Sensor module and display device having the same

Abstract

Disclosed is a sensor module and a display device provided with the sensor module, which are a non-contact sensor capable of accurately determining the position of an approaching input unit and a display device provided with the non-contact sensor. The sensor module is provided with a plurality of sensor electrodes arranged in a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns, a plurality of terminals each corresponding to the plurality of sensor electrodes, and a plurality of sensor wirings each corresponding to the plurality of sensor electrodes. Each of the plurality of sensor wirings electrically connects the corresponding sensor electrode to the corresponding terminal without passing through other sensor electrodes. Each of the plurality of sensor electrodes at least does not overlap with the plurality of sensor wirings except for the corresponding sensor wiring.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] One embodiment of the present application relates to a sensor module and a display device provided with the sensor module. For example, one embodiment of the present application relates to a noncontact sensor module and a display device provided with the noncontact sensor module. BACKGROUND

[0002] Touch sensors are widely used as one of interfaces for inputting information to information terminals. The currently mainstream touch sensors determine the position at which a person's finger or hand directly contacts the touch sensor. In contrast, in recent years, a noncontact sensor (hover sensor) has been developed, which enables information to be inputted without bringing a person's finger or hand, or an input tool such as a touch pen (hereinafter, these are referred to as an input unit) into contact with the touch sensor, but only by locating it in the vicinity of the touch sensor (see Patent Documents 1 to 3).

[0003] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0004] PATENT DOCUMENTS

[0005] Patent Document 1: US Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0049486 Specification

[0006] Patent Document 2: US Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0342498 Specification

[0007] Patent Document 3: US Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0049508 Specification SUMMARY

[0008] One of the problems of one embodiment of the present application is to provide a noncontact sensor having a novel structure and a display device provided with the noncontact sensor. Alternatively, one of the problems of one embodiment of the present application is to provide a noncontact sensor capable of accurately determining the position of an input unit that is approaching and a display device provided with the noncontact sensor.

[0009] One embodiment of the present application is a sensor module. The sensor module includes a plurality of sensor electrodes arranged in a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns, a plurality of terminals each corresponding to the plurality of sensor electrodes, and a plurality of sensor wirings each corresponding to the plurality of sensor electrodes. Each of the plurality of sensor wirings electrically connects a corresponding sensor electrode to a corresponding terminal without passing through other sensor electrodes. Each of the plurality of sensor electrodes does not overlap with the plurality of sensor wirings except for a corresponding sensor wiring.

[0010] One embodiment of the present application is a display device. The display device includes a display module and a sensor module on the display module. The display module includes an array substrate having a plurality of pixels. The sensor module includes a plurality of sensor electrodes arranged in a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns, a plurality of terminals each corresponding to a sensor electrode of the plurality of sensor electrodes, and a plurality of sensor wirings each corresponding to a sensor electrode of the plurality of sensor electrodes. Each of the plurality of sensor wirings electrically connects the corresponding sensor electrode to the corresponding terminal without passing through another sensor electrode. Each of the plurality of sensor electrodes does not overlap with the plurality of sensor wirings except for the corresponding sensor wiring. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0012] Figure 2 is a schematic plan view of a sensor module according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0013] Figure 3 is a schematic plan view of a sensor module according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0014] Figure 4A is a schematic cross-sectional view of a sensor module according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0015] Figure 4B is a schematic cross-sectional view of a sensor module according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0016] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a sensor module according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0017] Figure 6 is a schematic plan view of a sensor module according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0018] Figure 7 is a schematic plan view of a sensor module according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0019] Figure 8 is a schematic plan view of a sensor module according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0020] Figure 9 is a schematic plan view of a sensor module according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0021] Figure 10 is a schematic plan view of a sensor module according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0022] Figure 11is a schematic plan view of a sensor module according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0023] Figure 12 is a schematic plan view of a sensor module according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0024] Reference Signs List

[0025] 100, display device; 102, adhesive layer; 110, display module; 112, array substrate; 114, counter substrate; 116, pixel; 118, connector; 120, display region; 200, sensor module; 202, sensor substrate; 204, cover substrate; 206, sensor electrode; 206-1, sensor electrode; 206-2, sensor electrode; 206-3, sensor electrode; 206-4, sensor electrode; 206-5, sensor electrode; 206a, frame; 206b, opening; 207, dummy electrode; 208, sensor region; 210, second connector; 212, first connector; 216, power supply circuit; 218, detector; 220, arithmetic element; 222, interface; 224, sensor wiring; 224-1, sensor wiring; 224-2, sensor wiring; 224-3, sensor wiring; 224-4, sensor wiring; 224a, terminal; 224b, frame; 224c, opening; 226, noise shield layer; 228, interlayer insulating film; 230, protective film; 230-1, first protective film; 230-2, second protective film; 232, adhesive layer; 234, shield wiring; 234a, terminal; 236, auxiliary wiring; 238, shield electrode; 240, shield electrode; 242, shield wiring; 242a, terminal; 244, auxiliary shield wiring; 244a, terminal. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Hereinafter, each embodiment of the present application will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present application can be implemented in various ways without departing from the gist thereof, and should not be construed as being limited to the contents described in the following exemplified embodiments.

