Sensor display panel

Abstract

A sensor display panel is provided. The sensor display panel can include a display panel including a pixel and an encapsulation layer, a first electrode formed in a mesh pattern, the first electrode including first electrode units each having an opening and at least one first conductive pattern, a second electrode spaced apart from the first electrode, the second electrode including an electrode portion and at least one second conductive pattern, a third electrode spaced apart from the first electrode and the second electrode and formed in a mesh pattern, the third electrode including second electrode units and at least one third conductive pattern, and a driving unit connected to the first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode through different terminals and operated in a first mode or a second mode, the driving unit configured to supply a driving signal to the third electrode and receive a sensing signal from the first electrode and the second electrode when operated in the first mode.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on April 28, 2018, with application number "201810398449.6" and invention title "Touch Sensor". Technical Field

[0002] Various exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate to a touch sensor and a method for driving the touch sensor. Background Technology

[0003] A touch sensor is an information input device. It can be used in display devices. For example, it can be attached to a surface of a display panel that performs image display functions, or it can be implemented in the display panel. Users can input information by pressing or touching the touch sensor while viewing the image displayed on the display panel. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The embodiment provides a highly sensitive touch sensor and a method for driving the touch sensor.

[0005] In an embodiment, the touch sensor may include: a sensor section including a first electrode and a second electrode spaced apart from each other; a signal receiving section including a first terminal connected to the first electrode and a second terminal connected to the second electrode; an amplifier circuit section connected between the second electrode and the second terminal; an analog-to-digital converter section including a third terminal and a fourth terminal, wherein the third terminal is connected to another terminal of the signal receiving section, the fourth terminal is connected to the second terminal, and the analog-to-digital converter section is configured to output a digital signal corresponding to the voltage difference between the third terminal and the fourth terminal; and a processor configured to detect touch input from the sensor section in response to the digital signal when operating in a first mode, and to output a gain control signal for calibrating the gain value of the amplifier circuit section in response to the digital signal when operating in a second mode.

[0006] In an embodiment, the signal receiving unit may include: a first amplifier, including a first terminal and a second terminal; a first switch and a second switch, wherein the first switch is turned on during a first mode and the second switch is turned on during a second mode, and the first switch and the second switch are connected in parallel between another terminal of the first amplifier and the first terminal; a first capacitor and a reset switch, connected in parallel between the first switch and another terminal of the first amplifier; and a second capacitor and a first resistor, connected in parallel between the second switch and another terminal of the first amplifier.

[0007] In an embodiment, the amplifier circuit section may include: a second amplifier, including a fifth terminal connected to a second electrode and a sixth terminal connected to a bias power supply; and a variable resistor connected between another terminal of the second amplifier and the bias power supply, and having a resistance value that changes in response to a gain control signal.

[0008] In this embodiment, the second terminal is connected to a variable resistor.

[0009] In an embodiment, the touch sensor may further include a peak hold circuit connected between another terminal and a third terminal of the signal receiving unit.

[0010] In an embodiment, the touch sensor may further include: at least one switch connected between the peak hold circuit and the third terminal; and at least one switch connected between another terminal of the signal receiver and the peak hold circuit.

[0011] In an embodiment, the peak hold circuit may include: a third amplifier including a seventh terminal and an eighth terminal, wherein the seventh terminal is connected to another terminal of the signal receiving section; at least one buffer connected between the other terminal of the third amplifier and the third terminal; a first diode connected between the other terminal of the third amplifier and the buffer; a second diode connected in the same direction as the first diode between the other terminal of the third amplifier and the eighth terminal; and a third capacitor and a fourth switch connected in parallel between the connection node between the first diode and the buffer and the second terminal.

[0012] In one embodiment, the touch sensor may include at least one switch connected between another terminal of the signal receiving section and the peak hold circuit.

[0013] In an embodiment, the analog-to-digital converter section may include a differential analog-to-digital converter comprising a third terminal and a fourth terminal.

[0014] In one embodiment, the analog-to-digital converter section may include: a fourth amplifier, including a third terminal and a fourth terminal; and an analog-to-digital converter connected to another terminal of the fourth amplifier.

[0015] In an embodiment, the sensor unit may include: a plurality of first electrodes, including a first electrode; and a plurality of second electrodes, including a second electrode.

[0016] In an embodiment, a plurality of first electrodes and a plurality of second electrodes may extend in a first direction within an effective region disposed in the sensor section, and each of the plurality of second electrodes may include an electrode portion surrounded by a corresponding first electrode among the plurality of first electrodes.

[0017] In an embodiment, each first electrode may include a plurality of electrode units arranged in a first direction, and includes at least one opening disposed inside each of the plurality of electrode units, and a plurality of first connecting portions may connect the first electrode units in the first direction.

[0018] In an embodiment, each second electrode may include a plurality of electrode portions disposed inside each opening of the first electrode unit and a plurality of connecting lines connecting the electrode portions in a first direction.

[0019] In an embodiment, the touch sensor may include multiple signal receiving units containing signal receiving units, with each first electrode connected to a different signal receiving unit.

[0020] In an embodiment, each second electrode may be connected to a fifth terminal included in the amplifier circuit section, and the second terminal of the signal receiving section corresponding to each first electrode may be connected to a different variable resistor among a plurality of variable resistors disposed in the amplifier circuit section.

[0021] In an embodiment, the touch sensor may further include a plurality of third electrodes spaced apart from the first and second electrodes in the effective area and extending along a second direction, as well as a drive circuit that supplies drive signals to the third electrodes.

[0022] In one embodiment, a method for driving a touch sensor including a sensor section is provided. The touch sensor includes a first electrode and a second electrode extending in a first direction and spaced apart from each other, and a signal receiving section including a first terminal and a second terminal respectively connected to the first electrode and the second electrode. The method includes the steps of: detecting a touch input in response to a voltage difference between a sensing signal input to the first terminal and a noise signal input to the second terminal when operating in a first mode; and calibrating a gain value of the second noise signal in response to a voltage difference between a first noise signal input to the first terminal and a second noise signal input to the second terminal when operating in a second mode.

[0023] In an embodiment, the sensor unit may further include a third electrode extending in a second direction and spaced apart from the first electrode and the second electrode, and the method further includes the step of supplying a drive signal to the third electrode when operating in a first mode.

[0024] In one embodiment, the touch sensor may further include a variable resistor connected between a second electrode and a second terminal, and the method further includes the step of generating a gain control signal for calibrating the resistance value of the variable resistor when operating in a second mode, such that the voltage difference between a first noise signal and a second noise signal is reduced.

[0025] In an embodiment, the touch sensor may include a sensor portion comprising: a first electrode extending in a first direction; a second electrode extending in the first direction and electrically disconnected from the first electrode, the second electrode including a plurality of electrode portions and a plurality of connecting lines connecting adjacent electrode portions; and a third electrode extending in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction and electrically disconnected from the first and second electrodes.

[0026] In one embodiment, multiple electrode portions may be disposed in an opening formed in the first electrode.

[0027] In an embodiment, the touch sensor may further include a plurality of fourth electrodes disposed in the opening to overlap with the plurality of electrode portions, respectively.

[0028] In an embodiment, one of the plurality of fourth electrodes disposed in the same opening and one of the plurality of electrode portions can be connected by a contact hole formed in an insulating layer disposed between the plurality of fourth electrodes and the plurality of electrode portions. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Example embodiments will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings; however, example embodiments may be implemented in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the example embodiments to those skilled in the art.

[0030] In the accompanying drawings, dimensions may be exaggerated for clarity. It will be understood that when an element is referred to as "between" two elements, the element may be the only element between the two elements, or there may be one or more intermediate elements. The same reference numerals always denote the same elements.

[0031] The above and other features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0032] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a display device according to an embodiment;

[0033] Figure 2 The sensor section of a touch sensor according to an embodiment is shown;

[0034] Figure 3 A touch sensor according to an embodiment is shown;

[0035] Figure 4 A touch sensor according to an embodiment is shown;

[0036] Figure 5It shows the involvement Figure 4 An embodiment of the sensor unit shown in the figure;

[0037] Figure 6A and Figure 6B It shows Figure 5 Different embodiments of the sensor unit are shown in the figure;

[0038] Figure 7A It shows Figure 5 The first layer of the sensor section is shown in the image;

[0039] Figure 7B It shows Figure 5 The second layer of the sensor section is shown in the image;

[0040] Figure 8A It shows along Figure 5 An example of a cross-section of line I-I' in the diagram;

[0041] Figure 8B It shows along Figure 5 Example of a cross section of line II-II' in the diagram;

[0042] Figure 9 It shows the involvement Figure 4 An embodiment of the sensor unit shown in the figure;

[0043] Figure 10 It shows the involvement Figure 4 An embodiment of the sensor unit shown in the figure;

[0044] Figure 11 It shows the involvement Figure 4 An embodiment of the sensor unit shown in the figure;

[0045] Figure 12 It shows the involvement Figure 4 An embodiment of the sensor unit shown in the figure;

[0046] Figure 13 and Figure 14 A touch sensor according to an embodiment is shown;

[0047] Figure 15 It shows in Figure 13 and Figure 14 An embodiment of an analog-to-digital converter is shown in the figure;

[0048] Figure 16 It shows in Figure 13 and Figure 14 An embodiment of the peak hold circuit is shown in the figure;

[0049] Figure 17 The operation of the touch sensor in a first mode according to an embodiment is shown;

[0050] Figure 18 The operation of the touch sensor in a first mode is shown in another embodiment;

[0051] Figure 19 The operation of the touch sensor in a second mode according to an embodiment is shown;

[0052] Figure 20 The operation of the touch sensor in the second mode is shown in another embodiment;

[0053] Figure 21 A touch sensor according to yet another embodiment and its operation in a second mode are shown. Detailed Implementation

[0054] Various exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept will be described. In the drawings, elements and areas are not drawn to scale for clarity, and their dimensions and thicknesses may be exaggerated. Known constructions that are not essential to the principles of the inventive concept may be omitted in the description of the inventive concept. Throughout the drawings and corresponding description, the same reference numerals denote the same components.

[0055] In the following detailed description, certain exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept have been shown and described simply by way of illustration. As those skilled in the art will recognize, modifications can be made to the described embodiments in various ways without departing from the spirit or scope of the inventive concept. Therefore, the drawings and descriptions are to be considered illustrative rather than restrictive in nature. Furthermore, it will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as “on” another element or layer, “connected to” or “bonded to” another element or layer, the element or layer may be directly on, directly connected to or directly bonded to the other element or layer, or there may be intermediate elements or layers. Conversely, when an element is referred to as “directly on” another element or layer, “directly connected to” or “directly bonded to” another element or layer, there are no intermediate elements or layers. The same reference numerals always denote the same elements. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0056] It will be understood that although the terms first, second, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or portion from another element, component, region, layer, or portion. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the inventive concept, the first element, component, region, layer, or portion discussed below may be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer, or portion.

[0057] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “down,” “above,” and “above” may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another (or other) element or feature as shown in the figures. It will be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation, other than those depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were flipped, an element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features would then be positioned “above” those other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “below” can include both above and below orientations. The device may be otherwise positioned (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptive terms used herein shall be interpreted accordingly.

