Input detection system and housing for an electronic device

Abstract

The present application provides an input detection system and an electronic device case, which can perform input operation based on an input auxiliary device even when a cover of the electronic device case is in a closed state. The input detection system includes a display device having a plurality of detection electrodes arranged in a display region; an electronic device case having a housing portion that houses the display device and a cover that covers the display region of the display device; and an input device mounted to the cover in a manner that can rotate about a rotation axis extending in a normal direction of a surface of the cover, the input device including a first electrode and a second electrode that face the plurality of detection electrodes.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to an input detection system and an electronic device case. BACKGROUND

[0002] In Patent Literatures 1 and 2, an input assisting device (in Patent Literatures 1 and 2, described as an operation knob or a knob) is placed on a touch panel that detects a change in electrostatic capacity or a change in a contact area, and assists an input operation from the touch panel. In addition, there is a case where an electronic device case such as a flip cover is attached to the touch panel.

[0003] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0004] PATENT LITERATURE

[0005] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent No. 6342105

[0006] Patent Literature 2: Japanese Patent No. 6532631 SUMMARY

[0007] PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0008] In an input detection system including such an input assisting device and a touch panel, even if a cover of an electronic device case is in a state of covering a display region of the touch panel (hereinafter, referred to as a closed state), it is required to be able to perform an input operation based on the input assisting device.

[0009] An object of the present application is to provide an input detection system and an electronic device case in which, even if a cover of an electronic device case is in a closed state, an input operation based on an input assisting device can be performed favorably.

[0010] MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEMS

[0011] An input detection system of one embodiment of the present application includes a display device with a detection function having a plurality of detection electrodes arranged in a display region; an electronic device case having a housing portion that houses the display device with a detection function and a cover that covers the display region of the display device with a detection function; and an input device installed on the cover in a manner that is rotatable about a rotation axis that extends in a normal direction of a surface of the cover of the electronic device case, including a first electrode and a second electrode that face the plurality of detection electrodes.

[0012] The electronic device case of one embodiment of the present application is used for housing a display device with a detection function that has a plurality of detection electrodes arranged in a display region. The electronic device case includes a housing portion that houses the display device with a detection function, a cover that covers the display region of the display device with a detection function, and an input device that is attached to the cover so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis extending in a normal direction of a surface of the cover, and includes a first electrode and a second electrode that face the plurality of detection electrodes. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 is a plan view schematically showing an input detection system according to the first embodiment, and is a plan view of a cover in a closed state.

[0014] Figure 2 is a plan view schematically showing an input detection system according to the first embodiment, and is a plan view of a cover in an open state.

[0015] Figure 3 is Figure 1 a III-III' cross-sectional view of FIG. 1.

[0016] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an input detection system.

[0017] Figure 5 is a diagram for explaining a detection method of an input assist device.

[0018] Figure 6 is a timing waveform diagram for explaining a display period and a detection period of an input detection system.

[0019] Figure 7 is a timing waveform diagram for explaining a detection method of an input assist device.

[0020] Figure 8 is a flowchart for explaining an operation of an input detection system in which a cover is in an open state.

[0021] Figure 9 is a flowchart for explaining an operation of an input detection system in which a cover is in a closed state.

[0022] Figure 10 is a flowchart for explaining an operation of an input detection system in which a cover is in a closed state according to the second embodiment.

[0023] Figure 11 is a plan view schematically showing an input detection system according to the third embodiment.

[0024] Figure 12 isFigure 11 Sectional view of XII-XII'.

[0025] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the input detection system according to the third embodiment when the cover is in the closed state.

[0026] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view showing the schematic cross-sectional structure of the input detection system according to the fourth embodiment.

[0027] Figure 15 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the input detection system according to the fourth embodiment.

[0028] Figure 16 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the input detection system according to the fifth embodiment.

[0029] Figure 17 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the input assistance device of the input detection system according to the sixth embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0030] The embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. This disclosure is not limited to the contents described in the following embodiments. Furthermore, the constituent elements described below include elements readily conceived by those skilled in the art, as well as substantially the same elements. Moreover, the constituent elements described below can be appropriately combined. In addition, this disclosure is merely an example, and appropriate modifications that maintain the spirit of this disclosure and are readily conceived by those skilled in the art are naturally included within the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, in order to make the description clearer, the drawings may schematically show the width, thickness, shape, etc., of various parts compared to the actual embodiments; however, these are merely examples and do not limit the interpretation of this disclosure. Additionally, in this disclosure and the various drawings, for previously shown figures, elements identical to those described above are sometimes labeled with the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions are appropriately omitted.

[0031] In this specification and claims, when referring to the arrangement of other structures on top of a structure, the use of the word "on" alone, unless otherwise specified, includes both the case of arranging other structures directly above a structure in connection with it, and the case of arranging other structures above a structure via another structure.

[0032] (First Implementation)

[0033] Figure 1 This is a schematic top view of the input detection system according to the first embodiment, with the cover in the closed state. Figure 2is a plan view schematically showing an input detection system according to a first embodiment, and is a plan view in which the cover is in an open state. As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 The input detection system 1 has a display device 2 (display terminal 80), an input assisting device (input device) 3, and an electronic device housing 100, as shown.

[0034] The display device 2 is, for example, a liquid crystal display device (LCD: Liquid Crystal Display). However, it is not limited thereto, and the display device 2 can be, for example, an organic EL display panel (OLED: Organic Light Emitting Diode), an inorganic EL display (micro LED, mini LED), or the like. Alternatively, the display device 2 can be an electrophoretic display panel (EPD: Electrophoretic Display) in which an electrophoretic element is used as a display element.

[0035] The display device 2 is a display device with a detection function having a drive electrode Tx and a detection electrode Rx (see Figure 3 ), and has a function as a touch panel of a mutual electrostatic capacitance system. In the present embodiment, a part of the electrodes and the wiring of the display device 2 are shared with the electrodes (drive electrodes Tx) and the wiring of the touch panel.

[0036] As shown in Figure 2 , in the display device 2, a peripheral region BE is provided outside a display region DA. The display region DA is formed in a substantially quadrangular shape with curved corners, but the shape of the outer shape of the display region DA is not limited. For example, the outer shape of the display region DA can be a quadrangular shape, or the display region DA can be formed in another polygonal shape, or the display region DA can be formed in a circular shape or an elliptical shape, or the like. In addition, the outer shape of the display region DA can have a notch.

[0037] The display region DA is a region in which a plurality of pixels PX (sub-pixels SPX) (see Figure 4 ) are provided. Alternatively, the display region DA is a region in which a plurality of drive electrodes Tx and a plurality of detection electrodes Rx (see Figure 4 ) are provided, and can be referred to as a detection region. The peripheral region BE indicates a region that is inside the outer periphery of the display device 2 and outside the display region DA. In addition, the peripheral region BE can be a frame shape that surrounds the display region DA, and in this case, the peripheral region BE can be referred to as a bezel region.

[0038] In the following description, one direction of the plane (display region DA) of the display device 2 is set as the first direction Dx, and a direction orthogonal to the first direction Dx is set as the second direction Dy. This is not limited thereto, and the second direction Dy can intersect the first direction Dx at an angle other than 90°. In addition, a third direction Dz orthogonal to the first direction Dx and the second direction Dy is the thickness direction of the display device 2.

[0039] The housing 100 for electronic equipment is a housing for housing and protecting the display device 2 (display terminal 80), and is also called a notebook type housing or a flip cover. As shown in Figure 2 , the housing 100 for electronic equipment has a base 101, a bent portion 102, a cover 103, and a fixing portion 105. The bent portion 102 is provided between the base 101 and the cover 103 in a state in which the cover 103 is opened. The bent portion 102 is formed of a material that can be deformed, and the housing 100 for electronic equipment is provided with the cover 103 in a manner that can be opened and closed.

