Electronic device

Abstract

An electronic device can include a display panel; and an input sensor in which a first area, a second area surrounding the first area, and a third area surrounding the second area are defined, the input sensor being located on the display panel and including a sensing electrode, the sensing electrode including a first electrode including a first main electrode and a first sub-electrode, and a second electrode adjacent to the first electrode and including a second main electrode and a second sub-electrode located between the first main electrode and the first sub-electrode in the first area.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0065027, filed on May 29, 2020, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] Embodiments of this disclosure relate to electronic devices with improved sensing reliability. Background Technology

[0004] Electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart TVs are being developed. Such electronic devices may include display devices for providing information to users.

[0005] Recently, in addition to display panels that display images, electronic devices may also include input sensors provided for interaction with a user. Input sensors are configured to monitor for touch events occurring between the screen and an object (e.g., a user's finger or a sensory pen) when the object touches or moves toward the screen, and to locate the coordinates of such touch events. In some cases, image signals are input to the electronic device based on the coordinates of the touch events. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Some of the disclosed embodiments provide electronic devices with improved sensing reliability.

[0007] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, an electronic device may include: a display panel; and an input sensor defining a first region, a second region surrounding the first region, and a third region surrounding the second region, the input sensor being located on the display panel and including sensing electrodes, the sensing electrodes including: a first electrode including a first main electrode and a first sub-electrode; and a second electrode adjacent to the first electrode and including a second main electrode and a second sub-electrode located in the first region between the first main electrode and the first sub-electrode.

[0008] In the plan view, the first sub-electrode and the second sub-electrode may intersect each other in the second region.

[0009] The display panel may include an active region and a peripheral region adjacent to the active region, wherein the first region and the second region overlap with the active region, and wherein the third region overlaps with the peripheral region.

[0010] The display panel may include an active area and a peripheral area, the active area and the peripheral area being defined as adjacent to each other in the display panel, wherein the first area overlaps with the active area, and wherein the second area and the third area overlap with the peripheral area.

[0011] The input sensor may further include sensing lines located in the third region, the sensing lines being electrically connected to the sensing electrodes respectively, and the sensing lines including: a first line electrically connected to the first main electrode and the first sub-electrode, and a second line electrically connected to the second main electrode and the second sub-electrode.

[0012] The plurality of sensing electrodes may further include a third electrode and a fourth electrode adjacent to each other; wherein the first electrode and the second electrode extend in a first direction; wherein the third electrode and the fourth electrode extend in a second direction intersecting the first direction; wherein the third electrode includes a third main electrode and a third sub-electrode; wherein the fourth electrode includes a fourth main electrode and a fourth sub-electrode; and wherein, in the first region, the fourth sub-electrode is located between the third main electrode and the third sub-electrode.

[0013] The width of the first main electrode can be greater than the width of the first sub-electrode.

[0014] The first sub-electrode may include a plurality of first sub-electrodes spaced apart from each other, and the first main electrode is located between the plurality of first sub-electrodes.

[0015] The first electrode may further include a first auxiliary electrode, which is spaced apart from the first main electrode, and a first sub-electrode is located between the first auxiliary electrode and the first main electrode; wherein, the second electrode further includes a second auxiliary electrode, which is spaced apart from the second main electrode, and a second sub-electrode is located between the second auxiliary electrode and the second main electrode; wherein, in the first region, the first sub-electrode and the first auxiliary electrode are located between the second main electrode and the second sub-electrode; and wherein, in a plan view, the first auxiliary electrode and the second auxiliary electrode intersect each other in the second region.

[0016] The first electrode may further include at least one connection pattern located in the first region, the at least one connection pattern connecting the first main electrode to the first sub-electrode and intersecting with the second sub-electrode in a plan view. Attached Figure Description

[0017] The embodiments will be more clearly understood from the following brief description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The drawings illustrate non-limiting embodiments as described herein.

[0018] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing an electronic device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 2A and Figure 2B This is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 3 This is a plan view showing a display panel according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 4 This is a schematic plan view of an input sensor according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 The cross-sectional view taken from line I-I'.

[0023] Figure 6A It is along Figure 4 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' to illustrate a portion of an electronic device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 6B It is a graph showing the signal of the input sensor receiving the first signal according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 6C It is along Figure 4 A cross-sectional view taken by line II-II' to illustrate a portion of an electronic device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 7A It is along Figure 4 A cross-sectional view taken by line II-II' to illustrate a portion of an electronic device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 7B It is a graph showing the signal of the input sensor receiving the first signal according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 8A This is a perspective view showing a portion of an electronic device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 8B This is an enlarged view of region AA of an electronic device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 9 This is a plan view illustrating an input sensor according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 10 This is a plan view illustrating an input sensor according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0032] It should be noted that these figures are intended to illustrate the general characteristics of the methods, structures, and / or materials used in some embodiments and to supplement the written description provided below. However, these figures are not drawn to scale and may not accurately reflect the precise structural or performance characteristics of any given embodiment, and should not be construed as defining or limiting the range of values ​​or properties covered by the embodiments. For example, the relative thickness and location of molecules, layers, regions, and / or structural elements may be reduced or exaggerated for clarity. The use of similar or identical reference numerals in the various figures is intended to indicate the presence of similar or identical elements or features. Detailed Implementation

[0033] Aspects of some embodiments of this disclosure and their implementation methods can be more readily understood by referring to the detailed description of the embodiments and the accompanying drawings. Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the described embodiments may be implemented in various different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments shown herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided as examples so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey aspects of this disclosure to those skilled in the art. Therefore, processes, elements, and techniques that are not necessary for those skilled in the art to fully understand aspects of this disclosure may not be described.

[0034] Unless otherwise stated, the same reference numerals, characters, or combinations thereof indicate the same elements throughout the drawings and written description, and therefore their description will not be repeated. Furthermore, for clarity, parts unrelated to the description of the embodiments may not be shown. In the drawings, the relative dimensions of elements, layers, and regions may be exaggerated for clarity. Additionally, crosshairs and / or shading are generally provided in the drawings to clarify the boundaries between adjacent elements. Thus, unless otherwise stated, the presence or absence of crosshairs or shading does not convey or indicate any preference or requirement for the specific material, material properties, size, scale, commonalities between the elements shown, and / or any other characteristics, properties, or characteristics of the elements.

[0035] Various embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional views that serve as schematic diagrams of examples and / or intermediate structures. Thus, the shapes of these illustrations are expected to vary due to, for example, manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Furthermore, the specific structural or functional descriptions disclosed herein are merely illustrative and intended to describe embodiments based on the concepts of this disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed herein should not be construed as limited to the specific shapes shown in the regions, but are to include, for example, shape variations due to manufacturing processes.

[0036] For example, the injection regions shown as rectangles typically have rounded or curved edges and / or a gradient of injection concentration, rather than a binary variation from the injection region to the non-injection region. Similarly, the buried region formed by injection can result in a certain amount of injection in the region between the buried region and the surface through which the injection occurs. Therefore, the regions shown in the figures are actually schematic, and their shapes are not intended to show the actual shape of the region of the device, nor are they intended to be limiting. Furthermore, as those skilled in the art will recognize, the described embodiments can be modified in various different ways without departing from the spirit or scope of this disclosure.

[0037] In the detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth for illustrative purposes to provide a thorough understanding of the various embodiments. However, it will be apparent that the various embodiments can be practiced without these specific details or using one or more equivalent arrangements. In other instances, well-known structures and apparatuses are shown in block diagram form to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the various embodiments.

[0038] It will be understood that although the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe different elements, components, regions, layers, and / or parts, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or part from another. Therefore, without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, the first element, component, region, layer, or part described below may be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer, or part.

[0039] For ease of explanation, spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “below,” “below,” “above,” and “above” are used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature as shown in the figures to other elements(s)(s). It will be understood that, in addition to the orientations depicted in the figures, spatial relative terms are also intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the figures is flipped, an element described as “below,” “below,” or “below” other elements or features will subsequently be oriented “above” other elements or features. Thus, the example terms “below” and “below” can cover both orientations of “above” and “below.” The device may be otherwise positioned (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative terms used herein should be interpreted accordingly. Similarly, when a first component is described as being arranged “above” a second component, this means that the first component is arranged above or below the second component, not limited to its upper side based on the direction of gravity.

