249] As described above, according to each embodiment, it is possible to provide a sensor device that detects a user's operation with high accuracy.

[0250] Hereinafter, the invention of this embodiment will be noted.

[0251] [C1]

[0252] A sensor device, comprising:

[0253] An electrostatic capacitive touch panel has a plurality of electrodes;

[0254] An input device configured such that a resonance circuit including a first conductor and a second conductor is covered by a non-conductor; and

[0255] A sensor controller controls the touch panel.

[0256] When the input device is arranged on the touch panel or when the input device arranged on the touch panel is operated, each of the first conductor and the second conductor is capacitively coupled with at least one electrode among a plurality of electrodes of the touch panel.

[0257] The sensor controller detects positions of the first conductor and the second conductor on the touch panel by applying a voltage to each of a plurality of electrodes included in the touch panel based on a resonance frequency of the resonance circuit.

[0258] [C2]

[0259] The sensor device according to [C1], wherein:

[0260] The plurality of electrodes include: a first electrode and a second electrode. When the input device is disposed on the touch panel, the first electrode is opposite to the first conductor, and the second electrode is opposite to the second conductor.

[0261] The sensor controller detects the position of the first conductor by applying a voltage to the first electrode, and detects the position of the second conductor by applying a voltage to the second electrode.

[0262] [C3]

[0263] The sensor device according to [C1], wherein:

[0264] The resonance circuit is a circuit in which an inductor and a capacitor are connected in parallel between the first conductor and the second conductor.

[0265] [C4]

[0266] The sensor device according to [C1], wherein:

[0267] The input device is configured as a knob that is rotatable around a rotation axis.

[0268] The first conductor and the second conductor are held by the knob and arranged on a portion of a circle centered on the rotation axis.

[0269] The sensor controller detects positions of the first conductor and the second conductor when a knob arranged on the touch panel is rotated.

[0270] [C5]

[0271] The sensor device according to [C1], wherein:

[0272] The input device is configured as a button capable of switching between a first state in which the button is pressed and a second state in which the button is not pressed.

[0273] The first conductor and the second conductor are arranged in the input device so as to: perform capacitive coupling with at least one electrode of the plurality of electrodes of the touch panel in the first state, and not perform capacitive coupling with the plurality of electrodes of the touch panel in the second state,

[0274] The sensor controller detects positions of the first conductor and the second conductor when the input device is in the first state.

[0275] [C6]

[0276] The sensor device according to [C1], wherein:

[0277] The input device is configured as a sliding member, and the sliding member includes: a first member formed to be extended in at least one direction; and a second member formed to be able to slide along the first member.

[0278] The first conductor is arranged inside the first component,

[0279] The second conductor is arranged inside the second component,

[0280] The sensor controller detects positions of the first conductor and the second conductor when the second member is slid relative to the first member.

[0281] [C7]

[0282] The sensor device according to [C1], wherein:

[0283] The sensor controller detects positions of the first conductor and the second conductor based on self-electrostatic capacitance of each of a plurality of electrodes included in the touch panel.

[0284] [C8]

[0285] The sensor device according to [C1], wherein:

[0286] The plurality of electrodes of the touch panel include: a plurality of first electrodes arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction in a manner extending in the first direction; and a plurality of second electrodes arranged in the first direction in a manner extending in the second direction.

[0287] The sensor controller detects positions of the first conductor and the second conductor based on mutual electrostatic capacitance between the plurality of first electrodes and the plurality of second electrodes.

[0288] [C9]

[0289] The sensor device according to [C1], wherein:

[0290] When the input device is arranged on the touch panel, the first conductor and the second conductor are respectively opposed to at least one electrode among the plurality of first electrodes.

[0291] When the input device is arranged on the touch panel, the first conductor and the second conductor are respectively opposed to at least one electrode of the plurality of second electrodes.

[0292] A first electrode opposed to the first conductor is different from a first electrode opposed to the second conductor, and a second electrode opposed to the first conductor is different from a second electrode opposed to the second conductor.

[0293] [C10]

[0294] The sensor device according to [C1], wherein:

[0295] The sensor controller performs the following operations:

[0296] When the touch panel is powered on, a voltage is applied to each of the plurality of electrodes of the touch panel based on the non-resonant frequency of the resonant circuit, thereby acquiring a first detection value of each of the plurality of electrodes.

[0297] A voltage is applied to each of the plurality of electrodes of the touch panel based on the resonance frequency of the resonance circuit, thereby acquiring a second detection value of each of the plurality of electrodes.

[0298] By comparing the first detection value and the second detection value, the positions of the first conductor and the second conductor are detected.

[0299] [C11]

[0300] The sensor device according to [C10], wherein:

[0301] The touch panel is mounted on a display device.

[0302] The sensor controller performs, in a time-division manner: a first operation of displaying an image on the display device; and a second operation of detecting positions of the first conductor, the second conductor, and other objects on the touch panel.

[0303] [C12]

[0304] The sensor device according to [C11], wherein:

[0305] The sensor controller performs the following operations:

[0306] When the positions of the first conductor and the second conductor are detected and the position of the other object cannot be detected from a second area other than the first area where the input device is arranged, the first detection value obtained by applying a voltage to the electrode corresponding to the second area is updated based on the second detection value obtained by applying a voltage to the electrode corresponding to the second area,

[0307] The positions of the first conductor and the second conductor are further detected using the updated first detection value.

