Touch panel system and display device

Abstract

Provided are a touch panel system and a display device capable of improving detection sensitivity of pressing even when a cover member is provided. A touch panel system (100) includes a touch panel (1), a cover member disposed so as to overlap the touch panel (1), and a controller (2). The controller (2) includes a position detection section that detects a position of a pointing object based on a signal value obtained from a position detection electrode, an amplification processing section that performs amplification processing on at least one of signal values within a pressing detection range corresponding to the position of the pointing object detected by the position detection section, among signal values obtained from a pressing detection electrode, and a pressing detection section that calculates a size of pressing of the pointing object based on signal values after amplification processing, the signal values after amplification processing being signal values within the pressing detection range including the signal values amplified by the amplification processing section.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a touch panel system for detecting the position and pressure of a pointer such as a finger or stylus, and a display device having the touch panel system. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, electrostatic capacitive touch panels and display devices equipped with pressure detection electrodes and position detection electrodes were known. Such electrostatic capacitive touch panels and display devices are disclosed, for example, in Patent Document 1.

[0003] The electrostatic capacitive touch panel described in Patent Document 1 includes a driving electrode formed on a first substrate, a position sensing electrode formed on a second substrate, and a pressure sensing electrode. In this electrostatic capacitive touch panel, the indicator is capacitively coupled to the driving electrode and the position sensing electrode, thereby reducing the electrostatic capacitance between the driving electrode and the position sensing electrode, resulting in a change in the signal from the position sensing electrode. The position of the indicator is detected based on the change in the signal from the position sensing electrode. Furthermore, when the electrostatic capacitive touch panel is pressed onto the indicator and the distance between the driving electrode and the pressure sensing electrode decreases, the electrostatic capacitance between the driving electrode and the pressure sensing electrode increases, resulting in a change in the signal from the pressure sensing electrode. The magnitude of the press is detected based on the change in the signal from the pressure sensing electrode.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-128511 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention

[0008] In the capacitive touch panel described in Patent Document 1, a cover member is provided to prevent damage to the capacitive touch panel. Therefore, the capacitive touch panel is pressed via the cover member by the indicator. Consequently, even when the capacitive touch panel is pressed, it is difficult to deform, and the distance between the driving electrode and the pressure sensing electrode is difficult to change. As a result, the change in electrostatic capacitance between the driving electrode and the pressure sensing electrode becomes smaller, leading to a decrease in the sensitivity of the press detection.

[0009] Therefore, this disclosure was made to solve the above-mentioned technical problems, and its purpose is to provide a touch panel system and display device that can improve the detection sensitivity of pressing even when a cover component is provided.

[0010] Technical solutions for solving technical problems

[0011] To address the aforementioned problems, a first aspect of the present disclosure provides a touch panel system comprising: a touch panel having a driving electrode, a position detection electrode, and a press detection electrode; a cover member overlapping the touch panel; and a controller that supplies a driving signal to the driving electrode and obtains signal values ​​from the position detection electrode and the press detection electrode, the controller comprising: a position detection unit that detects the position of an indicator based on the signal values ​​obtained from the position detection electrode; an amplification processing unit that amplifies at least one signal value from the signal values ​​obtained from the press detection electrode that corresponds to the position of the indicator detected by the position detection unit within a press detection range; and a press detection unit that calculates the magnitude of the press of the indicator based on the amplified signal values, the amplified signal values ​​being signal values ​​within the press detection range that include the signal values ​​amplified by the amplification processing unit.

[0012] Furthermore, the second type of display device includes the first type of touch panel system and a display for displaying images, wherein the touch panel is configured to overlap with the display when viewed from the front.

[0013] Beneficial effects

[0014] Based on the above configuration, even when a cover component is included, the detection sensitivity of pressing is improved because at least one signal value within the pressing detection range is amplified. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a block diagram showing the configuration of the touch panel system 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a display device 101 equipped with the touch panel system 100 of the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 3 This is a plan view showing the configuration of the driving electrode and floating electrode provided in the touch panel 1 of the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a plan view showing the configuration of the position detection electrode and the press detection electrode provided in the touch panel 1 of the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 and Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the 1000-1000 line.

[0020] Figure 6 This is the functional block diagram of controller 2.

[0021] Figure 7This is a diagram representing an example of a data graph M.

[0022] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram (1) showing the calculation method of the controller 2 for the detailed position of the indicator body F.

[0023] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram (2) showing the calculation method of the controller 2 for the detailed position of the indicator body F.

[0024] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the value of the press detection mapping FM after amplification processing based on the first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating the control processing flow of the touch panel system 100.

[0026] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing the comparison results between the first embodiment and the second embodiment of the touch panel system 100 according to the first implementation, and the first comparative example and the second comparative example of the touch panel system.

[0027] Figure 13 This is a functional block diagram of the controller 202 of the touch panel system 200 in the second embodiment.

[0028] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing an example of the value of the press detection mapping FM after the amplification process of the second embodiment.