[0040] Furthermore, in this specification, the phrase "in a plane" or "plan view" refers to the target portion viewed from above, while the phrase "in a cross section" refers to a cross section formed by vertically cutting the target portion from the side.

[0041] It will be understood that when a component, layer, region, or assembly is referred to as "formed on," "on," "connected to," or "bonded to" another component, layer, region, or assembly, that component, layer, region, or assembly may be directly formed on, directly on, directly connected to, or directly bonded to another component, layer, region, or assembly, or indirectly formed on, indirectly on, indirectly connected to, or indirectly bonded to another component, layer, region, or assembly, thereby allowing one or more intermediary components, layers, regions, or assemblies to exist. For example, when a component, layer, region, or assembly is referred to as "electrically connected" or "electrically bonded" to another component, layer, region, or assembly, that component, layer, region, or assembly may be directly electrically connected or bonded to the other component, layer, region, and / or assembly, or an intermediary component, layer, region, or assembly may exist. However, "direct connection / direct combination" means that one component is directly connected to or combined with another component without any intermediary component. Similarly, other expressions describing relationships between components, such as "between," "directly between," or "adjacent to / adjacent to," and "directly adjacent to / directly adjacent to," can be interpreted similarly. Furthermore, it will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as "between" two elements or layers, that element or layer can be the only element or layer between those two elements or layers, or there can be one or more intermediary elements or layers.

[0042] In this example, the x-axis, y-axis, and / or z-axis are not limited to the three axes of a Cartesian coordinate system and can be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis can be perpendicular to each other, or they can represent different directions that are not perpendicular to each other. The same applies to the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and / or the third direction DR3.

[0043] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a” and “an” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that when the terms “comprises / comprising,” “have / having,” and “includes / including” are used in this specification, it indicates the presence of the listed features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0044] As used herein, the terms “substantially,” “approximately,” “approximately,” and similar terms are used as terms of approximation rather than terms of degree and are intended to account for inherent biases in measured or calculated values ​​that will be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art. Taking into account the measurements discussed and the errors associated with the measurement of a particular quantity (i.e., limitations of the measurement system), “approximately” or “approximately” as used herein includes the listed values ​​and means within an acceptable range of deviation for a particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, “approximately” may mean within one or more standard deviations, or within ±30%, ±20%, ±10%, ±5% of the listed values. Furthermore, the use of “may” when describing embodiments of this disclosure means “one or more embodiments of this disclosure.”

[0045] Furthermore, any numerical ranges disclosed and / or enumerated herein are intended to include all subranges containing the same numerical precision within the enumerated range. For example, the range “1.0 to 10.0” is intended to include all subranges between the enumerated minimum value of 1.0 and the enumerated maximum value of 10.0 (and including endpoint values), i.e., a minimum value equal to or greater than 1.0 and a maximum value equal to or less than 10.0, for example, 2.4 to 7.6. Any maximum numerical limit enumerated herein is intended to include all smaller numerical limits contained therein, and any minimum numerical limit mentioned in this specification is intended to include all larger numerical limits contained therein. Therefore, the applicant reserves the right to modify this specification (including the claims) to expressly enumerate any subranges contained within the ranges expressly enumerated herein.

[0046] The electronic or electrical devices and / or any other related devices or components according to embodiments of the present disclosure described herein can be implemented using any suitable hardware, firmware (e.g., application-specific integrated circuits), software, or a combination of software, firmware, and hardware. For example, various components of these devices can be formed on an integrated circuit (IC) chip or on a separate IC chip. Furthermore, various components of these devices can be implemented on flexible printed circuit films, tape-on packages (TCPs), printed circuit boards (PCBs), or formed on a substrate.

[0047] Furthermore, the various components of these devices may be processes or threads that run on one or more processors within one or more computing devices, execute computer program instructions, and interact with other system components to perform the various functions described herein. The computer program instructions are stored in memory, which may be implemented in the computing device using standard storage devices such as, for example, random access memory (RAM). The computer program instructions may also be stored in other non-transitory computer-readable media such as, for example, CD-ROMs or flash drives. Additionally, those skilled in the art will recognize that, without departing from the spirit and scope of the embodiments of this disclosure, the functions of various computing devices may be combined or integrated into a single computing device, or the functions of a particular computing device may be distributed across one or more other computing devices.

[0048] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It will be further understood that, unless so explicitly defined herein, terms (e.g., those defined in a common dictionary) shall be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the relevant field and / or the context of this specification, and shall not be interpreted as having an ideal or overly formal meaning.

[0049] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing an electronic device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0050] Reference Figure 1 An electronic device EA can be activated by an electrical signal applied thereto. The electronic device EA can be implemented in various forms. For example, the electronic device EA can be used in large electronic devices (e.g., televisions, monitors, and billboards) or small to medium-sized electronic devices (e.g., personal computers, laptops, personal digital assistants, car navigation systems, game consoles, portable electronic devices, smartphones, and cameras). However, these are merely examples of this disclosure, and other electronic devices can be used to implement this disclosure, provided they do not depart from it. For simplicity, the following description will refer to the example of an electronic device EA as a smartphone.

[0051] An electronic device EA may include a display surface EA-IS for displaying an image IM. The display surface EA-IS may include an active area EA-AA and a peripheral area EA-NAA adjacent to each other. The active area EA-AA may be the area on which the image IM is displayed. The peripheral area EA-NAA may not be used to display the image IM. The image IM may be a video image or a still image. Figure 1 A clock and icon are shown as examples of image IM.

[0052] The active region EA-AA can be parallel to the surface defined by the intersecting first direction DR1 and second direction DR2. The direction orthogonal to the active region EA-AA (e.g., the thickness direction of the electronic device EA) will be referred to as the third direction DR3.

[0053] In the following text, the front or top surface and rear or bottom surface of each element or unit are distinguished based on a third direction DR3. The third direction DR3 can be a direction that intersects both the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2. For example, the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3 can be perpendicular to each other. In this specification, the surface defined by the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2 can be referred to as a "plane," and the expression "when viewed in a plan view" can refer to viewing the object described herein on the third direction DR3.

[0054] The electronic device EA can sense coordinates based on the movement of an active pen PN. The active pen PN can include a main body portion BD and a sensing portion DT located at the end of the main body portion BD. The main body portion BD can include a power supply portion. The sensing portion DT can correspond to a conventional pen tip. The sensing portion DT can be formed of a conductive material, or can include a conductive material. The sensing portion DT can generate an electric field between the sensing portion DT and an adjacent conductive object using power supplied from the power supply portion. The active pen PN can include an active electrostatic (AES) pen. The active pen PN will be described in more detail later.

[0055] Figure 2A This is a cross-sectional view of an electronic device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0056] Reference Figure 2A The electronic device EA may include a display panel DP, an input sensor IS, and an anti-reflective layer POL.

[0057] The display panel DP may include a first substrate layer BS1, a display circuit layer DP-CL, an image display layer DP-OLED, and a thin film encapsulation layer TFE.

[0058] The first substrate layer BS1 may be or may include a silicon substrate, a plastic substrate, a glass substrate, an insulating film, or a stack of multiple insulating layers.

[0059] The display circuit layer DP-CL can be located on the first substrate layer BS1. The display circuit layer DP-CL may include multiple insulating layers, multiple conductive layers, and at least one semiconductor layer. The conductive layers of the display circuit layer DP-CL can form signal lines or pixel control circuits.

