Electronic device

Abstract

An electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes: a display member including a display device layer configured to display an image and an encapsulation layer covering the display device layer; an insulating layer disposed directly on the encapsulation layer; a first electrode and a second electrode disposed on the insulating layer and spaced apart from each other; and a third electrode disposed on the insulating layer and disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode; wherein the third electrode extends in one direction and includes a first side facing the first electrode and a second side facing the second electrode, and the first side and the second side have shapes asymmetrical relative to a central axis extending in said one direction.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on May 24, 2018, with application number "201810507478.1" and invention title "Electronic Device". Technical Field

[0002] The disclosure generally relates to an electronic device, and more specifically, to an electronic device with high touch sensitivity and high visibility. Background Technology

[0003] Electronic devices can be activated by electrical signals. Some electronic devices may include touch panels configured to sense various inputs applied from the outside. To improve user convenience, touch panels may be used alone or in conjunction with a display device for displaying images. Typically, an electronic device includes multiple electrode patterns to which electrical signals for activating the device are applied. The areas where the electrode patterns to which the electrical signals are applied can be used to display information or respond to touches applied from the outside.

[0004] The information disclosed above in this section is only for understanding the background of the inventive concept, and therefore may contain information that does not constitute prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Some exemplary embodiments are able to provide an electronic device with high touch sensitivity, regardless of its shape.

[0006] Some exemplary embodiments are capable of providing an electronic device configured to prevent (or at least reduce) the presence of a sensor from being detected by a user through reflection of external light.

[0007] Other aspects will be set forth in the detailed description below, and will be apparent in part from disclosure or may be learned by practice of the inventive concept.

[0008] According to some exemplary embodiments, an electronic device includes a first electrode, a second electrode, and a third electrode. The first electrode includes a first boundary side extending in one direction. The second electrode includes a second boundary side extending in the same direction and facing the first boundary side. The second electrode is spaced apart from the first electrode in an intersecting direction intersecting the first direction and is electrically disconnected from the first electrode. The third electrode is disposed between the first and second boundary sides and is spaced apart from the first and second electrodes. The third electrode includes a first side facing the first boundary side and a second side facing the second boundary side. At least one of the first and second side sides includes a plurality of protruding patterns spaced apart from each other in the same direction. The first and second side sides have shapes asymmetrical relative to a central axis extending in the same direction.

[0009] According to some exemplary embodiments, an electronic device includes a first sensor and a second sensor. The first sensor includes a plurality of sensor electrodes spaced apart from and electrically connected to each other in a first direction. The second sensor includes a plurality of sensor electrodes spaced apart from and electrically connected to each other in a second direction intersecting the first direction. Each of the plurality of sensor electrodes in one of the first and second sensors includes a sensor portion and a floating pattern portion. The sensor portion is adjacent to another sensor electrode. The floating pattern portion is spaced apart from the other sensor electrode such that the sensor portion is disposed between them. The floating pattern portion is electrically disconnected from the sensor portion.

[0010] The foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory, and are intended to provide further explanation of the claimed subject matter. Attached Figure Description

[0011] The accompanying drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the inventive concept, wherein the drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the inventive concept and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification.

[0012] Figure 1 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating an electronic device according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0013] Figure 2 This illustrates some exemplary embodiments. Figure 1 A plan view of a portion of an electronic device.

[0014] Figure 3A This illustrates some exemplary embodiments. Figure 2 A magnified plan view of the area.

[0015] Figure 3B and Figure 3C All are shown according to some exemplary embodiments. Figure 3A A plan view of a portion of the structure shown in the figure.

[0016] Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figure 4C The diagrams show plan views of some auxiliary electrodes according to various exemplary embodiments.

[0017] Figure 5A This is an enlarged plan view showing a region of an electronic device according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0018] Figure 5B This illustrates some exemplary embodiments. Figure 5A A plan view of a portion of the structure shown in the figure.

[0019] Figure 6A and Figure 6B This is a plan view illustrating a touch structure according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0020] Figure 7A This illustrates some exemplary embodiments. Figure 6A An enlarged plan view of the area of ​​the structure shown in the figure.

[0021] Figure 7B and Figure 7C This illustrates some exemplary embodiments. Figure 7A The diagram shows a partial plan view of the structure.

[0022] Figure 7D This is a plan view showing a portion of an electronic device according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0023] Figure 8A This illustrates some exemplary embodiments. Figure 6A An enlarged plan view of the area of ​​the electronic device shown in the image.

[0024] Figure 8B and Figure 8C This illustrates some exemplary embodiments. Figure 8A The enlarged plan view of region XX' shown in the figure.

[0025] Figure 9 This illustrates some exemplary embodiments. Figure 8B A plan view of a portion of the electrode pattern shown in the figure.

[0026] Figure 10 This is an enlarged plan view showing a region of an electronic device according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0027] Figure 11A , Figure 11B and Figure 11C This is an enlarged plan view showing a region of an electronic device according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0028] Figure 12 This is a perspective view illustrating an electronic device according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0029] Figure 13A This illustrates some exemplary embodiments. Figure 12 An enlarged plan view of the area of ​​the electronic device shown in the image.

[0030] Figure 13B It is based on some exemplary embodiments along Figure 13A The sectional view taken by section line I-I'.

[0031] Figure 14AThis is a block diagram schematically illustrating an electronic device according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0032] Figure 14B This illustrates an operation according to some exemplary embodiments. Figure 14A The diagram shows the timing of the changes in the drive signal of the electronic device.

[0033] Figure 15A and Figure 15B This is a block diagram illustrating the operation of an electronic device in one mode according to some exemplary embodiments.

[0034] Figure 16A and Figure 16B This is a block diagram illustrating the operation of an electronic device in one mode according to some exemplary embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0035] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth for illustrative purposes to provide a thorough understanding of the various exemplary embodiments. However, it will be apparent that various exemplary embodiments may be implemented without these specific details or in one or more equivalent arrangements. In other instances, well-known structures and arrangements are shown in block diagram form to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the various exemplary embodiments. Furthermore, the various exemplary embodiments may differ, but are not necessarily exclusive. For example, a particular shape, construction, and characteristic of an exemplary embodiment may be implemented in another exemplary embodiment without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

[0036] Unless otherwise stated, the exemplary embodiments shown are to be understood as providing exemplary features of different details of some exemplary embodiments. Therefore, unless otherwise stated, features, components, modules, layers, membranes, panels, regions, aspects, etc. (hereinafter referred to individually or collectively as “elements”) of various examples may be additionally combined, separated, interchanged and / or rearranged without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

[0037] Crosshairs and / or shading used in the accompanying drawings are typically provided to clarify the boundaries between adjacent elements. Thus, unless otherwise stated, the presence or absence of crosshairs or shading does not express or indicate any preference or requirement for the specific material, material properties, size, scale, commonalities between the elements shown, or any other characteristics, properties, etc. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the dimensions and relative dimensions of elements may be exaggerated for clarity and / or descriptive purposes. A particular process sequence may be performed in a different order than that described when exemplary embodiments can be implemented differently. For example, two consecutively described processes may be performed substantially simultaneously or in the reverse order of their description. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same elements.