[0029] Figure 15 This is a diagram showing the comparison results of the third embodiment of the touch panel system 200 of the second embodiment, the fourth embodiment of the touch panel system 100 of the first embodiment, and the third comparative example of the touch panel system.

[0030] Figure 16 This is a functional block diagram of the controller 302 of the touch panel system 300 in the third embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described based on the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments, and design changes can be appropriately made within the scope of the configuration of the present disclosure. In the following description, the same reference numerals are used for the same parts or parts having the same function across different drawings, and repeated descriptions are omitted. Furthermore, the configurations described in the embodiments and variations can be appropriately combined or modified without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. In addition, for ease of understanding, the configurations are simplified or schematically shown in the following accompanying drawings, or some components are omitted. Furthermore, the dimensional ratios between the components shown in the figures do not necessarily represent actual dimensional ratios.

[0032] [First Implementation Method]

[0033] (Overall structure of the touch panel system)

[0034] The configuration of the touch panel system 100 according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 1 This is a block diagram showing the configuration of the touch panel system 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0035] like Figure 1 As shown, the touch panel system 100 includes a touch panel 1 and a controller 2. The touch panel 1 is configured as a capacitive touch panel, and is configured to output a position signal value G1 indicating the position of an indicator and a press signal value G2 indicating that the indicator is pressed. Furthermore, the controller 2 supplies a drive signal to the touch panel 1, acquires the position signal value G1 and the press signal value G2 from the touch panel 1, and detects the position of the indicator and the press based on the position signal value G1 and the press signal value G2. The controller 2 sends the detection results of the indicator's position and the press as output data to a display device 101 equipped with the touch panel system 100 (see reference 101). Figure 2 The control unit of the display device 101 outputs data, such as for controlling the image displayed on the display device 101.

[0036] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the display device 101 equipped with the touch panel system 100 of the first embodiment. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the display device 101 includes a touch panel 1 and a display 40 that displays images on a display surface 401. The display 40 is, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (electro-luminescence) display. The touch panel 1 is positioned to overlap with the display 40 when viewed from the front.

[0037] (The structure of a touch panel)

[0038] Figure 3 and Figure 4 This is a plan view showing the configuration of the electrodes provided in the touch panel 1 of the first embodiment. Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 and Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the 1000-1000 line. Additionally, for ease of illustration, the electrodes of the touch panel 1 are divided into... Figure 3 and Figure 4 Provide a diagram, such as Figure 5 Indicates layering Figure 3 and Figure 4 The electrodes shown.

[0039] like Figure 5As shown, the touch panel 1 includes a first substrate 10, a driving electrode 11, a floating electrode 12, a second substrate 20, a position detection electrode 21, a pressure detection electrode 22, a shielding electrode 23, and a dielectric layer 30. For example, the first substrate 10 and the second substrate 20 are made of transparent materials such as glass / PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) film. Furthermore, the driving electrode 11, the floating electrode 12, the position detection electrode 21, the pressure detection electrode 22, and the shielding electrode 23 are made of transparent materials with conductivity such as ITO (Indium Tin Oxide). Additionally, the dielectric layer 30 is a pressure-sensitive component and is made of elastic transparent materials such as polymer materials, OCA (Optical Clear Adhesive), and OCR (Optical Clear Resin). Moreover, the touch panel 1 includes a cover member 50. The cover member 50 is made of, for example, glass. The cover member 50 is disposed on the touch surface side of the first substrate 10 (the side opposite to the dielectric layer 30) via the OCA layer 10b. The surface of the cover member 50 is touched and pressed by an indicator. The OCA layer 10b bonds the cover member 50 and the first substrate 10. Furthermore, the OCA layer 20b and the display 40 are disposed on the side of the second substrate 20 opposite to the dielectric layer 30. Additionally, the thickness t1 of the cover member 50 is, for example, greater than the thickness t2 of the dielectric layer 30.

[0040] The first substrate 10 and the second substrate 20 are arranged such that the first surface 10a of the first substrate 10 and the second surface 20a of the second substrate 20 are opposite to each other. The driving electrode 11, which supplies driving signals, is formed on the first surface 10a. The floating electrode 12 is in a floating state and is formed on the first surface 10a.

[0041] The position detection electrode 21, which is used to detect the position of the indicator, is formed on the second surface 20a. The press detection electrode 22, which is used to detect the amount of pressure applied to the indicator, is formed on the second surface 20a. The shielding electrode 23 is formed on the second surface 20a and is either supplied with a potential equal to the ground potential or the potential supplied to the position detection electrode 21 or the press detection electrode 22, or is in a floating state.

[0042] like Figure 3 As shown, the driving electrode 11 is a shape (diamond pattern) in which multiple diamond-shaped electrodes are connected in their diagonal direction. In addition, the floating electrode 12 is composed of multiple unconnected diamond-shaped electrodes.