[0040] In addition, in the following description, the cover 103 is in a "closed state" to indicate a state in which the cover 103 is folded to cover the display region DA of the display device 2 (see Figure 1 ). In addition, the cover 103 is in an "open state" to indicate a state in which the cover 103 is away from the display region DA of the display device 2 (see Figure 2 ). An operator can visually confirm a display image of the display region DA or can perform a touch operation of the display region DA by setting the cover 103 to the open state.

[0041] The fixing portion 105 is provided to the base 101. The fixing portion 105 is a member that sandwiches and holds the display device 2 in the first direction Dx. The base 101 and the fixing portion 105 function as a housing portion that houses the display device 2. In Figure 2 , the fixing portion 105 is set to extend in the second direction Dy along the outer edge of the display device 2. However, the fixing portion 105 can be any configuration as long as it can hold the display device 2. The fixing portion 105 can be appropriately changed depending on the configuration of the display device 2, the presence or absence of a side switch, and the like.

[0042] As shown in Figure 1 , the cover 103 is formed of a material that is not light-transmissive and is set to cover the display region DA of the display device 2 in the closed state. The cover 103 is provided with a display opening OPl and a mounting opening OP2. The display opening OPl and the mounting opening OP2 are respectively provided in regions overlapping a part of the display region DA, and Figure 1In the example shown, the display region DA is disposed so as to be adjacent in the second direction Dy. In addition, a protective film 104 is provided on a surface of the cover 103 that is opposite the display region DA. The protective film 104 is formed of a light-transmissive resin material and is disposed so as to cover the display opening OPl and the mounting opening OP2.

[0043] When the cover 103 is in the closed state, the operator is able to visually confirm a portion of the display region DA (hereinafter, referred to as an opening region DAs) via the display opening OPl. In addition, the input assist device 3 is disposed in a region that overlaps the mounting opening OP2.

[0044] As shown in Figure 1 , when the cover 103 is in the closed state, the input assist device 3 is disposed so as to overlap the display region DA of the display device 2. In more detail, when the cover 103 is in the closed state, the input assist device 3 is disposed (fitted) on the upper surface 111a of the cover member 111 (refer to Figure 3 ). The operator is able to perform an input operation to the display device 2 by operating the input assist device 3 disposed on the display device 2 when the cover 103 is in the closed state. The input assist device 3 is, for example, a rotary knob and has a circular shape in plan view when viewed in the third direction Dz. The display device 2 is able to detect the presence or absence of the display region DA of the input assist device 3 and a rotation operation RT centered on the rotation axis AX.

[0045] Furthermore, in Figure 1 , a rotary knob is shown as the input assist device 3, but this is not limiting and other input assist devices, such as a slider, an input button, or an input key, or the like, can also be used.

[0046] Figure 3 is a III-III' cross-sectional view of Figure 1 . As shown in Figure 3 , the display terminal 80 includes the display device 2, the backlight 70, the frame 81, and the cover member 111. The display device 2, the backlight 70, and the cover member 111 are housed in the frame 81. The frame 81 is fixed to the base 101 of the electronic device housing 100, and the backlight 70, the display device 2, and the cover member 111 are sequentially stacked on the bottom of the frame 81. Furthermore, in the present specification, in a direction perpendicular to the upper surface 111a of the cover member 111, a direction from the display device 2 toward the cover member 111 is referred to as the “upper side” or simply “up”. In addition, a direction from the cover member 111 toward the display device 2 is referred to as the “lower side” or simply “down”. In addition, “plan view” refers to the positional relationship when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the upper surface 111a of the cover member 111.

[0047] The display device 2 includes an array substrate SUB1, a counter substrate SUB2, a first polarizing plate PL1, and a second polarizing plate PL2. The first polarizing plate PL1, the array substrate SUB1, the counter substrate SUB2, and the second polarizing plate PL2 are stacked in this order in the third direction Dz.

[0048] The array substrate SUB1 is a driving circuit substrate for driving a plurality of pixels. A driving electrode Tx is provided on the array substrate SUB1. The counter substrate SUB2 is provided so as to face the array substrate SUB1. A liquid crystal layer as a display function layer is provided between the array substrate SUB1 and the counter substrate SUB2. In addition, a detection electrode Rx is provided on the counter substrate SUB2.

[0049] The display IC 50 and a wiring substrate 114 are connected to the protruding portion of the array substrate SUB1. The display IC 50 includes a control circuit or the like that controls display and touch detection of the display device 2. Note that the display IC 50 can be mounted on the wiring substrate 114, not limited to this example. The display IC 50 can be provided on a control substrate or a flexible substrate outside the module, for example.

[0050] The wiring substrate 115 is connected to the counter substrate SUB2. A detection IC 51 is mounted on the wiring substrate 115. The detection IC 51 includes a detection circuit 55 (see Figure 5 ) that is supplied with a detection signal Vdet from the detection electrode Rx. The detection IC 51 can detect an object such as a finger or the input auxiliary device 3 on the basis of the detection signal Vdet. The detection IC 51 can be provided on a control substrate or a flexible substrate outside the module, for example.

[0051] The wiring substrate 114 and the wiring substrate 115 are composed of a flexible wiring substrate (FPC: Flexible Printed Circuits), for example.

[0052] A backlight 70 is provided on the lower side of the display device 2. The backlight 70 includes a frame 71, a light guide plate 72, a light source 73, a diffusion sheet 74, a lens sheet 75, and a light-shielding layer 76.

[0053] The frame 71 is a member that houses the light guide plate 72, the light source 73, the diffusion sheet 74, and the lens sheet 75 inside. The light guide plate 72, the diffusion sheet 74, and the lens sheet 75 are stacked in this order on the frame 71. The light source 73 includes a light emitting element such as an LED and is disposed on the side of the light guide plate 72. In addition, the light-shielding layer 76 is provided so as to cover the light source 73 and a part of the lens sheet 75.

[0054] Light emitted from the light source 73 travels while repeatedly reflecting multiple times inside the light guide plate 72, and is emitted from the upper surface of the light guide plate 72 toward the display device 2. The diffusion sheet 74 diffuses the light emitted from the light guide plate 72. The lens sheet 75 improves the directivity of the light from the diffusion sheet 74. The optical functional layers such as the diffusion sheet 74 and the lens sheet 75 are provided as needed, and three or more layers can be provided, or can be omitted. In addition, Figure 3 The backlight 70 illustrated is only one example, and can be a backlight having another configuration.

[0055] The cover member 111 is attached to the display device 2 via the adhesive layer 112. The cover member 111 uses, for example, a glass substrate or a resin substrate.

[0056] When the cover 103 of the electronic device case 100 is in the closed state, the cover 103 and the protective film 104 of the electronic device case 100 are disposed to face the upper surface 111a of the cover member 111. More preferably, the protective film 104 of the electronic device case 100 is in contact with the upper surface 111a of the cover member 111.

[0057] The input assist device 3 is disposed in the mounting opening OP2 and is fixed to the protective film 104 via the adhesive layer 22. More specifically, the input assist device 3 has a rotating body 30A, a support body 30B, a first electrode 31, a second electrode 32, and an LC circuit 35 (see Figure 5 ). The rotating body 30A and the support body 30B constitute a housing 30 of the input assist device 3. Inside the housing 30, the first electrode 31, the second electrode 32, and the LC circuit 35 (see Figure 5 ) are housed.