[0038] When an element is referred to as being "on" another element, "connected to," or "bonded to" another element, the element may be directly on, directly connected to, or directly bonded to the other element, or there may be intermediate elements present. However, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" another element, "directly connected to," or "directly bonded to" another element, there are no intermediate elements present. Therefore, the term "connection" can refer to a physical connection, an electrical connection, and / or a fluid connection. For the purposes of this disclosure, "at least one of X, Y, and Z" and "at least one selected from the group consisting of X, Y, and Z" can be interpreted as only X, only Y, only Z, or any combination of two or more of X, Y, and Z (e.g., XYZ, XYY, YZ, and ZZ, for example). As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0039] Although the terms “first,” “second,” etc., may be used here to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element from another. Therefore, without departing from the publicly stated teachings, the first element discussed below may be referred to as the second element.

[0040] For descriptive purposes, spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “below,” “down,” “above,” “above,” “higher than,” and “on the side” (e.g., as in a “sidewall”) may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element to other elements as shown in the accompanying drawings. Spatial relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use, operation, and / or manufacture, in addition to those depicted in the drawings. For example, if the device in the drawings 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” could include both above and below orientations. Furthermore, the device may be otherwise positioned (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), thus interpreting the spatial relative descriptive terms used herein accordingly.

[0041] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well. Furthermore, when the terms “comprising” and / or “including” and 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. It should also be noted that, as used herein, the terms “substantially,” “about,” and other similar terms are used as approximate terms rather than as terms of degree, and thus are used to account for inherent deviations in measurements, calculations, and / or values ​​provided that would be recognized by those skilled in the art.

[0042] Various exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional views and / or exploded views that are schematic diagrams of idealized exemplary embodiments and / or intermediate structures. Thus, variations in the illustrated shapes, for example, due to manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances, will be expected. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein should not be construed as limited to the shapes of the specifically shown areas, but will include, for example, deviations in shape due to manufacturing processes. In this way, the areas shown in the drawings are schematic in nature, and the shapes of these areas may not represent the actual shapes of the areas of the device, and thus, are not intended to be limiting.

[0043] In accordance with the conventions of the art, exemplary embodiments are described and illustrated in the accompanying drawings based on functional blocks, units, and / or modules. Those skilled in the art will understand that these blocks, units, and / or modules are physically implemented via electronic (or optical) circuitry (such as logic circuits, discrete components, microprocessors, hardwired circuits, storage elements, wiring connections, etc.) that can be formed using semiconductor-based manufacturing techniques or other manufacturing techniques. In the case of implementing blocks, units, and / or modules via microprocessors or other similar hardware, they can be programmed and controlled using software (e.g., microcode) to perform the various functions discussed herein, and can optionally be driven by firmware and / or software. It is also contemplated that each block, unit, and / or module can be implemented via dedicated hardware, or as a combination of dedicated hardware performing certain functions and processors performing other functions (e.g., one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuitry). Furthermore, without departing from the spirit and scope of the inventive concept, each block, unit, and / or module of some exemplary embodiments may be physically separated into two or more interactive and discrete blocks, units, and / or modules. Furthermore, without departing from the spirit and scope of the inventive concept, blocks, units and / or modules of some exemplary embodiments may be physically combined into more complex blocks, units and / or modules.

[0044] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure is a part. Unless expressly defined herein, terms (such as those defined in a general dictionary) shall be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant field and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formalized sense.

[0045] Figure 1 This is a perspective view schematically illustrating an electronic device according to some exemplary embodiments. Figure 2 This illustrates some exemplary embodiments. Figure 1 A plan view of a portion of the electronic device. Referring to the following text... Figure 1 and Figure 2 Describe electronic device 1000.

[0046] Electronic device 1000 may be configured to sense touch TC applied from the outside. Touch TC may include various inputs provided to electronic device 1000 from the outside. For example, touch TC may include various types of external inputs (such as at least one of a user's body part, a stylus, light, heat, and pressure). For convenience, a user's finger is shown and described as an example of touch TC.

[0047] The electronic device 1000 may also be configured to sense touches that occur when an object (e.g., a finger) touches or is near the electronic device 1000. The electronic device 1000 may be configured to sense various types of inputs, but the inventive concept is not limited to any particular one.

[0048] When viewed in a plan view (e.g., when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the first direction DR1 and the second direction DR2), the electronic device 1000 can be divided into an effective area AA and a peripheral area NAA. The effective area AA can be activated, for example, when an electrical signal is applied thereto, to sense external touch.

[0049] According to some exemplary embodiments, the effective area AA may be defined as overlapping with the center of the electronic device 1000. However, the inventive concept is not limited to this example. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, depending on the usage mode of the electronic device 1000, the effective area AA may be defined closer to the edge or side of the electronic device 1000.

[0050] The peripheral area NAA can be defined as being adjacent to the effective area AA, such as being outside the effective area AA. The electronic device 1000 may not detect external touches applied to the peripheral area NAA.

[0051] Figure 1 An example is shown defining a peripheral region NAA in the form of a frame surrounding the effective region AA. However, the inventive concept is not limited to this example, and the peripheral region NAA can have various shapes. In some exemplary embodiments, the entire top surface of the electronic device 1000 can be defined as the effective region AA, and the peripheral region NAA can be omitted.

[0052] Electronic device 1000 may include a substrate structure 100 and a touch structure 200. The substrate structure 100 may serve as a base layer on which the touch structure 200 is disposed. For example, the substrate structure 100 may be an insulating substrate or insulating film formed of an insulating material (e.g., at least one of glass and polymer resin). When the substrate structure 100 is an insulating substrate, the electronic device 1000 may have increased rigidity. When the substrate structure 100 is an insulating film, the electronic device 1000 may have increased flexibility.

[0053] The substrate structure 100 can be a multilayer structure in which multiple organic layers and / or multiple inorganic layers are stacked. This allows the electronic device 1000 to have a thin structure. However, the inventive concept is not limited to the examples described above. For example, in embodiments of the inventive concept, the structure of the substrate structure 100 can be modified in various ways.

[0054] The touch structure 200 can be disposed on one of the surfaces of the substrate structure 100. Figure 1 An example is shown in which the touch structure 200 is disposed on the top surface of the substrate structure 100, but the inventive concept is not limited thereto. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, the touch structure 200 may be disposed on the bottom surface of the substrate structure 100. In other exemplary embodiments, the touch structure 200 may be disposed on more than one surface of the substrate structure 100 (such as the top surface and the bottom surface of the substrate structure 100).

[0055] Externally applied touches can be primarily sensed by the touch structure 200. The touch structure 200 may include multiple first electrodes SP1 (below, first sensor electrodes SP1), multiple second electrodes SP2 (below, second sensor electrodes SP2), multiple first interconnects SL1, multiple second interconnects SL2, multiple first pads PD1, and multiple second pads PD2.

[0056] The first sensor electrode SP1 can be arranged on the first direction DR1. The first sensor electrode SP1 can be configured to form multiple rows arranged on the second direction DR2. The first sensor electrodes SP1 in each row can be electrically connected to each other through a first connecting portion (not shown) to form a first sensor SS1. Therefore, the first sensors SS1 can be arranged on the second direction DR2, and each of them can extend on the first direction DR1.

[0057] The second sensor electrode SP2 can be arranged on the second direction DR2. The second sensor electrode SP2 can be configured to form multiple columns arranged on the first direction DR1. The second sensor electrodes SP2 in each column can be electrically connected to each other through a second connecting part (not shown), thereby forming a second sensor SS2. Therefore, the second sensors SS2 can be arranged on the first direction DR1, and each of them can extend on the second direction DR2.