[0058] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the inventive concept. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a” and “the” are also intended to include the plural forms. It will be further understood that when the term “comprising” and / or variations thereof are used in this specification, it indicates the presence of the stated features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0059] Unless otherwise specified, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the inventive concept pertains. It will be further understood that, unless expressly defined herein, terms (such as those defined in a general dictionary) shall be interpreted as having the meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant field, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formalized sense.

[0060] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a display device according to an embodiment. Figure 2 The sensor section of a touch sensor according to an embodiment is shown.

[0061] Reference Figure 1 The display device according to the embodiment may include a sensor unit 100, a touch driver 200, a display panel 300, and a display driver 400. The sensor unit 100 and the touch driver 200 may constitute a touch sensor.

[0062] Despite Figure 1 The sensor unit 100 and the display panel 300 are shown as being separate from each other, but this is not a limitation. For example, but not as a limitation, the sensor unit 100 and the display panel 300 may be formed as one unit.

[0063] In one embodiment, the sensor portion 100 may be disposed on at least one area of ​​the display panel 300. For example, but not as a limitation, the sensor portion 100 may be disposed on at least one side (or surface) of the display panel 300 and stacked with the display panel 300. The sensor portion 100 may be disposed on one side (e.g., on the front side) along the direction of the projected image. In another embodiment, the sensor portion 100 may be directly formed on or inside at least one side of the display panel 300. For example, but not as a limitation, the sensor portion 100 may be directly formed on the outer side (e.g., the upper side of the upper substrate or the lower side of the lower substrate) of the upper substrate and / or the lower substrate of the display panel 300, or it may be directly formed on the inner side (e.g., the lower side of the upper substrate or the upper side of the lower substrate) of the display panel 300.

[0064] The sensor unit 100 may include an effective area 101 capable of sensing touch input and an ineffective area 102 surrounding at least a portion of the effective area 101. In an embodiment, the effective area 101 may be configured to correspond to the display area 301 of the display panel 300, and the ineffective area 102 may be configured to correspond to the non-display area 302 of the display panel 300. For example, but not as a limitation, the effective area 101 of the sensor unit 100 may overlap with the display area 301 of the display panel 300, and the ineffective area 102 of the sensor unit 100 may overlap with the non-display area 302 of the display panel 300.

[0065] In this embodiment, at least one electrode for detecting touch input may be provided in the effective area 101, for example, but not limited to, multiple sensing electrodes 120 and driving electrodes 130. In other words, sensing electrodes 120 and driving electrodes 130 may be provided on the display area 301 of the display panel 300. At least a portion of the sensing electrodes 120 and driving electrodes 130 may be superimposed on at least one electrode provided in the display panel 300. For example, but not limited to, if the display panel 300 is an organic light-emitting display panel or a liquid crystal display panel, the sensing electrodes 120 and driving electrodes 130 may be superimposed on at least the cathode electrode or common electrode of the display panel 300.

[0066] The sensor unit 100 may include a plurality of sensing electrodes 120 and driving electrodes 130, such that the sensing electrodes 120 and driving electrodes 130 intersect each other in the effective region 101. For example, but not as a limitation, the effective region 101 may contain a plurality of sensing electrodes 120 extending in a first direction and a plurality of driving electrodes 130 extending in a second direction to intersect with the sensing electrodes 120. In an embodiment, the sensing electrodes 120 and driving electrodes 130 may be insulated from each other by at least one insulating layer (not shown).

[0067] A capacitance Cse can be formed between the sensing electrode 120 and the driving electrode 130 (especially at their intersection). When touch input is present at or around the corresponding point, the capacitance Cse changes. Therefore, touch input can be sensed by detecting the change in capacitance Cse.

[0068] The shape, size, and arrangement orientation of the sensing electrode 120 and the driving electrode 130 are not limited. In related embodiments, but not as a limitation, the sensing electrode 120 and the driving electrode 130 can be as follows: Figure 2 The land shown is constructed. Although in Figure 1 and Figure 2 Mutual capacitance touch sensors are shown as touch sensors, but the touch sensors in the embodiments are not limited to mutual capacitance touch sensors.

[0069] Reference Figure 2 The sensor unit 100 may include: a substrate 110 having an effective region 101 and an ineffective region 102; a plurality of sensing electrodes 120 and driving electrodes 130 disposed in the effective region 101 on the substrate 110; and a plurality of wirings 140 and pads (or "soldering pads") 150 disposed in the ineffective region 102 on the substrate 110. In another embodiment, if the touch sensor is a self-capacitance touch sensor, a plurality of sensor electrodes may be distributed in the effective region 101, the sensor electrodes receiving a driving signal during one period of the touch driving time and outputting a sensing signal during another period.

[0070] The substrate 110 may be a substrate that serves as the base of the sensor section 100, and it may be a rigid substrate or a flexible substrate. For example, but not as a limitation, the substrate 110 may be a rigid substrate made of glass or reinforced glass or a flexible substrate made of a thin film of flexible plastic material. In embodiments, the substrate 110 may be one of the substrates forming the display panel 300. For example, but not as a limitation, in embodiments where the sensor section 100 and the display panel 300 are integrated, the substrate 110 may be at least one substrate (e.g., an upper substrate) constituting the display panel 300 or a thin-film encapsulated TFE.

[0071] The sensing electrode 120 may extend along a first direction (e.g., but not limited to, along the X direction). In an embodiment, each sensing electrode 120 in each row may include: a plurality of first electrode units 122 arranged along the first direction; and a first connecting portion 124 physically and / or electrically connected along the first direction to the first electrode units 122 of each row. In an embodiment, the first connecting portion 124 may be integrally formed with the first electrode units 122, or may be formed as a bridge-like connecting pattern or a bridge-shaped connecting pattern. Figure 2In this embodiment, the first connecting portion 124 is shown arranged in a first direction, but they are not limited thereto. For example, in another embodiment, the first connecting portion 124 may be arranged in a diagonal direction inclined towards the first direction. Figure 2 In the diagram, the first connecting portion 124 is shown as having a straight line shape (or a strip shape), but they are not limited thereto. For example, but not as a limitation, the first connecting portion 124 may have a shape in which at least one region is bent or folded. Figure 2 In this embodiment, two adjacent first electrode units 122 are shown connected to each other by a first connecting portion 124 disposed therebetween, but they are not limited thereto. For example, but not as a limitation, in another embodiment, two adjacent first electrode units 122 may be connected to each other by a plurality of first connecting portions 124 disposed therebetween.

[0072] In embodiments, the first electrode unit 122 and / or the first connection portion 124 may include at least one of a metallic material, a transparent conductive material, and various other conductive materials, thus possessing conductivity. For example, but not as a limitation, the first electrode unit 122 and / or the first connection portion 124 may include at least one of a variety of metallic materials including gold (Au), silver (Ag), aluminum (Al), molybdenum (Mo), chromium (Cr), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), copper (Cu), platinum (Pt), and alloys thereof. Furthermore, the first electrode unit 122 and / or the first connection portion 124 may include at least one of silver (Ag), silver nanowires (AgNW), indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc antimony oxide (AZO), indium tin zinc oxide (ITZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), and various transparent conductive materials (including tin oxide (SnO2), carbon nanotubes, graphene, etc.). Additionally, the first electrode unit 122 and / or the first connection portion 124 may include at least one of a variety of conductive materials capable of providing conductivity. In the embodiments, each of the first electrode unit 122 and / or the first connection portion 124 may be a single layer or multiple layers.

[0073] In an embodiment, if the touch sensor is a mutual capacitance touch sensor, the sensing electrode 120 can output a sensing signal in response to a driving signal input to the driving electrode 130. For example, but not as a limitation, the sensing electrode 120 can be an Rx electrode that outputs a sensing signal corresponding to a touch input.

[0074] The driving electrode 130 may extend along a second direction (e.g., but not limited to, along the Y direction). In an embodiment, each driving electrode 130 disposed in each column may include: a plurality of second electrode units 132 arranged along the second direction; and a second connecting portion 134 physically connecting and / or electrically connecting the second electrode units 132 of each column along the second direction. In an embodiment, the second connecting portion 134 may be integrally formed with the second electrode units 132, or may be formed as a bridge-like connecting pattern or a bridge-shaped connecting pattern. Figure 2 In this embodiment, the second connecting portion 134 is shown arranged in a second direction, but they are not limited thereto. For example, in another embodiment, the second connecting portion 134 may be arranged in a diagonal direction inclined towards the second direction. Figure 2 In the diagram, the second connecting portion 134 is shown as having a straight line shape (or a strip shape), but they are not limited thereto. For example, but not as a limitation, the second connecting portion 134 may have a shape in which at least one region is bent or folded. Figure 2 In this embodiment, two adjacent second electrode units 132 are shown connected to each other by a second connecting portion 134 disposed therebetween, but they are not limited thereto. For example, but not as a limitation, in another embodiment, two adjacent second electrode units 132 may be connected to each other by a plurality of second connecting portions 134 disposed therebetween.

[0075] In embodiments, the second electrode unit 132 and / or the second connection portion 134 may include at least one of a metallic material, a transparent conductive material, and various other conductive materials, thus possessing conductivity. For example, but not as a limitation, the second electrode unit 132 and / or the second connection portion 134 may include at least one of the conductive materials described above that constitute the materials of the first electrode unit 122 and / or the first connection portion 124. Furthermore, the second electrode unit 132 and / or the second connection portion 134 may be formed of the same material or a different material from the material constituting the first electrode unit 122 and / or the first connection portion 124. Additionally, each of the second electrode unit 132 and / or the second connection portion 134 may be a single layer or multiple layers.

[0076] In an embodiment, if the touch sensor is a mutual capacitance touch sensor, the driving electrode 130 may receive a predetermined driving signal for driving the touch sensor. For example, but not as a limitation, if the touch sensor in the embodiment is a mutual capacitance touch sensor, the driving electrode 130 may be a Tx electrode that receives the driving signal during the period when the touch sensor is activated.

[0077] exist Figure 2In the diagram, the first electrode unit 122 and the second electrode unit 132 are shown to have a rhomboid shape. However, the shape, size, etc., of the first electrode unit 122 and the second electrode unit 132 can vary. For example, but not as a limitation, the first electrode unit 122 and the second electrode unit 132 can have other shapes such as circular, hexagonal, etc.

[0078] exist Figure 2 In the diagram, the sensing electrode 120 is shown as being formed by a plurality of first electrode units 122 and a first connecting portion 124, and the driving electrode 130 is shown as being formed by a plurality of second electrode units 132 and a second connecting portion 134. However, the shapes of the sensing electrode 120 and / or the driving electrode 130 can vary. For example, but not as a limitation, in another embodiment, the sensing electrode 120 and the driving electrode 130 can be implemented using rectangular strip electrodes extending along a first direction and a second direction, respectively.

[0079] In an embodiment, in the non-active region 102, wiring 140 may be present for electrically connecting the sensing electrode 120 and driving electrode 130 disposed in the active region 101 to a touch driver 200, etc. In an embodiment, wiring 140 may include a first wiring 142 for electrically connecting each sensing electrode 120 to a pad portion 150 and a second wiring 144 for electrically connecting each driving electrode 130 to the pad portion 150. For example, but not as a limitation, each wiring 140 may electrically connect either the sensing electrode 120 or the driving electrode 130 to a predetermined pad 152 disposed on the pad portion 150. Figure 2 For ease of illustration, it is shown that the first wiring 142 and the second wiring 144 are connected only to one end of the sensing electrode 120 and the driving electrode 130, respectively. However, the connection structure between the sensing electrode 120 and the driving electrode 130 and the first wiring 142 and the second wiring 144 can be changed. For example, but not as a limitation, in another embodiment, at least one of the first wiring 142 and the second wiring 144 can be connected to both ends of the sensing electrode 120 or the driving electrode 130.