[0058] The support body 30B is a ring-shaped member that surrounds the first electrode 31 and the second electrode 32 and is fixed to the protective film 104 via the adhesive layer 22. The rotating body 30A is rotatably supported by the support body 30B. The first electrode 31 and the second electrode 32 are mounted to the lower surface of the rotating body 30A and rotate together with the rotating body 30A. The protective film 104 covers the mounting opening OP2 and is disposed at least between the rotating body 30A, the support body 30B, and the cover member 111.

[0059] With such a configuration, the input assist device 3 is attached to the cover 103 of the electronic device housing 100. When the cover 103 is in the closed state, the operator can perform the rotation operation RT of the input assist device 3 by operating the rotating body 30A. Since the attachment opening OP2 is provided in the cover 103 of the electronic device housing 100, the distance between the input assist device 3 and the display device 2 can be shortened compared to a configuration in which the input assist device 3 is attached to the cover 103 without the attachment opening OP2. That is, when the cover 103 is in the closed state, the interval between the first electrode 31 and the second electrode 32 and the drive electrode Tx and the detection electrode Rx can be reduced, and the input assist device 3 can be detected favorably.

[0060] Further, the input assist device 3 can be provided separately from the electronic device housing 100 and attached to the cover 103 in a detachable manner. Alternatively, the input assist device 3 can be integrated with the electronic device housing 100, and in this case, the input assist device 3 can be one of the components that constitute the electronic device housing 100. In addition, the protective film 104 can not be provided. That is, the display opening OP1 and the attachment opening OP2 can be formed through the cover 103.

[0061] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an input detection system. In Figure 4 , a portion of the drive electrode Tx provided in the array substrate SUB1 and a portion of the detection electrode Rx provided in the counter substrate SUB2 are schematically shown in order to explain the relationship between the drive electrode Tx and the detection electrode Rx. In addition, in Figure 4 , the input assist device 3 and the cover 103 of the electronic device housing 100 are shown by a double-dotted line in order to easily observe the drawing.

[0062] As shown in Figure 4 , the pixels PX (sub-pixels SPX) are arranged in a matrix in the display region DA. The pixel signal lines SL and the scan lines GL are provided corresponding to the plurality of sub-pixels SPX. The pixel signal lines SL are connected to a control circuit such as the display IC 50 provided in the peripheral region BE. The gate driver circuit 59 is provided in the peripheral region BE in a region extending in the second direction Dy. The scan lines GL are connected to the gate driver circuit 59. The gate driver circuit 59 is a circuit that supplies a scan signal to the scan lines GL in order to drive each pixel PX (sub-pixel SPX) in turn.

[0063] The plurality of drive electrodes Tx each extend in the second direction Dy and are arranged in the first direction Dx. The plurality of drive electrodes Tx are each connected to the display IC 50 via a connection wiring. In addition, the plurality of detection electrodes Rx each extend in the first direction Dx and are arranged in the second direction Dy. The plurality of detection electrodes Rx are each connected to the detection IC 51 via a connection wiring. The plurality of drive electrodes Tx and the plurality of detection electrodes Rx are arranged so as to cross each other in plan view. An electrostatic capacitor is formed at each of the intersections of the plurality of drive electrodes Tx and the plurality of detection electrodes Rx. The detection IC 51 is capable of detecting the object based on a detection signal Vdet output in accordance with a change in mutual electrostatic capacitance between the plurality of drive electrodes Tx and the plurality of detection electrodes Rx.

[0064] In Figure 4 , only a part of the drive electrodes Tx, the detection electrodes Rx, and a part of the pixels PX (sub-pixels SPX) are shown for ease of observation of the drawings, but the drive electrodes Tx, the detection electrodes Rx, and the pixels PX are arranged throughout the display region DA. That is, a plurality of pixels PX are arranged so as to overlap one drive electrode Tx. In addition, one drive electrode Tx is arranged so as to overlap a plurality of pixel signal lines SL.

[0065] The drive electrode Tx functions as a common electrode for forming an electric field between the pixel electrode (not shown) and the drive electrode Tx at the time of display, and also functions as a drive electrode Tx for detecting the object such as the finger, the input assist device 3, and the like at the time of touch detection. Specifically, at the time of display, the display IC 50 supplies a display drive signal VCOM to the drive electrode Tx. In addition, the display IC 50 has at least a drive signal supply circuit 56 (see Figure 15 ). The drive signal supply circuit 56 sequentially supplies a detection drive signal VD to the plurality of drive electrodes Tx. Details of the drive of the drive electrode Tx will be described later.

[0066] Further, the input detection system 1 has a host 53. The host 53 is a control circuit that controls the display IC 50 and the detection IC 51. The host 53 receives information related to the input assist device 3 from the detection IC 51 and outputs a control signal to the display IC 50 in a manner to perform display corresponding to the presence or absence of the input assist device 3 and the rotational operation RT. In addition, the host 53 detects the approach of the input assist device 3 based on the information from the detection IC 51 and detects the opening and closing state of the cover 103 based on the presence or absence of the input assist device 3. The host 53 outputs a control signal to at least one of the detection IC 51 and the display IC 50 in accordance with the opening and closing state of the cover 103. Thus, the display device 2 changes at least one of the touch detection mode and the display mode in accordance with the opening and closing state of the cover 103. As Figure 3As shown, the host 53 is connected to the display IC 50 and the detection IC 51 via the flexible substrates 114, 115. In addition, the host 53 can be provided separately from the display device 2 in the frame 81 and connected to the display IC 50 and the detection IC 51 of the display device 2 via a cable or the like.

[0067] In addition, the opening and closing state of the cover 103 can be detected arbitrarily. For example, a magnet can be provided in the cover 103, and the opening and closing state of the cover 103 can be detected by a magnetic sensor provided in the display device 2. Alternatively, the opening and closing state of the cover 103 can be detected by a proximity sensor provided in the display device 2. The opening and closing state of the cover 103 can be detected by other configurations and methods.

[0068] Next, the detection method of the input assist device 3 will be described with reference to Figure 5 to Figure 7 to FIG. 9. Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the detection method of the input assist device. As shown in Figure 5 , the input assist device 3 has an LC circuit 35 provided between the first electrode 31 and the second electrode 32. As shown in Figure 4 , the second electrode 32 is larger than the first electrode 31 and has a C shape along the outer shape of the input assist device 3. The LC circuit 35 is configured as an LC resonance circuit in which a capacitor 33 and an inductor 34 are connected in parallel. The first electrode 31 is connected to one end side of the LC circuit 35 (a connection portion N1 of one end side of the capacitor 33 and the inductor 34). The second electrode 32 is connected to the other end side of the LC circuit 35 (a connection portion N2 of the other end side of the capacitor 33 and the inductor 34). The display device 2 can detect the positions of the first electrode 31 and the second electrode 32 using the LC resonance of the LC circuit 35.

[0069] When the cover 103 (in Figure 5 , omitted from the drawing) of the electronic device housing 100 is in the closed state, the first electrode 31 and the second electrode 32 of the input assist device 3 oppose the drive electrodes Tx of the array substrate SUB1 and the detection electrodes Rx of the counter substrate SUB2. A capacitance C1 is formed between the first electrode 31 and one of the drive electrodes Tx (the left drive electrode Tx in Figure 5 ). One of the drive electrodes Tx is connected to a reference potential (for example, a reference potential Vdc). A capacitance C2 is formed between the second electrode 32 and the other of the drive electrodes Tx (the right drive electrode Tx in Figure 5 ). The other of the drive electrodes Tx is connected to the power supply potential Vdd or the reference potential (for example, the reference potential Vdc) via a switching element 54B.