[0058] The number of first sensor electrodes SP1 can be the same as or different from the number of second sensor electrodes SP2. The number of first sensor electrodes SP1 and second sensor electrodes SP2 can be varied depending on the shape and area of ​​the effective region AA.

[0059] The first sensor SS1 and the second sensor SS2 can be configured to cross each other and can be electrically disconnected from each other (e.g., electrically insulated from each other). The change in self-capacitance of each of the first sensor SS1 and the second sensor SS2, or the change in mutual capacitance between the first sensor SS1 and the second sensor SS2, can be used to sense a touch applied from the outside. The effective area AA can be the area where the first sensor electrode SP1 and the second sensor electrode SP2 are arranged.

[0060] The first interconnect line SL1 and the second interconnect line SL2 can be connected to the first sensor SS1 and the second sensor SS2, respectively. The first interconnect line SL1 can be connected to the corresponding first sensor SS1 located at the end of the first sensor SS1, and the second interconnect line SL2 can be connected to the corresponding second sensor SS2 located at the end of the second sensor SS2.

[0061] The first pad PD1 can be connected to the first interconnect SL1, and the second pad PD2 can be connected to the second interconnect SL2. The first pad PD1 and the second pad PD2 can be electrically connected to a driving section (not shown) located outside the touch structure 200. The driving section can be configured to transmit electrical signals to or receive electrical signals from the touch structure 200 via the first pad PD1 and the second pad PD2. The electrical signals may include driving signals and power signals applied to the touch structure 200, as well as sensing signals transmitted from the touch structure 200.

[0062] The first pad PD1 and the second pad PD2 are shown arranged in a row on the first direction DR1, but in some exemplary embodiments, the first pad PD1 and the second pad PD2 may be arranged alternately or may be arranged in a partially separated manner. In some exemplary embodiments, the first pad PD1 and the second pad PD2 may be located at different positions on the touch structure 200, thereby forming various arrangements.

[0063] In an exemplary embodiment, the electronic device 1000 may further include a plurality of third electrodes IMP (hereinafter, auxiliary electrodes IMP). The auxiliary electrodes IMP may be arranged between the first sensor electrode SP1 and the second sensor electrode SP2.

[0064] Each auxiliary electrode IMP can be disposed between the first sensor electrode SP1 and the second sensor electrode SP2. Each auxiliary electrode IMP can be electrically disconnected not only from the first sensor electrode SP1 but also from the second sensor electrode SP2. The auxiliary electrode IMP can be a floating electrode to which no additional electrical signals from the outside are applied. Therefore, no additional signal lines connected to the auxiliary electrode IMP are required.

[0065] Each auxiliary electrode IMP may include a side facing the first sensor electrode SP1 and another side facing the second sensor electrode SP2. Here, the side facing the first sensor electrode SP1 may have a different shape than the other side facing the second sensor electrode SP2. This will be described in more detail below.

[0066] According to some exemplary embodiments, each of the first sensor electrode SP1 and the second sensor electrode SP2 may include a boundary side adapted to engage with the side of each auxiliary electrode IMP. Therefore, a pair of first sensor electrodes SP1 and second sensor electrodes SP2 facing each other and disposed therebetween may include side sides with different shapes. This will be described in more detail below.

[0067] According to an exemplary embodiment, the electronic device 1000 may include auxiliary electrodes IMP, each auxiliary electrode IMP having two sides of a different shape. Because the auxiliary electrodes IMP are further disposed within the electronic device 1000, it is possible to improve the invisibility and touch sensitivity of the touch structure 200. This will be described in more detail below.

[0068] Figure 3A This illustrates some exemplary embodiments. Figure 2 An enlarged plan view of the area. Figure 3B and Figure 3C All are shown according to some exemplary embodiments. Figure 3A A plan view of a portion of the structure shown. For example, Figure 3A The diagram shows a region in which a pair of first sensor electrodes SP1_A and SP1_B and a pair of second sensor electrodes SP2_A and SP2_B are arranged. Here, the first sensor electrodes SP1_A and SP1_B may be the first sensor electrode SP1 (e.g., see...). Figure 2 The two interconnected second sensor electrodes SP2_A and SP2_B can be the second sensor electrode SP2 (for example, see...). Figure 2 The two that are electrically disconnected from the first sensor electrodes SP1_A and SP1_B.

[0069] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 3A to 3C Description of an electronic device 1000 according to some exemplary embodiments (e.g., Figure 1 (Electronic device 1000). For the purpose of brevity, the previous reference is... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The elements described may be identified by similar or identical reference numerals without repeating their descriptions.

[0070] like Figure 3AAs shown, a pair of first sensor electrodes SP1_A and SP1_B may include a left first sensor electrode SP1_A and a right first sensor electrode SP1_B connected to each other in the first direction DR1, and a pair of second sensor electrodes SP2_A and SP2_B may include an upper second sensor electrode SP2_A and a lower second sensor electrode SP2_B connected to each other in the second direction DR2. The left first sensor electrode SP1_A and the right first sensor electrode SP1_B can be connected to each other through a first connecting portion CP1 extending in the first direction DR1.

[0071] The upper second sensor electrode SP2_A and the lower second sensor electrode SP2_B can be connected to each other via a second connecting portion CP2 extending in the second direction DR2. In some exemplary embodiments, the first connecting portion CP1 can be disposed on the same layer as the left first sensor electrode SP1_A and the right first sensor electrode SP1_B, and can be disposed as a single entity with the left first sensor electrode SP1_A and the right first sensor electrode SP1_B.

[0072] The second connection portion CP2 can be configured to cross (e.g., overlap) the first connection portion CP1 and can be electrically disconnected from the first connection portion CP1, but the inventive concept is not limited thereto. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, the second connection portion CP2 can be disposed below the first connection portion CP1, or it can be disposed on the same layer as the upper second sensor electrode SP2_A and the lower second sensor electrode SP2_B to form a single unit with the upper second sensor electrode SP2_A and the lower second sensor electrode SP2_B. Even in such exemplary embodiments, the first connection portion CP1 can be configured to intersect with the second connection portion CP2 and can be electrically disconnected from the second connection portion CP2.

[0073] Auxiliary electrode IMP (e.g., see Figure 2 The four sensor electrodes SP1_A, SP1_B, SP2_A, and SP2_B can be positioned between corresponding pairs. In some exemplary embodiments, the auxiliary electrode IMP may include a first auxiliary electrode IMP_A, a second auxiliary electrode IMP_B, a third auxiliary electrode IMP_C, and a fourth auxiliary electrode IMP_D arranged in a clockwise direction.

[0074] For convenience, Figure 3B The first auxiliary electrode IMP_A is shown as an example of an auxiliary electrode IMP. (Example:) Figure 3B As shown, the first auxiliary electrode IMP_A can be an auxiliary electrode located between the first boundary side SP1_BS1 of the right first sensor electrode SP1_B and the first boundary side SP2_BS1 of the upper second sensor electrode SP2_A.

[0075] The first auxiliary electrode IMP_A may extend in the third direction DR3, thereby having a length defined in the third direction DR3 and a width defined in the fourth direction DR4. The first auxiliary electrode IMP_A may include a first side S1 and a second side S2 extending in the third direction DR3 and facing each other.

[0076] The first side S1 can be the side adjacent to the right first sensor electrode SP1_B. The second side S2 can be the side adjacent to the upper second sensor electrode SP2_A. Therefore, the first side S1 can be the side facing the first boundary side SP1_BS1 of the right first sensor electrode SP1_B, and the second side S2 can be the side facing the first boundary side SP2_BS1 of the upper second sensor electrode SP2_A.