[0060] The image display layer DP-OLED can be located on the display circuit layer DP-CL. The image display layer DP-OLED can be a light-emitting display layer, but this disclosure is not limited to this example. For example, the image display layer DP-OLED can be an organic light-emitting display layer, a quantum dot display layer, a nano-LED display layer, or a micro-LED display layer. An organic light-emitting display layer can be formed of an organic light-emitting material, or may include an organic light-emitting material. A quantum dot display layer can be formed of electron dots or quantum rods, or may include electron dots or quantum rods, etc. Nano-LED display layers and micro-LED display layers can include small LED devices of several hundred micrometers or smaller. For simplicity, the following description will refer to an example in which the image display layer DP-OLED is an organic light-emitting display layer.

[0061] The thin-film encapsulation layer (TFE) can be located on the DP-OLED image display layer to cover it. The TFE may include a first inorganic layer, an organic layer, and a second inorganic layer sequentially stacked on the third-direction DR3. However, this disclosure is not limited to this structure of the TFE. For example, in some embodiments, the TFE may also include multiple inorganic layers and multiple organic layers.

[0062] The first inorganic layer can reduce or prevent external moisture or oxygen from penetrating into the image display layer of the DP-OLED. For example, the first inorganic layer can be formed of at least one of silicon nitride, silicon oxide, and compounds thereof, or may include at least one of silicon nitride, silicon oxide, and compounds thereof.

[0063] The organic layer may be located on the first inorganic layer and may have a flat top surface. Uneven structures or particles formed on the top surface of the first inorganic layer may be covered by the organic layer. The organic layer may be formed of at least one of, for example, acrylic organic materials, or may include at least one of, for example, acrylic organic materials, but this disclosure is not limited to this example.

[0064] The second inorganic layer may be located on top of the organic layer to cover it. The second inorganic layer may encapsulate or seal the organic layer, and thus reduce or prevent moisture leakage from the organic layer to the outside. The second inorganic layer may be formed of at least one of silicon nitride, silicon oxide, and compounds thereof, or may include at least one of silicon nitride, silicon oxide, and compounds thereof.

[0065] The input sensor IS can be formed continuously on the display panel DP. In this case, the input sensor IS can be located directly on the display panel DP, meaning that no other components are located between the input sensor IS and the display panel DP. For example, there is no adhesive member between the input sensor IS and the display panel DP. However, this disclosure is not limited to this example, and in some embodiments, the input sensor IS can be attached to the display panel DP by additional adhesive members.

[0066] The input sensor IS may include a substrate insulating layer IS-IL0 and a sensing circuit layer ML-T.

[0067] The substrate insulating layer IS-IL0 may be located on the thin-film encapsulation layer TFE. The substrate insulating layer IS-IL0 may be formed of at least one of inorganic materials, organic materials, and composite materials, or may include at least one of these materials. The substrate insulating layer IS-IL0 may be directly located on the thin-film encapsulation layer TFE. For example, the substrate insulating layer IS-IL0 may be in direct contact with the thin-film encapsulation layer TFE. The substrate insulating layer IS-IL0 may have a single-layer or multi-layer structure. In some embodiments, the substrate insulating layer IS-IL0 may be omitted.

[0068] The sensing circuit layer ML-T may be located on the substrate insulating layer IS-IL0. The sensing circuit layer ML-T may include multiple insulating layers and multiple conductive layers. The conductive layers may include multiple sensing electrodes for sensing external inputs and multiple sensing lines electrically connected to the sensing electrodes, as will be described in more detail below.

[0069] An antireflective layer (POL) can be located on the input sensor (IS). The antireflective layer (POL) may include a polarizing layer. The antireflective layer (POL) may include a polarizer and a phase retarder. The polarizer and phase retarder may be an elongated synthetic resin film or a coated synthetic resin film. For example, the antireflective layer (POL) can be provided by dyeing a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) film with an iodine compound. The antireflective layer (POL) can be configured to reduce the optical reflectivity of externally incident light.

[0070] In some embodiments, the antireflective layer POL may include color filters. In some embodiments, the color filters may be arranged in a specific or particular manner. The arrangement of the color filters may be determined by considering the color of light emitted from the pixels in the image display layer DP-OLED.

[0071] In some embodiments, the antireflective layer POL may include a destructive interference structure. For example, the destructive interference structure may include a first reflective layer and a second reflective layer located in different layers. The first reflected light and the second reflected light reflected by the first reflective layer and the second reflective layer, respectively, can destructively interfere with each other, and thus, the reflectivity of external light can be reduced.

[0072] Figure 2B This is a cross-sectional view illustrating an electronic device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 2B For the sake of brevity, the following description refers to... Figure 2A The described elements may be identified by similar or identical reference numerals, without repeating overlapping descriptions thereof.

[0073] Reference Figure 2B The electronic device EA-1 may include a display panel DP-1, an input sensor IS-1, and an anti-reflective layer POL.

[0074] The display panel DP-1 may include a first substrate layer BS1, a display circuit layer DP-CL, and an image display layer DP-OLED.

[0075] The input sensor IS-1 can be located on the display panel DP-1. The input sensor IS-1 may include a second substrate layer BS2 and a sensing circuit layer ML-T.

[0076] The second substrate layer BS2 may be or may include a silicon substrate, a plastic substrate, a glass substrate, an insulating film, or a stack of multiple insulating layers.

[0077] The bonding member SLM may be located between the first substrate layer BS1 and the second substrate layer BS2. The bonding member SLM may be combined with the first substrate layer BS1 and the second substrate layer BS2. The bonding member SLM may be formed of at least one of organic materials (e.g., photocurable or photoplastic resin) and inorganic materials (e.g., glass frit sealant), or may include at least one of organic materials (e.g., photocurable or photoplastic resin) and inorganic materials (e.g., glass frit sealant), but this disclosure is not limited to these examples or specific embodiments.

[0078] Figure 3 This is a plan view showing a display panel according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0079] Reference Figure 3The active area DP-AA and the peripheral area DP-NAA can be defined adjacent to each other in the display panel DP. The active area DP-AA can be used to display the image IM (see, for example, see...). Figure 1 The active region DP-AA can contain multiple pixels PX. The active region DP-AA can correspond to the active region EA-AA of the electronic device EA (see, for example, see...). Figure 1 The peripheral region DP-NAA can be the area where the drive circuit or drive line is located. The peripheral region DP-NAA can correspond to the peripheral region EA-NAA of the electronic device EA (see, for example, see...). Figure 1 ).

[0080] Each pixel (PX) can be configured to display one of the primary colors or one of the mixed colors. Primary colors can include red, green, and blue. Mixed colors can include a variety of colors such as white, yellow, cyan, and magenta. However, the colors that can be displayed through a pixel (PX) are not limited to the above colors.

[0081] The display panel DP may include a substrate layer BS1, multiple pixels PX, multiple signal lines GL, DL, PL and EL, multiple display pads PDD and multiple sensor pads PDT.

[0082] Signal lines GL, DL, PL, and EL can be located on substrate layer BS1. Substrate layer BS1 can be... Figure 2A The first substrate layer BS1. Signal lines GL, DL, PL, and EL can be connected to pixel PX to transmit electrical signals to pixel PX. Signal lines GL, DL, PL, and EL can include multiple scan lines GL, multiple data lines DL, multiple power lines PL, and multiple light emission control lines EL. However, this disclosure is not limited to the described structure of signal lines GL, DL, PL, and EL. For example, signal lines GL, DL, PL, and EL can also include at least one initialization voltage line.

[0083] The power pattern VDD can be located in the peripheral area DP-NAA. The power pattern VDD can be integrated with the power line PL. Because the display panel DP includes the power pattern VDD, the same power signal can be provided to the pixels PX.

[0084] The display pads (PDD) can be located in the peripheral area (DP-NAA). The display pads (PDD) can include a first pad (PD1) and a second pad (PD2). In some embodiments, multiple first pads (PD1) can be provided. The first pads (PD1) can be electrically connected to data lines (DL) respectively. The second pads (PD2) can be electrically connected to power lines (PL) via power patterns (VDD). The display panel (DP) can provide externally supplied electrical signals to the pixels (PX) via the display pads (PDD). In some embodiments, in addition to the first pads (PD1) and the second pads (PD2), the display pads (PDD) can also include pads for receiving other electrical signals; however, this disclosure is not limited to this example or any particular embodiment.