[0070] Further, a capacitance C3 is formed between the second electrode 32 and a detection electrode Rx opposing the second electrode 32. A plurality of detection electrodes Rx Figure 7 the right detection electrode Rx and Figure 7 the left detection electrode Rx) are connected to the detection circuit 55 or another node 58 via the switching element 54A, respectively. The node 58 is connected to, for example, a reference potential GND (for example, a ground potential). Further, the node 58 can be connected to a wiring connected to a non-inverting input of a detection signal amplification section 61 described later instead of the reference potential GND. Thereby, when the detection electrode Rx is connected to the node 58, the output side potential of the detection electrode Rx is the same as the potential of the non-inverting input of the detection signal amplification section 61.

[0071] Further, a configuration can be adopted in which the node 58 is connected to a floating electrode, or connected to a high impedance (Hi-z) circuit, or the switching element 54A is not connected to the node 58, and the detection electrode Rx is set to a floating state during a period other than the connection to the detection circuit 55. Further, a plurality of switching elements 54A connected to a plurality of detection electrodes Rx, respectively, are controlled to switch on and off synchronously. Further, a mutual electrostatic capacitance Cm is formed between the drive electrode Tx and the detection electrode Rx. Further, a capacitance C4 is formed between the first electrode 31 and a detection electrode Rx opposing the first electrode 31.

[0072] The detection circuit 55 is a signal processing circuit provided in the detection IC 51, receives the detection signal Vdet output from the detection electrode Rx, performs a prescribed signal processing, and outputs an output signal Vo. The detection circuit 55 has a detection signal amplification section 61, a capacitance element 62, and a reset switch 63. The detection circuit 55 can have, for example, an A / D conversion circuit (not shown) or the like that converts an analog signal output from the detection signal amplification section 61 to a digital signal, without being limited thereto.

[0073] Figure 6 is a timing waveform diagram for explaining a display period and a detection period of the input detection system. As Figure 6 indicated, the input detection system 1 performs a display operation and a detection operation time-divisionally within one frame period F. The frame period F is configured in the order of a first display period DP1, a first detection period TP1, a second display period DP2, and a second detection period TP2. Further, in Figure 8 , the display period and the detection period are indicated as the same length, but this is illustrative. Actually, a configuration can be adopted in which either one of the display period and the detection period is longer than the other.

[0074] In the first display period DP1 and the second display period DP2, the display IC 50 (refer to Figure 4) The image signal VSIG is supplied to the plurality of pixels PX (sub-pixels SPX) via the pixel signal line SL. Display operation (or rewriting operation) of a part of the image of one frame amount is performed in the first display period DP1. Display operation of the remaining part of the image of one frame amount is performed in the second display period DP2. Further, the display driving signal VCOM is supplied to the driving electrode Tx in the first display period DP1 and the second display period DP2.

[0075] In Figure 6 The operation of the first detection period TP1 and the second detection period TP2 when the cover 103 is in the open state is described. When the cover 103 is in the closed state, as described later, there is a case where the touch detection mode of the first detection period TP1 is changed or a part of the display area DA is displayed.

[0076] The first detection period TP1 is disposed between the first display period DP1 and the second display period DP2. In the first detection period TP1, detection of the detected body such as a finger is performed. Specifically, the display IC 50 supplies the first detection driving signal VD1 having a frequency (non-resonance frequency) different from the resonance frequency of the LC circuit 35 in the input auxiliary device 3 to the plurality of driving electrodes Tx. Each of the detection electrodes Rx outputs the mutual electrostatic capacitance change generated between the plurality of driving electrodes Tx as the detection signal Vdet1 to the detection IC 51.

[0077] The detection IC 51 performs signal processing on the plurality of detection signals Vdet1 output from the plurality of detection electrodes Rx. Then, the detection IC 51 operates the first frame data (Frame_data1) constituted by a plurality of signal values based on the detection signal Vdet1 of one frame amount. The detection IC 51 compares the plurality of signal values after the operation processing with a prescribed threshold value, and can detect information of the presence or absence of the detected body such as a finger, the position. When the cover 103 is in the open state, touch detection of one frame amount, that is, the entire display area DA is performed in one first detection period TP1. Further, Figure 6 The period F shown in

[0078] The second detection period TP2 is disposed between the second display period DP2 and the first display period DPI of the next frame period F. In the second detection period TP2, detection of the input auxiliary device 3 and the detected body such as a finger is performed. Specifically, the display IC 50 supplies the second detection drive signal VD2 having the resonance frequency of the LC circuit 35 of the input auxiliary device 3 to the plurality of drive electrodes Tx. The plurality of detection electrodes Rx outputs the detection signal Vdet2 based on the change in the mutual electrostatic capacity between the plurality of drive electrodes Tx. In addition, the plurality of detection electrodes Rx outputs the detection signal Vdet2 based on the resonance of the LC circuit 35 in the region in which the input auxiliary device 3 is disposed.

[0079] The detection IC 51 performs signal processing on the plurality of detection signals Vdet2 output from the plurality of detection electrodes Rx. Then, the detection IC 51 calculates the second frame data (Frame_data2) constituted by a plurality of signal values based on the detection signal Vdet2 of one frame amount. The detection IC 51 compares the plurality of signal values after the calculation processing (second frame data) and the plurality of signal values after the calculation processing (first frame data), and can detect information related to the position and the rotation angle of the input auxiliary device 3. In addition, in the second detection period TP2, detection of the detected body such as a finger can be performed using the second frame data used in the detection of the input auxiliary device 3. That is, the detection IC 51 can detect the position of the input auxiliary device 3 and the finger Fg using the change in the mutual electrostatic capacity and the resonance of the LC circuit 35 possessed by the input auxiliary device 3. Furthermore, the detection IC 51 can identify the data of the finger Fg and the input auxiliary device 3 as different data based on the change in the mutual electrostatic capacity and the resonance of the LC circuit 35. Moreover, when the cover 103 is in the open state, detection of one frame amount, that is, the entire detection region (display region DA) is performed in one second detection period TP2. That is, the reporting rate TR of the detection of the detected body such as a finger Fg is about 1 / 2 of the length of the frame period F.

[0080] Furthermore, Figure 6 The timing waveform chart shown is only an example, and can be appropriately changed. For example, one display period DP can be continuously disposed for one frame period F. Alternatively, one of the first detection period TP1 and the second detection period TP2 can be disposed for one frame period F. Moreover, in a case where the first detection drive signal VD1 and the second detection drive signal VD2 are not distinguished, there is a case where only the detection drive signal VD is indicated. In addition, in a case where the first detection period TP1 and the second detection period TP2 are not distinguished, there is a case where only the detection period TP is indicated.

[0081] Next, referring to Figure 5 and Figure 7The detection method of the input auxiliary device 3 of TP2 during the second detection period will be explained. Figure 7 It is a timing waveform diagram used to illustrate the detection method of the input auxiliary device.

[0082] like Figure 5 as well as Figure 7 As shown, through the action of the switching element 54B, the signal is sent to the other driving electrode Tx ( Figure 5 The driving electrode Tx on the right is supplied with a second detection driving signal VD2, which is an AC rectangular wave. More specifically, by switching the switching element 54B, a high-level power supply potential Vdd and a low-level reference potential Vdc are alternately and repeatedly applied at a predetermined frequency, thereby forming the second detection driving signal VD2, which is then supplied to the other driving electrode Tx. The potential V3 of the other driving electrode Tx changes according to the second detection driving signal VD2.