[0043] like Figure 4As shown, the position detection electrode 21, like the drive electrode 11, is a diamond pattern with multiple diamond-shaped electrodes connected together. Similarly, the press detection electrode 22 is also a diamond pattern with multiple diamond-shaped electrodes connected together. The connection directions of the diamond-shaped electrodes of the position detection electrode 21 and the press detection electrode 22 are parallel, and they are alternately arranged relative to a direction perpendicular to this connection direction. The connection direction of the diamond-shaped electrodes of the position detection electrode 21 and the press detection electrode 22 is perpendicular to the connection direction of the diamond-shaped electrodes of the drive electrode 11.

[0044] In addition, such as Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the shielding electrode 23 is disposed between the position detection electrode 21 and the press detection electrode 22. For example, the shielding electrode 23 is disposed between the position detection electrode 21 and the press detection electrode 22 in a manner that separates them.

[0045] In a front view (hereinafter referred to as "front view") of the second substrate 20 viewed from the first substrate 10, the driving electrode 11 covers at least a portion of the press detection electrode 22. Furthermore, Figures 2-4 In the illustrated touch panel 1, when viewed from the front, one of the diamond-shaped electrodes constituting the driving electrode 11 includes one diamond-shaped electrode constituting the press detection electrode 22. Similarly, when viewed from the front, one of the diamond-shaped electrodes constituting the floating electrode 12 includes one diamond-shaped electrode constituting the position detection electrode 21.

[0046] Next, the operation of touch panel 1 will be explained with reference to the attached diagram. Figure 5 In the diagram, dashed lines represent the capacitive coupling between the indicator F and various electrodes, and the electric field lines corresponding to the capacitive coupling between the various electrodes. For example... Figure 5 As shown, when the indicator F contacts the surface of the first substrate 10 opposite to the first surface 10a, the driving electrode 11 and the floating electrode 12 are capacitively coupled (forming a capacitor Ca). At this time, since the floating electrode 12 is capacitively coupled to the position detection electrode 21 (forming a capacitor Cb), the driving electrode 11 and the position detection electrode 21 are capacitively coupled via the floating electrode 12. As a result, the electrostatic capacitance between the driving electrode 11 and the position detection electrode 21 decreases via the indicator F, and the signal change detected by the position detection electrode 21 is detected, thereby detecting the position of the indicator F.

[0047] In addition, such as Figure 5As shown, the driving electrode 11 is capacitively coupled to the pressure detection electrode 22 (forming Cc). Here, when the first substrate 10 is pressed by the indicator body F, the dielectric layer 30 is an elastic material, thus shortening the distance between the driving electrode 11 and the pressure detection electrode 22. Consequently, the electrostatic capacitance Cc between the two electrodes 11 and 22 increases, and the signal detected by the pressure detection electrode 22 changes, thereby detecting the magnitude of the pressure.

[0048] When the first substrate 10 is pressed by the indicator F, the distance between the driving electrode 11 and the position detection electrode 21 becomes shorter. However, the driving electrode 11 is closer to the shielding electrode 23 than the position detection electrode 21, thus easily forming capacitive coupling (capacitance Cd) on the shielding electrode 23. Therefore, the electrostatic capacitance between the driving electrode 11 and the position detection electrode 21 is difficult to increase, and the reduction in electrostatic capacitance between the two electrodes 11 and 21 caused by the indicator F is difficult to offset.

[0049] Furthermore, on the path from the indicator F to the press detection electrode 22, the indicator F is closer to the shielding electrode 23 than the press detection electrode 22, so it is easier to capacitively couple with the shielding electrode 23. Therefore, the indicator F is capacitively coupled to both the drive electrode 11 and the press detection electrode 22, suppressing electrostatic capacitance fluctuations between the two electrodes.

[0050] (Controller configuration)

[0051] Next, the structure of controller 2 and the detection method for the position of the indicator body F of controller 2 and the magnitude of the press will be explained. Figure 6 This is a functional block diagram of controller 2. Controller 2 includes a processor (control circuit) that performs control processing on the touch panel system 100 by executing programs. Figure 6 As shown, the controller 2 functions as a drive control unit 51, a signal acquisition unit 52, an image generation unit 53, a position detection unit 54, a press detection range setting unit 55, a magnification processing unit 56, and a press detection unit 57. Furthermore, in Figure 6 In this document, controller 2 is recorded as a functional block, but it can also be constructed by separate hardware (control circuit) for each function.

[0052] The drive control unit 51 sends a drive signal to the touch panel 1 every unit of time (one frame period). For example, the drive control unit 51 sends drive signals sequentially to the drive electrodes 11 of the touch panel 1. "One frame period" refers to the period (one cycle) during which drive signals are sent to all drive electrodes 11 of the touch panel 1. When the drive signal is sent by the drive control unit 51, the signal acquisition unit 52 acquires signals from the position detection electrode 21 and the press detection electrode 22, respectively.