[0027] In order to make the description more clear, the width, thickness, shape, and the like of each part are schematically shown in the drawings in some cases compared with the actual ones, but this is only an example and does not limit the explanation of the present application. In the present specification and the drawings, the same reference numerals are sometimes given to elements having the same function as the elements explained in the drawings already appeared, and the repeated explanation is omitted. This reference numeral is used when a plurality of the same or similar structures are uniformly represented, and a hyphen and a natural number are added after the reference numeral when it is individually represented. In addition, a lower case letter is sometimes added after the reference numeral when a part of one structure is represented.

[0028] In the present specification and claims, when the manner in which one structure is disposed on another structure is expressed, unless otherwise specified, both of the following two cases are included: the case where the other structure is directly disposed on the one structure in contact therewith, and the case where the other structure is further disposed on the one structure with another structure interposed therebetween.

[0029] In the present specification and claims, the expression "one structure is exposed from another structure" refers to the manner in which a portion of the one structure is not covered by the other structure, and also includes the manner in which the portion not covered by the other structure is covered by another structure. In addition, the manner indicated by the expression also includes the manner in which the one structure is not in contact with the other structure.

[0030] In the embodiment of the present application, in the case where a plurality of films are formed at the same time in the same process, the films have the same layer structure, the same material, and the same composition. Therefore, the plurality of films are defined as being present in the same layer.

[0031] The structure of the sensor module 200 and the display device 100 provided with the sensor module 200, which are one embodiment of the present application, will be described below.

[0032] 1. Overall structure

[0033] Figure 1 A schematic exploded perspective view of the display device 100 is shown in FIG. 1. The display device 100 includes a display module 110 and a sensor module 200 disposed on the display module 110. The display module 110 and the sensor module 200 are fixed to each other by an adhesive layer not shown in FIG. 1. Figure 1

[0034] 2. Display module

[0035] The display module 110 is a device having a display image function, and as a basic configuration includes an array substrate 112, a plurality of pixels 116 formed on the array substrate 112, and a counter substrate 114 on the array substrate 112. The smallest region of a rectangle that surrounds the plurality of pixels 116 is referred to as a display region 120. Each pixel 116 includes a display element, and functions as the smallest unit that provides color information. As the display element, an electroluminescent element such as an organic electroluminescent element (OLED) can be used in addition to a liquid crystal element. When a liquid crystal element is used, the display module 110 is further provided with a light source (backlight) not shown. Each pixel 116 operates in accordance with a power supply and an image signal supplied via a connector 118 such as a flexible printed circuit (FPC) substrate, to provide light of a specific color based on the gray scale of the image signal. By controlling the operation of the pixel 116 based on the image signal, an image can be displayed on the display region 120. ​

[0036] The size of the display module 110 is not limited. For example, it can be the size of a mobile communication terminal, which is referred to as 12.1 inches (31 cm), or the size suitable for a monitor or television, signage, etc. connected to a computer (e.g., 14.1 inches (36 cm) to 32 inches (81 cm), or even a larger size.

[0037] 3. Sensor Module

[0038] 3-1. Composition

[0039] The sensor module 200 is a device that transmits light from the display module 110 while also functioning as an interface for inputting information into the display device 100. The sensor module 200 is a so-called non-contact sensor module, capable of detecting and determining the position of the input unit on the sensor module 200 not only when an input unit, such as a finger or palm, or a stylus with a resin tip, is in contact with the sensor module 200, but also when the input unit is not in contact with the sensor module 200 and is positioned nearby (e.g., within 5 mm, 10 mm, or 20 mm of the outermost surface of the sensor module 200).

[0040] Specifically, such as Figure 1 Or schematic top view ( Figure 2 As shown, the sensor module 200 includes a sensor substrate 202 and a cover substrate 204 opposite to the sensor substrate 202. A plurality of sensor electrodes 206 are disposed between the sensor substrate 202 and the cover substrate 204. The plurality of sensor electrodes 206 are arranged in multiple rows and multiple columns. Figure 2 In the example shown, 24 sensor electrodes 206 are disposed in the sensor module 200, and the 24 sensor electrodes 206 are arranged in a matrix of 4 rows and 6 columns. The number or size of the sensor electrodes 206 can be appropriately set according to the size of the display device 100, the required detection accuracy of the sensor module 200, etc. The smallest rectangular area surrounding all the sensor electrodes 206 is called the sensor area 208.

[0041] In order to enable visual confirmation of the image displayed by the display module 110, the sensor substrate 202 and the cover substrate 204 are made of a material that transmits visible light. Therefore, the sensor substrate 202 and the cover substrate 204 are made of polymer materials such as glass, quartz, polyimide, polyamide, polycarbonate, etc.