[0080] The pad portion 150 may include a plurality of pads 152 for electrically connecting the sensing electrode 120 and the driving electrode 130 to an external driving circuit (e.g., but not limited to, the touch driver 200). The sensor portion 100 and the touch driver 200 may communicate with each other through the pad portion 150.

[0081] Reference Figure 1The touch driver 200 can be electrically connected to the sensor unit 100 and transmit / receive signals required to drive the sensor unit 100. For example, but not as a limitation, the touch driver 200 can detect touch input by receiving a sensing signal from the sensor unit 100 in response to the drive signal after supplying a drive signal to the sensor unit 100. The touch driver 200 may include drive circuitry and sensing circuitry. In embodiments, the drive circuitry and sensing circuitry may be integrated into the touch IC T-IC in the touch driver 200, but they are not limited thereto.

[0082] In one embodiment, the driving circuit may be electrically connected to the driving electrode 130 of the sensor unit 100 and sequentially supply driving signals to the driving electrode 130. In another embodiment, the sensing circuit may be electrically connected to the sensing electrode 120 of the sensor unit 100, receive sensing signals from the sensing electrode 120, and detect touch input by performing signal processing.

[0083] The display panel 300 may include a display area 301 and a non-display area 302 surrounding at least one area of ​​the display area 301. Multiple scan lines 310 and data lines 320, as well as multiple pixels P connected to the scan lines 310 and data lines 320, may be disposed in the display area 301. Various drive signals for driving the pixels P may be provided in the non-display area 302, and / or wiring for supplying drive power may be provided.

[0084] The type of display panel 300 is not limited. For example, but not by limitation, display panel 300 can be a self-emissive display panel such as an organic light-emitting display panel. Display panel 300 can be a non-self-emissive display panel such as a liquid crystal display panel, an electrophoretic display panel, and an electrowetting display panel. If display panel 300 is a non-self-emissive display panel, the display device may also include a backlight unit for supplying light to display panel 300.

[0085] The display driver 400 can be electrically connected to the display panel 300 and supply signals required to drive the display panel 300. For example, but not as a limitation, the display driver 400 may include at least one of a scan driver, a data driver, and a timing controller, wherein the scan driver supplies scan signals to scan lines 310, the data driver supplies data signals to data lines 320, and the timing controller drives the scan driver and the data driver. In embodiments, the scan driver, data driver, and / or timing controller may be integrated into a single display IC D-IC, but they are not limited thereto. For example, but not as a limitation, in another embodiment, at least one of the scan driver, data driver, and timing controller may be integrated into or mounted on the display panel 300.

[0086] Figure 3A touch sensor according to an embodiment is shown. For convenience, in Figure 3 The image shows a sensing electrode 120 and a driving electrode 130 disposed in the sensor section 100, and a capacitor Cse formed at the intersection of the sensing electrode 120 and the driving electrode 130. Figure 3 The diagram shows a driving circuit 210 and a sensing circuit 220 focused on forming a capacitor Cse, specifically a sensing electrode 120 and a driving electrode 130.

[0087] Reference Figure 3 The sensor unit 100 may include at least one pair of sensing electrodes 120 and driving electrodes 130 forming a capacitor Cse. The driving electrodes 130 may be electrically connected to the driving circuit 210 of the touch driver 200, and the sensing electrodes 120 may be electrically connected to the sensing circuit 220 of the touch driver 200. For convenience, in Figure 3 In this design, the driving circuit 210 and the sensing circuit 220 are depicted as separate from each other, but they are not limited thereto. For example, but not as a limitation, the driving circuit 210 and the sensing circuit 220 may be separate from each other, or at least a portion of the driving circuit 210 and the sensing circuit 220 may be integrated into one unit.

[0088] The method of driving a touch sensor may include the step of supplying a driving signal Sdr from a driving circuit 210 to a driving electrode 130. If the sensor unit 100 includes, for example... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown in the diagram, the driving circuit 210 can sequentially supply driving signals Sdr to the driving electrodes 130. A sensing signal Sse in response to the driving signal Sdr applied to each driving electrode 130 can be output from each sensing electrode 120 due to the coupling effect of the capacitor Cse in the sensor unit 100. The sensing signal Sse can be input to the sensing circuit 220 of the touch driver 200. If the sensor unit 100 includes, as shown in the diagram, the driving circuit 210 can sequentially supply driving signals Sdr to the driving electrodes 130. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The sensing circuit 220 may include a plurality of sensing channels (hereinafter referred to as "Rx channels") electrically connected to each sensing electrode 120, provided that the plurality of sensing electrodes 120 are shown in the figure. Sensing signals output from the plurality of sensing electrodes 120 can be received through the Rx channels. In an embodiment, each Rx channel may include at least a signal receiving unit 221.

[0089] The sensing circuit 220 amplifies, converts, and processes the sensing signal Sse input from each sensing electrode 120 through the Rx channel, and detects touch input accordingly. The sensing circuit 220 may include a signal receiving unit 221, an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) unit 223, and a processor 225.

[0090] The signal receiving unit 221 can receive the sensing signal Sse from each sensing electrode 120 via the Rx channel. In an embodiment, the touch sensor may include a plurality of signal receiving units 221 connected to each of the plurality of sensing electrodes 120 via the Rx channel. The signal receiving unit 221 may be included in each Rx channel.

[0091] The signal receiving unit 221 can amplify the sensed signal Sse and output the amplified sensed signal Sse to the ADC 223. For example, but not as a limitation, the signal receiving unit 221 can be implemented using an analog front-end (AFE) including a first amplifier AMP1. In an embodiment, the first amplifier AMP1 can be an operational amplifier. In an embodiment, the first input terminal (or first terminal) IN1 of the signal receiving unit 221 (e.g., the inverting input terminal of the first amplifier AMP1) can be electrically connected to the sensing electrode 120 of the applicable Rx channel. That is, the sensed signal Sse from the sensing electrode 120 can be input to the first input terminal IN1 of the first amplifier AMP1. The first capacitor C1 and the reset switch SWr can be connected in parallel between the first input terminal IN1 and the output terminal OUT of the first amplifier AMP1. Meanwhile, the second input terminal (or second terminal) IN2 of the signal receiving unit 221 (e.g., the non-inverting input terminal of the first amplifier AMP1) is a reference terminal and, for example, but not as a limitation, can be electrically connected to a ground (GND) power supply.

[0092] The analog-to-digital converter (ADC) unit 223 converts the analog signal input from the signal receiving unit 221 into a digital signal. In one embodiment, the ADC unit 223 may be configured to be as numerous as the number of sensing electrodes 120, thus corresponding to each Rx channel in a 1:1 ratio to each sensing electrode 120. In another embodiment, the multiple Rx channels corresponding to the multiple sensing electrodes 120 may be configured to share a single ADC unit 223. A switching circuit for channel selection may be additionally provided between each signal receiving unit 221 and the corresponding ADC unit 223.

[0093] The processor 225 can perform signal processing on the digital signal converted by the analog-to-digital converter 223 and detect touch input based on the signal processing result. For example, but not as a limitation, the processor 225 can detect whether touch input has occurred and the location of touch input by comprehensively analyzing the sensing signals (i.e., the amplified and digitally converted sensing signals Sse) input from multiple sensing electrodes 120 via the signal receiving unit 221 and the analog-to-digital converter 223. In an embodiment, the processor 225 can be implemented using a microprocessor (MPU). The memory required to drive the processor 225 can be separately provided in the sensing circuit 220. However, the construction of the processor 225 is not limited to this. For example, but not as a limitation, the memory can be integrated into a microcontroller (MCU) or the like.

[0094] The touch sensor described above can be integrated with a display panel 300, etc. For example, but not as a limitation, the sensor portion 100 of the touch sensor can be manufactured integrally with the display panel 300, or it can be manufactured separately from the display panel 300, and the separately manufactured sensor portion 100 of the touch sensor can be integrated with at least one side of the display panel 300.

[0095] Thus, if the sensor unit 100 and the display panel 300 are combined, parasitic capacitance will occur between the sensor unit 100 and the display panel 300. Due to the coupling effect of the parasitic capacitance, noise from the display panel 300 will be transmitted to the touch sensor (specifically, the sensor unit 100). For example, but not as a limitation, noise caused by the display drive signal used to drive the display panel 300 may affect the sensor unit 100. For example, but not as a limitation, the sensing electrode 120 and the driving electrode 130 may be stacked with a cathode electrode or a common electrode. Display noise (common-mode noise) caused by the display drive signal applied to the cathode electrode or the common electrode may affect the sensor unit 100.

[0096] Noise from the display panel 300 can cause fluctuations in the sensing signal Sse, thereby reducing the sensitivity of the touch sensor. Various embodiments that can enhance the sensitivity of the touch sensor will then be described.

[0097] Figure 4 A touch sensor according to an embodiment is shown. For convenience, in Figure 4 The middle part is omitted Figure 2 The substrate 110, pad 150, etc. shown in the figure, Figure 4 The sensor section can be implemented on the substrate 110. Figure 4 In this drawing, similar or identical components are referred to by the same reference numerals, and their detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0098] Reference Figure 4In one embodiment, the touch sensor may include a sensor section 100, a driving circuit 210 electrically connected to the sensor section 100, and a sensing circuit 220. In another embodiment, the sensor section 100 may further include a plurality of noise detection electrodes 160 extending in the same direction as the sensing electrode 120, such that the noise detection electrodes 160 are paired with the sensing electrode 120.

[0099] The sensor unit 100 may include at least one pair of sensing electrodes (first electrodes) 120 and noise detection electrodes (second electrodes) 160. The sensing electrodes 120 and noise detection electrodes 160 are spaced apart from each other. The sensor unit 100 may also include at least one driving electrode (third electrode) 130 that intersects with the pair of sensing electrodes 120 and noise detection electrodes 160.

[0100] For example, but not as a limitation, the sensor unit 100 may include a plurality of sensing electrodes (first electrodes) 120 and a plurality of noise detection electrodes (second electrodes) 160 paired with the sensing electrodes 120. The sensor unit 100 may include a plurality of driving electrodes (third electrodes) 130 that intersect with the sensing electrodes 120 and the noise detection electrodes 160.

[0101] At least a portion of the sensing electrode 120, driving electrode 130, and noise detection electrode 160 may have regions that overlap and / or intersect each other, but they may be insulated from each other by an insulating layer (not shown) placed therebetween. That is, the sensing electrode 120, driving electrode 130, and noise detection electrode 160 may be separate from each other and electrically insulated from each other, and a capacitance may be formed therebetween.

[0102] In this embodiment, the sensing electrode 120 may extend in the effective region 101 along a first direction, and the driving electrode 130 may extend in the effective region 101 along a second direction to intersect with the sensing electrode 120. The noise detection electrode 160 may extend in the effective region 101 along the first direction like the sensing electrode 120, and the region of the noise detection electrode 160 may overlap with the sensing electrode 120.