[0053] Figure 7This is an example diagram representing data graph M. The graph generation unit 53 generates data graph M using the acquired position signal value G1 and the press signal value G2. Figure 7 The illustrated data graph M is obtained when there are 15 drive electrodes 11, 32 position detection electrodes 21, and 32 press detection electrodes 22. Data graph M is data with elements represented by two-dimensional coordinates (X, Y). The X direction is the arrangement direction of the drive electrodes 11, and the Y direction is the arrangement direction of the position detection electrodes 21 and the press detection electrodes 22. Furthermore, in the following description, the direction in which the Y value increases is represented as downward, and the direction in which it decreases is represented as upward.

[0054] Data graph M is a combination of position signal value G1 and pressure signal value G2 placed in different regions of a two-dimensional coordinate system. Figure 7 The illustrated data map M is arranged in a manner where two rows of virtual DDs are sandwiched in the central part of the Y direction. The position detection map TM, which displays the position signal value G1 obtained from the position detection electrode 21, forms the upper side, and the pressure detection map FM, which displays the pressure signal value G2 obtained from the pressure detection electrode 22, forms the lower side. These are configured in different areas. Figure 4 As shown, the position detection electrode 21 and the pressure detection electrode 22 are arranged alternately, but the position signal value G1 and the pressure signal value G2 are configured separately. Figure 7 In the illustrated data diagram M, the position signal value G1 corresponding to the electrostatic capacitance formed by the Xth driving electrode 11 and the Yth position detection electrode 21 with a corner of the touch panel 1 as the origin is an element of (X, Y). On the other hand, the press signal value G2 corresponding to the electrostatic capacitance formed by the Xth driving electrode 11 and the Yth press detection electrode 22 is an element of (X, Y+34).

[0055] The following is an example of the following situation: When the data map M is pressed on the surface of the touch panel 1 by the indicator body F, the position signal value G1 of the element corresponding to the center of the contact portion of the indicator body F in the position detection map TM becomes positive, and the pressing signal value G2 of the element corresponding to the center of the contact portion of the indicator body F in the pressing detection map FM becomes positive.

[0056] like Figure 7As shown, the position detection unit 54 detects the position TP of the indicator F from the position detection map TM of the data map M. For example, the position detection unit 54 detects the element in the position detection map TM whose position signal value G1 is greater than or equal to the position detection threshold G1t and which is the largest in the position detection map TM as the position TP of the indicator F. In addition, if there is no element in the position detection map TM whose position signal value G1 is greater than or equal to the position detection threshold G1t, the position detection unit 54 determines that there is no indicator F in contact with the touch panel 1. Alternatively, the position detection unit 54 may be configured to detect the element that is the largest in the position detection map TM as the position TP of the indicator F if the position signal value G1 is greater than or equal to the position detection threshold G1t for several consecutive frames (e.g., 3 frames).

[0057] Furthermore, the position detection unit 54 calculates the detailed position of the indicator F. (Refer to...) Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 This describes the method by which the position detection unit 54 calculates the detailed position. Figure 8 and Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the calculation method for the detailed position of the controller 2 relative to the indicator F. Additionally, in Figure 8 and Figure 9 In the middle, the position TP of the indicator body F is set to (0, 0).

[0058] like Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 As shown, the position detection unit 54 sets a position detection range TR of size A×B in a manner that includes the position TP of the indicator body F. In Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 The example illustrates a case where a 5×5 area is set as the position detection range TR, centered on the position TP of the indicator F. Alternatively, when setting the 5×5 position detection range TR centered on the position TP of the indicator F, if a portion extends beyond the position detection map TM, the position detection range TR can be set to be smaller than 5×5 by deleting the extended portion, or the position detection range TR can be set to a size of 5×5. However, since the position TP of the indicator F is off-center, it is contained within the position detection map TM.

[0059] The position detection unit 54 calculates the signal value C(X, Y) by accumulating the signal values ​​D(X, Y) within the position detection range TR in the Y direction. Specifically, the position detection unit 54 calculates the signal value C(X, Y) using the formula C(X, Y) = C(X, Y-1) + D(X, Y). However, when calculating the signal value C(X, Y), the position detection unit 54 sets C(X, Y) = D(X, Y) for elements at the upper end of the position detection range TR where C(X, Y-1) cannot be calculated. Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to the example of accumulating the signal value D(X, Y) along the Y direction. For example, the position detection unit 54 may directly calculate the signal value C(X, Y) without accumulating the signal values ​​D(X, Y) within the position detection range TR in the Y direction. In this case, the calculation method (accumulation) may be omitted, and the signal value C(X, Y) may be used directly. That is, C(X, Y) = D(X, Y) can be set for the entire area.

[0060] The position detection unit 54 calculates the centroid position based on the magnitude of the calculated signal value C(X, Y) and the coordinates (X, Y), and uses this centroid position as the detailed position of the indicator F. By calculating the detailed position of the indicator F in this way, the position of the indicator F existing between coordinates (X, Y) can be detected, thus improving the resolution of the position detection of the indicator F.