[0077] The width of the first auxiliary electrode IMP_A can vary along the third direction DR3. For example, the first auxiliary electrode IMP_A can have a first width d1 at a specific location and a second width d2 greater than the first width d1 at another location spaced apart from the specific location along the third direction DR3. The width variation of the first auxiliary electrode IMP_A along the third direction DR3 can depend on the shape of each of the first side S1 and the second side S2.

[0078] The central axis CX can be defined within the first auxiliary electrode IMP_A. The central axis CX can be a straight line extending along the third direction DR3. The central axis CX can pass through the first auxiliary electrode IMP_A. Given that the first auxiliary electrode IMP_A has a varying width, the central axis CX can be defined to pass through the center of the portion with the minimum width. Therefore, the central axis CX can pass through the center of the portion with a width of a first width d1.

[0079] In some exemplary embodiments, the first auxiliary electrode IMP_A may have an asymmetrical shape relative to the central axis CX. Here, symmetry means linear symmetry. For the purposes of this disclosure, symmetry means symmetry of the first auxiliary electrode IMP_A viewed as a whole, rather than symmetry at a specific location.

[0080] The first auxiliary electrode IMP_A can be divided into a first part P1 and a second part P2 relative to the central axis CX. The first part P1 and the second part P2 can have asymmetrical shapes relative to the central axis CX. For example, the first part P1 can include a first side S1, and the second part P2 can include a second side S2. The first side S1 can have a different shape than the second side S2.

[0081] At least one of the first side S1 and the second side S2 may include a plurality of protrusion patterns. In some exemplary embodiments, each of the first side S1 and the second side S2 may include a first protrusion pattern RP-S1 or a second protrusion pattern RP-S2.

[0082] The first protrusion pattern RP-S1 can be a pattern that protrudes in the direction from the central axis CX toward the right first sensor electrode SP1_B. The first protrusion pattern RP-S1 can have a first pitch PT1. The first protrusion pattern RP-S1 can be repeated on the third direction DR3 every first pitch PT1.

[0083] The second protrusion pattern RP-S2 can be a pattern protruding towards the upper second sensor electrode SP2_A. The second protrusion pattern RP-S2 can be arranged with a second pitch PT2. The second protrusion pattern RP-S2 can be repeated on the third direction DR3 every second pitch PT2.

[0084] The first pitch PT1 and the second pitch PT2 can be different from each other. In some exemplary embodiments, the first pitch PT1 can be smaller than the second pitch PT2. Thus, the first portion P1 can have a portion whose width is different from that of the portion of the second portion P2. For example, even when the third width d3 and the fourth width d4 are measured from the same position on the central axis CX in the third direction DR3, the third width d3 and the fourth width d4 can be different from each other. Therefore, the first protrusion pattern RP-S1 and the second protrusion pattern RP-S2 can be set to be asymmetrical with respect to the central axis CX.

[0085] According to some exemplary embodiments, the first portion P1 and the second portion P2 may have different areas (e.g., surface areas) from each other. Because the first auxiliary electrode IMP_A according to embodiments of the inventive concept includes a first portion P1 and a second portion P2 whose pitch, shape, and area are different from each other, it is possible to achieve an asymmetrical shape relative to the central axis CX.

[0086] exist Figure 3C The image shows, by way of example only, the right first sensor electrode SP1_B and the upper second sensor electrode SP2_A. Figure 3C As shown, the boundary side of each of the right first sensor electrode SP1_B and the upper second sensor electrode SP2_A may have a shape that engages with the first side S1 or the second side S2 of the adjacent auxiliary electrode.

[0087] For example, the right first sensor electrode SP1_B may have a first boundary side SP1_BS1, a second boundary side SP1_BS2, a third boundary side SP1_BS3, and a fourth boundary side SP1_BS4, each of which has a shape capable of engaging with the first side S1. Furthermore, the upper second sensor electrode SP2_A may have a first boundary side SP2_BS1, a second boundary side SP2_BS2, a third boundary side SP2_BS3, and a fourth boundary side SP2_BS4, each of which has a shape capable of engaging with the second side S2.

[0088] Therefore, the right first sensor electrode SP1_B and the upper second sensor electrode SP2_A may include boundary sides of different shapes, wherein the right first sensor electrode SP1_B and the upper second sensor electrode SP2_A are disposed adjacent to each other and the central axis CX is placed therebetween. For example, the first boundary side SP1_BS1 of the right first sensor electrode SP1_B and the first boundary side SP2_BS1 of the upper second sensor electrode SP2_A may have shapes that are asymmetrical with respect to the central axis CX, wherein the first boundary side SP1_BS1 of the right first sensor electrode SP1_B and the first boundary side SP2_BS1 of the upper second sensor electrode SP2_A are disposed adjacent to each other and the central axis CX of the first auxiliary electrode IMP_A is placed therebetween.

[0089] According to some exemplary embodiments, the electronic device 1000 may also include auxiliary electrodes of various shapes, wherein the auxiliary electrodes between adjacent sensor electrodes can be designed with different shapes on their sides facing the sensor electrodes. Furthermore, the shapes of the auxiliary electrodes can be designed to give the boundary sides of the sensor electrodes various shapes. Therefore, the degree of freedom in designing the shape of the sensor electrodes can be increased.

[0090] Figures 4A to 4C These are plan views illustrating some auxiliary electrodes according to various exemplary embodiments. In the following text, reference will be made to... Figures 4A to 4C Describe the various shapes of auxiliary electrodes IMP_1, IMP_2, and IMP_3.

[0091] like Figure 4AAs shown, the auxiliary electrode IMP_1 may include a first portion P1-1 and a second portion P2-1 that are asymmetrical with respect to the central axis CX. The first portion P1-1 may include a first side S1-1 containing a plurality of first protrusion patterns RP-S11, and the second portion P2-1 may include a second side S2-1 containing a plurality of second protrusion patterns RP-S21.

[0092] The first protrusion pattern RP-S11 and the second protrusion pattern RP-S21 can be configured to have the same pitch. In other words, the first pitch PT1-1 of the first protrusion pattern RP-S11 can be substantially equal to the second pitch PT2-1 of the second protrusion pattern RP-S21. However, the first protrusion pattern RP-S11 and the second protrusion pattern RP-S21 can differ from each other in their protrusion lengths. For example, the first protrusion pattern RP-S11 can have a shorter protrusion length than the second protrusion pattern RP-S21. The first portion P1-1 and the second portion P2-1 can have different areas (e.g., surface areas) from each other.

[0093] According to some exemplary embodiments, since the auxiliary electrode IMP_1 includes a first portion P1-1 and a second portion P2-1 designed to have the same pitch but different areas, it is possible to realize an auxiliary electrode IMP_1 with an asymmetrical shape relative to the central axis CX.

[0094] like Figure 4B As shown, the auxiliary electrode IMP_2 may include a first portion P1-2 and a second portion P2-2 that are asymmetrical with respect to the central axis CX. The first portion P1-2 may include a first side S1-2 containing a plurality of first protrusion patterns RP-S12, and the second portion P2-2 may include a second side S2-2 containing a plurality of second protrusion patterns RP-S22.