[0103] In an embodiment, each sensing electrode 120 may include a plurality of first electrode units 122 and a plurality of first connecting portions 124 connecting the first electrode units 122 along a first direction. For example, but not as a limitation, each sensing electrode 120 may include a plurality of first electrode units 122 arranged along the first direction. The first electrode units 122 arranged along each row (or column) may be connected along the first direction via the first connecting portions 124. Meanwhile, the shape of the sensing electrode 120 is not limited thereto. For example, but not as a limitation, each sensing electrode 120 may be implemented as a single strip electrode.

[0104] In an embodiment, each first electrode unit 122 may include at least one opening (or hole) therein. For example, but not as a limitation, each first electrode unit 122 may have a central opening portion.

[0105] In an embodiment, a first dummy pattern 126 spaced apart from each first electrode unit 122 may be present in the opening of each first electrode unit 122. In an embodiment, the first dummy pattern 126 and the first electrode unit 122 may be formed of the same material and may be formed on the same layer, but they are not limited thereto.

[0106] At the same time, the first dummy pattern 126 should not be construed as restrictive. For example, but not as a limitation, an opening may not be formed inside each first electrode unit 122, or the first dummy pattern 126 may be omitted.

[0107] In an embodiment, the electrode portion 162 of the noise detection electrode 160 may be disposed inside each sensing electrode 120. For example, but not as a limitation, each electrode portion 162 of the noise detection electrode 160 may be surrounded by a corresponding sensing electrode 120 in the sensing electrodes 120. Each electrode portion 162 of the noise detection electrode 160 may be completely surrounded by a corresponding sensing electrode 120 in the sensing electrodes 120.

[0108] In an embodiment, each noise detection electrode 160 may include a plurality of electrode portions 162 arranged along a first direction. In an embodiment, each electrode portion 162 may be spaced apart from and not physically connected to the first electrode unit 122. For example, but not as a limitation, each electrode portion 162 may be configured to overlap with each first dummy pattern 126 disposed in an opening within each first electrode unit 122.

[0109] In embodiments, each electrode portion 162 may have the same area as or a different area from the corresponding first dummy pattern 126. For example, but not as a limitation, a pair of electrode portions 162 and the first dummy pattern 126 stacked on top of each other may have the same area and completely overlap each other. Figure 4 In order to clearly distinguish the electrode portion 162 from the first dummy pattern 126, the embodiment shows that they have different areas from each other. For example, each electrode portion 162 has an area smaller than the area of ​​each first dummy pattern 126 and is disposed within the area where the first dummy pattern 126 is disposed.

[0110] A noise detection electrode 160 can be formed by electrically connecting electrode portions 162 arranged in the same row (or column) along the first direction via connecting lines 164. Each noise detection electrode 160 may include a plurality of electrode portions 162 surrounded by each first electrode unit 122 and a plurality of connecting lines 164 that are physically connected and / or electrically connected to the electrode portions 162 along the first direction.

[0111] In embodiments, electrode portions 162 and / or connecting lines 164 may include at least one of metallic materials, transparent conductive materials, and various other conductive materials to achieve conductivity. For example, but not as a limitation, electrode portions 162 and / or connecting lines 164 may include at least one of the conductive materials mentioned above used as materials for forming the first electrode unit 122, the first connecting portion 124, the second electrode unit 132, and / or the second connecting portion 134. Electrode portions 162 and / or connecting lines 164 may be formed of the same or different materials as the materials used for the first electrode unit 122, the first connecting portion 124, the second electrode unit 132, and / or the second connecting portion 134. Each of electrode portions 162 and / or connecting lines 164 may be a single layer or multiple layers.

[0112] In one embodiment, each noise detection electrode 160 may be electrically connected to the sensing circuit 220 via each third wiring 146. In another embodiment, a buffer BU may be disposed between each noise detection electrode 160 and a corresponding signal receiver 221. The buffer BU may be electrically connected between the corresponding noise detection electrodes 160 and the signal receiver 221 to buffer the signal (e.g., noise signal Sno) input from the noise detection electrode 160 and output the signal to the signal receiver 221 in the sensing circuit 220. In another embodiment, the inverting input terminal of the buffer BU may be electrically connected to the output terminal of the buffer BU, and the non-inverting input terminal of the buffer BU may be electrically connected to the corresponding noise detection electrode 160 and receive the noise signal Sno.

[0113] In an embodiment, the sensing electrode 120 and the noise detection electrode 160 disposed in corresponding regions can be paired. For example, but not as a limitation, the sensing electrode 120 disposed in the first row of the effective region 101 and the noise detection electrode 160 disposed in the first row, including the electrode portion 162 disposed in the opening inside the sensing electrode 120, can be paired.

[0114] In an embodiment, a pair of sensing electrodes 120 and noise detection electrodes 160 may have at least one overlapping region. For example, but not as a limitation, a connecting line 164 electrically connecting multiple electrode portions 162 may be overlapped with the first electrode unit 122. The connecting line 164 may be disposed on a different layer than the layer on which the first electrode unit 122 is disposed. Therefore, the sensing electrodes 120 and noise detection electrodes 160 may be electrically insulated from each other.

[0115] The first connecting portion 124 may be located on the same layer as the first electrode unit 122 and integrally connected to the first electrode unit 122, or it may be disposed on a different layer than the layer on which the first electrode unit 122 is disposed and electrically connected to the first electrode unit 122 via a contact hole. For example, but not as a limitation, the first connecting portion 124 may be disposed on the same layer as the electrode portion 162 and / or the connecting line 164, and may not overlap with the electrode portion 162 and / or the connecting line 164.

[0116] In an embodiment, similar to the first electrode unit 122, the second electrode unit 132 may include at least one opening (or hole) inside it. For example, but not as a limitation, the second electrode unit 132 may have an opening at its center.

[0117] Furthermore, in an embodiment, a second dummy pattern 136, spaced apart from the second electrode unit 132, may be provided within the opening of the second electrode unit 132. For example, but not as a limitation, the second dummy pattern 136, spaced apart from the second electrode unit 132, and the second electrode unit 132 may be disposed on the same layer within the opening of the second electrode unit 132. In an embodiment, the second dummy pattern 136 may be formed of the same material as the second electrode unit 132, but they are not limited thereto.

[0118] Thus, if the driving electrode 130 has a similar structure and / or shape to the sensing electrode 120, uniform viewing (or visual) characteristics can always be ensured in the effective region 101. However, it is not limited to this. For example, but not by limitation, an opening may not be formed inside the second electrode unit 132, or the second dummy pattern 136 may be omitted.

[0119] at the same time, Figure 4 A sensing electrode 120 comprising a first electrode unit 122 in the shape of a plate, a driving electrode 130 comprising a second electrode unit 132 in the shape of a plate, or a noise detection electrode 160 comprising an electrode portion 162 in the shape of a plate are shown; however, they are not limited thereto. For example, but not as a limitation, in another embodiment, at least one of the sensing electrode 120, the driving electrode 130, and the noise detection electrode 160 may be an electrode having a grid shape.

[0120] The driving circuit 210 may be electrically connected to the driving electrode 130 and may supply a driving signal Sdr to the driving electrode 130. For example, but not as a limitation, the driving circuit 210 may sequentially supply the driving signal Sdr to the driving electrode 130 during the period when the touch sensor is activated. In an embodiment, the driving signal Sdr may be an AC signal with a predetermined period, such as a pulse wave.

[0121] The sensing circuit 220 may include: a plurality of signal receiving units 221 for receiving sensing signals Sse1 from each sensing electrode 120; a plurality of analog-to-digital converter units 223 electrically connected to each output terminal of the signal receiving units 221; and a processor 225 for detecting touch input by receiving digitally converted signals from the analog-to-digital converter units 223. (See above for reference.) Figure 3 The embodiments described include a signal receiving unit 221, an analog-to-digital converter unit 223, and a processor 225, so detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0122] exist Figure 4 In one embodiment, the first input terminal IN1 of the signal receiving unit 221 can be electrically connected to the corresponding sensing electrode 120, and the second input terminal IN2 of the signal receiving unit 221 can be electrically connected to the corresponding noise detection electrode 160. For example, but not as a limitation, the first input terminal IN1 of the signal receiving unit 221 that receives the sensing signal Sse1 from the sensing electrode 120 located in the first row of the effective region 101 can be electrically connected to the sensing electrode 120 of the first row, and the second input terminal IN2 of the signal receiving unit 221 can be electrically connected to the noise detection electrode 160 of the first row. In another embodiment, each signal receiving unit 221 may include a first amplifier AMP1 containing the first input terminal IN1 and the second input terminal IN2, and the second input terminal IN2 may be a reference terminal (or ground terminal) (e.g., AFE) of the signal receiving unit 221. Each signal receiving unit 221 may output a signal corresponding to the voltage difference between the first input terminal IN1 and the second input terminal IN2.

[0123] As described above, in this embodiment, in addition to the electrodes for detecting touch input (e.g., sensing electrode 120 and driving electrode 130), a noise detection electrode 160 may be additionally included. The noise detection electrode 160 may be insulated from the sensing electrode 120 and the driving electrode 130. Therefore, a capacitance may be formed between the sensing electrode 120, the driving electrode 130, and / or the noise detection electrode 160.

[0124] The noise detection electrode 160 can be electrically connected to the second input terminal IN2 of each signal receiver 221. Therefore, the reference potential of the signal receiver 221 can change as the potential of the noise detection electrode 160 changes. In other words, the reference potential of the signal receiver 221 can be changed according to the potential (voltage level) of the noise detection electrode 160.

[0125] The potential of the noise detection electrode 160 can be changed according to the noise from the display panel 300, etc. For example, but not as a limitation, the potential of the noise detection electrode 160 can be changed in response to common-mode noise from the display panel 300, etc.

[0126] Therefore, in this embodiment, more noise detection electrodes 160 can be provided in the effective region 101, and common-mode noise can be canceled if the reference potential of the signal receiving unit 221 changes using the output signal from the noise detection electrodes 160. In response to common-mode noise, a pair of sensing electrodes 120 and noise detection electrodes 160 can have corresponding fluctuations. Specifically, in this embodiment, a pair of sensing electrodes 120 and noise detection electrodes 160 can extend in the same direction and can be located in substantially the same position in the effective region 101, so they can receive the same noise or noise with very similar shapes and / or sizes. Each noise detection electrode 160 can be electrically connected to a different signal receiving unit 221 via a different third wiring 146. In other words, the second input terminal IN2 of the signal receiving unit 221 (where the first input terminal IN1 is connected to a predetermined sensing electrode 120) can be electrically connected via a predetermined third wiring 146 to the noise detection electrode 160 forming a pair with the sensing electrode 120.

[0127] Thus, if the first input terminal IN1 and the second input terminal IN2 of the signal receiving unit 221 are electrically connected to the corresponding sensing electrode 120 and noise detection electrode 160, the noise component (ripple) included in the sensing signal Sse1 from the sensing electrode 120 can be canceled within the signal receiving unit 221. Therefore, the signal receiving unit 221 can output a sensing signal Sse2 with noise removed (or reduced).

[0128] In this embodiment, the electrode portions 162 of the noise detection electrode 160 may be arranged inside (or surrounded by) the sensing electrode 120. Therefore, sufficient distance can be ensured between the driving electrode 130 for receiving the driving signal Sdr and the noise detection electrode 160 for receiving the noise signal Sno. Thus, by reducing or preventing voltage changes in the noise detection electrode 160 caused by the driving signal Sdr, the noise signal Sno can be effectively detected.