[0061] The pressure detection range setting unit 55 sets the pressure detection range FR based on the pressure signal value G2. More specifically, as follows... Figure 7 As shown, the press detection range setting unit 55 sets the press detection range FR within the press detection mapping FM of the data graph M. Then, the press detection range setting unit 55 sets a press detection range FR of size C×D to include the position TP of the indicator body F. Figure 7 The example illustrates the case where a 5×5 area is set as the pressure detection range FR, centered on position FP within the pressure detection map FM corresponding to position TP of the indicator body F. Figure 7 In the example shown, the X-coordinate of position FP is the same as that of position TP, and the Y-coordinate of position FP is the value obtained by adding 34 to the Y-coordinate of position TP. Furthermore, when setting a 5×5 pressure detection range FR centered on position FP, if a portion extends beyond the pressure detection map FM, the pressure detection range FR can be set to delete the extended portion, becoming smaller than 5×5. Alternatively, the pressure detection range FR can be set to a size of 5×5 but not centered on position FP and contained within the pressure detection map FM.

[0062] Figure 10This is a diagram illustrating an example of the value of the press detection mapping FM after amplification processing according to the first embodiment. The amplification processing unit 56 amplifies at least one press signal value G2 within the press detection range FR. In the first embodiment, the amplification processing unit 56 amplifies the maximum value of the press signal value G2 within the press detection range FR. Furthermore, in the first embodiment, "maximum value" refers to the value with the largest absolute value of the signal. Figure 10 In the example shown, E(0,0) in the press detection range FR is the maximum value "61". The amplification processing unit 56 changes this maximum value "61" to a value of F times (e.g., 10 times), which is "610".

[0063] The pressure detection unit 57 calculates a pressure value Z, representing the magnitude of the pressure applied to the indicator body F, based on the pressure signal value G2 within the amplified pressure detection range FR. For example, the pressure detection unit 57 calculates the pressure value Z by adding the absolute values ​​of the pressure signal values ​​G2 within the amplified pressure detection range FR. Figure 10 In the example shown, the compression value Z is 2+4+2+0+2+2+10+54+18+0+1+7+610+21+7+0+4+6+4

[0064] +2+1+3+5+5+1=771. Furthermore, the pressure detection unit 57 outputs the coordinates of position FP and the pressure value Z as output data.

[0065] As described above, in the touch panel system 100, the controller 2 detects the position TP of the indicator F and amplifies the signal value of the press detection range FR corresponding to the position TP (position FP), and calculates the press value Z based on the amplified value. Therefore, even when the cover member 50 is provided, the touch panel system 100 can simultaneously detect the position of the indicator F and the magnitude of the press, thereby improving the press detection sensitivity.

[0066] (Control processing of the first embodiment)

[0067] Next, refer to Figure 11 The control method of the touch panel system 100 is explained. Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating the control processing flow of the touch panel system 100. The control processing of the touch panel system 100 described below is executed by the controller 2.

[0068] like Figure 11 As shown, in step S1, data map M is generated. That is, position signal value G1 and press signal value G2 are obtained from touch panel 1, and data map M based on position signal value G1 and press signal value G2 is generated (refer to...). Figure 7 ).

[0069] In step S2, the position TP of the indicator is detected from the position detection map TM. Then, in step S3, the detailed position of the indicator is calculated, and output data containing the detailed position information of the indicator is sent to the display device 101.

[0070] In step S4, the press detection range FR is set based on the position TP of the indicator. Then, in step S5, an amplification process is performed to amplify at least one of the press signal values ​​G2 within the press detection range FR. Next, in step S6, the total value of the press signal values ​​G2 within the press detection range FR is obtained as the press value Z. Then, in step S7, output data containing information about the position pressed by the indicator and the press value Z is sent to the display device 101.

[0071] Based on the above method, even with the cover component 50, the detection sensitivity of the press can be improved.

[0072] (Comparison results of the first embodiment and the comparative example)

[0073] Next, refer to Figure 12 The comparison results between the first embodiment and the second embodiment of the touch panel system 100 of the first embodiment, and the first comparative example and the second comparative example of the touch panel system, will be explained. Figure 12 This is a diagram showing the comparison results between the first embodiment and the second embodiment of the touch panel system 100 according to the first implementation, and the first comparative example and the second comparative example of the touch panel system.

[0074] In the first embodiment and the first comparative example, a touch panel 1 with a cover member (glass) 50 thickness of 0.4 mm was used. In the second embodiment and the second comparative example, a cover member (glass in this embodiment and comparative example) was used. A touch panel 1 with a cover member 50 thickness of 0.7 mm was used. The touch panel systems of the first and second comparative examples are configured such that they do not perform... Figure 11 The value of the pressing value Z is output by amplifying the processing of step S5 shown.

[0075] Then, while varying the load on the touch panel in each of the first embodiment, the second embodiment, the first comparative example, and the second comparative example, the output pressure value Z was measured. Furthermore, as a reference for comparison (hereinafter referred to as the "example without a cover member"), no cover member was provided on the touch panel, and no... Figure 11 The value of the output pressure Z is measured by amplifying the process shown in step S5.