[0083] Here, the periods that are repeated synchronously with the second detection drive signal VD2 are designated as the first period P1 and the second period P2. The first period P1 is the period during which the other drive electrode Tx is connected to the power supply potential Vdd (the period during which the switching element 54B connects the other drive electrode Tx to the power supply potential Vdd). The second period P2 is the period during which the other drive electrode Tx is connected to the reference potential Vdc (the period during which the switching element 54B connects the other drive electrode Tx to the reference potential (ground potential)). The power supply potential Vdd is, for example, a potential higher than the reference potential Vdc. Furthermore, in Figure 7 In this process, the second detection drive signal VD2 is formed by the combination of the input of the primary power supply potential Vdd and the input of the primary reference potential Vdc. However, the combination of alternating and repeating these multiple times is also considered as the second detection drive signal VD2.

[0084] The detection electrode Rx outputs a detection signal Vdet2 based on the mutual electrostatic capacitance Cm. Specifically, as described above, one of the driving electrodes Tx ( Figure 5 The driving electrode Tx on the left is connected to a reference potential (e.g., reference potential Vdc) during both the first period P1 and the second period P2. Therefore, during the first period P1, signals with different potentials are supplied to the first electrode 31 and the second electrode 32. Additionally, during the first period P1, the detection electrode Rx is connected to the detection circuit 55 via the switching operation of the switching element 54A. Thus, a detection signal Vdet2 based on the change in potential of the mutual electrostatic capacitance Cm is output from the detection electrode Rx to the detection circuit 55. Furthermore, during the second period P2, the connection between the detection electrode Rx and the detection circuit 55 is disconnected via the switching operation of the switching element 54A. During the second period P2, the detection electrode Rx is connected to the reference potential Vdc via the switching operation of the switching element 54A.

[0085] The detection signal amplification section 61 of the detection circuit 55 amplifies the detection signal Vdet2 supplied from the detection electrode Rx. A reference voltage having a fixed potential is input to the non-inverting input section of the detection signal amplification section 61, and the detection electrode Rx is connected to the inverting input terminal. In the present embodiment, the same signal as the one-side drive electrode Tx (for example, the reference potential Vdc) is input as the reference voltage. In addition, the detection circuit 55 can reset the charge of the capacitive element 62 by turning on the reset switch 63.

[0086] Further, the second detection drive signal VD2 has the same frequency as the resonance frequency of the LC circuit 35. In the present embodiment, for example, the second detection drive signal VD2 having the resonance frequency is formed by the switching operation of the switching element 54B based on the resonance frequency. Therefore, the second electrode 32 overlapping the other-side drive electrode Tx is also driven at the resonance frequency, and the resonance of the LC circuit 35 occurs. Then, as the first period P1 and the second period P2 are repeated within the detection period, the amplitude of the detection signal Vdet2 becomes large. As shown in FIG. 6, as the first period P1 is repeated several times, the amplitude of the detection signal Vdet2 becomes large, and the potential of the output signal Vo from the detection circuit 55 changes in a manner of becoming large. Figure 7

[0087] In addition, by the resonance of the LC circuit 35, the waveforms occurring at the first electrode 31 and the second electrode 32 are different, and the polarities of each other in the first electrode 31 and the second electrode 32 change in an inverting manner. For example, in each of the first periods P1, the potential of the first electrode 31 changes in a manner of becoming large, and the potential of the second electrode 32 changes in a manner of becoming small. In each of the second periods P2, the potential of the first electrode 31 changes in a manner of becoming small, and the potential of the second electrode 32 changes in a manner of becoming large. The detection IC 51 can also detect various information of the input auxiliary device 3 based on the signal values of the detection signals Vdet2 having different polarities.

[0088] Next, the switching of the operation flow of the input detection system 1 corresponding to the open / close state of the cover 103 of the housing 100 will be described with reference to Figure 8 and Figure 9 . Figure 8 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the input detection system when the cover is in the open state.

[0089] As shown in FIG. 7, the input detection system 1 in the open state is configured to include the cover 103, the input detection system 1, and the input auxiliary device 3. The cover 103 is configured to include the first electrode 31 and the second electrode 32. The input detection system 1 is configured to include the detection IC 51, the detection electrode Rx, and the capacitive element 62. The input auxiliary device 3 is configured to include the drive electrode Tx and the switching element 54B. Figure 8 ​As shown, the host 53 receives the information of the detection of the input auxiliary device 3 of the previous frame from the detection IC 51, and determines whether the cover 103 is in the closed state (step ST10). In the case where the cover 103 is in the open state (step ST10, No), the host 53 outputs a control signal to the display IC 50, and the display IC 50 starts the display rewriting of the display area DA (step ST11). Further, regarding the flow of the operation in the case where the cover 103 is in the closed state (step ST10, Yes), the following will be described. Figure 9

[0090] In step ST11, as shown in Figure 6 , either the one-frame amount of the image can be divided and displayed in a plurality of periods (the first display period DP1 and the second display period DP2), or the display can be performed in one display period. For example, the display IC 50 performs the display rewriting of the first display period DP1 between step ST11 and the following step ST12, and performs the display rewriting of the second display period DP2 between step ST12 and step ST14.

[0091] Next, the display IC 50 supplies the first detection drive signal VD1 to the plurality of drive electrodes Tx in the first detection period TP1 (refer to Figure 6 ) in order (step ST12). As described above, the first detection drive signal VD1 is a signal having a frequency different from the resonance frequency of the LC circuit 35 (non-resonance frequency).

[0092] The detection IC 51 performs the above-described signal processing by the detection circuit 55 based on the one-frame amount of the detection signal Vdet1. The detection IC 51 acquires the first frame data based on the signal value of the output signal Vo of the one-frame amount obtained by the signal processing (step ST13). The detection IC 51 transmits the first frame data to the host 53.

[0093] The host 53 calculates the first touch detection data, which is the difference between the first frame data and the data of the previously acquired baseline (step ST25). The host 53 calculates the presence or absence of the finger in contact with or close to the display area DA and the touch coordinates of the finger based on the first touch detection data.

[0094] Next, the display IC 50 supplies the second detection drive signal VD2 to the plurality of drive electrodes Tx in the second detection period TP2 (refer to Figure 6 ) (step ST14). As described above, the second detection drive signal VD2 is a signal having the resonance frequency of the LC circuit 35.

[0095] ​The detection IC 51 performs the aforementioned signal processing on the detection circuit 55 based on the detection signal Vdet2, which is a one-frame quantity. The detection IC 51 then obtains the second frame data (step ST15) based on the signal value of the one-frame quantity output signal Vo, which has been processed by the detection circuit 55. The detection IC 51 sends the second frame data to the host 53. Additionally, during the second detection period TP2 (refer to...) Figure 6 When the process ends, the display IC50 terminates the display rewriting of F during one frame (step ST16). That is, steps ST11 to ST16 are performed sequentially. Figure 6 The first display period DP1, the first detection period TP1, the second display period DP2, and the second detection period TP2 are shown. Alternatively, within one frame period F, the entire display area DA can be rewritten during one display period, and then the control of the first detection period TP1 and the second detection period TP2 can be performed continuously.

[0096] The host 53 calculates the difference between the first frame data and the second frame data (Frame_data2-Frame_data1) (step ST20). Then, the host 53 compares the difference data obtained in step ST20 with a preset threshold to determine whether the input auxiliary device 3 is detected (step ST21).

[0097] If the difference obtained in step ST20 is above a threshold, the host 53 determines that the input assist device 3 has been detected (step ST21, Yes). This means that initially (i.e., in step ST10), the cover 103 is in an open state, but before reaching step ST20, the cover 103 is closed, resulting in the input assist device 3 overlapping with the display area DA. Thus, in this embodiment, even when the cover 103 is in an open state, the host 53 acquires the second frame data and compares the first frame data with the second frame data to detect the presence or absence of the input assist device 3 on the display area DA, i.e., the opening or closing of the cover 103. In addition, the host 53 performs signal processing on the second frame data and calculates information such as the position and rotation angle of the input assist device 3 (step ST22).