[0042] Each sensor electrode 206 is configured to overlap with a plurality of pixels 116 and at least a portion of the display area 120. For example, as Figure 2As shown, the sensor electrode 206 is configured so that the sensor region 208 indicated by a dotted line overlaps the entire display region 120. Although not shown, the sensor region 208 can have the same shape as the display region 120. Alternatively, the sensor region 208 can be smaller than the display region 120. In this case, the sensor electrode 206 is configured so that the entire sensor region 208 overlaps the display region 120.

[0043] The sensor electrode 206 includes a conductive oxide that transmits visible light, such as indium-tin oxide (ITO) or indium-zinc oxide (IZO), or a metal (0-valent metal) such as molybdenum, tungsten, tantalum, aluminum, or copper. The sensor electrode 206 can have a single-layer structure or a stacked structure. For example, the sensor electrode 206 can have a structure in which a layer containing a conductive oxide and a layer containing a metal are stacked. As described later, each sensor electrode 206 is connected to a sensor wiring. That is, a plurality of sensor wirings corresponding to the plurality of sensor electrodes 206 are provided on the sensor substrate 202. Each sensor wiring is exposed on the sensor substrate 202 to form a terminal 224a.

[0044] A first connector 212 such as an FPC substrate is electrically connected to the terminal 224a, and the first connector 212 is connected to an external circuit not shown. A power supply circuit 216, a detector 218, an arithmetic element 220, an interface 222, and the like can be provided to the first connector 212. The power supply circuit 216 converts a power supply supplied from the external circuit into a pulsed alternating voltage, and supplies the alternating voltage to each sensor electrode 206 via the terminal 224a and the sensor wiring. The detector 218, also referred to as an analog front end (AFE), detects a change in capacitance of the sensor electrode 206 as a potential variation, digitizes the potential variation, and converts it into a detection signal. The detection signal generated by the detector 218 is input to the arithmetic element 220, and based on the detection signal, the arithmetic element 220 generates a coordinate indicating a position of an input unit. The detector 218 and the arithmetic element 220 can also be configured as one integrated circuit (IC) chip. The interface 222 is used to connect to the external circuit, and is configured based on a standard such as universal serial bus (USB) or serial peripheral interface (SPI).

[0045] Figure 3A schematic plan view showing a part of the sensor module 200. As shown in this figure, each sensor electrode 206 is provided with a corresponding sensor wiring 224. That is, the sensor module 200 is provided with the same number of sensor wirings 224 as the sensor electrodes 206, one sensor wiring 224 being electrically connected to one sensor electrode 206. Thereby, the sensor electrode 206 is electrically connected to the terminal 224a. In addition, each sensor wiring 224 connects the corresponding sensor electrode 206 to the corresponding terminal 224a without passing through other sensor electrodes 206. In other words, one sensor wiring 224 is not connected to a plurality of sensor electrodes 206, and likewise, one sensor electrode 206 is not connected to a plurality of sensor wirings 224. In Figure 3 In the example shown, the sensor wirings 224-1 to 224-4 correspond to and are electrically connected to the sensor electrodes 206-1 to 206-4, respectively.

[0046] As described above, a pulse-shaped alternating voltage of the same phase is applied to the sensor electrodes 206 via the sensor wirings 224. When the input unit is brought close to the sensor electrodes 206, a virtual capacitive element is formed between the input unit and the sensor electrodes 206, as a result of which the potential of each sensor electrode 206 is varied. This potential variation is detected and digitized by the detector 218, and in the arithmetic element 220, the coordinate of the position at which the input unit has approached is determined on the basis of the amount of variation of the potential and the position (coordinate) of each sensor electrode 206. In this way, the sensor module 200 functions as an electrostatic capacitive (self-capacitive) non-contact sensor (hover sensor).

[0047] Figure 4A A schematic view showing a cross section along the dotted line A-A' in Figure 3 FIG. 6. Figure 4A Also shown in FIG. 6 is the counter substrate 114 of the display module 110. As Figure 4A shown, the display module 110 and the sensor module 200 are fixed to each other by the adhesive layer 102 that transmits visible light. Note that when the display module 110 is a liquid crystal display device, a polarizing plate or the like is provided on the counter substrate 114.

[0048] As an optional configuration, a noise shielding layer 226 for shielding electrical influences from the display module 110 can be provided between the sensor substrate 202 and the opposing substrate 114. The noise shielding layer 226 can be disposed above or below the adhesive layer 102. The noise shielding layer 226 includes a transparent oxide such as conductive ITO or IZO, or a metal. In the latter case, a mesh-like metal film with multiple openings can be used as the noise shielding layer 226 to allow visible light transmission. The noise shielding layer 226 is configured to overlap with the multiple sensor electrodes 206. The noise shielding layer 226 is electrically connected to a second connector 210 such as an FPC substrate (see reference). Figure 1 The noise shielding layer 226 is subjected to a pulsed AC voltage that is in phase with the potential applied to the sensor electrode 206. Therefore, the noise shielding layer 226 and the sensor electrode 206 are always at the same potential.