[0085] The driver chip IC can be mounted on the peripheral area DP-NAA. The driver chip IC can be a timing control circuit provided in chip form. The data lines DL can be electrically connected to the first pad PD1 via the driver chip IC. However, this disclosure is not limited to this example, and in some embodiments, the driver chip IC can be mounted on a film different from the display panel DP. In this case, the driver chip IC can be electrically connected to the display pad PDD via the film.

[0086] The sensing pad PDT can be located in the peripheral area DP-NAA. The sensing pad PDT can be electrically connected to the input sensor IS (e.g., see [reference]). Figure 2A The sensing electrodes are described below. The sensing pads PDT may include a plurality of first sensing pads TD1 and a plurality of second sensing pads TD2.

[0087] Figure 4 This schematically illustrates a plan view of an input sensor according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, and Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 The cross-sectional view taken from line I-I'.

[0088] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 A first region IS-AR1, a second region IS-AR2, and a third region IS-AR3 can be defined in the input sensor IS. The second region IS-AR2 may surround the first region IS-AR1. The third region IS-AR3 may surround the second region IS-AR2. The second region IS-AR2 may be located between the first region IS-AR1 and the third region IS-AR3. The first region IS-AR1 may be adjacent to the active region DP-AA of the display panel DP (see, for example, see...). Figure 3 The third region IS-AR3 may overlap with the peripheral region DP-NAA of the display panel DP (see, for example, see...). Figure 3 )overlap.

[0089] In some embodiments, the second region IS-AR2 may be associated with the active region DP-AA of the display panel DP (e.g., see...). Figure 3 The second region IS-AR2 overlaps with the peripheral region DP-NAA of the display panel DP (see, for example, see...). However, this disclosure is not limited to this overlapping structure of the second region IS-AR2. For example, the second region IS-AR2 may overlap with the peripheral region DP-NAA of the display panel DP (see, for example, see...). Figure 3 )overlap.

[0090] The input sensor IS may include a substrate insulating layer IS-IL0, multiple sensing electrodes TE1 and TE2, and multiple sensing lines TL1 and TL2.

[0091] Sensing electrodes TE1 and TE2 may be located in the first region IS-AR1 and the second region IS-AR2. Sensing electrodes TE1 and TE2 may include multiple first sensing electrodes TE1 and multiple second sensing electrodes TE2.

[0092] Each first sensing electrode TE1 may extend in a first direction DR1. The first sensing electrodes TE1 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in a second direction DR2. Each first sensing electrode TE1 may include a main electrode ME1 and two sub-electrodes SE1. For example, each first sensing electrode TE1 may include a main electrode ME1 and two sub-electrodes SE1 spaced apart from each other, with the main electrode ME1 located between the two sub-electrodes SE1.

[0093] The main electrode ME1 may include multiple sensing patterns SP1 and multiple bridge patterns BP1. The sensing pattern SP1 may be referred to as the first sensing pattern SP1.

[0094] One of the first sensing electrodes TE1 can be referred to as the first electrode TE1-1. The other first sensing electrode TE1 adjacent to the first electrode TE1-1 can be referred to as the second electrode TE1-2. The main electrode of the first electrode TE1-1 can be referred to as the first main electrode ME1-1, and the sub-electrode of the first electrode TE1-1 can be referred to as the first sub-electrode SE1-1. The main electrode of the second electrode TE1-2 can be referred to as the second main electrode ME1-2, and the sub-electrode of the second electrode TE1-2 can be referred to as the second sub-electrode SE1-2.

[0095] In the first region IS-AR1, the first main electrode ME1-1 and the first sub-electrode SE1-1 can be spaced apart from each other, and the second sub-electrode SE1-2 is located between the first main electrode ME1-1 and the first sub-electrode SE1-1. The second main electrode ME1-2 and the second sub-electrode SE1-2 can be spaced apart from each other, wherein the first sub-electrode SE1-1 is located between the second main electrode ME1-2 and the second sub-electrode SE1-2.

[0096] When viewed in a plan view, the first sub-electrode SE1-1 and the second sub-electrode SE1-2 can intersect each other in the second region IS-AR2.

[0097] In the first region IS-AR1, the first main electrode ME1-1, the second sub-electrode SE1-2, and the first sub-electrode SE1-1 and the second main electrode ME1-2 can be arranged sequentially in the second direction DR2.

[0098] Each second sensing electrode TE2 may extend in the second direction DR2. The second sensing electrodes TE2 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the first direction DR1. Each second sensing electrode TE2 may include a main electrode ME2 and two sub-electrodes SE2. For example, each second sensing electrode TE2 may include a main electrode ME2 and two sub-electrodes SE2 spaced apart from each other, with the main electrode ME2 located between the two sub-electrodes SE2.

[0099] The main electrode ME2 may include multiple first portions SP2 and multiple second portions BP2. The first portions SP2 may be referred to as the second sensing pattern.

[0100] One of the second sensing electrodes TE2 can be referred to as the third electrode TE2-1. The other second sensing electrode TE2 adjacent to the third electrode TE2-1 can be referred to as the fourth electrode TE2-2. The main electrode of the third electrode TE2-1 can be referred to as the third main electrode ME2-1, and the sub-electrode of the third electrode TE2-1 can be referred to as the third sub-electrode SE2-1. The main electrode of the fourth electrode TE2-2 can be referred to as the fourth main electrode ME2-2, and the sub-electrode of the fourth electrode TE2-2 can be referred to as the fourth sub-electrode SE2-2.

[0101] In the first region IS-AR1, the third main electrode ME2-1 and the third sub-electrode SE2-1 can be spaced apart from each other, and the fourth sub-electrode SE2-2 is located between the third main electrode ME2-1 and the third sub-electrode SE2-1. The fourth main electrode ME2-2 and the fourth sub-electrode SE2-2 can be spaced apart from each other, and the third sub-electrode SE2-1 is located between the fourth main electrode ME2-2 and the fourth sub-electrode SE2-2.

[0102] When viewed in a plan view, the third sub-electrode SE2-1 and the fourth sub-electrode SE2-2 can intersect each other in the second region IS-AR2.

[0103] In the first region IS-AR1, the third main electrode ME2-1, the fourth sub-electrode SE2-2, the third sub-electrode SE2-1 and the fourth main electrode ME2-2 can be sequentially positioned in the first direction DR1.

[0104] Bridge pattern BP1 and the second portion BP2 can be located on different layers. The second portion BP2 can cross the first sensing electrode TE1 in an electrically disconnected manner. For example, the second portion BP2 can cross each bridge pattern BP1 in an electrically disconnected manner.

[0105] The bridge pattern BP1 may be located on the substrate insulating layer IS-IL0. The first insulating layer IS-IL1 may be located on the bridge pattern BP1. The first insulating layer IS-IL1 may cover the bridge pattern BP1. The first insulating layer IS-IL1 may be formed of at least one of inorganic materials, organic materials, and composite materials, or may include at least one of inorganic materials, organic materials, and composite materials. The bridge pattern BP1 may have a grid structure.

[0106] The sensing pattern SP1, the first portion SP2, and the second portion BP2 can be located on the first insulating layer IS-IL1. The sensing pattern SP1, the first portion SP2, and the second portion BP2 can have a grid structure.

[0107] Multiple contact holes CNT1 can be configured to pass through the first insulating layer IS-IL1 on the third-direction DR3. Two adjacent sensing patterns SP1 in the sensing pattern SP1 can be electrically connected to the bridge pattern BP1 through the corresponding contact holes CNT1.

[0108] The second insulating layer IS-IL2 may be located on the sensing pattern SP1, the first portion SP2, and the second portion BP2. The second insulating layer IS-IL2 may cover the sensing pattern SP1, the first portion SP2, and the second portion BP2. The second insulating layer IS-IL2 may be formed of at least one of inorganic materials, organic materials, and composite materials, or may include at least one of inorganic materials, organic materials, and composite materials.