[0308] [C13]

[0309] The sensor device according to [C12], wherein:

[0310] The sensor controller performs the following operations:

[0311] When the positions of the first conductor and the second conductor are detected, a voltage is applied to the electrode corresponding to the first region based on the non-resonant frequency of the resonant circuit, thereby further acquiring a third detection value of each of the plurality of electrodes.

[0312] updating, based on the third detection value, a first detection value acquired by applying a voltage to an electrode corresponding to the first region,

[0313] The positions of the first conductor and the second conductor are further detected using the updated first detection value.

[0314] [C14]

[0315] The sensor device according to [C10], wherein:

[0316] The sensor controller performs the following operations:

[0317] A voltage is applied to each of the plurality of electrodes of the touch panel based on the non-resonant frequency of the resonant circuit, thereby further acquiring a third detection value of each of the plurality of electrodes.

[0318] updating the first detection value based on the third detection value,

[0319] The positions of the first conductor and the second conductor are further detected using the updated first detection value.

[0320] [C15]

[0321] An input device, which is used on a capacitive touch panel having a plurality of electrodes, comprises:

[0322] a first conductor;

[0323] a second conductor;

[0324] a resonant circuit comprising the first conductor and the second conductor; and

[0325] a non-conductor formed to cover the resonant circuit,

[0326] When the input device is arranged on the touch panel or when the input device arranged on the touch panel is operated, each of the first conductor and the second conductor is capacitively coupled with at least one electrode among a plurality of electrodes of the touch panel.

[0327] The positions of the first conductor and the second conductor on the touch panel are detected by applying a voltage to each of a plurality of electrodes included in the touch panel based on a resonance frequency of the resonance circuit.

[0328] [C16]

[0329] A method performed by a sensor device, wherein the sensor comprises: an electrostatic capacitance touch panel having a plurality of electrodes; an input device configured such that a resonant circuit including a first conductor and a second conductor is covered by a non-conductor; and a sensor controller, the controller controlling the touch panel, the method comprising the following steps:

[0330] When the input device is arranged on the touch panel or the input device arranged on the touch panel is operated, each of the first conductor and the second conductor is capacitively coupled with at least one electrode of the plurality of electrodes of the touch panel;

[0331] applying a voltage to each of a plurality of electrodes included in the touch panel based on a resonance frequency of the resonance circuit; and

[0332] Positions of the first conductor and the second conductor on the touch panel are detected.

[0333] Several embodiments of the present invention have been described, but these embodiments are given as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These new embodiments can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the subject matter of the invention. These embodiments or their variations are included in the scope or subject matter of the invention, and are included in the invention described in the claims and the scope equivalent thereto.

[0334] Description of Reference Numerals

[0335] 1: sensor device; 2: touch panel; 3, 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d: input device; 4: sensor controller; 4a: display controller; 4b: touch controller; 5: gate drive circuit; 10: host device; 21: drive electrode; 22, 24: switch; 23, 25: detector; 31a, 31b: conductor, 32: non-conductor;, L: inductor; C: capacitor, Tx: drive electrode; Rx: detection electrode.

Claims

1. A sensor device, wherein: have: An electrostatic capacitive touch panel has a plurality of electrodes; An input device configured such that a resonance circuit including a first conductor and a second conductor is covered by a non-conductor; and A sensor controller controls the touch panel. When the input device is arranged on the touch panel or when the input device arranged on the touch panel is operated, each of the first conductor and the second conductor is capacitively coupled with at least one electrode among a plurality of electrodes of the touch panel. The sensor controller detects positions of the first conductor and the second conductor on the touch panel by applying a voltage to each of a plurality of electrodes of the touch panel based on a resonance frequency of the resonance circuit. The sensor controller performs the following operations: When the touch panel is powered on, a voltage is applied to each of the plurality of electrodes of the touch panel based on the non-resonant frequency of the resonant circuit, thereby acquiring a first detection value of each of the plurality of electrodes. applying a voltage to each of the plurality of electrodes of the touch panel based on the resonance frequency of the resonance circuit, thereby acquiring a second detection value of each of the plurality of electrodes; By comparing the first detection value and the second detection value, the positions of the first conductor and the second conductor are detected. The touch panel is mounted on a display device. The sensor controller performs in time division: a first action of displaying an image on the display device; and a second action of detecting positions of the first conductor, the second conductor and other objects on the touch panel. When the positions of the first conductor and the second conductor are detected and the position of the other object cannot be detected from a second area other than the first area where the input device is arranged, the first detection value obtained by applying a voltage to the electrode corresponding to the second area is updated based on the second detection value obtained by applying a voltage to the electrode corresponding to the second area, The positions of the first conductor and the second conductor are further detected using the updated first detection value.

2. The sensor device according to claim 1, wherein: The sensor controller performs the following operations: When the positions of the first conductor and the second conductor are detected, a voltage is applied to the electrode corresponding to the first region based on the non-resonant frequency of the resonant circuit, thereby further acquiring a third detection value of each of the plurality of electrodes. updating, based on the third detection value, a first detection value acquired by applying a voltage to an electrode corresponding to the first region, The positions of the first conductor and the second conductor are further detected using the updated first detection value.

3. The sensor device according to claim 1, wherein: The sensor controller performs the following operations: A voltage is applied to each of the plurality of electrodes of the touch panel based on the non-resonance frequency of the resonant circuit, thereby further acquiring a third detection value of each of the plurality of electrodes. updating the first detection value based on the third detection value, The positions of the first conductor and the second conductor are further detected using the updated first detection value.

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