[0095] The first protrusion pattern RP-S12 and the second protrusion pattern RP-S22 can have substantially the same pitch. In other words, the first pitch PT1-2 of the first protrusion pattern RP-S12 can be substantially equal to the second pitch PT2-2 of the second protrusion pattern RP-S22. Furthermore, the first protrusion pattern RP-S12 and the second protrusion pattern RP-S22 can have the same protrusion length. The first portion P1-2 and the second portion P2-2 can have substantially the same area. However, the first protrusion pattern RP-S12 and the second protrusion pattern RP-S22 can be arranged to be offset from each other (e.g., not linearly symmetrical with respect to the central axis CX) or to be offset from each other. In some exemplary embodiments, the first protrusion pattern RP-S12 and the second protrusion pattern RP-S22 can be arranged in such a way that they do not overlap each other in the fourth direction DR4. For example, when the auxiliary electrode IMP_2 is folded relative to the central axis CX, the first protrusion pattern RP-S12 and the second protrusion pattern RP-S22 may not overlap each other. However, in some exemplary embodiments, the first protrusion pattern RP-S12 and the second protrusion pattern RP-S22 may be partially superimposed on each other.

[0096] Therefore, according to some exemplary embodiments, the auxiliary electrode IMP_2 may include a first portion P1-2 and a second portion P2-2 configured to have the same pitch and area, and the protrusion pattern is designed to include portions that are asymmetrical with respect to each other. In this way, it is possible to achieve an auxiliary electrode IMP_2 with an asymmetrical shape relative to the central axis CX.

[0097] like Figure 4C As shown, the auxiliary electrode IMP_3 may include a first portion P1-3 and a second portion P2-3 that are asymmetrical with respect to the central axis CX. The second portion P2-3 may include a second side S2-3 containing a plurality of second protrusion patterns RP-S23. The second protrusion patterns RP-S23 may be arranged sequentially at pitch PT2-3 on the third direction DR3. However, the first portion P1-3 may not have protrusion patterns. The first portion P1-3 may include a first side S1-3 extending on the third direction DR3 and having a straight line shape. Therefore, the first portion P1-3 and the second portion P2-3 may be asymmetrical with respect to the central axis CX.

[0098] In some exemplary embodiments, by controlling the shapes of the first portion P1-3 and the second portion P2-3 differently, the auxiliary electrode IMP_3 can be designed to have asymmetrical sides relative to the central axis CX. According to some exemplary embodiments, the electronic device 1000 may include auxiliary electrodes of various shapes, but the inventive concept is not limited to any of such embodiments.

[0099] Figure 5AThis is an enlarged plan view showing a region of an electronic device according to some exemplary embodiments. Figure 5B This illustrates some exemplary embodiments. Figure 5A The diagram shows a partial plan view of the structure. For ease of explanation, Figure 5A It shows the relationship with Figure 3A The region corresponding to the region.

[0100] exist Figure 5A The example shows a left first sensor electrode SP1-1_A and a right first sensor electrode SP1-1_B connected to each other, and an upper second sensor electrode SP2-1_A and a lower second sensor electrode SP2-1_B that are electrically disconnected from the two first sensor electrodes SP1-1_A and SP1-1_B.

[0101] Auxiliary electrodes IMP-1_A, IMP-1_B, IMP-1_C, and IMP-1_D can be disposed between corresponding pairs of the four sensor electrodes SP1-1_A, SP1-1_B, SP2-1_A, and SP2-1_B. Auxiliary electrodes IMP-1_A, IMP-1_B, IMP-1_C, and IMP-1_D can include a first auxiliary electrode IMP-1_A, a second auxiliary electrode IMP-1_B, a third auxiliary electrode IMP-1_C, and a fourth auxiliary electrode IMP-1_D arranged in a clockwise direction.

[0102] According to some exemplary embodiments, the first auxiliary electrode IMP-1_A, the second auxiliary electrode IMP-1_B, the third auxiliary electrode IMP-1_C, and the fourth auxiliary electrode IMP-1_D can be configured to be rotatable. For example, the second auxiliary electrode IMP-1_B can be configured to be 90° rotationally symmetrical with respect to the first auxiliary electrode IMP-1_A, the third auxiliary electrode IMP-1_C can be configured to be 180° rotationally symmetrical with respect to the first auxiliary electrode IMP-1_A, and the fourth auxiliary electrode IMP-1_D can be configured to be 270° rotationally symmetrical with respect to the first auxiliary electrode IMP-1_A. In this way, the first auxiliary electrode IMP-1_A, the second auxiliary electrode IMP-1_B, the third auxiliary electrode IMP-1_C, and the fourth auxiliary electrode IMP-1_D may not be the same as the corresponding facing side of one of the four sensor electrodes SP1-1_A, SP1-1_B, SP2-1_A, and SP2-1_B at their respective boundary sides.

[0103] For example, in the case of the upper second sensor electrode SP2-1_A, the side of the first auxiliary electrode IMP-1_A adjacent to the first boundary side SP2-1_BS1 of the upper second sensor electrode SP2-1_A and the side of the fourth auxiliary electrode IMP-1_D adjacent to the second boundary side SP2-1_BS2 of the upper second sensor electrode SP2-1_A can be different sides constructed differently from each other.

[0104] According to some exemplary embodiments, the auxiliary electrodes can be arranged in various shapes. Furthermore, although not shown, the first auxiliary electrode IMP-1_A, the second auxiliary electrode IMP-1_B, the third auxiliary electrode IMP-1_C, and the fourth auxiliary electrode IMP-1_D can have different shapes from each other. According to exemplary embodiments, electronic devices may include auxiliary electrodes having various shapes and arrangements, but the inventive concept is not limited thereto.

[0105] At the same time, refer to Figure 5B According to some exemplary embodiments, the sensor electrode (e.g., the upper second sensor electrode SP2-1_A) may include boundary sides with different shapes. As an example, for the upper second sensor electrode SP2-1_A, the first boundary side SP2-1_BS1 and the second boundary side SP2-1_BS2 may have different shapes from each other.

[0106] In the case that each of the first boundary side SP2-1_BS1 and the second boundary side SP2-1_BS2 of the upper second sensor electrode SP2-1_A has a shape that engages with an adjacent one of the auxiliary electrodes IMP-1_A and IMP-1_D, the first boundary side SP2-1_BS1 and the second boundary side SP2-1_BS2 of the upper second sensor electrode SP2-1_A can have different shapes due to the auxiliary electrodes IMP-1_A and IMP-1_D.

[0107] Therefore, according to some exemplary embodiments, the sensor electrode can be designed to have various boundary sides. The shorter the distance between the boundary sides of the sensor electrode and the auxiliary electrode, the larger the area of ​​the sensor electrode, which can improve the touch sensitivity of the electronic device.

[0108] In some exemplary embodiments, touch sensitivity can be affected by the sum of the lengths of each boundary side and the distance between the opposing boundary sides of the sensor electrodes. In electronic devices according to some exemplary embodiments, at least one side of each auxiliary electrode can be configured to form a plurality of patterns, and the boundary sides of the sensor electrodes can be designed to have a shape that contacts the plurality of patterns. Therefore, it is possible to improve the touch sensitivity of the electronic device.

[0109] According to some exemplary embodiments, by designing the shapes of the sensor electrodes and auxiliary electrodes differently, it is possible to improve the touch sensitivity of the electronic device and prevent (or at least reduce) the degradation of the device's visibility. According to some exemplary embodiments, it is possible to provide a comfortable touch environment for the user.