[0049] 3-2. Configuration of sensor electrodes and sensor wiring

[0050] Sensor wiring 224 is disposed directly on the sensor substrate 202 or disposed through an insulating undercoating layer (not shown), and sensor electrodes 206 are disposed above them. In this case, the sensor electrodes 206 can be directly disposed on the sensor wiring 224, or as... Figure 4A As shown, they can be configured with an interlayer insulating film 228 containing a silicon-containing inorganic compound such as silicon oxide or silicon nitride between them. In the latter case, the sensor electrode 206 and the sensor wiring 224 are electrically connected to each other through an opening provided in the interlayer insulating film 228. It should be noted that the vertical relationship between the sensor electrode 206 and the sensor wiring 224 is not limited. Figure 4B As shown, sensor wiring 224 can be configured on sensor electrode 206.

[0051] Or, such as Figure 5 As shown, the sensor electrode 206 and the sensor wiring 224 can be configured to exist in the same layer. That is, the sensor electrode 206 and the sensor wiring 224 with the same composition can be formed simultaneously in the same process. In this case, to prevent an increase in the resistance of the sensor wiring 224, the sensor electrode 206 and the sensor wiring 224 preferably contain metal. Alternatively, the sensor wiring 224 and the sensor electrode 206 can have a laminated structure comprising a film containing a conductive, transparent oxide and a film containing metal.

[0052] When the sensor electrode 206 contains metal, it is preferable that the sensor electrode 206 be formed in a mesh shape to prevent an influence on the image displayed by the display module 110. When the sensor electrode 206 has a layered structure of a film containing a light-transmissive oxide having conductivity and a film containing metal, it is sufficient that either of these two films or the latter film be formed in a mesh shape. Specifically, as shown in a partial enlarged view of Figure 5 Figure 6 each sensor electrode 206 is configured to have a plurality of openings 206b formed by a frame 206a and is capable of visually confirming the image through the openings 206b. Thereby, while ensuring that the sensor electrode 206 has sufficient conductivity, it is possible to visually confirm the image from the display module 110. Further, as shown in Figure 6 it is also possible for the sensor wiring 224 to be configured to have a mesh shape. It is preferable that the mesh pattern of the sensor electrode 206 be the same as or substantially the same as the mesh pattern of the sensor wiring 224. That is, it is preferable that the width of the frame 206a configuring the mesh shape of the sensor electrode 206 be the same as or substantially the same as the width of the frame 224b configuring the mesh shape of the sensor wiring 224. Similarly, it is preferable that the shape, size, and pitch of the mesh openings 206b of the sensor electrode 206 be the same as or substantially the same as the shape, size, and pitch of the mesh openings 224c of the sensor wiring 224, respectively. By imparting the same mesh shape to the sensor wiring 224 as the sensor electrode 206, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of moire fringes.

[0053] Further, as shown in Figure 6 it is preferable that a plurality of dummy electrodes 207 be further provided between adjacent sensor electrodes 206 or between the sensor electrode 206 and the sensor wiring 224, the plurality of dummy electrodes 207 being present in the same layer as the sensor electrode 206 and the sensor wiring 224. The plurality of dummy electrodes 207 are not connected to each other and are electrically insulated from the sensor electrode 206 and the sensor wiring 224, and are in an electrically floating state. It is preferable that the plurality of dummy electrodes 207 have the same or substantially the same width as the frame 206a and the frame 224b, and that at least a portion of each dummy electrode 207 extend in a direction parallel to a portion of the frame 206a and a portion of the frame 224b. It is further preferable that the pitch of the plurality of dummy electrodes 207 be the same as or substantially the same as the pitch of the openings 206b and 224c. By adopting such a configuration, it is possible to obtain almost uniform optical properties in the entire sensor region 208 in the layer in which the sensor electrode 206, the sensor wiring 224, and the dummy electrodes 207 are formed, and thus it is possible to effectively prevent the occurrence of moire fringes. Note that, in Figure 6 , although the dummy electrodes 207 are imparted with different hatching from the sensor electrode 206 and the sensor wiring 224, they can have the same composition and layered structure. Further,​Figure 6 The dummy electrode 207 shown is curved and assumes a so-called "へ" shape, but can be further divided at the curved portion. In addition, instead of this shape, a configuration in which a straight thin line forming the dummy electrode 207 is divided midway can also be adopted.

[0054] wherein the sensor electrode 206 is connected to the sensor wiring 224. Figure 3 , Figure 4A and Figure 4B It is to be understood that each sensor wiring 224 is configured to at least not overlap with all sensor electrodes 206 except the sensor electrode 206 connected to the sensor wiring 224. In other words, each sensor wiring 224 is configured to at least be completely exposed from all sensor electrodes 206 except the sensor electrode 206 connected to the sensor wiring 224. For example, when looking at the sensor wiring 224-3 connected to the sensor electrode 206-3 located in the third row, the sensor wiring 224-3 can overlap with the sensor electrode 206-3 connected thereto (refer to Figure 4A , Figure 4B ) and not overlap with, and be completely exposed from, the sensor electrodes 206 except the sensor electrode 206-3.