[0098] Further, in a case where the difference data obtained in step ST20 is smaller than the threshold value, the host 53 determines that the input assist device 3 is not detected (step ST21, No). This means a state where the cover 103 is in the open state at the beginning (i.e., at the stage of step ST10), but even if step ST20 is reached, the cover 103 is open, as a result of which the input assist device 3 does not overlap the display area DA. The host 53 calculates second touch detection data, which is the difference data of the second frame data and the data of the baseline obtained in advance or the first frame data (step ST26). The host 53 calculates, on the basis of the second touch detection data, the presence or absence of a finger in contact with or close to the display area DA, and the touch coordinates of the finger in contact with or close to the display area DA.

[0099] The host 53 transmits display data corresponding to the information of the position, the angle of rotation, and the like of the input assist device 3 obtained in steps ST20, ST21, and ST22 and the information of the touch detection of the finger or the like obtained in steps ST25 and ST26 to the display IC 50 (step ST24). The display IC 50 performs display during the next frame period F on the basis of the display data received from the host 53 (from the end to the beginning).

[0100] Figure 9 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the input detection system when the cover is in the closed state. As shown in Figure 9 , in a case where the cover 103 is in the closed state (step ST10, Yes), the host 53 changes the touch detection mode (step ST27). Specifically, the input detection system 1 performs detection of the input assist device 3 when the cover 103 is in the closed state, and stops touch detection of a detected body other than the input assist device 3. Details will be described below.

[0101] The host 53 outputs a control signal to the display IC 50, and the display IC 50 starts display rewriting of the opening area DAs in the display area DA (step ST17). At this time, the gate driver circuit 59 (see Figure 4 ) sequentially scans the scan lines GL of the entire display area DA including the opening area DAs. Since the display area DA other than the opening area DAs is covered with the non-light-transmissive cover 103, the display IC 50 performs normal display in the opening area DAs and performs display in the low power consumption mode (e.g., black display) in the display area DA other than the opening area DAs.

[0102] Next, the display IC 50 and the detection IC 51 perform the same detection as in steps ST12 to ST15 described above, and transmit the first frame data and the second frame data to the host 53.

[0103] As with the flow of actions when the cover 103 is in the open state, the host 53 calculates the difference between the first frame data and the second frame data (Frame_data2 - Frame_data1) (step ST20). Further, since the input assist device 3 is attached to the cover 103, the overlapping position in the display area DA of the input assist device 3 is determined as the prescribed position. In view of this, the host 53 can also be configured to acquire and calculate the first frame data and the second frame data only for the prescribed position and its periphery. Of course, it can also be configured to acquire the first frame data and the second frame data for the entire display area DA regardless of the presence or absence of the input assist device 3. Next, the host 53 compares the data of the difference obtained in step ST20 with a threshold value set in advance, and determines whether or not the input assist device 3 is detected (step ST21).

[0104] In the case where the data of the difference obtained in step ST20 is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the host 53 determines that the input assist device 3 is detected (step ST21, Yes). This means a state in which the cover 103 is in the closed state at the beginning (i.e., at the stage of step ST10), but even when step ST20 is reached, the cover 103 is in the closed state, as a result of which the input assist device 3 overlaps the display area DA. In this case, the host 53 performs signal processing of the second frame data, calculates information such as the rotation angle of the input assist device 3 (step ST22), and transmits display data corresponding to the operation of the input assist device 3 to the display IC 50 (step ST24). Further, since the position (position on the display area DA) of the input assist device 3 attached to the cover 103 is known, the host 53 can omit the calculation of the position of the input assist device 3 in steps ST20 and ST21.

[0105] In addition, in the case where the data of the difference obtained in step ST20 is less than the threshold value, the host 53 determines that the input assist device 3 is not detected (step ST21, No). In this case, the input assist device 3 is away from the cover member 111, i.e., the cover 103 having the input assist device 3 is in the open state, and the calculation of the position, orientation, etc. of the input assist device 3 is not performed, and the display data is transmitted to the display IC 50, after which the control is shifted to the next frame (from the end back to the start).

[0106] Further, Figure 8 , Figure 9 The flow of actions illustrated is only an example, and can be appropriately changed. For example, part of the calculation processing of the frame data (steps ST20, ST22, ST25, ST26, etc.) can also be performed by the detection IC 51. In addition, the calculation processing of the second touch detection data (step ST26) illustrated can also be omitted. Figure 8 ​

[0107] As explained above, the input detection system 1 of the present embodiment has a display device with a detection function (the display device 2) having a plurality of detection electrodes Rx arranged in a display region DA, an electronic device housing 100 having a housing portion (the base 101 and the fixing portion 105) that houses the display device with a detection function and a cover 103 that covers the display region DA of the display device with a detection function, and an input assist device 3 that is installed to the cover 103 of the electronic device housing 100 and includes a first electrode 31 and a second electrode 32 that oppose the plurality of detection electrodes Rx.

[0108] Thus, the input detection system 1, when the cover 103 is in the closed state, the input assist device 3 is disposed in a region overlapping the display region DA of the display device 2, and the first electrode 31 and the second electrode 32 oppose the plurality of detection electrodes Rx. Thus, even when the cover 103 is in the closed state, the input detection system 1 is able to detect the input assist device 3. Thus, the operator is able to perform an input operation based on the input assist device 3 when the cover 103 of the electronic device housing 100 is in the closed state.

[0109] (Second Embodiment)

[0110] Figure 10 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the input detection system of the second embodiment when the cover 103 is in the closed state. Further, in the following explanation, the same reference numerals are affixed to the same constituent elements as explained in the above embodiments and repeated explanation is omitted.

[0111] In the above first embodiment, the operation flow of stopping touch detection when the cover 103 is in the closed state is explained, but is not limited thereto. As shown in Figure 10 The host 53 changes the touch detection mode (step ST27), and performs touch detection of a detected body such as a finger other than the input assist device 3 in the opening region DAs in the display region DA.

[0112] The host 53 operates first touch detection data in the opening region DAs based on the first frame data accepted from the detection IC 51 (step ST28). The host 53 operates, based on the first touch detection data, whether a finger in contact with or close to the display is in contact with or close to the display opening OP1 of the cover 103, which is the opening region DAs of the display region DA, and the coordinates of the finger in contact with or close to the display opening OP1 within the opening region DAs.

[0113] The host 53 calculates second touch detection data in the opening region DAs based on the second frame data received from the detection IC 51 (step ST29). The host 53 calculates, based on the second touch detection data, the presence or absence of a finger in contact with or in proximity to the display opening OP1 of the cover 103 in the opening region DAs of the display region DA, and a touch coordinate of the finger in contact with or in proximity to the opening region DAs.

[0114] Thus, the display device 2 of the present embodiment can perform touch detection at the display opening OP1 of the cover 103 even when the cover 103 is in the closed state. Further, in the present embodiment, the positions at which the first frame data and the second frame data are acquired can also be limited. More specifically, the positions at which the first frame data and the second frame data are acquired can be limited to the opening region DAs and the prescribed position at which the input assist device 3 overlaps. Further, of course, the first frame data and the second frame data can be acquired in the entire display region DA.

[0115] (Third Embodiment)

[0116] Figure 11 is a schematic plan view of an input detection system according to the third embodiment. Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of XII-XII' of Figure 11 In the above first and second embodiments, the electronic device housing 100 is illustrated as a notepad-type housing or a flip cover provided with a cover 103 in an openable and closable manner, but is not limited thereto.