[0110] Figure 6A and Figure 6B This is a plan view illustrating a touch structure according to some exemplary embodiments. For ease of illustration, in Figure 6A and Figure 6B In the image, the dashed lines depict the base structure 100 on which each of the touch structures 200-1 and 200-2 is disposed. Referring below... Figure 6A and Figure 6B This describes an electronic device according to some exemplary embodiments. For the purpose of brevity, previous references... Figures 1 to 5B The elements described may be identified by similar or identical reference numerals without repeating their descriptions.

[0111] like Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown, each of the first sensor electrode SP1-2 and the second sensor electrode SP2-2 may include multiple grid lines MSL. The grid lines MSL may include multiple first grid lines MSL1 and multiple second grid lines MSL2.

[0112] The first grid line MSL1 can extend in the third direction DR3 and can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the fourth direction DR4. The second grid line MSL2 can extend in the fourth direction DR4 and can be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the third direction DR3. The first grid line MSL1 and the second grid line MSL2 can be set on the same layer to intersect each other, thereby connecting with each other.

[0113] like Figure 6A As shown, the first sensor electrodes SP1-2 can be connected to each other in the first direction DR1. The first sensor electrodes SP1-2 in each row can be electrically connected to each other via a first connecting portion (not shown). As described above, each row can correspond to the first sensor SS1 (for example, see...). Figure 2 ).

[0114] The second sensor electrodes SP2-2 can be connected to each other in the second direction DR2. The second sensor electrodes SP2-2 in each column can be electrically connected to each other via the second connecting portion CP2. As described above, each column can correspond to the second sensor SS2 (for example, see...). Figure 2 ).

[0115] According to some exemplary embodiments, the first sensor SS1 in each row and the second sensor SS2 in each column can be connected to multiple signal lines. For example, those of the first sensors SS1 located on one side can be connected to the first group of first pads PD1_1 via the first interconnect line SL1_1, and those of the first sensors SS1 located on the opposite side can be connected to the first group of second pads PD1_2 via the second interconnect line SL1_2.

[0116] Those second sensors SS2 located on one side can be connected to the second group of first pads PD2_1 via a third interconnect SL2_1, and those second sensors SS2 located on the opposite side can be connected to the second group of second pads PD2_2 via a fourth interconnect SL2_2. In the touch structure 200-1 according to some exemplary embodiments, multiple interconnects can be connected to a single sensor, which can reduce the degradation of sensitivity caused by voltage drop at location-dependent electrical signals.

[0117] According to some exemplary embodiments, the electronic device can operate in two different modes (e.g., self-capacitance mode and mutual capacitance mode). Here, a first or second pad included in a particular group can be connected to a different driving circuit than a first or second pad included in another group. For example, a first group of first pads PD1_1 and a first group of second pads PD2_1 connected to a first interconnect SL1_1 and a third interconnect SL2_1 can be connected to a self-capacitance driving section, and a second group of first pads PD1_2 and a second group of second pads PD2_2 connected to a second interconnect SL1_2 and a fourth interconnect SL2_2 can be connected to a mutual capacitance driving section. Therefore, the touch structure 200-1 can operate stably in both different driving modes.

[0118] According to some exemplary embodiments, multiple signal lines can be connected to a single drive section or different drive sections, thus enabling the electronic device to operate in various drive or operating modes. Therefore, the degrees of freedom in operating the electronic device can be increased, and the operating mode can be changed in various ways even in the absence of additional electronic devices (e.g., switching devices). Thus, the electronic device can have expanded usability.

[0119] Optionally, such as Figure 6B As shown, the touch structure 200-2 may include a sensor connected to a single signal line and another sensor connected to multiple signal lines. For example, in the touch structure 200-2, with... Figure 6A The touch structure 200-1 differs from the previous one in that the first interconnect line SL1_1 can be omitted. Similarly, in the touch structure 200-2, one of the first group of first pads PD1_1 and the second group of first pads PD1_2 can be omitted. Figure 6BAs seen in the example, a touch structure 200-2 in which the first set of first pads PD1_1 is omitted is shown.

[0120] Therefore, the second sensor SS2, arranged in a column on the first direction DR1, can be connected to the third interconnect SL2_1 and the fourth interconnect SL2_2, but the first sensor SS1, arranged on the second direction DR2 and composed of the first sensor electrodes SP1-2, can be connected only to the second interconnect SL1_2. Thus, the second sensor SS2 can be connected to multiple signal lines located on the upper and lower sides, but the first sensor SS1 can be connected to multiple signal lines located on one side, without connecting to multiple signal lines located on the opposite side.

[0121] Therefore, for the second sensor SS2, which has a relatively large area, the area connected to the signal lines can be enlarged to prevent degradation of the touch sensitivity-dependent area, thus enabling a uniform touch environment. Furthermore, for the first sensor SS1, which has a relatively small area, the number of signal lines used for connection is relatively small, so compared to the second sensor SS2, it is possible to prevent peripheral area NAA (e.g., see...). Figure 1 The area of ​​the signal line increases due to the signal line.

[0122] In some exemplary embodiments, the connection structure between the first sensor SS1 and the signal line may differ from the connection structure between the second sensor SS2 and the signal line. Since the sensors are connected to the signal line in various ways, the electronic device can operate in various ways and can be designed to have various touch structures. However, the inventive concept is not limited to the examples described above; for example, drive signals can be provided to the touch structure in various ways.

[0123] Figure 7A This illustrates some exemplary embodiments. Figure 6A An enlarged plan view of the area of ​​the structure shown in the figure. Figure 7B and Figure 7C This illustrates some exemplary embodiments. Figure 7A The diagram shows a partial plan view of the structure. Figure 7D This is a plan view illustrating a portion of an electronic device according to some exemplary embodiments. For ease of illustration and description, [the following is a partial view of the device]. Figure 7B and Figure 7C The diagram shows components set up on different layers.

[0124] In detail, Figure 7B Multiple components are shown, some of which are in Figure 7A It is shown and included in the first layer A1. Figure 7C Several components are shown, and some of these components are in Figure 7AIt is shown and included in the second layer A2 located on the first layer A1. Referring below, reference will be made to... Figures 7A to 7D One or more exemplary embodiments are described. For the sake of brevity, previous references... Figures 1 to 6B The elements described may be identified by similar or identical reference numerals without repeating their descriptions.

[0125] Figure 7A yes Figure 6A The diagram shows an enlarged view of the region where the first sensor electrode SP1-2 and the second sensor electrode SP2-2 intersect. The diagram exemplarily shows the left first sensor electrode SP1-2_A and the right first sensor electrode SP1-2_B, which are portions of the first sensor electrode SP1-2, and the diagram exemplarily shows the upper second sensor electrode SP2-2_A and the lower second sensor electrode SP2-2_B, which are portions of the second sensor electrode SP2-2.

[0126] As described above, each of the first sensor electrodes SP1-2 and the second sensor electrodes SP2-2 may include a first grid line MSL1 extending in the third direction DR3 and a second grid line MSL2 extending in the fourth direction DR4. For ease of illustration, the opening TS-OP defined by the first grid line MSL1 and the second grid line MSL2 is shown to have the same size.

[0127] Reference Figures 7A to 7C The second connection portion CP2-1 may be located at a different level than the second sensor electrode SP2-1. In some exemplary embodiments, the second connection portion CP2-1 may constitute the first layer A1.