[0055] or, the sensor electrode 206 is connected to the sensor wiring 224. Figure 3 and Figure 5 It is to be understood that each sensor wiring 224 is configured to not overlap with all sensor electrodes 206 including the sensor electrode 206 connected to the sensor wiring 224. In other words, each sensor wiring 224 is configured to be completely exposed from all sensor electrodes 206 including the sensor electrode 206 connected to the sensor wiring 224.

[0056] By thus configuring and arranging the sensor electrodes 206 and the sensor wirings 224, it is possible to prevent a capacitance (parasitic capacitance) from being formed between the sensor wirings 224 and the sensor electrodes 206. When looking at the sensor wiring 224-1 connected to the sensor electrode 206-1 located in the first row (refer to Figure 3 ), the sensor wiring 224-1 does not overlap with, and is completely exposed from, the sensor electrodes 206-2 to 206-4. Therefore, the sensor wiring 224-1 forms a capacitance between the sensor electrodes 206-2 to 206-4, and the influence thereof is small. Therefore, even if the potential of the sensor wiring 224-1 is varied due to the input unit approaching the sensor electrode 206-1, the variation in the potential does not affect the other sensor electrodes 206. As a result, the detection signal of the sensor electrode 206-1 does not disperse to the other sensor electrodes 206, and it is possible to accurately determine the detection position (coordinates) of the input unit.

[0057] The protective film 230 can be provided on the sensor wiring 224 and the sensor electrode 206 as any configuration. The protective film 230 has a single layer or a laminated structure, and is composed of a film containing a resin such as a silicon-containing inorganic compound, an epoxy resin, an acrylic resin, a silicone resin, or the like. In the present embodiment, the protective film 230 is exemplified as a film in which a first protective film 230-1 containing an inorganic compound is laminated with a second protective film 230-2 containing a resin. The laminated order of the first protective film 230-1 and the second protective film 230-2 is not limited, and the first protective film 230-1 can be laminated on the second protective film 230-2. The first protective film 230-1 containing a resin also functions as a planarization film. The cover substrate 204 is fixed on the protective film 230 via an adhesive layer 232 that transmits visible light. Figure 4A to Figure 5

[0058] 3-3. Modified Example

[0059] (1) Modified Example 1

[0060] In the above-described arrangement of the sensor wiring 224, when the distance between the sensor wiring 224 and the sensor electrode 206 in the adjacent column becomes smaller, the sensor wiring 224 is easily affected by the potential variation of the sensor electrode 206 in the adjacent column. In addition, the more the sensor wiring 224 connected to the sensor electrode 206 distant from the terminal 224a, the greater the influence. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 10, the sensor wiring 224-1 connected to the sensor electrode 206-1 of the first row arranged farthest from the terminal 224a is adjacent to all the sensor electrodes 206-5 to 206-8 in the adjacent column in each column, and thus is affected by the potential variation of all the sensor electrodes 206 in the adjacent column. On the other hand, the sensor wiring 224-4 connected to the sensor electrode 206-4 of the fourth row closest to the terminal 224a does not have a sensor electrode 206 adjacent in the row direction. Figure 3

[0061] Therefore, in order to reduce the influence by the sensor electrode 206 in the adjacent column, the shield wiring 234 can be arranged. Specifically, Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 11, one or a plurality of shield wirings 234 that extend as a whole in the column direction and pass through a plurality of rows are arranged in the sensor module 200. Each shield wiring 234 is separated from the sensor electrode 206. In the case where a plurality of shield wirings 234 are provided, for example, the same number as the number of columns or one less than the number of columns of shield wirings 234 can be arranged so that the sensor electrode 206 and the shield wiring 234 are alternated in each row.

[0062] ​​Each shielding wire 234 is exposed near an end of the sensor substrate 202 to form a terminal 234a, from which a pulsed AC voltage in phase with the sensor electrode 206 is applied from the power supply circuit 216. The shielding wire 234 does not need to contribute to the determination of the input unit's coordinates; therefore, the shielding wire 234 may not be connected to the detector 218. On the other hand, the opposite ends of the terminals 234a of the shielding wire 234 may be located within or outside the sensor region 208. Each shielding wire 234 may also be configured to contain a conductive, light-transmitting oxide or metal. In the latter case, by configuring the shielding wire 234, like the sensor electrode 206 and sensor wire 224, with a grid-like shape, visual confirmation of the image can be achieved through the sensor electrode 206 and shielding wire 234, while preventing the generation of moiré fringes.

[0063] By configuring the shielded wiring 234, a shielded wiring 234 is established between the sensor wiring 224 and the sensor electrodes 206 disposed in adjacent columns, reducing the impact of potential variations in the sensor electrodes 206 in adjacent columns. As a result, the coordinates of the input unit can be determined more accurately.