[0129] In one embodiment, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the touch sensor can be increased to improve sensitivity. In another embodiment, a highly sensitive touch sensor and a display device having the touch sensor can be provided.

[0130] The embodiments can be effectively applied to display devices with a short distance between the sensor unit 100 and the display panel 300, etc. For example, but not as a limitation, when the sensing electrode 120 and the driving electrode 130 are directly formed on the upper substrate or thin film encapsulation layer of the display panel 300, etc., the embodiments can be effectively applied to enhance touch sensitivity in noise-sensitive on-cell display devices. However, it is not limited thereto, and it should be understood that the embodiments can be applied to various types of display devices or electronic devices.

[0131] Figure 5 It shows the involvement Figure 4 An embodiment of the sensor unit is shown in the figure. Figure 6A and Figure 6B It shows Figure 5 Different embodiments of the sensor unit are shown in the figure. Figure 7A It shows Figure 5 The first layer of the sensor section is shown in the image. Figure 7B It shows Figure 5 The second layer of the sensor section is shown in the image. Figure 8A It shows along Figure 5 An example of a cross section of line I-I' in the diagram. Figure 8B It shows along Figure 5 An example of a cross-section along line II-II'. Figures 5 to 8B In the figure, the same reference numerals are used with Figure 4 Components that are similar to or the same as those found in the document will be omitted from the detailed description.

[0132] Reference Figures 5 to 8BIn one embodiment, the first electrode unit 122 and the second electrode unit 132 may be arranged on the same layer. For example, but not as a limitation, the first electrode unit 122 and the second electrode unit 132 may be configured as a first layer L1 on the substrate 110. One of the first connecting portion 124 and the second connecting portion 134 may be configured together with the first electrode unit 122 and the second electrode unit 132 on the substrate 110 as the first layer L1. For example, but not as a limitation, the second connecting portion 134 may be configured as the first layer L1, and the second electrode units 132 may be connected to each other through the second connecting portion 134, which is formed of the same material as the second electrode unit 132 and by the same process as the second electrode unit 132. However, they are not limited thereto. In another embodiment, both the first connecting portion 124 and the second connecting portion 134 may be disposed on a layer different from the layer of the first electrode unit 122 and the second electrode unit 132. In yet another embodiment, the first electrode unit 122 and the second electrode unit 132 may be disposed on different layers. For example, but not as a limitation, the first electrode unit 122 may be integrally connected to the first connection portion 124, the second electrode unit 132 may be integrally connected to the second connection portion 134, the sensing electrode 120 and the driving electrode 130 may be disposed on different layers, and at least one insulating layer (or space) may be between them.

[0133] In an embodiment, the first connecting portion 124 may be configured as a second layer L2 disposed on the first layer L1, and at least one insulating layer (e.g., a first insulating layer 170) is located between the first connecting portion 124 and the first layer L1. In an embodiment, the second layer L2 may be disposed between the substrate 110 and the first layer L1. In other words, the first connecting portion 124 may be implemented as follows: Figure 8A and Figure 8B The lower bridge is shown in the figure. However, they are not limited to this. For example, but not as a limitation, in another embodiment, the positions of the first layer L1 and the second layer L2 can be interchanged. In other words, according to the embodiment, the first layer L1 can be disposed between the substrate 110 and the second layer L2, and the first connecting portion 124 can be implemented as an upper bridge. Thus, if the first connecting portion 124 is disposed on a different layer than the first electrode unit 122, the first connecting portion 124 can be electrically connected between adjacent first electrode units 122 via the first contact hole CH1. Meanwhile, in yet another embodiment, the first connecting portion 124 and the noise detection electrode 160 can be disposed on different layers. For example, but not as a limitation, the sensing electrode 120 and the driving electrode 130 can be disposed on different spaced-apart layers, the noise detection electrode 160 can be arranged on an intermediate layer disposed between the sensing electrode 120 and the driving electrode 130, and insulating layers are disposed above and below the noise detection electrode 160.

[0134] In an embodiment, an opening OP may be formed inside the first electrode unit 122 (e.g., at the central portion), and a first dummy pattern 126 may be arranged to be spaced apart from the first electrode unit 122 inside the opening OP. Similarly, an opening OP may be formed inside the second electrode unit 132 (e.g., at the central portion), and a second dummy pattern 136 may be arranged to be spaced apart from the second electrode unit 132 within the opening OP. In an embodiment, the first dummy pattern 126 and the second dummy pattern 136 may be configured together with the first electrode unit 122 and the second electrode unit 132 as the first layer L1 of the sensor section 100. However, they are not limited thereto. For example, but not as a limitation, in another embodiment, at least one of the first dummy pattern 126 and the second dummy pattern 136 may be omitted or may be disposed on a layer different from the layers of the first electrode unit 122 and the second electrode unit 132.

[0135] In an embodiment, the electrode portion 162, spaced apart from the first electrode unit 122, may be disposed inside the first electrode unit 122. For example, but not as a limitation, the electrode portion 162 may be configured as a second layer L2. In an embodiment, to reduce the parasitic capacitance between the sensing electrode 120 and the driving electrode 130 and the noise detection electrode 160, the electrode portion 162 may be arranged such that the electrode portion 162 does not overlap with the first electrode unit 122. For example, but not as a limitation, such as... Figure 5 As shown, the electrode portion 162 may have an area smaller than that of the first dummy pattern 126, and still overlap with the first dummy pattern 126. For example, but not as a limitation, the electrode portion 162 may be disposed at the center portion of the first electrode unit 122 so as to be surrounded by the first electrode unit 122.

[0136] However, they are not limited thereto, and the electrode portion 162 can have various areas, shapes, and / or locations. For example, but not as a limitation, such as Figure 6A As shown, a pair of corresponding electrode portions 162 and the first dummy pattern 126 can have the same area and shape and still completely overlap each other.

[0137] In the embodiments, Figure 5 and Figure 6AIn this embodiment, the first electrode unit 122, the second electrode unit 132, the first connecting portion 124, the second connecting portion 134, the first dummy pattern 126, the second dummy pattern 136, and the electrode portion 162 are shown as plate-shaped or strip-shaped, but they are not limited thereto. For example, but not as a limitation, at least one of the first electrode unit 122, the second electrode unit 132, the first connecting portion 124, the second connecting portion 134, the first dummy pattern 126, the second dummy pattern 136, and the electrode portion 162 may be a grid-shaped electrode or implemented with a grid pattern. In other words, in another embodiment, at least one of the sensing electrode 120, the driving electrode 130, the noise detection electrode 160, the first dummy pattern 126, and the second dummy pattern 136 may be implemented with a grid shape.

[0138] For example, but not as a limitation, such as Figure 6B As shown, the first electrode unit 122, the second electrode unit 132, the first connecting portion 124, the second connecting portion 134, the first dummy pattern 126, the second dummy pattern 136, and the electrode portion 162 can be grid-shaped electrodes or patterns including multiple conductive fine lines FL connected to each other to form a grid shape. Furthermore, in Figure 6B In the diagram, each connecting line 164 is shown as a single line, but based on the embodiment, each connecting line 164 can be implemented as a mesh shape (not shown) comprising multiple conductive fine lines connected to each other to form a mesh shape. Furthermore, in Figure 6B In the diagram, the conductive wires FL are shown arranged diagonally, but the arrangement direction and shape of the conductive wires FL can vary. Furthermore, in... Figure 6B For convenience, the contact holes have been omitted (e.g., Figure 5 (The first contact hole CH1 in the first electrode unit 122 and the first connection portion 124 are arranged on different layers, the first electrode unit 122 and the first connection portion 124 forming the sensing electrode 120 can be physically connected and / or electrically connected to each other through the contact hole (not shown).

[0139] Meanwhile, in another embodiment, only a portion of the first electrode unit 122, the second electrode unit 132, the first connecting portion 124, the second connecting portion 134, the first dummy pattern 126, the second dummy pattern 136, the electrode portion 162, and the connecting line 164 may be plate-shaped or strip-shaped electrodes or patterns, while the remainder may be implemented in a grid shape. In other words, the sensing electrode 120, the driving electrode 130, the noise detection electrode 160, the first dummy pattern 126, and the second dummy pattern 136 may have variable shapes or structures.

[0140] In one embodiment, the electrode portion 162 can be connected in a first direction via a connecting line 164. A region of the connecting line 164 can be superimposed on the first electrode unit 122. In another embodiment, the electrode portion 162 and the connecting line 164, together with the first connecting portion 124, can be configured as the second layer L2 of the sensor portion 100. The electrode portion 162 and the connecting line 164 can be formed of the same material and connected as a single unit.

[0141] When the electrode portion 162 and the connecting line 164 are arranged on the same layer as the first connecting portion 124, the connecting line 164 may not overlap with the first connecting portion 124. For example, but not as a limitation, the connecting line 164 may be electrically connected to an adjacent electrode portion 162 so as not to contact the first connecting portion 124. For example, the connecting line 164 may bypass the area where the first connecting portion 124 is located. Therefore, the corresponding sensing electrode 120 and noise detection electrode 160 can remain insulated from each other.

[0142] In an embodiment, an opening OP may be formed in each sensing electrode 120, and the electrode portions 162 of the noise detection electrodes 160 are arranged such that they are spaced apart from the sensing electrodes 120 within the opening OP. For example, but not as a limitation, in an embodiment, the opening OP may be formed inside each first electrode unit 122, and a first dummy pattern 126 may be disposed in the opening OP without being connected to the first electrode unit 122, while the electrode portions 162 of the noise detection electrodes 160 may be configured to overlap with the first dummy pattern 126. Therefore, by reducing the parasitic capacitance that would form between the noise detection electrodes 160 and the sensing electrodes 120 and / or the driving electrodes 130, touch sensor malfunctions can be prevented, and noise signals Sno can be detected more effectively.

[0143] Figures 9 to 12 It shows the involvement Figure 4 An embodiment of the sensor unit is shown in the figure. Figures 9 to 12 Each image in the text shows about Figure 5 Different modified embodiments of the embodiments shown are described. In other words, Figure 5 , Figures 9 to 12 It shows the involvement Figure 4 Various embodiments of the sensor unit are shown in the diagram. Figures 9 to 12 In this document, the same reference numerals are used for components that are similar to or the same as those in the foregoing embodiments, and their detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0144] Reference Figure 9A second dummy pattern 136 and a third dummy pattern 166, stacked on top of each other, are disposed inside the opening OP of each second electrode unit 132. In an embodiment, the second dummy pattern 136 may be on the same layer as the second electrode unit 132 and may be a floating island-shaped pattern spaced apart from the second electrode unit 132. The third dummy pattern 166 may be disposed on the same layer as the electrode portion 162 and the connecting line 164 forming the noise detection electrode 160. For example, but not as a limitation, the third dummy pattern 166 may be configured to be stacked on top of the second dummy pattern 136 and at least one insulating layer (e.g., ...) may be interposed between the third dummy pattern 166 and the second dummy pattern 136. Figure 8A and Figure 8B The first insulating layer 170 is shown, and the third dummy pattern 166 may be arranged on the lower portion of the second dummy pattern 136 to be spaced apart from the second dummy pattern 136. In an embodiment, the third dummy pattern 166 may be formed of the same material as the electrode portion 162, but it is not limited thereto.