[0128] The second connecting portion CP2-1 may include a first extension EX1 and a second extension EX2, which, when viewed in a plan view, are spaced apart from each other in a first direction DR1. The first extension EX1 and the second extension EX2 may be symmetrical about an axis extending in a second direction DR2. The first extension EX1 and the second extension EX2 may be spaced apart from each other, and the first connecting portion CP1-1 disposed in the second layer A2 is placed therebetween, so the first extension EX1 and the second extension EX2 may not overlap with the first connecting portion CP1-1.

[0129] The first extension EX1 can be stacked with the right first sensor electrode SP1-2_B of one of the adjacent first sensor electrodes SP1-2 to connect the upper second sensor electrode SP2-2_A and the lower second sensor electrode SP2-2_B to each other via, for example, one or more connection holes (or points) CH. The second extension EX2 can be stacked with the left first sensor electrode SP1-2_A of the other adjacent first sensor electrode SP1-2 to connect the upper second sensor electrode SP2-2_A and the lower second sensor electrode SP2-2_B to each other via, for example, one or more connection holes (or points) CH.

[0130] The first extension EX1 may include a first sub-extension EX1_1, a second sub-extension EX1_2, a third sub-extension EX1_3, a fourth sub-extension EX1_4, a fifth sub-extension EX1_5, and a sixth sub-extension EX1_6. The first sub-extension EX1_1 and the third sub-extension EX1_3 may extend in the fourth direction DR4, and the second sub-extension EX1_2 and the fourth sub-extension EX1_4 may extend in the third direction DR3. The first sub-extension EX1_1 and the second sub-extension EX1_2 may be connected to each other, and the third sub-extension EX1_3 and the fourth sub-extension EX1_4 may be connected to each other and may be spaced apart from the first sub-extension EX1_1 and the second sub-extension EX1_2 in the first direction DR1.

[0131] Each of the fifth sub-extension EX1_5 and the sixth sub-extension EX1_6 can connect two separate parts. The fifth sub-extension EX1_5 can connect the first sub-extension EX1_1 to the third sub-extension EX1_3, and the sixth sub-extension EX1_6 can connect the second sub-extension EX1_2 to the fourth sub-extension EX1_4.

[0132] Therefore, multiple sub-extensions can be connected to each other to form a first extension EX1 arranged as a single object. Simultaneously, a fifth sub-extension EX1_5 can be connected to the first sub-extension EX1_1 and the third sub-extension EX1_3, and a sixth sub-extension EX1_6 can be connected to the second sub-extension EX1_2 and the fourth sub-extension EX1_4 to form an opening. This opening can correspond to the opening TS-OP formed by the grid lines MSL.

[0133] Similarly, the second extension EX2 may include a first sub-extension EX2_1, a second sub-extension EX2_2, a third sub-extension EX2_3, a fourth sub-extension EX2_4, a fifth sub-extension EX2_5, and a sixth sub-extension EX2_6 connected to each other. The connection of the first sub-extension EX2_1, the second sub-extension EX2_2, the third sub-extension EX2_3, the fourth sub-extension EX2_4, the fifth sub-extension EX2_5, and the sixth sub-extension EX2_6 can be implemented in a manner substantially the same as the connection manner of the first sub-extension EX1_1, the second sub-extension EX1_2, the third sub-extension EX1_3, the fourth sub-extension EX1_4, the fifth sub-extension EX1_5, and the sixth sub-extension EX1_6 of the first extension EX1, therefore its detailed description will be omitted.

[0134] According to some exemplary embodiments, the second connection portion CP2-1 may be disposed in a layer different from the layers of the first sensor electrode SP1-2, the second sensor electrode SP2-2, and the first connection portion CP1-1. (Refer to...) Figure 7A and Figure 7C The first sensor electrode SP1-2, the second sensor electrode SP2-2, and the first connecting part CP1-1 can have corresponding grid shapes and can form a second layer A2.

[0135] The first connecting portion CP1-1 may be defined as an extension of a portion of the first grid line MSL1 and the second grid line MSL2 that constitute the left first sensor electrode SP1-2_A and the right first sensor electrode SP1-2_B. In some exemplary embodiments, the first connecting portion CP1-1 may have a grid shape in which seven touch openings TS-OP are defined, and may have a shape extending in the first direction DR1.

[0136] The upper second sensor electrode SP2-2_A and the lower second sensor electrode SP2-2_B can be spaced apart from each other so that the first connecting portion CP1-1 is placed between them. The first grid line MSL1 and the second grid line MSL2 can be cut between the upper second sensor electrode SP2-2_A and the first connecting portion CP1-1, and between the lower second sensor electrode SP2-2_B and the first connecting portion CP1-1. Therefore, in the second layer A2, the upper second sensor electrode SP2-2_A, the lower second sensor electrode SP2-2_B, and the first connecting portion CP1-1 can be electrically disconnected from each other.

[0137] The first sensor electrode SP1-2 and the second sensor electrode SP2-2 may include multiple cut portions TS-CP. In each of the left first sensor electrode SP1-2_A and the right first sensor electrode SP1-2_B, the multiple cut portions TS-CP may be spaced apart from each other and may be included in the first grid line MSL1 and the second grid line MSL2, respectively. Similarly, the cut portions TS-CP may be respectively disposed in the upper second sensor electrode SP2-2_A and the lower second sensor electrode SP2-2_B.

[0138] In the left first sensor electrode SP1-2_A and the right first sensor electrode SP1-2_B, there may be areas where the touch opening TS-OP has been removed. In other words, the left first sensor electrode SP1-2_A and the right first sensor electrode SP1-2_B may include areas where the first grid line MSL1 and the second grid line MSL2 have been removed.

[0139] This shape of the first sensor electrode SP1-2 reduces the area of ​​the overlapping region between the second connection portion CP2-1 and the first sensor electrode SP1-2. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the formation of parasitic capacitance between the second connection portion CP2-1 and the first sensor electrode SP1-2, and / or to prevent short circuits during the manufacturing process. Consequently, the electronic device can have improved reliability.

[0140] Reference Figure 7D The second connecting portion CP2-2 can be arranged in the form of a conductive pattern. In this case, compared with a structure arranged in the form of grid lines MSL, the second connecting portion CP2-2 can have a larger surface area and improved conductivity. Therefore, it is possible to construct the electrical connection structure between the upper second sensor electrode SP2-2_A and the lower second sensor electrode SP2-2_B more effectively and improve touch sensitivity.

[0141] Meanwhile, the second connection portion CP2-2 may include a transparent conductive material. Therefore, the second connection portion CP2-2 is virtually undetectable by external users and can reduce visibility degradation. However, the inventive concept is not limited to this example; the structure of the sensor electrodes in the electronic device can be modified in various ways.

[0142] Figure 8A This illustrates some exemplary embodiments. Figure 6A An enlarged plan view of the area of ​​the electronic device shown in the image. Figure 8B and Figure 8C This illustrates some exemplary embodiments. Figure 8A The enlarged plan view of region XX' shown in the figure. Figure 9 This illustrates some exemplary embodiments. Figure 8BA plan view of a portion of the electrode pattern shown in the figure.

[0143] For ease of explanation, Figure 8A In the diagram, the grid lines MSL are not shown. Figure 8A and Figure 8B In the diagram, solid lines are used to depict the cutting lines CL of the cutting grid lines MSL. Furthermore, in... Figure 8B In order to easily distinguish it from the grid lines MSL, the cutting lines CL are depicted with thick black lines. Figure 8C In the diagram, the auxiliary electrode IMP-2_1 is shown as a black shaded pattern. Figure 9 Only the auxiliary electrode IMP-2_1 is shown in the image.