[0064] (2) Variation Example 2

[0065] exist Figure 3 or Figure 7 In the example shown, in each column, the area of ​​the sensor electrode 206 configured in the sensor module 200 increases with the distance from the terminal 224a. This configuration simplifies the layout of the sensor wiring 224 and enables a high-density configuration of the sensor electrodes 206.

[0066] However, the configuration of the sensor module 200 is not limited to this, such as... Figure 8 As shown, the sensor module 200 can be configured such that all sensor electrodes 206 have the same shape and area. By making the areas of the sensor electrodes 206 the same, the dependence of the potential variation caused by the proximity of the input units on the row is reduced, thus enabling more accurate determination of the coordinates of the input units.

[0067] In this configuration, from Figure 8 It can be understood that the area occupied by adjacent sensor electrodes 206 in the row direction of sensor wiring 224 decreases as the distance from terminal 224a increases. Therefore, as Figure 9As shown, the shield wiring 234 is configured similarly to Modification 1, and the shield wiring 234 can be configured such that its width (i.e., the length in the row direction) increases gradually or continuously away from the terminal 224a. In this way, by configuring the shield wiring 234 whose width is variable in the column direction, the electric field between the approaching input unit and the sensor region 208 becomes uniform without distortion, and since the electric field overlapping the sensor electrode 206 in this electric field is detected as a capacity change, it is possible to perform detection without bias dependence on the row.

[0068] (3) Modification 3

[0069] As described above, in the sensor module 200, the sensor electrodes 206 are configured in multiple columns and multiple rows. Their sensor wiring 224 connected to the sensor electrode 206 extends toward one edge of the sensor substrate 202, and a terminal 224a is formed at the end of the sensor substrate 202. Therefore, the closer to the terminal 224a, the higher the density of the sensor wiring 224. Therefore, as shown, in the case where the input unit approaches a position P1 that is far from the terminal 224a, only the potential of the sensor electrode 206-1 of the first row near the position P1 and the sensor wiring 224-1 connected thereto change, and thus it is possible to determine the accurate coordinates of the input unit. However, in the case where the input unit approaches a position P2 that is close to the terminal 224a, not only the potential of the sensor electrode 206-4 of the fourth row changes, but a virtual capacitive element can also be formed on the sensor wiring 224 connected to the other sensor electrodes 206. As a result, sometimes the potential of the sensor electrode 206 other than the sensor electrode 206-4 of the fourth row also changes, and it is not possible to determine the correct coordinates of the input unit. Figure 8

[0070] Therefore, as shown, for each sensor electrode 206, an auxiliary wiring 236 different from the sensor wiring 224 can be provided. Specifically, a plurality of auxiliary wirings 236 corresponding to the plurality of sensor electrodes 206, respectively, are provided. One auxiliary wiring 236 is selectively connected to one sensor electrode 206 and extends in the direction opposite to the terminal 224a. The auxiliary wiring 236 is not connected to other conductive constituent elements other than the sensor electrode 206 connected thereto. Therefore, the pulse-shaped alternating current voltage in phase with the sensor electrode 206 is also applied to the auxiliary wiring 236. Each auxiliary wiring 236 can also be configured to include a light-transmissive oxide or metal having conductivity. In the latter case, by configuring both the sensor electrode 206 and the auxiliary wiring 236 to have a mesh-like shape, it is possible to visually confirm the image by the sensor electrode 206, the auxiliary wiring 236, while it is possible to prevent the generation of moire. Figure 10

[0071] ​​As with the sensor wiring 224, each auxiliary wiring 236 does not overlap at least all the sensor electrodes 206 except the sensor electrode 206 connected thereto. That is, each auxiliary wiring 236 is exposed from at least all the sensor electrodes 206 except the sensor electrode 206 connected thereto. Alternatively, as with the sensor wiring 224, when the sensor electrode 206 and the auxiliary wiring 236 exist in the same layer, each auxiliary wiring 236 does not overlap all the sensor electrodes 206. That is, each auxiliary wiring 236 is exposed from all the sensor electrodes 206.

[0072] By thus providing the auxiliary wiring 236, the density of the wirings, that is, the sum of the areas of the sensor wiring 224 and the auxiliary wiring 236 is almost constant in the column direction. Therefore, for example, in the case where the input unit approaches the position P2 close to the terminal 224a, the largest potential variation is generated in the sensor electrode 206-4 of the fourth row closest to the coordinate thereof, and secondary potential variations are also generated in the sensor wiring 224 disposed in the vicinity of the sensor electrode 206 of the fourth row and the sensor electrodes 206 of the first to third rows connected thereto. Similarly, in the case where the input unit approaches the position PI away from the terminal 224a, the largest potential variation is generated in the sensor electrode 206 of the first row closest to the coordinate thereof, and secondary potential variations are generated in the auxiliary wiring 236 connected to the sensor electrodes 206 of the second to fourth rows, as a result of which secondary potential variations are also generated in the sensor electrodes 206 of the second to fourth rows. That is, it is possible to detect a larger potential variation in the sensor electrode 206 approaching the input unit without depending on the coordinate of the input unit, while causing almost the same secondary potential variations in the other sensor electrodes 206 in the column in which the sensor electrode 206 thereof is disposed. As a result, the coordinate dependency of the input unit on the secondary potential variation is eliminated, and it is possible to accurately determine the coordinate of the input unit.