[0117] As illustrated in Figure 11 and Figure 12 , the input detection system 1A according to the third embodiment has an electronic device housing 100A that covers the surroundings of the display device 2. The electronic device housing 100A is a waterproof cover having water tightness, which suppresses water from being infiltrated into the display device 2 disposed in the electronic device housing 100A.

[0118] The electronic device housing 100A has a housing portion 106 that houses the display device 2, the backlight 70, and a cover member 111 inside, and a protective film 104A that covers the display region DA. The housing portion 106 is openable and closable by an opening and closing portion 107 such as a chuck. An opening is provided in a region of the housing portion 106 overlapping the display region DA. The protective film 104A is formed of a light-transmissive resin material and is provided so as to cover the opening of the housing portion 106. That is, in a state in which the display device 2 is housed in the electronic device housing 100A, the protective film 104A covers the entire display region DA of the display device 2. An operator can visually confirm the display region DA through the protective film 104A. In other words, the protective film 104A functions as the cover 103 of the above first and second embodiments.

[0119] The input assist device 3 is rotatably attached to the protective film 104A by the adhesive layer 22. The portion of the protective film 104A to which the input assist device 3 is attached uses a material that has good adhesion with the cover member 111. For example, as the material of the protective film 104A, nylon, a silicon sheet, or the like is used. However, the protective film 104A can be another material such as glass or acrylic.

[0120] In the input detection system 1A, since the protective film 104A covers the display region DA, the detection accuracy of the touch detection is reduced compared to the case where the housing for electronic device 100A is not provided. Even in this case, since the input assist device 3 is provided on the protective film 104A (cover), the display device 2 is housed in the housing for electronic device 100A, and the input operation based on the input assist device 3 can be performed even if the protective film 104A is in a state of covering the display region DA (the cover is in a closed state). In the present embodiment, the configuration is not limited to the position at which the input assist device 3 is fixed on the protective film 104A. The input assist device 3 can be provided in a detachable manner, and the operator can install the input assist device 3 at an arbitrary position on the protective film 104A to perform the input operation based on the input assist device 3.

[0121] Figure 13 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the input detection system according to the third embodiment when the cover is in a closed state. As shown in Figure 13 , when the cover is in a closed state (step ST10, Yes), the host 53 changes the touch detection mode (step ST27). Specifically, the input detection system 1A detects the input assist device 3 as in the first embodiment described above, and stops the touch detection of the detected body such as a finger other than the input assist device 3.

[0122] In the housing for electronic device 100A, since the entire region of the display region DA other than the region in which the input assist device 3 overlaps can be visually confirmed, the display IC 50 starts the display rewriting of the entire display region DA even if the cover is in a closed state (step ST17A). The detection procedure of the input assist device 3 from steps ST12 to ST15 and steps ST20 and ST21 is the same as in the first embodiment described above, and the repeated description is omitted.

[0123] (Fourth Embodiment)

[0124] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view showing the schematic cross-sectional structure of the input detection system according to the fourth embodiment. As shown in Figure 14As shown, the input detection system 1B according to the fourth embodiment has the display device 2A and the detection device 4. The detection device 4 is a so-called touch panel provided on the display device 2A. The detection device 4 is a mutual electrostatic capacitance type touch panel having the drive electrodes Tx and the detection electrodes Rx. However, the detection device 4 is not limited to this, and can be a self electrostatic capacitance type touch panel in which a plurality of detection electrodes are arranged in a matrix.

[0125] The detection device 4 is attached to the display device 2A via the adhesive layer 113. The detection device 4 has a substrate 41, a plurality of drive electrodes Tx, a plurality of detection electrodes Rx, and an insulating film 48. Further, in the detection device 4, a part (connection portion 43S) of the detection electrodes Rx is illustrated. Figure 14 The plurality of drive electrodes Tx and the plurality of detection electrodes Rx are provided on the substrate 41. The bridge portions 42B of the plurality of drive electrodes Tx and the connection portions 43S of the plurality of detection electrodes Rx are insulated by the insulating film 48. The mutual electrostatic capacitances are formed between the plurality of drive electrodes Tx and the plurality of detection electrodes Rx.

[0126] The wiring substrate 115 is connected to the substrate 41. The wiring substrate 115 is, for example, constituted by a flexible wiring substrate. The detection IC 51 is mounted to the wiring substrate 115.

[0127] The cover member 111 is attached to the detection device 4 via the adhesive layer 112. The cover member 111 is, for example, made of a glass substrate or a resin substrate.

[0128] Figure 15 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the input detection system according to the fourth embodiment. Further, in Figure 15 In the detection device 4, a part (connection portion 43S) of the detection electrodes Rx is illustrated. The plurality of drive electrodes Tx and the plurality of detection electrodes Rx are provided on the substrate 41. The bridge portions 42B of the plurality of drive electrodes Tx and the connection portions 43S of the plurality of detection electrodes Rx are insulated by the insulating film 48. The mutual electrostatic capacitances are formed between the plurality of drive electrodes Tx and the plurality of detection electrodes Rx. Figure 15 As shown, the plurality of drive electrodes Tx and the plurality of detection electrodes Rx are provided in a detection region (a region overlapping with the display region DA) of the substrate 41. The plurality of drive electrodes Tx and the plurality of detection electrodes Rx are, for example, formed of a light-transmissive conductive material such as ITO (Indium Tin Oxide), IZO (Indium Zinc Oxide), or the like.

[0129] The plurality of drive electrodes Tx have a plurality of electrode portions 42 and a plurality of bridge portions 42B. In one drive electrode Tx, the plurality of electrode portions 42 are arranged in the second direction Dy. The bridge portion 42B connects the plurality of electrode portions 42 adjacent in the second direction Dy. Thus, one drive electrode Tx extends in the second direction Dy. Further, the plurality of drive electrodes Tx are arranged in the first direction Dx. The plurality of drive electrodes Tx are respectively connected to the detection IC 51 via the connection wiring 44.

[0130] The plurality of detection electrodes Rx have a plurality of electrode portions 43 and a plurality of connection portions 43S. In one detection electrode Rx, the plurality of electrode portions 43 are arranged in the first direction Dx. The connection portion 43S connects the plurality of electrode portions 43 adjacent in the first direction Dx. Thus, one detection electrode Rx extends in the first direction Dx. In addition, the plurality of detection electrodes Rx are arranged in the second direction Dy. The plurality of detection electrodes Rx are connected to the detection IC 51 via the connection wiring 45, respectively. In the present embodiment, the plurality of electrode portions 43 of the detection electrode Rx and the plurality of electrode portions 42 of the drive electrode Tx are provided in the same layer. In addition, the bridge portion 42B is provided in a layer different from the connection portion 43S via the insulating film 48 (refer to Figure 14 ) and is provided so as to cross the connection portion 43S in plan view.

[0131] The detection IC 51 includes a detection circuit 55 and a drive signal supply circuit 56. The drive signal supply circuit 56 supplies a detection drive signal VD to each of the plurality of drive electrodes Tx. The plurality of detection electrodes Rx output a detection signal Vdet based on a change in the mutual electrostatic capacitance Cm with the detection drive signal VD supplied thereto. The detection circuit 55 can detect an object based on the detection signal Vdet output in accordance with a change in the mutual electrostatic capacitance Cm between the plurality of drive electrodes Tx and the plurality of detection electrodes Rx.

[0132] The detection of the input auxiliary device 3 and the touch detection of the detection finger or the like can apply the same operation flow as described in the first to third embodiments. In addition, the electrode portions 42 of the plurality of drive electrodes Tx and the electrode portions 43 of the plurality of detection electrodes Rx are each a quadrangular shape (rhombus). However, it is not limited thereto, and the electrode portions 42 and 43 can be other shapes such as a polygonal shape, a circular shape, or the like.