[0145] In an embodiment, the second dummy pattern 136 may have a substantially the same or similar shape and size as the first dummy pattern 126, and the third dummy pattern 166 may have a substantially the same or similar shape or size as the electrode portion 162. According to... Figure 9 The embodiment shown includes a sensing electrode 120, a driving electrode 130, a first dummy pattern 126, a second dummy pattern 136, and a third dummy pattern 166 in the effective region 101, and the pattern of the electrode portion 162 can have a uniform configuration throughout the effective region 101, thus ensuring more uniform viewing (or visual) characteristics throughout the effective region 101.

[0146] Reference Figure 10 The electrode portion 162 of the second layer L2 and the third dummy pattern 166 described in the embodiments mentioned above can be omitted. Figure 10In one embodiment, a first dummy pattern 126, which together with the first electrode unit 122 and the second electrode unit 132 forms a first layer L1, can be connected in a first direction via a connecting line 164, which forms a second layer L2. In other words, in this embodiment, the noise detection electrode 160 can be formed by the first dummy pattern 126 and the connecting line 164. Therefore, based on this embodiment, the first dummy pattern 126 can be used as the electrode portion of the noise detection electrode 160. The electrode portion (i.e., the first dummy pattern 126) can be spaced apart from the first electrode unit 122 and formed as the first layer L1 of the sensor portion 100. The connecting line 164 can be formed as a second layer L2 to overlap with the first electrode unit 122, and at least one insulating layer (e.g., a first insulating layer 170) is inserted between the connecting line 164 and the first electrode unit 122. The connecting line 164 can be formed as a second layer L2 separate from the first layer L1 and can be electrically connected to the electrode portion via a contact hole (not shown) formed through the first insulating layer 170.

[0147] Reference Figure 11 A pair of overlapping first dummy patterns 126 and electrode portions 162 can be electrically connected to each other via at least one second contact hole CH2. For example, but not as a limitation, the overlapping first dummy patterns 126 and electrode portions 162 can be electrically connected via a plurality of second contact holes CH2 formed through the first insulating layer 170 therebetween. Therefore, the noise detection electrode 160 can be a multilayer structure. In other words, in an embodiment, the first dummy pattern 126 can form each noise detection electrode 160 together with the electrode portion 162 and the connecting line 164.

[0148] Reference Figure 12 Each of the first electrode unit 122 and the second electrode unit 132 may not include the opening OP described in the foregoing embodiments. Figure 12 In the embodiments described above, the first dummy pattern 126, the second dummy pattern 136, and the third dummy pattern 166 may be omitted. The electrode portion 162 may be disposed inside the first electrode unit 122 to overlap with each region (particularly the central portion) of the first electrode unit 122. The electrode portion 162 may be configured to overlap with the first electrode unit 122, with at least a first insulating layer 170 inserted between the electrode portion 162 and the first electrode unit 122, and the electrode portion 162 may be spaced apart from the first electrode unit 122. Therefore, the sensing electrode 120 and the noise detection electrode 160 may remain insulated from each other.

[0149] In the foregoing embodiments, in order to detect noise signals, the sensor unit 100 may include noise detection electrodes 160 distributed in the effective region 101. In the embodiments, the structure, shape, etc. of the noise detection electrodes 160 may be changed.

[0150] Figure 13 and Figure 14 A touch sensor according to an embodiment is shown. For convenience, Figure 13 The schematic diagram illustrates the construction of a sensing circuit with multiple Rx channels. Figure 14 The construction of the sensing circuit around an Rx channel is shown in more detail. In other words, Figure 13 and Figure 14 The sensing circuits for the Rx channel shown in the figure can have essentially the same or similar structures. Figure 15 Show Figure 13 and Figure 14 Another embodiment of the analog-to-digital converter is shown in the figure. Figure 16 It shows Figure 13 and Figure 14 Another embodiment of the peak hold circuit is shown in the figure. Figures 13 to 16 In the figures, the same reference numerals are used with Figure 4 Components that are similar to or the same as other components will be omitted from the description.

[0151] Reference Figure 13 and Figure 14 In the embodiment of the touch sensor, multiple noise detection electrodes 160 can share a single third wiring 146. In other words, in this embodiment, multiple noise detection electrodes 160 can be connected to a single third wiring 146 and simultaneously detect the noise signal Sno applied to the entire sensor unit 100. This embodiment reduces the number of wirings arranged inside the sensor unit 100. Therefore, the noise reduction structure in this embodiment can also be used for narrow-bezel touch sensors.

[0152] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the touch sensor may also include an amplifier circuit section 222 and a peak hold circuit 224 (PHC) (or peak hold amplifier (PHA)). The amplifier circuit section 222 is connected between the noise detection electrode 160 and the signal receiving section 221, and the peak hold circuit 224 (PHC) (or peak hold amplifier (PHA)) is connected between the signal receiving section 221 and the analog-to-digital converter section 223. In this embodiment, the touch sensor may also include fifth switches SW51 to SW54 for selectively connecting each signal receiving section 221 and the peak hold circuit 224. In this embodiment, the touch sensor may also include sixth switches SW61 to SW64 and seventh switches SW71 to SW74, which are used to selectively connect each analog-to-digital converter section 223 to the output terminal OUT of the corresponding signal receiving section 221 or the output terminal of the peak hold circuit 224.

[0153] In an embodiment, each signal receiving unit 221 may include a first input terminal IN1 connected to the corresponding sensing electrode 120 and a second input terminal IN2 connected to the noise detection electrode 160 via an amplifier circuit unit 222. Each signal receiving unit 221 may include: a first amplifier AMP1 having a first input terminal IN1 and a second input terminal IN2; a first switch SW1 and a second switch SW2 connected in parallel between the output terminal OUT of the first amplifier AMP1 and the first input terminal IN1; a first capacitor C1 and a reset switch SWr connected in parallel between the output terminal OUT of the first amplifier AMP1 and the first switch SW1; and a second capacitor C2 and a first resistor R1 connected in parallel between the output terminal OUT of the first amplifier AMP1 and the second switch SW2. Each signal receiving unit 221 may output a voltage corresponding to the voltage difference between the first input terminal IN1 and the second input terminal IN2.

[0154] In an embodiment, the first switch SW1 and the second switch SW2 may be turned on during different time periods. For example, but not as a limitation, the first switch SW1 may be turned on in response to the first mode during the time period of executing the first mode, and the second switch SW2 may be turned on in response to the second mode during the time period of executing the second mode. In an embodiment, the first mode may be a sensor-driven mode (or a normal mode) for detecting touch input, and the second mode may be a gain calibration mode for calibrating the amplification gain of the noise signal Sno of each Rx channel to maximize the noise cancellation effect.

[0155] In this embodiment, the amplifier circuit section 222 can be connected between the noise detection electrode 160 and each of the second input terminals IN2 of the signal receiving section 221. The amplifier circuit section 222 can receive the noise signal Sno from the noise detection electrode 160, amplify it to correspond to a predetermined gain value, and output it to each signal receiving section 221.

[0156] Therefore, amplifier circuit section 222 may include a second amplifier AMP2. In an embodiment, the second amplifier AMP2 may include a fifth input terminal (or fifth terminal) IN5 connected to the noise detection electrode 160 via a third wiring 146 and a sixth input terminal (or sixth terminal) IN6 connected to the bias power supply Vbias. In an embodiment, the fifth input terminal IN5 and the sixth input terminal IN6 may be a non-inverting input terminal and an inverting input terminal, respectively, but they are not limited thereto. In an embodiment, a second resistor R2 and a fourth capacitor C4 for stabilizing the input may be connected to the fifth input terminal IN5. In an embodiment, the second resistor R2 and the fourth capacitor C4 may be connected in parallel between the fifth input terminal IN5 and the bias power supply Vbias. In an embodiment, at least one first buffer BU1 may be connected between amplifier circuit section 222 and the bias power supply Vbias. In an embodiment, Figure 13 and Figure 14 In this context, Ra and Rb refer to the input impedance and output impedance of the second amplifier AMP2.

[0157] Amplifier circuit section 222 may include multiple variable resistors VR1 to VR4 connected in parallel between the output terminal of the second amplifier AMP2 and the bias power supply Vbias. In an embodiment, each variable resistor (one of VR1 to VR4) may be connected via a different output terminal (one of OUT1 to OUT4) of amplifier circuit section 222 to a second input terminal IN2 of signal receiving section 221, which is configured for each Rx channel. In an embodiment, the resistance value of variable resistors VR1 to VR4 may be changed in correspondence with a gain control signal GCS input from processor 225 via a seventh input terminal (or seventh terminal) IN7. In the above embodiment, multiple noise detection electrodes 160 may be commonly connected to the fifth input terminal IN5 of amplifier circuit section 222, but the second input terminal IN2 of signal receiving section 221, which is included in each sensing electrode 120, may be connected to a different variable resistor (one of VR1 to VR4) included in amplifier circuit section 222. Multiple noise detection electrodes 160 can be connected to a third wiring 146 to reduce the number of wires arranged in the sensor section 100, and each Rx channel can independently adjust the gain value of the noise signal Sno. Therefore, each Rx channel can effectively cancel noise.

[0158] In one embodiment, at least the third switches SW31 and SW32 may be disposed between the second input terminal IN2 of each signal receiving unit 221 and the corresponding variable resistor (any one of VR1 to VR4) and / or between the second input terminal IN2 and the bias power supply Vbias. However, in another embodiment, the third switches SW31 and SW32 may be omitted.

[0159] In an embodiment, each analog-to-digital converter unit 223 may include a third input terminal (or third terminal) IN3 and a fourth input terminal (or fourth terminal) IN4. The third input terminal (or third terminal) IN3 is connected to the output terminal OUT of the signal receiving unit 221 of the corresponding Rx channel, and the fourth input terminal (or fourth terminal) IN4 is connected to the second input terminal IN2 of the signal receiving unit 221. In an embodiment, at least one buffer BU21 to BU24 may be connected between the corresponding second input terminal IN2 and the fourth input terminal IN4.

[0160] In an embodiment, each analog-to-digital converter (ADC) section 223 may be formed by a differential ADC, which outputs a digital signal corresponding to the voltage difference between the third input terminal IN3 and the fourth input terminal IN4 by operating in differential mode. However, it is not limited thereto. For example, but not as a limitation, in Figure 15 In another embodiment shown, the analog-to-digital converter section 223' may include a single-ended analog-to-digital converter 2231. The analog-to-digital converter section 223' may include a fourth amplifier AMP4 (e.g., a differential amplifier) ​​having a third input terminal IN3 and a fourth input terminal IN4, and a single-ended analog-to-digital converter 2231 connected to the output terminal of the fourth amplifier AMP4. Figure 15 In the diagram, Rc to Rf represent the input impedance to output impedance of the fourth amplifier AMP4.

[0161] In this embodiment, the third input terminal IN3 of each analog-to-digital converter (ADC) unit 223 or 223' can be connected to the peak hold circuit 224 via a sixth switch (one of SW61 to SW64). When the third input terminal IN3 is connected to the peak hold circuit 224, the third input terminal IN3 can be connected to the output terminal OUT of the corresponding signal receiving unit 221 via the peak hold circuit 224. Alternatively, the third input terminal IN3 of each ADC unit 223 or 223' can be directly connected to the output terminal OUT of the corresponding signal receiving unit 221 via a seventh switch (one of SW71 to SW74). The ADC unit 223 or 223' can output a digital signal corresponding to the voltage difference between the third input terminal IN3 and the fourth input terminal IN4. For example, but not as a limitation, the ADC unit 223 or 223' can output a digital signal with n bits (where n is a natural number) in response to the voltage difference between the third input terminal IN3 and the fourth input terminal IN4.