[0109] Figure 5 The diagram shows that the bridge pattern BP1 is located in the sensing pattern SP1 and the first part SP2 (see...). Figure 4 The bottom bridge structure is located below the sensing pattern SP1 and the first portion SP2, but the structure of the input sensor IS is not limited to this. For example, in some embodiments, the input sensor IS may have a top bridge structure in which the bridge pattern BP1 is located above the sensing pattern SP1, the first portion SP2, and the second portion BP2.

[0110] Sensing lines TL1 and TL2 can be located in the third region IS-AR3. Sensing lines TL1 and TL2 can include multiple first sensing lines TL1 and multiple second sensing lines TL2. Each first sensing line TL1 can be electrically connected to a first sensing electrode TE1. Each first sensing line TL1 can be electrically connected to a main electrode ME1 and a sub-electrode SE1. Each second sensing line TL2 can be electrically connected to a second sensing electrode TE2. Each second sensing line TL2 can be electrically connected to a main electrode ME2 and a sub-electrode SE2.

[0111] The first sensing line TL1 may include a first line TL1-1 and a second line TL1-2. A first main electrode ME1-1 and a first sub-electrode SE1-1 may be electrically connected to the first line TL1-1. A second main electrode ME1-2 and a second sub-electrode SE1-2 may be electrically connected to the second line TL1-2.

[0112] First sensing pad TD1 (for example, see Figure 3 The second sensing pad TD2 can be electrically connected to the first sensing line TL1 via contact holes. Figure 3 It can be electrically connected to the second sensing line TL2 through the contact hole.

[0113] Electronic device EA (e.g., see Figure 1 It may also include a control unit CT for controlling the input sensor IS. The operating mode of the input sensor IS can be alternately switched between a first mode and a second mode under the control of the control unit CT.

[0114] The first mode can be a touch mode for detecting input, which can be provided through a part of the user's body. In the first mode, the first sensing electrode TE1 can output a sensing signal, and the second sensing electrode TE2 can receive a drive signal. Here, the electronic device EA can apply the drive signal to the second sensing electrode TE2 to scan the first region IS-AR1, and can sense the area where a touch has been applied by using the sensing signal output from the first sensing electrode TE1. For example, when the input sensor IS is in the first mode, the input sensor IS can operate in a capacitive manner.

[0115] However, this disclosure is not limited to this example. For example, in some embodiments, the first sensing electrode TE1 may be configured to receive a drive signal, and the second sensing electrode TE2 may be configured to output a sensing signal. Optionally, at least one of the first sensing electrode TE1 and the second sensing electrode TE2 may be configured to output or receive other additional electrical signals.

[0116] The second mode can be different from the first mode. The second mode can be a pen mode for detecting the active pen PN. In the second mode, the same sensing signal can be provided to the first sensing electrode TE1 and the second sensing electrode TE2.

[0117] The input sensor IS can detect changes in voltage and / or current of the sensing signals provided to the first sensing electrode TE1 and the second sensing electrode TE2. The input sensor IS can calculate sensing coordinates based on the changes in voltage and / or current. For example, when the input sensor IS is in a second mode, it can operate in a manner that senses a drive signal input from an external source (e.g., an active electrostatic (AES) pen).

[0118] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, in the second mode, as the active pen PN contacts or moves toward the input sensor IS, the sensing coordinates can be calculated by the control unit CT of the input sensor IS. If the sensing portion DT of the active pen PN contacts or moves toward the input sensor IS, the electric field between the sensing portion DT and the sensing electrodes TE1 and TE2 can be changed.

[0119] The amplitude of the voltage supplied to the sensing section DT can differ from the amplitude of the voltage supplied to the sensing electrodes TE1 and TE2. Therefore, movement of the active pen PN can cause a change in the potential between the sensing section DT and the sensing electrodes TE1 and TE2. Due to this change in potential, a change in the electric field can exist between the sensing section DT and the sensing electrodes TE1 and TE2. This change in the electric field can lead to a change in the electrostatic capacitance between the sensing electrodes TE1 and TE2, which is detected by the control unit CT and used to calculate the position coordinates of the active pen PN.

[0120] Figure 6A It is along Figure 4 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' to illustrate a portion of an electronic device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, and Figure 6B This is a graph showing the signal of an input sensor receiving a first signal according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 6A For the sake of brevity, the following description refers to... Figure 4 and Figure 5 The described elements may be identified by similar or identical reference numerals, without repeating overlapping descriptions thereof.

[0121] Reference Figure 6A and Figure 6B The anti-reflective layer POL can be located on the input sensor IS. The active pen PN can be located on the anti-reflective layer POL to transmit the first signal SG1.

[0122] The sensing portion DT may include a first electrode DT1 and a second electrode DT2. The first electrode DT1 may be located at the end of the active electrode PN. The second electrode DT2 may be located on the side surface of the main body portion BD. The second electrode DT2 will be described in more detail later.

[0123] The first sensing electrode TE1 may include an electrode also referred to as the second electrode TE1-3, which is adjacent to the first electrode TE1-1 and spaced apart from the second electrode TE1-2 in the second direction DR2, with the first electrode TE1-1 located between the second electrode TE1-3 and the second electrode TE1-2. The main electrode of the second electrode TE1-3 may also be referred to as the second main electrode ME1-3. The sub-electrode of the second electrode TE1-3 may also be referred to as the second sub-electrode SE1-3.

[0124] The first electrode TE1-1 and the second electrodes TE1-2 and TE1-3 adjacent to the first electrode TE1-1 can have a grid structure.

[0125] The width WD-ME of the first main electrode ME1-1 can be greater than the width WD-SE of the first sub-electrode SE1-1.

[0126] The first electrode DT1 can transmit a first signal SG1. The first signal SG1 can have a first frequency. The first frequency can be in the range of approximately 100 kHz to approximately 140 kHz. In some embodiments, the first frequency can be approximately 120 kHz. The first signal SG1 can be used to cause a change in the electric field. The control unit CT can obtain a sensing signal IS-SG1 with a Gaussian intensity distribution from calculations based on the change in the electric field measured by the sensing electrodes TE1 and TE2.

[0127] The first signal SG1 may include a first sub-signal SG1a, a second sub-signal SG1b, and a third sub-signal SG1c. The first sub-signal SG1a, the second sub-signal SG1b, and the third sub-signal SG1c can be classified by the emission angle of the first signal SG1.

[0128] The second sub-electrode SE1-2 can be used to sense the first sub-signal SG1a. The first main electrode ME1-1 can be used to sense the second sub-signal SG1b. Another second sub-electrode SE1-3 can be used to sense the third sub-signal SG1c.

[0129] Control unit CT (for example, see Figure 4 The first intensity S1 of the first sensing signal IS-SG1a at position P1 of the second electrode TE1-2 can be calculated from the first sub-signal SG1a sensed by the second sub-electrode SE1-2. Control unit CT (see, for example, [link to control unit]). Figure 4The second intensity S2 of the second sensing signal IS-SG1b at position P2 of the first electrode TE1-1 can be calculated from the second sub-signal SG1b sensed by the first main electrode ME1-1. Control unit CT (see, for example, see...) Figure 4 The third intensity S3 of the third sensing signal IS-SG1c at position P3 of the other second electrode TE1-3 can be calculated from the third sub-signal SG1c sensed by the other second sub-electrode SE1-3.

[0130] In the control unit CT (e.g., see...) Figure 4 In this process, the first sensing signal IS-SG1a, the second sensing signal IS-SG1b, and the third sensing signal IS-SG1c can be combined to form the sensing signal IS-SG1. The control unit CT (see, for example, [reference needed]) Figure 4 The position coordinates of the active pen PN can be calculated with improved accuracy from the sensing signal IS-SG1. Figure 6B An example is shown in which the first intensity S1 is equal to the third intensity S3, but depending on the position of the active pen PN, the first intensity S1 and the third intensity S3 can be identified as different intensities.