[0133] (Fifth Embodiment)

[0134] Figure 16 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an input detection system according to the fifth embodiment. In the first to fourth embodiments, an example in which the input auxiliary device 3 is provided on the display device 2 or the detection device 4 including a touch sensor of a mutual electrostatic capacitance system having a drive electrode Tx and a detection electrode Rx was described, but it is not limited thereto. The touch sensor (display device 2 or detection device 4) can be a self electrostatic capacitance system (self system).

[0135] As shown in Figure 16 , in the input detection system 1C according to the fifth embodiment, the display device 2B has a plurality of detection electrodes DE provided on the array substrate SUB1. The plurality of detection electrodes DE are arranged in a matrix on the display region DA.

[0136] The detection electrode DE functions as a common electrode in display and a drive electrode Tx of the input auxiliary device 3, a finger, or the like, and a detection electrode Rx of the object to be detected. Further, the display / detection IC 50A is provided in the peripheral region BE. The display / detection IC 50A is a circuit formed as one IC having a function of a display IC 50 and a detection IC 51.

[0137] In display, the display / detection IC 50A supplies a display drive signal VCOM (refer to Figure 6 ) to the detection electrode DE. Further, in detection of the object to be detected such as the input auxiliary device 3, the finger Fg, or the like, the display / detection IC 50A supplies a detection drive signal VD to the detection electrode DE via a plurality of wirings. The display / detection IC 50A outputs a detection signal Vdet to the host 53 based on a change in the self electrostatic capacitance of each detection electrode DE and resonance of the LC circuit 35. The host 53 detects the object to be detected such as the input auxiliary device 3, a finger, or the like by performing signal processing of the first frame data and the second frame data, similarly to the operation flow of the first embodiment or the second embodiment.

[0138] Further, in the touch detection of the self electrostatic capacitance system, the display device 2B can supply the detection drive signal VD to all the detection electrodes DE to perform detection of the finger Fg or the like. On the other hand, in detection of the input auxiliary device 3, the detection drive signal VD is sequentially supplied to a plurality of detection electrodes DE in a manner that resonance of the LC circuit 35 occurs. Further, in the input detection system 1C of the fifth embodiment, the same operation flow as that explained in the first embodiment to the third embodiment can be applied.

[0139] (Sixth Embodiment)

[0140] Figure 17 is a diagram for schematically explaining an input auxiliary device of an input detection system according to the sixth embodiment. As Figure 17 indicated, the input detection system 1D according to the sixth embodiment is different from the first embodiment to the fifth embodiment in that the input auxiliary device 3A does not have the LC circuit 35. The first electrode 31 and the second electrode 32 of the input auxiliary device 3A are connected by the wiring 36.

[0141] In the present embodiment, similarly to the above example, one drive electrode Tx is connected to a reference potential (for example, a reference potential Vdc), and the other drive electrode Tx is connected to the power supply potential Vdd or the reference potential (for example, a reference potential Vdc) via the switching element 54B and is supplied with the detection drive signal VD. Then, the detection electrode Rx outputs the detection signal Vdet based on the mutual electrostatic capacitance Cm.

[0142] In the present embodiment, since the input assist device 3A does not have the LC circuit 35, the detection procedure driven by the second detection drive signal VD having the resonance frequency (for example, steps ST14, ST15, and the like of FIG. 8) can be omitted. When the cover 103 is in the closed state, the position of the input assist device 3A is predetermined at the position of the mounting opening OP2 of the cover 103, and in addition, the region in which the touch detection based on a finger or the like can be performed is determined by the display opening OPl. Therefore, even in the detection method that does not utilize the resonance of the LC circuit 35, the detection of the input assist device 3A and the touch detection based on a finger or the like can be performed in units of regions, respectively. Thus, the input detection system ID according to the sixth embodiment can well detect the input assist device 3A. Figure 8

[0143] The above-described preferred embodiments of the present application have been described, but the present application is not limited to such embodiments. The contents disclosed in the embodiments are merely examples, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the gist of the present application. Appropriate modifications made within the scope of the gist of the present application naturally belong to the technical scope of the present application. At least one of various omissions, substitutions, and modifications of constituent elements can be made within the scope of the gist of the above-described embodiments and the modified examples.

[0144] Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0145] 1, 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D: input detection system; 2, 2A, 2B: display device; 3, 3A: input assist device (input device); 4: detection device; 30: housing; 31: first electrode; 32: second electrode; 33: capacitor; 34: inductor; 35: LC circuit; 50: display IC; 51: detection IC; 53: host; 55: detection circuit; 70: backlight; 80: display terminal; 81: frame; 100, 100A: housing for electronic device; 103: cover; 104, 104A: protective film; DA: display region; DAs: opening region; OPl: display opening; OP2: mounting opening; Rx: detection electrode; Tx: drive electrode; Vo: output signal.​

Claims

1. An input detection system, comprising: A display device with detection function has multiple detection electrodes arranged in the display area; A housing for an electronic device, comprising: a storage section for storing the display device with detection function; and a cover, covering the display area of ​​the display device with detection function; as well as An input device, mounted rotatably on the housing of the electronic device, includes a first electrode and a second electrode opposite to the plurality of detection electrodes, the rotation axis extending in the normal direction to the surface of the housing. The cover is made of a non-transparent material and has an opening for mounting in an area that overlaps with a portion of the display area. The input device is located in an area that overlaps with the mounting opening of the cover. The input detection system has a light-transmitting protective film disposed on the surface of the cover opposite the display device with detection function. The protective film is configured to cover the installation opening. The input device is fixed to the protective film.

2. The input detection system according to claim 1, wherein, An opening for display is provided in an area that overlaps with a portion of the display area.

3. The input detection system according to claim 2, wherein, When the cover is closed, the display device with detection function displays in the opening area that overlaps with the display opening of the cover.

4. The input detection system according to claim 1, wherein, When the cover is closed, the display device with detection function detects the input device and stops touch detection of objects that are different from the input device.

5. The input detection system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, When the cover is closed, the display device with detection function performs touch detection of a different object than the input device in the opening area that overlaps with the display opening of the cover.

6. The input detection system according to claim 1, wherein, The input device has an LC circuit. The first electrode is connected to one end of the LC circuit. The second electrode is connected to the other end of the LC circuit.

7. A housing for an electronic device for housing a display device with a detection function, the display device having a plurality of detection electrodes arranged in a display area, wherein... The housing for the electronic device has: The storage section houses the display device with the detection function; A cover, covering the display area of ​​the display device with detection function; and An input device, mounted on the cover in a manner rotatable about a rotation axis, includes a first electrode and a second electrode opposite to the plurality of detection electrodes, the rotation axis extending in the normal direction to the surface of the cover. The cover is made of a non-transparent material and has an opening for mounting in an area that overlaps with a portion of the display area. The input device is located in an area that overlaps with the mounting opening of the cover. The housing for the electronic device includes a light-transmitting protective film disposed on the surface of the housing opposite the display device with detection function. The protective film is configured to cover the installation opening. The input device is fixed to the protective film.

8. The housing for an electronic device according to claim 7, wherein, An opening for display is provided in an area that overlaps with a portion of the display area.

9. The housing for an electronic device according to claim 8, wherein, When the cover is closed, the display device with detection function displays in the opening area that overlaps with the display opening of the cover.

10. The housing for an electronic device according to claim 7, wherein, The input device has an LC circuit. The first electrode is connected to one end of the LC circuit. The second electrode is connected to the other end of the LC circuit.

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