[0162] In an embodiment, the peak hold circuit 224 may be connected between the output terminal OUT of each signal receiver 221 and the third input terminal IN3 of the corresponding analog-to-digital converter 223 or 223'. In an embodiment, multiple signal receivers 221 and / or analog-to-digital converters 223 or 223' may share a single peak hold circuit 224. For this purpose, fifth switches SW51 to SW54 for channel selection between the peak hold circuit 224 and the signal receiver 221 and sixth switches SW61 to SW64 for channel selection between the peak hold circuit 224 and the analog-to-digital converter 223 or 223' may be provided.

[0163] In one embodiment, the peak hold circuit 224 may include a third amplifier AMP3, a first diode D1, a third capacitor C3, and a fourth switch SW4. In another embodiment, the peak hold circuit 224 may further include at least one of a second diode D2, a third resistor R3, and a third buffer BU3.

[0164] In one embodiment, the third amplifier AMP3 may include a seventh input terminal IN7 and an eighth input terminal (or eighth terminal) IN8. In one embodiment, the seventh input terminal IN7 may be connected to the output terminal OUT of each signal receiving unit 221 via a fifth switch (one of SW51 to SW54). In one embodiment, the eighth input terminal IN8 may be connected to the output terminal of the peak hold circuit 224 (e.g., the output terminal of the third buffer BU3) via a third resistor R3. In one embodiment, the third buffer BU3 may be connected between the output terminal of the third amplifier AMP3 and the third input terminal IN3 of the analog-to-digital converter unit 223 or 223'.

[0165] In one embodiment, the first diode D1 can be connected between the output terminal of the third amplifier AMP3 and the third buffer BU3. In another embodiment, the second diode D2 can be connected between the output terminal of the third amplifier AMP3 and the eighth input terminal IN8. In yet another embodiment, the first diode D1 and the second diode D2 can be connected in the same direction. For example, but not as a limitation, the first diode D1 and the second diode D2 can be connected as follows: Figure 14 The connection is shown in the forward direction. However, the connection direction of the first diode D1 and the second diode D2 can be changed. For example, but not as a limitation, the first diode D1 and the second diode D2 of the peak holding circuit 224' can be connected in opposite directions.

[0166] For example, but not as a limitation, the peak hold circuit 224 can be derived from, as... Figure 14 The positive peak hold circuit shown in the figure or such Figure 16 The negative peak hold circuit shown is formed. Because... Figure 16Peak hold circuit 224' in Figure 14 The peak hold circuit 224 in the diagram can be the same except that the first diode D1 and the second diode D2 are connected in opposite directions, so its detailed description will be omitted.

[0167] In one embodiment, the third capacitor C3 and the fourth switch SW4 can be connected in parallel between the connection node N1 and the second input terminal IN2, wherein the connection node N1 is located between the first diode D1 and the third buffer BU3. In another embodiment, the third capacitor C3 and the fourth switch SW4 can be connected to the second input terminal IN2 via one of the second buffers (BU21 to BU24). Furthermore, in another embodiment, if multiple signal receivers 221 share a peak hold circuit 224 and 224', the third capacitor C3 and the fourth switch SW4 can be connected to the second input terminal IN2 of the signal receiver 221, which is configured for the corresponding Rx channel, during the period for calibrating the noise gain value for each Rx channel. Therefore, multiple switches (not shown) can be connected between the second input terminal IN2 of each signal receiver 221 and the peak hold circuits 224 and 224'.

[0168] Meanwhile, the construction of peak hold circuits 224 and 224' is not limited to Figure 14 and Figure 16 The embodiments shown are illustrated. For example, but not as a limitation, peak hold circuits 224 and 224' can be implemented using various types of peak hold circuits (or peak hold amplifiers) currently disclosed.

[0169] In this embodiment, the touch sensor can operate in a first mode and a second mode. The processor 225 can operate differently in response to the first mode and the second mode. For example, but not as a limitation, during the execution of the first mode, touch input occurring in the sensor unit 100 can be detected in response to digital signals input from each analog-to-digital converter unit 223 or 223'. Furthermore, when the second mode is being executed, the processor 225 can output a gain control signal GCS for calibrating the gain value of the amplifier circuit unit 222 in response to digital signals input from each analog-to-digital converter unit 223 or 223'. For example, but not as a limitation, the processor 225 can output a gain control signal GCS that calibrates the gain value of each variable resistor VR1 to VR4 to cancel noise as much as possible in each signal receiving unit 221 associated with each Rx channel.

[0170] In other words, the gain control signal GCS can be used to calibrate the gain value of the amplifier circuit section 222 so that the noise contained in the input signals received via the two input terminals (first input terminal IN1 and second input terminal IN2) of the signal receiving section 221 is substantially the same or similar within a predetermined error range. That is, when the second mode is being executed, by optimizing the gain value of the amplifier circuit section 222, the noise signal Sno flowing into the first input terminal IN1 and the second input terminal IN2 of the signal receiving section 221 during the period when the first mode is being executed can be effectively canceled out. Therefore, the SNR of the touch sensor can be increased, and the sensitivity can be enhanced.

[0171] In this embodiment, when the touch sensor is driven in the first mode, noise can be canceled by inputting the noise signal Sno into a reference terminal (e.g., the second input terminal IN2) of each signal receiver 221. In this embodiment, noise can be canceled more effectively by independently calibrating the gain of the noise signal Sno for each Rx channel.

[0172] Noise signals Sno of different magnitudes (or levels) flow into the sensing electrode 120 depending on its position. Therefore, in this embodiment, the gain value of the noise signal Sno input to each signal receiver 221 can be calibrated independently based on the magnitude of the noise signal Sno flowing into each Rx channel. For example, but not as a limitation, when the second mode is being executed, each resistance value of the variable resistors (VR1 to VR4) can be calibrated to cancel the noise in each Rx channel as much as possible using the gain control signal GCS. In other words, when the second mode is being executed, the resistance values ​​of the variable resistors (VR1 to VR4) can be automatically calibrated (or adjusted) so that the noise signal Sno can be canceled (or eliminated) as much as possible in each signal receiver 221 during the first mode to be executed. Therefore, when executing the first mode for detecting actual touch input, the noise components included in the sensing signal Sse1 input to each Rx channel can be matched and canceled more accurately.

[0173] Therefore, in this embodiment, by effectively canceling the common-mode noise flowing into the sensor section 100 of the touch sensor, the SNR of the touch sensor can be increased. Thus, malfunctions of the touch sensor based on the noise signal Sno can be minimized, and sensitivity can be enhanced.

[0174] Figure 17 The operation of the touch sensor in a first mode according to an embodiment is shown. Figure 18 The operation of the touch sensor in a first mode is shown in another embodiment. Figure 18 As shown Figure 15The analog-to-digital converter shown in the figure has the following remaining operating steps as described above. Figure 17 The embodiments are basically the same.

[0175] Figure 17 and Figure 18 Is when Figures 13 to 16 A simplified diagram of the differential circuit of the touch sensor in the embodiment, when operating in the first mode, is shown; therefore, figures of buffers, etc., are omitted. For convenience, the description will be based on... Figure 14 and Figure 15 The first mode of operation of a touch sensor with one Rx channel (e.g., the last Rx channel) is shown in the diagram.

[0176] Reference Figure 17 and Figure 18 In an embodiment, when the touch sensor operates in the first mode, Figure 14 and Figure 15 Of the switches shown, the first switch SW1, the third switch SW31, and the seventh switch SW74 can be turned on. The third switch SW31 is connected between the second input terminal IN2 of the corresponding Rx channel and the variable resistor VR4. The seventh switch SW74 is connected between the signal receiving unit 221 of the corresponding Rx channel and the analog-to-digital converter unit 223 or 223'. In this embodiment, the remaining switches can be turned off. Therefore, a configuration such as... Figure 17 and Figure 18 The differential circuit shown in the figure.

[0177] In this embodiment, the first mode can be executed during a regular mode period when the touch sensor is activated (e.g., the time when the user actually uses the touch sensor or display device). During the execution of the first mode, the drive circuit 210 can sequentially supply drive signals Sdr to the drive electrode 130. Therefore, the sensing signal Sse1 corresponding to the drive signal Sdr from the corresponding sensing electrode 120 can be input to the first input terminal IN1 of the signal receiving unit 221, and the noise signal Sno from the noise detection electrode 160 can be input to the second input terminal IN2 via the amplifier circuit 222. The amplifier circuit 222 can amplify the noise signal Sno to correspond to the magnitude of the noise component included in the sensing signal Sse1 and output it. The signal receiving unit 221 can output a signal corresponding to the voltage difference between the first input terminal IN1 and the second input terminal IN2. Meanwhile, the reset switch SWr can be turned on when the integrator (for example, but not limited to, the integrator formed inside the signal receiving section 221 and equivalently formed therein, formed by the first amplifier AMP1 and the first capacitor C1) is reset.

[0178] The analog-to-digital converter unit 223 or 223' can output a digital signal corresponding to the voltage difference between the output terminal OUT of the signal receiving unit 221 and the second input terminal IN2 based on the potential of the second input terminal IN2. The processor 225 can receive the digital signal from the analog-to-digital converter unit 223 or 223' and detect touch input in response to the digital signal.

[0179] In this embodiment, when the touch sensor operates in the first mode, it can detect touch input in response to the voltage difference between the sensing signal Sse1 input to the first input terminal IN1 and the noise signal Sno (a noise signal amplified according to a predetermined gain value) input to the second input terminal IN2. In other words, the sensing circuit 220 can detect the sensing signal Sse1 using the potential of the input to the second input terminal IN2 with the noise signal Sno as a reference potential, and detect touch input in response. In this embodiment, the sensitivity of the touch sensor can be improved by effectively canceling the noise signal Sno flowing into the sensor section 100.

[0180] Figure 19 The operation of the touch sensor in a second mode according to an embodiment is shown. Figure 20 The operation of the touch sensor in a second mode is shown in another embodiment. Figure 20 The analog-to-digital converter is shown to be constructed as follows: Figure 15 The embodiments shown herein, the remaining operating steps are the same as those described above. Figure 19 The embodiments in the examples are basically the same. Meanwhile, Figure 19 and Figure 20 An embodiment is shown in which the peak detection circuit detects the positive peak value of the signal output from the signal receiving unit, but it is not limited thereto. For example, but not as a limitation, if the peak detection circuit is as follows... Figure 16 If the ground is constructed as shown, the peak detection circuit can detect the reverse peak of the signal output from the signal receiving unit.

[0181] Figure 19 and Figure 20 According to Figures 13 to 16 The embodiment shown illustrates a simplified version of the touch sensor operating in the second mode, illustrating a differential circuit and omitting buffers, etc. For convenience, based on... Figure 14 and Figure 15 One of the Rx channels shown (e.g., the last Rx channel) describes the operation of the touch sensor in a second mode.