[0076] like Figure 12As shown, the slope of the pressure value Z relative to the load in the first comparative example is less than one-quarter (approximately one-fifth) of the pressure value Z relative to the load in the example without a cover. Furthermore, the slope of the pressure value Z relative to the load in the second comparative example is less than one-ninth (approximately one-tenth) of the pressure value Z relative to the load in the example without a cover. Additionally, it is shown that the greater the slope of the "pressure value Z relative to the load," the greater the detection sensitivity of the pressure.

[0077] In contrast, such as Figure 12 As shown, the slope of the pressure value Z relative to the load in the first embodiment is more than 1.1 times (approximately 1.2 times) higher than the pressure value Z relative to the load in the example without the cover member. Furthermore, the slope of the pressure value Z relative to the load in the second embodiment is more than 0.8 times (approximately 0.9 times) higher than the pressure value Z relative to the load in the example without the cover member. The results indicate that, in both the first and second embodiments, even when the cover member (glass) 50 is present, the detection sensitivity of the pressure is improved.

[0078] [Second Implementation]

[0079] Next, refer to Figure 13 and Figure 14 The configuration of the touch panel system 200 according to the second embodiment will be described. The touch panel system 200 of the second embodiment differs from the touch panel system 100 of the first embodiment, which only amplifies the maximum value of the press signal value G2 within the press detection range FR; it amplifies both the maximum value and a larger value less than that maximum value. Furthermore, in the following description, the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment are used to indicate the same configuration as in the first embodiment; unless otherwise specified, the preceding description will be referred to.

[0080] Figure 13 This is a functional block diagram of the controller 202 of the touch panel system 200 according to the second embodiment. An amplification processing unit 256 is provided on the controller 202.

[0081] Figure 14 This diagram illustrates an example of the value of the press detection mapping FM after amplification processing according to the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, the amplification processing unit 256 amplifies the maximum value and the next largest value in the press signal value G2 within the press detection range FR. Furthermore, the larger signal value is the one with the largest absolute value. Figure 14In the example shown, E(0,0) in the press detection range FR is the maximum value "61", and E(0,-1) is the second largest value "-54". The amplification processing unit 256 amplifies the maximum value "61" to a value of F times (e.g., 10 times), which is "610", and amplifies the second largest value "-54" to a value of F times (e.g., 10 times), which is "-540".

[0082] The pressure detection unit 57 calculates a pressure value Z, representing the pressure applied based on the amplified pressure signal value G2 within the pressure detection range FR. For example, the pressure detection unit 57 calculates the pressure value Z by summing the absolute values ​​of the pressure signal values ​​G2 within the amplified pressure detection range FR. Figure 14 In the example shown, the pressure value Z is 2+4+2+0+2+2+10+540+18+0+1+7+610+21+7+0+4+6+4+2+1+3+5+5+1=1257. Furthermore, the pressure detection unit 57 outputs the coordinates of the position FP and the pressure value Z as output data. As a result, the pressure value Z can be set to a larger value, further improving the pressure detection sensitivity. Other configurations and effects are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0083] (Comparison results of the second embodiment with the first embodiment and comparative examples)

[0084] Next, refer to Figure 15 The comparison results of the third embodiment of the touch panel system 200 of the second embodiment, the fourth embodiment of the touch panel system 100 of the first embodiment, and the third comparative example of the touch panel system will be explained. Figure 15 This is a diagram showing the comparison results of the third embodiment of the touch panel system 200 of the second embodiment, the fourth embodiment of the touch panel system 100 of the first embodiment, and the third comparative example of the touch panel system.

[0085] In the third embodiment, the fourth embodiment, and the third comparative example, a touch panel 1 with a cover member (glass) 50 thickness of 1.1 mm was used. The touch panel system of the third comparative example was configured not to perform... Figure 11 The amplification process shown in step S5 outputs the value of the press value Z. The touch panel system 200 of the third embodiment amplifies the maximum value and the next largest signal in the press signal value G2 within the press detection range FR, and outputs the value of the press value Z. The touch panel system 100 of the fourth embodiment only amplifies the maximum value in the press signal value G2 within the press detection range FR, and outputs the value of the press value Z.

[0086] like Figure 15As shown, the slope of the pressure value Z relative to the load in the third comparative example is less than 1 / 29 (approximately 1 / 30) compared to the pressure value Z relative to the load in the example without a cover. In contrast, the slope of the pressure value Z relative to the load in the third embodiment is more than 0.8 times (approximately 0.9 times) compared to the pressure value Z relative to the load in the example without a cover. Furthermore, the slope of the pressure value Z relative to the load in the fourth embodiment is more than 1 / 8 (approximately 1 / 7) compared to the pressure value Z relative to the load in the example without a cover. The results indicate that, in the configuration of the second embodiment (third embodiment), even with a cover member 50 having a thickness of 1.1 mm, the detection sensitivity of the pressure can be improved.