[0131] For example, if the first intensity S1 of the first sensing signal IS-SG1a is different from the third intensity S3 of the third sensing signal IS-SG1c, the first intensity S1 and the third intensity S3 can be compared to calculate the position of the active pen PN more accurately. If the first intensity S1 is greater than the third intensity S3, the control unit CT (see, for example, see...) Figure 4 The coordinates of the active pen PN corresponding to the position moved from the center of the first main electrode ME1-1 in the second direction DR2 can be obtained. If the first intensity S1 is less than the third intensity S3, the control unit CT (e.g., see...) Figure 4 It is possible to obtain the coordinates of the active pen PN corresponding to the position of the movement from the center of the first main electrode ME1-1 in the fourth direction DR4, which is opposite to the second direction DR2.

[0132] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, each of the second sub-electrodes SE1-2 and SE1-3 may be located between the first main electrode ME1-1 and a corresponding first sub-electrode SE1-1. The second sub-electrodes SE1-2 and SE1-3 may be positioned adjacent to the first main electrode ME1-1. The second sub-electrodes SE1-2 and SE1-3 may be used to sense a first signal SG1 or a portion thereof. The control unit CT (e.g., see...) Figure 4The position coordinates of the active pen PN can be corrected using the first sensing signal IS-SG1a and the third sensing signal IS-SG1c. Therefore, the accuracy of the position coordinates of the active pen PN relative to the electronic device EA can be improved by using the first signal SG1. This can provide the electronic device EA with improved sensing reliability.

[0133] The effective width WD-SG1 of the electric field of the first signal SG1 can be determined by the width WD-DT of the first electrode DT1 and / or the distance HT1 between the first electrode DT1 and the sensing electrodes TE1 and TE2 (e.g., the distance HT1 on the third direction DR3). The effective width WD-SG1 of the electric field can also be the distance between the first sub-signal SG1a and the third sub-signal SG1c and the sensing electrodes TE1 and TE2 respectively (e.g., see...). Figure 4 The distance between the points where they meet. If the width WD-DT of the first electrode DT1 is reduced to reduce the size of the active electrode PN, the effective width WD-SG1 of the electric field of the first signal SG1 can be reduced. If the distance between the first electrode DT1 and the sensing electrodes TE1 and TE2 is reduced (for example, see...), the effective width WD-SG1 of the electric field of the first signal SG1 can be reduced. Figure 4 The intensity of the first signal SG1 can be increased and the effective width of the electric field of the first signal SG1 can be reduced by decreasing the distance HT1 between the two signals (e.g., by reducing the thickness or size of the electronic device EA).

[0134] If, unlike the embodiments disclosed herein, the second sub-electrodes SE1-2 and SE1-3 are not located between the first main electrode ME1-1 and the first sub-electrode SE1-1, then a reduction in the width WD-DT and distance HT1 can lead to a reduction in the effective width WD-SG1 of the electric field. In this case, it may be difficult to detect the first signal SG1 at the second electrodes TE1-2 and TE1-3 adjacent to the first electrode TE1-1, or it may be difficult to correct the coordinates with high accuracy. In this case, a straight line input by the active pen PN may be identified as a zigzag.

[0135] In contrast, in the electronic device EA according to some embodiments of this disclosure, the number of sensing electrodes can remain constant, each sensing electrode can be divided into a main electrode and a sub-electrode, and each of the second sub-electrodes SE1-2 and SE1-3 can be located between the first main electrode ME1-1 and a corresponding first sub-electrode SE1-1. Even when the width WD-DT or the distance HT1 decreases, the first signal SG1 can still be detected by the second sub-electrodes SE1-2 and SE1-3 located between the first main electrode ME1-1 and the first sub-electrode SE1-1. In the control unit CT (e.g., see...), Figure 4In this system, the position coordinates of the active pen PN can be corrected using the first sensing signal IS-SG1a and the third sensing signal IS-SG1c. The accuracy of the active pen PN's position coordinates relative to the electronic device EA can be improved by using the first signal SG1. This can provide the electronic device EA with improved sensing reliability.

[0136] Figure 6C It is along Figure 4 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' to illustrate a portion of an electronic device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 6C For the sake of brevity, the following description refers to... Figure 6A The described elements may be identified by similar or identical reference numerals, without repeating overlapping descriptions thereof.

[0137] Reference Figure 6C The electronic device EA-1 may also include a window WP. The window WP may be located on the anti-reflective layer POL. The window WP may be formed of an optically transparent insulating material, or may include an optically transparent insulating material. For example, the window WP may be formed of at least one of glass and plastic materials, or may include at least one of glass and plastic materials. The window WP may have a multilayer or single-layer structure. For example, the window WP may include multiple plastic films bonded together by an adhesive material, or a glass substrate and a plastic film bonded together by an adhesive material.

[0138] In some embodiments, the window WP can be a thin plate with a thickness HT-WP of approximately 0.5 mm or less. Due to this small thickness of the window WP, the thickness of the electronic device EA-1 can be reduced. The first electrode DT1 is connected to the sensing electrodes TE1 and TE2 (see, for example, [reference needed]). Figure 4 The distance HT1-1 between the first main electrode ME1-1 and the corresponding first sub-electrode SE1-1 will decrease. The effective width WD-SG1 of the electric field of the first signal SG1 will decrease. According to some embodiments of this disclosure, each of the second sub-electrodes SE1-2 and SE1-3 may be located between the first main electrode ME1-1 and a corresponding first sub-electrode SE1-1. Control unit CT (e.g., see...) Figure 4 The position coordinates of the active pen PN can be corrected using signals sensed by the second sub-electrodes SE1-2 and SE1-3. The accuracy of the position coordinates of the active pen PN relative to the electronic device EA-1 can be improved by using the first signal SG1. This provides the electronic device EA-1 with improved sensing reliability.

[0139] Figure 7A It is along Figure 4 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II' to illustrate a portion of an electronic device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, and Figure 7BThis is a graph showing the signal of an input sensor receiving a first signal according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 7A For the sake of brevity, the following description refers to... Figure 6A The described elements may be identified by similar or identical reference numerals, without repeating overlapping descriptions thereof.

[0140] Reference Figure 7A and Figure 7B The active pen PN can hover on the electronic device EA. The first pen electrode DT1 can transmit a first signal SG1-1. The first signal SG1-1 can include a first sub-signal SG1a-1, a second sub-signal SG1b-1, and a third sub-signal SG1c-1. The first sub-signal SG1a-1, the second sub-signal SG1b-1, and the third sub-signal SG1c-1 can be classified by the emission angle of the first signal SG1-1. Sensing electrodes TE1 and TE2 (e.g., see...) Figure 4 This can be used to sense the first signal SG1-1 and control the CT unit (e.g., see...). Figure 4 The sensing signal IS-SG2 can be calculated from the first signal SG1-1.

[0141] The second main electrode ME1-2 can be used to sense the first sub-signal SG1a-1. The first main electrode ME1-1 can be used to sense the second sub-signal SG1b-1. Another second main electrode ME1-3 can be used to sense the third sub-signal SG1c-1.

[0142] Control unit CT (for example, see Figure 4 The first intensity S1-1 of the first sensing signal IS-SG2a at position P1-1 of the second electrode TE1-2 can be calculated from the first sub-signal SG1a-1 sensed by the second main electrode ME1-2. Control unit CT (see, for example, see...) Figure 4 The second intensity S2-1 of the second sensing signal IS-SG2b at position P2-1 of the first electrode TE1-1 can be calculated from the second sub-signal SG1b-1 sensed by the first main electrode ME1-1. Control unit CT (see, for example, see...) Figure 4 The third intensity S3-1 of the third sensing signal IS-SG2c at position P3-1 of the other second electrode TE1-3 can be calculated from the third sub-signal SG1c-1 sensed by the other second main electrode ME1-3.

[0143] Control unit CT (for example, see Figure 4 The first sensing signal IS-SG2a, the second sensing signal IS-SG2b, and the third sensing signal IS-SG2c can be combined to form the sensing signal IS-SG2. The control unit CT (see, for example, [reference needed]) Figure 4The position coordinates of the active pen PN can be calculated with improved accuracy from the sensing signal IS-SG2.