[0073] Preferably, the auxiliary wiring 236 is disposed such that the end portion of the auxiliary wiring 236 on the opposite side of the terminal 224a (the end portion on the opposite side of the end portion connected to the sensor electrode 206) is located outside the sensor region 208 Figure 1 Referring to) the outside of the sensor region 208 Figure 10). Alternatively, the auxiliary wiring 236 is configured so that the end portion is outside the sensor region 208 and outside the display region 120. The length L of the portion of the auxiliary wiring 236 extending from the end portion of the sensor region 208 or the display region 120 to the side opposite the terminal 224a is preferably 1 mm or more and 1 cm or less. In this way, by controlling the position of the end portion of the auxiliary wiring 236, even if the input unit approaches the end portion of the display region 120, a virtual capacitance formed between the auxiliary wiring 236 and the input unit is ensured. Therefore, the same detection accuracy as in other regions (for example, the vicinity of the center) of the sensor region 208 can be maintained.

[0074] In addition, the sensor wiring 224, although small in width, also functions as a sensor electrode by being applied with a pulse-shaped alternating voltage. In this way, in the case where the sensor electrode 206 and the sensor wiring 224 are collectively regarded as one sensor electrode, even if the Figure 9 configuration, the size of the sensor electrode 206 differs when viewed in the row direction. In contrast, in the Figure 10 configuration, the sensor electrode 206 is additionally provided with an auxiliary wiring 236 that extends in a direction away from the terminal 224a. That is, the auxiliary wiring 236-4 connected to the sensor electrode 206-4 closest to the detector 218 extends in a direction away from the detector 218 and passes through the other sensor electrodes 206, whereas the auxiliary wiring 236-1 connected to the sensor electrode 206-1 located farthest from the detector 218 is extremely short. By adopting this configuration, the sensor wiring 224 and the auxiliary wiring 236 also function as part of the sensor electrode 206 (the sensor electrode connected to the detector 218), and therefore, between the sensor electrodes 206, the area of the portion thereof that functions as a sensor electrode is almost the same, thereby reducing the capacitance difference due to the difference in distance from the detector 218. Note that the sensor electrode 206-1 located farthest from the detector 218 can also be configured without the auxiliary wiring.

[0075] (4) Modified Example 4

[0076] The non-contact sensor is more susceptible to electrical influences from the display module 110 than the conventional contact sensor. In order to reduce the influences, a plurality of shield electrodes can be provided around the sensor region 208. The specific configuration is shown in Figure 11 and Figure 12 . Figure 11 is a schematic plan view including both edges of the sensor substrate 202, Figure 12 is a schematic plan view of the region opposite the region shown in Figure 11 with the sensor region 208 as a reference.

[0077] As shown in these drawings, one shield electrode (first shield electrode) 238 can be provided in each column. In each column, the shield electrode 238 is arranged on the side opposite to the terminal 244a with the sensor region 208 (i.e., all the sensor electrodes 206) as a reference. The shield electrode 238 is provided so as not to overlap the display region 120. In other words, the plurality of pixels 116 are all exposed from the shield electrode 238. In a case where the end portion of the auxiliary wiring 236 connected to the sensor electrode 206 is arranged outside the sensor region 208, the shape or arrangement of the shield electrode 238 can be adjusted so that the end portion overlaps the shield electrode 238 provided in the same column in the row direction and the column direction. The pulse-shaped alternating voltage in phase with the sensor electrode 206 is also applied to the shield electrode 238. Therefore, the shield electrode 238 can be electrically connected to the plurality of shield wirings 234, respectively. The shield electrode 238 does not contribute to the determination of the coordinates of the input unit, and thus can not be connected to the detector 218.

[0078] Alternatively, a pair of shield electrodes (second shield electrodes) 240 can be arranged in each row together with or instead of the shield electrode 238. The pair of shield electrodes 240 is arranged so as to sandwich all the sensor electrodes 206 in each row. The shield electrodes 240 are also provided so as not to overlap the display region 120. Therefore, the plurality of pixels 116 are all exposed from the shield electrodes 240. The pulse-shaped alternating voltage in phase with the sensor electrodes 206 is also applied to the shield electrodes 240. Therefore, each shield electrode 240 is electrically connected to the shield wiring 242. The shield wiring 242 is exposed near the end portion of the sensor substrate 202 to form a terminal 242a. The terminal 242a is connected to the first connector 212, whereby the shield wiring 242 can receive the voltage supply from the power supply circuit 216. Like the shield electrode 238, the shield electrode 240 does not contribute to the determination of the coordinates of the input unit, and thus can not be connected to the detector 218. Although not shown, like the sensor wiring 224, each shield wiring 242 does not overlap all the shield electrodes 240 except for the shield electrode 240 connected thereto, and is exposed. Alternatively, each shield wiring 242 does not overlap all the shield electrodes 240, and is exposed.