[0087] [Third Implementation Method]

[0088] Next, refer to Figure 16 The configuration of the touch panel system 300 according to the third embodiment will be described. The touch panel system 300 of the third embodiment differs from the touch panel system 100 of the first embodiment, which only amplifies the maximum value of the press signal value G2 within the press detection range FR. It amplifies the maximum value (the first largest value), the second largest value, ..., and the Nth largest value. Here, N is a natural number of 3 or more. Furthermore, in the following description, when the same reference numerals as those in the first or second embodiment are used, it indicates the same configuration as in the first or second embodiment; unless otherwise specified, refer to the preceding description.

[0089] Figure 16 This is a functional block diagram of the controller 302 of the touch panel system 300 according to the third embodiment. An amplification processing unit 356 is provided in the controller 302. In the third embodiment, the amplification processing unit 356 amplifies the maximum value (the first largest value), ..., and the Nth largest value of the pressure signal value G2 within the pressure detection range FR. Here, N is a natural number greater than or equal to 3. Furthermore, the pressure detection unit 57 calculates a pressure value Z representing the magnitude of the pressure applied to the indicator body F based on the amplified pressure signal value G2 within the pressure detection range FR. The pressure detection unit 57 outputs the coordinates of the position FP and the pressure value Z as output data. As a result, the pressure value Z can be set to a larger value, further improving the pressure detection sensitivity. Other configurations and effects are the same as those in the first or second embodiment.

[0090] (Measurement results of an embodiment of the third implementation)

[0091] Next, the measurement results of the pressure value Z of the fifth to eighth embodiments of the touch panel system 300 of the third embodiment will be compared with the example without the cover component for explanation.

[0092] In the fifth embodiment, a touch panel 1 with a cover member (glass) 50 thickness of 1.3 mm was used. In the sixth embodiment, a touch panel 1 with a cover member (glass) 50 thickness of 1.5 mm was used. In the seventh embodiment, a touch panel 1 with a cover member (glass) 50 thickness of 1.7 mm was used. In the eighth embodiment, a touch panel 1 with a cover member (glass) 50 thickness of 2.0 mm was used. Then, in the fifth to eighth embodiments, the maximum value (first largest value), ..., and the Nth largest value of the press signal value G2 within the press detection range FR were amplified, and the total value of the amplified press signal value G2 within the press detection range FR was measured as the press value Z.

[0093] As a result of the measurements, the slope of the pressure value Z relative to the load in the fifth embodiment is more than 0.9 times (approximately 1.0 times) compared to the example without a cover. The slope of the pressure value Z relative to the load in the sixth embodiment is more than 0.8 times (approximately 0.9 times) compared to the example without a cover. The slope of the pressure value Z relative to the load in the seventh embodiment is more than 0.7 times (approximately 0.8 times) compared to the example without a cover. The slope of the pressure value Z relative to the load in the eighth embodiment is more than 0.6 times (approximately 0.7 times) compared to the example without a cover. As can be seen from the above, even when the cover member 50 has a large thickness (glass of 1.3 mm or more) as in the fifth to eighth embodiments, the detection sensitivity of the pressure can be improved.

[0094] [Deformation, etc.]

[0095] The above-described embodiments are merely examples for implementing the present invention. Therefore, this disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and appropriate modifications can be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from their spirit.

[0096] (1) Although examples of the first to third embodiments described above being configured with the shape of each electrode as a rhombus are shown, this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, each electrode in the first to third embodiments may be any one of a rectangle, a circle, an ellipse, and a polygon.

[0097] (2) Although examples of providing the touch panel system of the first to third embodiments described above in a display device have been shown, this disclosure is not limited thereto. It is also possible to configure a touch panel device without a display device.

[0098] (3) In the second and third embodiments described above, examples were shown in which the signal value to be amplified was amplified by the same factor, but this disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the factor by which amplification of a larger value below the maximum value is made may be less than the factor by which the maximum value is amplified, or it may be greater than the factor by which the maximum value is amplified.

[0099] (4) In the embodiments of the first to third embodiments described above, examples of the thickness of the cover component are shown, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Cover components with thicknesses other than 0.4 mm, 0.7 mm, 1.1 mm, 1.3 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.7 mm, and 2.0 mm may also be provided on the touch panel 1.

[0100] Furthermore, the aforementioned touch panel system and display device can be described as follows.

[0101] The first configuration of the touch panel system includes: a touch panel having a driving electrode, a position detection electrode, and a press detection electrode; a cover member having an overlap configuration with the touch panel; and a controller that supplies a driving signal to the driving electrode and obtains signal values ​​from the position detection electrode and the press detection electrode, the controller including: a position detection unit that detects the position of an indicator based on the signal values ​​obtained from the position detection electrode; an amplification processing unit that amplifies at least one signal value from the signal values ​​obtained from the press detection electrode that corresponds to the position of the indicator detected by the position detection unit within a press detection range; and a press detection unit that calculates the magnitude of the press of the indicator based on the amplified signal values, the amplified signal values ​​being signal values ​​within a press detection range that include the signal values ​​amplified by the amplification processing unit (first configuration).