[0144] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, even when the first signal SG1-1 caused by the hovering motion of the active pen PN is not normally detected by the second sub-electrodes SE1-2 and SE1-3, the first signal SG1-1 can still be detected by the second main electrodes ME1-2 and ME1-3. Therefore, the detectable height HT2 of the active pen PN in hovering motion on the electronic device EA can be increased. Furthermore, in the control unit CT (e.g., see...), Figure 4 In this process, the position coordinates of the active pen PN can be corrected using the first sensing signal IS-SG2a and the third sensing signal IS-SG2c. Therefore, the accuracy of the position coordinates of the active pen PN relative to the electronic device EA can be improved by using the first signal SG1-1. This can provide the electronic device EA with improved sensing reliability.

[0145] Figure 8A This is a perspective view showing a portion of an electronic device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, and Figure 8B This illustrates some embodiments according to the present disclosure. Figure 8A A magnified view of region AA.

[0146] Reference Figure 4 , Figure 8A and Figure 8B The sensing portion DT may include a first electrode DT1 and a second electrode DT2. The second electrode DT2 may be located on a side surface of the main body portion BD. The second electrode DT2 may transmit a second signal SG2 in a direction perpendicular to the central axis ax of the active pen PN. The second signal SG2 may have a second frequency different from a first frequency of the first signal SG1. The second frequency may be in the range of approximately 210 kHz to approximately 250 kHz. In some embodiments, the second frequency may be approximately 230 kHz.

[0147] The first sensing electrode TE1 and the second sensing electrode TE2 can be used to sense the first signal SG1 and control the CT (e.g., see...). Figure 4 The coordinates of the first point PT1 can be calculated from the first signal SG1. Additionally, the first sensing electrode TE1 and the second sensing electrode TE2 can be used to sense the second signal SG2 and control the CT unit (e.g., see...). Figure 4 The coordinates of the second point PT2 can be calculated from the second signal SG2. The control unit CT can calculate the distance DS-PT between the first point PT1 and the second point PT2.

[0148] The control unit CT can calculate the angle AG of the active pen PN relative to the top surface IS-T of the input sensor IS based on the geometry of the active pen PN and the input sensor IS. For example, this calculation can be performed using the pre-recorded distance DS-DT between the first electrode DT1 and the second electrode DT2, and the distance DS-PT between the first point PT1 and the second point PT2. Here, because the active pen PN is sufficiently close to the input sensor IS, the distance between the first electrode DT1 and the top surface IS-T of the input sensor IS can be ignored, and therefore, the geometric element defined by the first electrode DT1 and the second electrode DT2, as well as the first point PT1 and the second point PT2, can be considered as a triangle.

[0149] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, a second sub-electrode SE1-2 may be located between the first main electrode ME1-1 and the first sub-electrode SE1-1. The second sub-electrode SE1-2 may be positioned adjacent to the first main electrode ME1-1. The second sub-electrode SE1-2 may be used to sense a second signal SG2. The control unit CT can correct the coordinates of a second point PT2 by using the signal sensed by the second sub-electrode SE1-2, the coordinates of which are used to calculate the angle AG of the active pen PN relative to the top surface IS-T of the input sensor IS. Therefore, the accuracy of the position coordinates of the active pen PN relative to the electronic device EA can be improved by using the second signal SG2. This can provide the electronic device EA with improved sensing reliability (e.g., see...). Figure 1 ).

[0150] The main electrode ME1 of each first sensing electrode TE1 may have a substantially uniform width WD-ME1. The main electrode ME2 of each second sensing electrode TE2 may have a substantially uniform width WD-ME2.

[0151] When the widths of the main electrodes ME1 and ME2 are inconsistent, the value associated with the second signal SG2 sensed by each of the sensing electrodes TE1 and TE2 may vary due to the change in width. This can lead to errors in detecting the second signal SG2 and in calculating the angle AG of the active pen PN relative to the top surface IS-T of the input sensor IS. In contrast, according to some embodiments of this disclosure, because the main electrodes ME1 and ME2 have consistent widths, the reliability of the value associated with the second signal SG2 sensed by the sensing electrodes TE1 and TE2 can be improved. The angle AG of the active pen PN relative to the top surface IS-T of the input sensor IS can be calculated accurately. This can provide an electronic device EA with improved reliability (e.g., see...). Figure 1 ).

[0152] Figure 9This is a plan view illustrating an input sensor according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 9 For the sake of brevity, the following description refers to... Figure 4 The described elements may be identified by similar or identical reference numerals, without repeating overlapping descriptions thereof.

[0153] Reference Figure 9 The first electrode TE1-1a may include a first main electrode ME1-1, a first sub-electrode SE1-1, and a first auxiliary electrode AE1-1. The first auxiliary electrode AE1-1 may extend in the first direction DR1. The second electrode TE1-2a, which is a first sensing electrode adjacent to the first electrode TE1-1a, may include a second main electrode ME1-2, a second sub-electrode SE1-2, and a second auxiliary electrode AE1-2. The second auxiliary electrode AE1-2 may extend in the first direction DR1.

[0154] The first auxiliary electrode AE1-1 may be spaced apart from the first main electrode ME1-1, and the first sub-electrode SE1-1 may be located between the first auxiliary electrode AE1-1 and the first main electrode ME1-1. In the first region IS-AR1, the first sub-electrode SE1-1 and the first auxiliary electrode AE1-1 may be located between the second main electrode ME1-2 and the second sub-electrode SE1-2.

[0155] The second auxiliary electrode AE1-2 can be spaced apart from the second main electrode ME1-2, and the second sub-electrode SE1-2 is located between the second auxiliary electrode AE1-2 and the second main electrode ME1-2. In the first region IS-AR1, the second sub-electrode SE1-2 and the second auxiliary electrode AE1-2 can be located between the first main electrode ME1-1 and the first sub-electrode SE1-1.

[0156] When viewed in a plan view, the first auxiliary electrode AE1-1 and the second auxiliary electrode AE1-2 can intersect each other in the second region IS-AR2.

[0157] The third electrode TE2-1a may include a third main electrode ME2-1, a third sub-electrode SE2-1, and a third auxiliary electrode AE2-1. The third auxiliary electrode AE2-1 may extend in the second direction DR2. The fourth electrode TE2-2a, which is a second sensing electrode adjacent to the third electrode TE2-1a, may include a fourth main electrode ME2-2, a fourth sub-electrode SE2-2, and a fourth auxiliary electrode AE2-2. The fourth auxiliary electrode AE2-2 may extend in the second direction DR2.

[0158] The third auxiliary electrode AE2-1 can be spaced apart from the third main electrode ME2-1, and the third sub-electrode SE2-1 is located between the third auxiliary electrode AE2-1 and the third main electrode ME2-1. In the first region IS-AR1, the third sub-electrode SE2-1 and the third auxiliary electrode AE2-1 can be located between the fourth main electrode ME2-2 and the fourth sub-electrode SE2-2.

[0159] The fourth auxiliary electrode AE2-2 can be spaced apart from the fourth main electrode ME2-2, and the fourth sub-electrode SE2-2 is located between the fourth auxiliary electrode AE2-2 and the fourth main electrode ME2-2. In the first region IS-AR1, the fourth sub-electrode SE2-2 and the fourth auxiliary electrode AE2-2 can be located between the third main electrode ME2-1 and the third sub-electrode SE2-1.

[0160] When viewed in a plan view, the third auxiliary electrode AE2-1 and the fourth auxiliary electrode AE2-2 can intersect each other in the second region IS-AR2.

[0161] In some embodiments, the second auxiliary electrode AE1-2 may be positioned adjacent to the first main electrode ME1-1. The second auxiliary electrode AE1-2 may be used to sense the first signal SG1 (e.g., see...). Figure 6A ). Control unit CT (for example, see Figure 4 The active pen PN can be corrected by using the signal sensed by the second auxiliary electrode AE1-2 (see, for example, see...). Figure 6A The location coordinates of ). (Refer to...) Figure 6A The accuracy of the position coordinates of the active pen PN relative to the electronic device EA can be improved by using the first signal SG1. This can provide the electronic device EA with improved sensing reliability (see, for example, [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 6A Although the above description is based on the second auxiliary electrode AE1-2, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and other auxiliary electrodes AE1-1, AE2-1 and AE2-2 may also be constructed to have the same effect as the second auxiliary electrode AE1-2.