[0079] Like the sensor electrodes 206, the shield electrodes 240 can be connected to the auxiliary wiring (auxiliary shield wiring) 244. That is, the auxiliary shield wiring 244 corresponding to the plurality of shield electrodes 240, respectively, can be provided outside the sensor region 208. One end of each auxiliary shield wiring 244 is electrically connected to the corresponding shield electrode 240, and the other end portion is not connected to other conductive constituent elements.

[0080] As described above, in the sensor module 200, the shield electrode 238 and / or the shield electrode 240 is provided outside the sensor region 208. Therefore, even if the input unit approaches the end portion of the sensor region 208, a uniform electric field is generated between the input unit and the sensor region 208, and since the electric field overlapping with the sensor electrode 206 in the electric field is detected as a capacity change, detection without deviation can be performed. In addition, since the formation of a capacitance between the outside of the sensor region 208 and the input unit can be suppressed, a decrease in detection accuracy is not caused.

[0081] In addition, a plurality of shield electrodes 238 and / or shield electrodes 240 are provided, respectively. In a case where a single shield electrode is provided outside the sensor region 208, when the input unit approaches the end portion of the sensor region 208, the influence thereof spreads to the entire outer periphery of the sensor region 208. However, by providing a plurality of shield electrodes 238 and / or a plurality of shield electrodes 240, the decrease in the potential fluctuation amount of the sensor electrode 206 generated when the input unit approaches the end portion of the sensor region 208 can be limited to a local area, and thus the detection accuracy can be maintained even at the end portion of the sensor region 208, and the coordinates of the input unit can be determined more accurately.

[0082] In addition, by providing the shield electrode 238 and / or the shield electrode 240, the same configuration as the sensor region 208 can be constructed also outside the display region 120, and thus not only the detection sensitivity in the end portion of the display region 120 can be maintained, but also the influence from the display module 110 can be effectively shielded.

[0083] Each of the above-described embodiments can be appropriately combined and implemented as long as they do not contradict each other, as embodiments of the present application. In addition, additions, deletions, or design changes of appropriate constituent elements by those skilled in the art based on the display device of each embodiment, or additions, omissions of processes, or changes in conditions of processes, are all included in the scope of the present application as long as the spirit of the present application is possessed.

[0084] Even other effects different from the effects brought about by the above-described each embodiment, effects obvious from the description of the present specification, or effects that can be easily predicted by those skilled in the art are, of course, understood as effects brought about by the present application.

Claims

1. A sensor module comprising: a plurality of sensor electrodes arranged in a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns; a plurality of terminals each corresponding to a plurality of the sensor electrodes; a plurality of sensor wirings each corresponding to a plurality of the sensor electrodes; a plurality of auxiliary wirings each corresponding to a plurality of the sensor electrodes; and a plurality of shield electrodes each provided in each of the columns, the shield electrodes being arranged on opposite sides of the terminals with respect to the sensor electrodes in the direction of the columns, each of the plurality of the sensor wirings electrically connecting the corresponding sensor electrode to the corresponding terminal without passing through other sensor electrodes, each of the plurality of the sensor electrodes not overlapping with the plurality of the sensor wirings except for the corresponding sensor wiring, each of the plurality of the auxiliary wirings being electrically connected to the corresponding sensor electrode and extending in a direction opposite to the terminals, each of the plurality of the auxiliary wirings not overlapping with all of the sensor electrodes except for the sensor electrode connected thereto, and the shape and arrangement of the shield electrodes being adjusted such that the end portion of the auxiliary wiring overlaps with the shield electrode provided in the same column in the row direction and the column direction.

2. The sensor module according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of the sensor electrodes does not overlap with the plurality of the sensor wirings including the corresponding sensor wiring.

3. The sensor module according to claim 1, wherein in each of the plurality of the columns, the area of the plurality of the sensor electrodes increases as the distance from the terminal increases.

4. The sensor module according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of shield wirings passing through the plurality of rows, wherein each of the plurality of the shield wirings is separated from the plurality of the sensor electrodes, and in each of the plurality of the rows, the plurality of the shield wirings and the plurality of the sensor electrodes are alternated.

5. The sensor module according to claim 4, wherein in each of the plurality of the shield wirings, the end portion on the side opposite to the terminal is located outside a sensor region including the plurality of the sensor electrodes, and the sensor region is the smallest region that encloses the plurality of the sensor electrodes.

6. The sensor module according to claim 4, wherein in each of the plurality of the shield wirings, the length in the row direction increases as the distance from the terminal increases.

7. The sensor module according to claim 1, wherein in each of the plurality of the auxiliary wirings, the end portion on the side opposite to the terminal is located outside a sensor region including the plurality of the sensor electrodes, and the sensor region is the smallest region that encloses the plurality of the sensor electrodes.

8. A display device comprising: a display module including an array substrate having a plurality of pixels; and the sensor module according to any one of claims 1 to 7 arranged on the display module. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

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