[0102] According to the first configuration described above, even when a cover component is included, the detection sensitivity of pressing is improved because at least one signal value within the pressing detection range is amplified.

[0103] In the first configuration, the amplification processing unit may amplify the maximum value of the signal value within the press detection range (second configuration).

[0104] According to the second configuration mentioned above, the position where the maximum value is obtained is the position where the pressure is most likely to be applied. Therefore, by amplifying the signal value at this position, the position where the pressure is applied can be accurately detected.

[0105] In the second configuration, the amplification processing unit may amplify the maximum value and the next largest signal value within the press detection range (third configuration).

[0106] According to the third configuration mentioned above, in addition to the signal value at the position of maximum value, the second largest signal value can also be amplified. Therefore, the total value of the signal values ​​within the press detection range increases, which can further improve the press detection sensitivity.

[0107] In the second or third configuration, the amplification processing unit may set N to the Nth largest signal value (a natural number greater than or equal to 3) within the pressure detection range, and set k to a natural number to amplify each of the kth largest signal values, the maximum value, and the Nth largest signal value within the range of 2 ≤ k < N (fourth configuration).

[0108] According to the fourth configuration mentioned above, in addition to the signal value at the position that becomes the maximum value, the signal value of the Nth position can also be amplified. Therefore, the total value of the signal values ​​within the press detection range increases, which can further improve the press detection sensitivity.

[0109] In any of the first to fourth configurations, the controller further includes a graph generation unit that generates a position detection graph in a two-dimensional coordinate system composed of signal values ​​obtained from the position detection electrode and a press detection graph in a two-dimensional coordinate system composed of signal values ​​obtained from the press detection electrode. The position detection unit detects the position of the indicator in the position detection graph, and the amplification processing unit sets a press detection range in the press detection graph that includes the position corresponding to the position of the indicator, and amplifies at least one signal value in the press detection range (fifth configuration).

[0110] According to the fifth configuration described above, a controller applicable to touch panel systems can be obtained simply by changing the design of an existing controller that only detects the position of the indicator.

[0111] The sixth configuration of the display device includes any one of the touch panel systems in the first to fifth configurations and a display for displaying images, with the touch panel (sixth configuration) positioned overlapping the display when viewed from the front.

[0112] According to the sixth configuration described above, even when a cover component is included, since at least one signal value within the press detection range is amplified, a display device capable of improving the detection sensitivity of the press can be provided.

[0113] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0114] 1…Touch panel; 2, 202, 302…Controller; 11…Drive electrode; 21…Position detection electrode; 22…Press detection electrode; 40…Display; 50…Cover component; 52…Signal acquisition unit; 53…Graphic generation unit; 54…Position detection unit; 55…Press detection range setting unit; 56, 256, 356…Magnification processing unit; 57…Press detection unit; 401…Display surface; 100, 200, 300…Touch panel system; 101…Display device; TR…Position detection range; FR…Press detection range.

Claims

1. A touch panel system, characterized in that, It includes: The touch panel has driving electrodes, position detection electrodes, and press detection electrodes; A cover component that overlaps with the touch panel; as well as The controller supplies drive signals to the drive electrodes and obtains signal values ​​from the position detection electrode and the press detection electrode, respectively. The controller has: A position detection unit that detects the position of the indicator based on signal values ​​obtained from the position detection electrodes; An amplification processing unit amplifies at least one signal value from the signal values ​​obtained from the pressure detection electrode that corresponds to the position of the indicator detected by the position detection unit within a pressure detection range. as well as The pressure detection unit calculates the pressure applied to the indicator body based on the amplified signal value, wherein the amplified signal value is a signal value within the pressure detection range that includes the signal value amplified by the amplification unit.

2. The touch panel system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The amplification processing unit amplifies the maximum value among the signal values ​​within the pressure detection range.

3. The touch panel system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The amplification processing unit amplifies the maximum value and the next largest signal value within the pressure detection range.

4. The touch panel system according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, When the amplification processing unit sets N to the Nth largest signal value (a natural number greater than 3) in the signal value range of the press detection range, it sets k to a natural number and amplifies each of the kth largest signal values, the maximum value, and the Nth largest signal value in the range of 2≤k<N.

5. The touch panel system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The controller further includes a graph generation unit that generates a position detection graph in a two-dimensional coordinate system composed of signal values ​​obtained from the position detection electrode and a pressure detection graph in a two-dimensional coordinate system composed of signal values ​​obtained from the pressure detection electrode. The position detection unit detects the position of the indicator within the position detection map. The amplification processing unit sets a pressure detection range within the pressure detection map that includes the position corresponding to the position of the indicator, and amplifies at least one signal value within the pressure detection range.

6. A display device, characterized in that, It possesses: The touch panel system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, and A monitor that displays images. The touch panel is positioned to overlap with the display when viewed from the front.

Images