[0162] Figure 10 This is a plan view illustrating an input sensor according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 10 For the sake of brevity, the following description refers to... Figure 4 The described elements may be identified by similar or identical reference numerals, without repeating overlapping descriptions thereof.

[0163] Reference Figure 10The first electrode TE1-1b may include a first main electrode ME1-1, a first sub-electrode SE1-1, and at least one first connection pattern CP1-1. The at least one first connection pattern CP1-1 may connect the first main electrode ME1-1 and the first sub-electrode SE1-1 to each other in a first region IS-AR1.

[0164] The second electrode TE1-2b, which is a first sensing electrode adjacent to the first electrode TE1-1b, may include a second main electrode ME1-2, a second sub-electrode SE1-2, and at least one second connection pattern CP1-2. The at least one second connection pattern CP1-2 may connect the second main electrode ME1-2 and the second sub-electrode SE1-2 to each other in the first region IS-AR1.

[0165] Figure 10 An example is shown that provides two first connection patterns CP1-1 and one second connection pattern CP1-2, but the number of each of the first connection pattern CP1-1 and the second connection pattern CP1-2 is not limited thereto.

[0166] When viewed in a plan view, the first connection pattern CP1-1 can intersect the second sub-electrode SE1-2 in an electrically disconnected manner. The second connection pattern CP1-2 can intersect the first sub-electrode SE1-1 in an electrically disconnected manner.

[0167] The third electrode TE2-1b may include a third main electrode ME2-1, a third sub-electrode SE2-1, and at least one third connection pattern CP2-1. The at least one third connection pattern CP2-1 may connect the third main electrode ME2-1 and the third sub-electrode SE2-1 to each other in the first region IS-AR1.

[0168] The fourth electrode TE2-2b, which is a second sensing electrode adjacent to the third electrode TE2-1b, may include a fourth main electrode ME2-2, a fourth sub-electrode SE2-2, and at least one fourth connection pattern CP2-2. The at least one fourth connection pattern CP2-2 may connect the fourth main electrode ME2-2 and the fourth sub-electrode SE2-2 to each other in the first region IS-AR1.

[0169] Figure 10 An example is shown in which three third connection patterns CP2-1 and two fourth connection patterns CP2-2 are provided, but the number of each of the third connection patterns CP2-1 and the fourth connection patterns CP2-2 is not limited thereto.

[0170] When viewed in a plan view, the third connection pattern CP2-1 can intersect the fourth sub-electrode SE2-2 in an electrically disconnected manner. The fourth connection pattern CP2-2 can intersect the third sub-electrode SE2-1 in an electrically disconnected manner.

[0171] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the at least one first connection pattern CP1-1 can connect the first main electrode ME1-1 and the first sub-electrode SE1-1 to each other in the first region IS-AR1. The at least one first connection pattern CP1-1 can reduce the area of ​​the second region IS-AR2. Therefore, an electronic device EA with a reduced border area can be provided (e.g., see...). Figure 1 Although the above description is based on the first connection pattern CP1-1, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and other connection patterns CP1-2, CP2-1 and CP2-2 can also be constructed to have the same effect as the first connection pattern CP1-1.

[0172] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, a plurality of first connection patterns CP1-1 can be connected to each of the first main electrode ME1-1 and the first sub-electrode SE1-1. In this case, the resistance of the first electrode TE1-1b can be reduced. Furthermore, the RC delay problem associated with the first electrode TE1-1b can be suppressed. That is, the delay of the signal transmitted through the first electrode TE1-1b can be reduced or prevented, thereby improving the signal transmission speed. Therefore, an electronic device EA with improved reliability can be provided (e.g., see...). Figure 1 Although the above description is based on the first connection pattern CP1-1, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and other connection patterns CP1-2, CP2-1 and CP2-2 can also be constructed to have the same effect as the first connection pattern CP1-1.

[0173] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the second sub-electrode SE1-2 can be positioned adjacent to the first main electrode ME1-1. The second sub-electrode SE1-2 can be used to sense the first signal SG1 (e.g., see...). Figure 6A ). Control unit CT (for example, see Figure 4 The active pen PN can be corrected by using the signal sensed by the second sub-electrode SE1-2 (see, for example, see...). Figure 6A The location coordinates of ). (Refer to...) Figure 6A The accuracy of the position coordinates of the active pen PN relative to the electronic device EA can be improved by using the first signal SG1. This can provide the electronic device EA with improved sensing reliability (see, for example, [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 6A ).

[0174] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, each sensing electrode may include a main electrode and a sub-electrode. Adjacent sub-electrodes of each sensing electrode may exist between the main electrode and the sub-electrode of each sensing electrode. The control unit can sense signals provided from the active pen through the main electrode of each sensing electrode and the adjacent sub-electrodes of the sensing electrodes. In the control unit, the position coordinates of the active pen can be corrected using signals input through the main electrode of each sensing electrode and the adjacent sub-electrodes of the sensing electrodes. Therefore, the accuracy of the position coordinates of the active pen used for input signals relative to the electronic device can be improved. Thus, an electronic device with improved sensing reliability can be provided.

[0175] Although embodiments of this disclosure have been specifically shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that variations in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims, and their functional equivalents will be included therein.

Claims

1. An electronic device, wherein, The electronic device includes: Display panel; and An input sensor, defining a first region, a second region surrounding the first region, and a third region surrounding the second region, the input sensor being located on the display panel and including a plurality of sensing electrodes, the plurality of sensing electrodes including: The first electrode includes a first main electrode and a first sub-electrode; and The second electrode is adjacent to the first electrode and includes a second main electrode and a second sub-electrode located in the first region between the first main electrode and the first sub-electrode. In the plan view, the first sub-electrode and the second sub-electrode intersect each other in the second region.

2. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The display panel includes an active area and a peripheral area adjacent to the active area. Wherein, the first region and the second region overlap with the active region, and The third region overlaps with the outer region.

3. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The display panel includes an active area and a peripheral area, which are defined as adjacent to each other within the display panel. Wherein, the first region overlaps with the active region, and The second region and the third region overlap with the peripheral region.

4. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The input sensor also includes multiple sensing lines located in the third region, the multiple sensing lines being electrically connected to the multiple sensing electrodes respectively, and The multiple sensing lines include: a first line electrically connected to the first main electrode and the first sub-electrode, and a second line electrically connected to the second main electrode and the second sub-electrode.

5. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of sensing electrodes also includes a third electrode and a fourth electrode that are adjacent to each other. Wherein, the first electrode and the second electrode extend in a first direction. The third electrode and the fourth electrode extend in a second direction that intersects the first direction. The third electrode includes a third main electrode and a third sub-electrode. The fourth electrode includes a fourth main electrode and a fourth sub-electrode, and In the first region, the fourth sub-electrode is located between the third main electrode and the third sub-electrode.

6. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The width of the first main electrode is greater than the width of the first sub-electrode.

7. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The first sub-electrode includes a plurality of first sub-electrodes, and The plurality of first sub-electrodes are spaced apart from each other, and the first main electrode is located between the plurality of first sub-electrodes.

8. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The first electrode further includes a first auxiliary electrode, which is spaced apart from the first main electrode, and the first sub-electrode is located between the first auxiliary electrode and the first main electrode. The second electrode further includes a second auxiliary electrode, which is spaced apart from the second main electrode, and the second sub-electrode is located between the second auxiliary electrode and the second main electrode. In the first region, the first sub-electrode and the first auxiliary electrode are located between the second main electrode and the second sub-electrode, and In the plan view, the first auxiliary electrode and the second auxiliary electrode intersect each other in the second region.

9. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The first electrode further includes at least one connection pattern located in the first region, the at least one connection pattern connecting the first main electrode to the first sub-electrode and intersecting with the second sub-electrode in a plan view.

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