[0182] Reference Figure 19 and Figure 20In this embodiment, when the touch sensor operates in the second mode, the second switch SW2, the third switch SW31, the fifth switch SW54, and the sixth switch SW64 can be turned on. The third switch SW31 is connected between the second input terminal IN2 of the corresponding Rx channel and the variable resistor VR4; the fifth switch SW54 is connected between the peak hold circuits 224 and 224' and the signal receiving unit 221 of the corresponding Rx channel; and the sixth switch SW64 is connected between the peak hold circuits 224 and 224' and the corresponding analog-to-digital converter unit 223 or 223'. The remaining switches can be turned off. Thus, a configuration such as... Figure 19 and Figure 20 The differential circuit shown is a differential circuit.

[0183] In an embodiment, the second mode may be a gain calibration mode for each Rx channel used to calibrate the amplification gain of the second noise signal Sno2 to be input to the second input terminal IN2. In an embodiment, the second mode may be performed at least once in the module process before shipment of the product (the touch sensor and / or the display device including the touch sensor according to the embodiment). In an embodiment, the second mode may be performed even after the product has been shipped at a predetermined time (e.g., during the power-on time of the touch sensor) and / or during a predetermined period.

[0184] In this embodiment, during the period of executing the second mode, the driving circuit 210 may not supply a driving signal Sdr to the driving electrode 130. Simultaneously, during the period of executing the second mode, in order to allow the display panel ( Figure 1 (300) displays the pre-defined image, displays the drive ( Figure 1 The 400 in the middle can drive the display panel 300. Therefore, when the second mode is executed, common mode noise (display noise) flows from the display panel 300 and the like into the sensor unit 100.

[0185] When the second mode is executed, the first noise signal Sno1 and the second noise signal Sno2 can be input to the first input terminal IN1 and the second input terminal IN2 of the signal receiving unit 221 from the sensing electrode 120 and the noise detection electrode 160, respectively. The amplified second noise signal Sno2 can be input to the second input terminal IN2 according to the gain value of the amplifier circuit unit 222. Thus, when the second mode is executed, the signal receiving unit 221 can operate as a transimpedance amplifier. When the first noise signal Sno1 and the second noise signal Sno2, which have the same magnitude, are input to the first input terminal IN1 and the second input terminal IN2, common-mode noise can be canceled.

[0186] When the second mode is executed, the peak hold circuit 224 can detect the positive peak value (or negative peak value, or the sum of positive and negative peak values) of the signal output to the output terminal OUT of the signal receiving unit 221, and output it to the third input terminal IN3 of the analog-to-digital converter unit 223 or 223'. That is, the peak hold circuit 224 can detect the magnitude of the signal output from the output terminal OUT of the signal receiving unit 221 (the magnitude of the noise corresponding to the voltage difference between the first noise signal Sno1 and the second noise signal Sno2).

[0187] The analog-to-digital converter section 223 or 223' can output a digital signal corresponding to the magnitude of the noise input from the peak hold circuit 224 based on the potential of the second input terminal IN2. The processor 225 can generate a gain control signal GCS for calibrating the gain value of the second noise signal Sno2, such that the magnitude of the noise can be reduced in response to the digital signal input from the analog-to-digital converter section 223 or 223', and can output it to the amplifier circuit section 222. In this way, the processor 225 can use the gain control signal GCS to calibrate the resistance value of the variable resistor (e.g., VR4) connected between the second input terminal IN2 of the corresponding Rx channel and the noise detection electrode 160. For example, but not as a limitation, processor 225 can calibrate the amplification gain of the second noise signal Sno2 by calibrating the resistance value of the variable resistor (e.g., VR4) using the gain control signal GCS, until the voltage difference between the first noise signal Sno1 input to the first input terminal IN1 and the second noise signal Sno2 input to the second input terminal IN2 (e.g., the magnitude of the peak detected by the peak hold circuit 224) becomes substantially "0" or minimizes to "0". Therefore, the resistance values ​​of the variable resistors (VR1 to VR4) of amplifier circuit section 222 with respect to each Rx channel can be set to cancel noise as much as possible.

[0188] In the foregoing embodiment, when the second mode is executed, in order to reduce or minimize the voltage difference between the first noise signal Sno1 and the second noise signal Sno2, a gain control signal GCS can be generated in response to the voltage difference between the first noise signal Sno1 input to the first input terminal IN1 and the second noise signal Sno2 input to the second input terminal IN2. The gain control signal GCS can be used to calibrate the resistance values ​​of the variable resistors (VR1 to VR4) (the gain value of the amplifier circuit section 222 with respect to each Rx channel). Therefore, during the subsequent first mode period, the noise signal Sno flowing into the sensor section 100 can be canceled more accurately.

[0189] Figure 21This illustrates a touch sensor according to yet another embodiment and its operation in a second mode. (See also...) Figure 21 Detailed descriptions of components that are similar to or the same as those found in the foregoing embodiments will be omitted.

[0190] Reference Figure 21 The peak hold circuits 224 and 224' disclosed in the foregoing embodiments can be omitted. By high-speed sampling of the analog signal output from the signal receiving unit 221, the analog-to-digital converter unit 223 or 223' can generate a digital signal corresponding to the instantaneous magnitude of the analog signal output from the signal receiving unit 221. The processor 225 can detect the peak value (magnitude) of the analog signal output from the signal receiving unit 221 in response to the digital signal. The processor 225 can generate a gain control signal GCS based on the detected peak value of the analog signal, and use the gain control signal GCS to calibrate the gain value of the amplifier circuit unit 222.

[0191] In summary, common-mode noise introduced into the sensor section of the touch sensor can be effectively canceled. Therefore, touch sensor malfunctions caused by noise signals can be minimized, and the sensing sensitivity of the touch sensor can be improved.

[0192] While exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept have been described in detail in terms of their spirit and scope, it should be noted that the embodiments described above are merely descriptive and should not be considered limiting. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, substitutions, and modifications can be made herein without departing from the scope of the inventive concept as defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A sensor display panel, the sensor display panel comprising: Display panel, including pixels and encapsulation layer; A first electrode is formed in a grid pattern, the first electrode comprising: first electrode units arranged along a first direction; and at least one first conductive pattern disposed between the first electrode units, each of the first electrode units having an opening; The second electrode, spaced apart from the first electrode, includes: electrode portions, each disposed in an opening of one of the first electrode units in the plan view of the sensor display panel; and at least one second conductive pattern disposed between the electrode portions. A third electrode, spaced apart from the first and second electrodes and formed in a grid pattern, comprises: second electrode units arranged along a second direction; and at least one third conductive pattern disposed between the second electrode units; A driving unit is connected to the first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode via different terminals, and operates in a first mode or a second mode. The driving unit is configured to supply a driving signal to the third electrode and receive sensing signals from the first electrode and the second electrode when operating in the first mode. The first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode are formed on the encapsulation layer, and Wherein, the second conductive pattern and at least one of the first conductive pattern and the third conductive pattern are located on different layers from the first electrode unit and the second electrode unit.

2. The sensor display panel according to claim 1, wherein, The second electrode is formed into a grid pattern.

3. The sensor display panel according to claim 1, wherein, The second conductive pattern connects the electrode portions to each other along the first direction and is spaced apart from the first conductive pattern in the plan view of the sensor display panel.

4. The sensor display panel according to claim 3, wherein: The first electrode unit is located on the first layer of the encapsulation layer, and The second conductive pattern and at least one of the first and third conductive patterns are located on a second layer between the encapsulation layer and the first layer.

5. The sensor display panel according to claim 1, wherein, The drive unit is configured to detect an input corresponding to the voltage difference between the sensing signals output from the first electrode and the second electrode when operating in the first mode.

6. The sensor display panel according to claim 1, wherein, The drive unit is configured to, when operating in the second mode, use the values ​​of the sensing signals from the first electrode and the second electrode to adjust the gain value for amplifying the noise signal from the second electrode.

7. The sensor display panel according to claim 6, wherein, The driving unit is configured to, when operating in the second mode, adjust the gain value such that the voltage difference between the sensing signals output from the first electrode and the second electrode decreases.

8. The sensor display panel according to claim 6, wherein, The driving unit includes: Sensing circuitry, connected to the first electrode and the second electrode; and The driving circuit is connected to the third electrode.

9. The sensor display panel according to claim 8, wherein, The sensing circuit includes: A signal receiver includes a first terminal connected to the first electrode and a second terminal connected to the second electrode; An amplifier circuit is connected between the second terminal and the second electrode, the amplifier circuit being configured to amplify the noise signal received from the second electrode according to the gain value; An analog-to-digital converter (ADC) includes a third terminal connected to the output terminal of the signal receiver and a fourth terminal connected to the second terminal, the ADC being configured to output a digital signal corresponding to the voltage difference between the third terminal and the fourth terminal; and The processor is configured to detect input in response to the digital signal during the first mode and to output a gain control signal for calibrating the gain value during the second mode.

10. The sensor display panel according to claim 9, wherein, The signal receiver includes: A first amplifier includes the first terminal and the second terminal; A first switch and a second switch, wherein the first switch is turned on during the first mode and the second switch is turned on during the second mode, and the first switch and the second switch are connected in parallel between the first terminal and the output terminal of the first amplifier; A first capacitor and a reset switch are connected in parallel between the first switch and the output terminal of the first amplifier; and The second capacitor and the first resistor are connected in parallel between the second switch and the output terminal of the first amplifier.

11. The sensor display panel according to claim 9, wherein, The amplifier circuit includes: The second amplifier includes a fifth terminal connected to the second electrode and a sixth terminal connected to a bias power supply; and A variable resistor is connected between the output terminal of the second amplifier and the bias power supply, and has a resistance value that changes in response to the gain control signal.

12. The sensor display panel according to claim 11, wherein, The second terminal is connected to the variable resistor.

13. The sensor display panel according to claim 9, wherein, The sensing circuit also includes a peak hold circuit connected between the output terminal and the third terminal of the signal receiver.

14. The sensor display panel according to claim 13, further comprising: At least one switch is connected between the peak holding circuit and the third terminal; as well as At least one switch is connected between the output terminal of the signal receiver and the peak hold circuit.

15. The sensor display panel according to claim 1, wherein, The drive unit is configured to stop supplying the drive signal to the third electrode during the second mode.

16. The sensor display panel according to claim 1, further comprising: A plurality of first electrodes, including first electrodes, the plurality of first electrodes being arranged sequentially in a second direction and extending respectively in the first direction; as well as A plurality of second electrodes, including second electrodes, the plurality of second electrodes being arranged sequentially in the second direction and extending respectively in the first direction.

17. The sensor display panel according to claim 16, wherein: The driving unit includes multiple signal receivers, and Each of the plurality of first electrodes is connected to a different signal receiver among the plurality of signal receivers.

18. The sensor display panel of claim 17, further comprising wiring commonly connected between the plurality of second electrodes and the driving unit.

19. The sensor display panel according to claim 16, further comprising: A plurality of third electrodes, including the third electrodes, are arranged sequentially in the first direction and extend respectively in the second direction.

20. The sensor display panel according to claim 1, wherein, The first electrode and the third electrode constitute the sensor portion of the capacitive touch sensor.

21. The sensor display panel according to claim 1, wherein: The first conductive pattern connects the first electrode units to each other along the first direction, and The third conductive pattern connects the second electrode units to each other along the second direction.

22. The sensor display panel according to claim 1, wherein: The first conductive pattern extends in the first direction. The second conductive pattern extends in the first direction, and The third conductive pattern extends in the second direction.

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