[0144] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 8A , Figure 8B , Figure 8C and Figure 9 This describes an electronic device according to some exemplary embodiments. For the sake of brevity, previous references... Figures 1 to 7D The elements described may be identified by similar or identical reference numerals without repeating their descriptions.

[0145] Multiple auxiliary electrodes IMP-2_1, IMP-2_2, IMP-2_3, and IMP-2_4 can be disposed between the left first sensor electrode SP1-2_A and the right first sensor electrode SP1-2_B, which are connected to each other along the first direction DR1, and between the upper second sensor electrode SP2-2_A and the lower second sensor electrode SP2-2_B, which are connected to each other along the second direction DR2. The auxiliary electrodes IMP-2_1, IMP-2_2, IMP-2_3, and IMP-2_4 may include a first auxiliary electrode IMP-2_1, a second auxiliary electrode IMP-2_2, a third auxiliary electrode IMP-2_3, and a fourth auxiliary electrode IMP-2_4 arranged in a clockwise direction.

[0146] Reference Figure 8B Similar to sensor electrodes SP1-2_A, SP1-2_B, SP2-2_A, and SP2-2_B, the first auxiliary electrode IMP-2_1, the second auxiliary electrode IMP-2_2, the third auxiliary electrode IMP-2_3, and the fourth auxiliary electrode IMP-2_4 can also be composed of multiple grid lines MSL. Figure 8B A portion of the first auxiliary electrode IMP-2_1 is shown as an example.

[0147] The boundaries between sensor electrodes SP1-2_A, SP1-2_B, SP2-2_A, and SP2-2_B and the first auxiliary electrode IMP-2_1, the second auxiliary electrode IMP-2_2, the third auxiliary electrode IMP-2_3, and the fourth auxiliary electrode IMP-2_4 can be defined by a cutting line CL. The cutting line CL can be a line connecting the centers of two adjacent openings TS-OP between which a predetermined grid line MSL is provided. The cutting line CL can cut the grid line MSL that intersects its extending direction.

[0148] Therefore, the cutting line CL may include a segment extending in the extension direction of the first grid line MSL1 or the second grid line MSL2. The cutting line CL may extend or bend partially in the third direction DR3 or the fourth direction DR4 to define the side of the first auxiliary electrode IML-2_1, which includes a plurality of protruding patterns.

[0149] Reference Figure 8B and Figure 8C The cutting line CL can define the side of each of the first auxiliary electrode IMP-2_1, the second auxiliary electrode IMP-2_2, the third auxiliary electrode IMP-2_3, and the fourth auxiliary electrode IMP-2_4, and can define the boundary side of each of the sensor electrodes SP1-2_A, SP1-2_B, SP2-2_A, and SP2-2_B. For example, Figure 8B The cutting line CL shown can be a portion of both sides of the first auxiliary electrode IMP-2_1, a portion of the boundary side of the upper second sensor electrode SP2-2_A, and a portion of the boundary side of the right first sensor electrode SP1-2_B.

[0150] According to some exemplary embodiments, the minimum width of the first auxiliary electrode IMP-2_1 can be the same as that of the opening TS-OP (e.g., see...). Figure 7A The minimum width of an opening defined by the grid line MSL corresponds to this. This can be essentially the minimum distance between the upper second sensor electrode SP2-2_A and the right first sensor electrode SP1-2_B. As mentioned above, the opening TS-OP can correspond to a pixel region. Therefore, the distance between the upper second sensor electrode SP2-2_A and the right first sensor electrode SP1-2_B can be larger than the size of the pixel region.

[0151] Reference Figure 9 The first auxiliary electrode IMP-2_1 may include a first side S1-M facing the boundary side of the right first sensor electrode SP1-2_B and a second side S2-M facing the boundary side of the upper second sensor electrode SP2-2_A. The first side S1-M and the second side S2-M may be asymmetrical in shape with respect to the central axis CX.

[0152] Each of the first side S1-M and the second side S2-M may include multiple protrusion patterns. The first side S1-M may include a first protrusion pattern RP-M_S1 arranged in sequence with a first pitch PT1-M, and the second side S2-M may include a second protrusion pattern RP-M_S2 arranged in sequence with a second pitch PT2-M.

[0153] The first pitch PT1-M and the second pitch PT2-M may be different from each other. In some exemplary embodiments, the first pitch PT1-M is shown to be larger than the second pitch PT2-M.

[0154] The first protrusion pattern RP-M_S1 and the second protrusion pattern RP-M_S2 may have different shapes from each other. In some exemplary embodiments, it is exemplarily shown that each first protrusion pattern RP-M_S1 has an area larger than that of each second protrusion pattern RP-M_S2. Therefore, the first portion P1-4 and the second portion P2-4 may be asymmetrical in their shapes, and as... Figure 9 As can be seen, the first part P1-4 can have a larger area than the second part P2-4.

[0155] According to some exemplary embodiments, the area of ​​each of the first sensor electrodes SP1-2_A and SP1-2_B may be larger than the area of ​​each of the second sensor electrodes SP2-2_A and SP2-2_B. In the effective region AA of the electronic device (e.g., see...), Figure 1 In the case of an electronic device having a rectangular shape defined by relatively long sides and relatively short sides (e.g., parallel to the major and minor axes, respectively), the first sensor electrodes SP1-2_A and SP1-2_B can be arranged in the direction of the minor axis and can be electrodes arranged along the second sensor electrodes SP2-2_A and SP2-2_B. In an electronic device according to some exemplary embodiments, the positions and shapes of the auxiliary electrodes IMP-2_1, IMP-2_2, IMP-2_3, and IMP-2_4 can be designed such that the area of ​​each of the first sensor electrodes SP1-2_A and SP1-2_B is larger than the area of ​​each of the second sensor electrodes SP2-2_A and SP2-2_B, thus enabling a uniform sensing area in the direction of the major or minor axis.

[0156] According to some exemplary embodiments, the electronic device may include auxiliary electrodes having various shapes. Furthermore, the auxiliary electrodes may include multiple grid lines, and in some exemplary embodiments, the shapes of the auxiliary electrodes and sensor electrodes may be designed using cutting lines CL configured to cut the grid lines.

[0157] In some exemplary embodiments, because the auxiliary electrode includes grid lines, it can be applied to flexible electronic devices and can achieve equivalent effects. When the auxiliary electrode has an asymmetrical shape, it can be implemented in various shapes and structures, but the inventive concept is not limited thereto.

[0158] Figure 10 This is an enlarged plan view showing an area of ​​an electronic device according to some exemplary embodiments. For ease of illustration, in... Figure 10 In the diagram, the grid line MSL is not shown, and the cutting line CL that cuts the grid line MSL is depicted using a solid line. Furthermore, to easily distinguish it from the sensor electrodes SP1-3_A, SP1-3_B, SP2-3_A, and SP2-3_B, the auxiliary electrode IMP-3 is depicted using a shading pattern.

[0159] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 10 This describes an electronic device according to some exemplary embodiments. For the sake of brevity, it will not be compared with previous references. Figures 1 to 9 The elements and features shown and described are given a more detailed description.

[0160] like Figure 10 As shown, sensor electrodes SP1-3_A, SP1-3_B, SP2-3_A, and SP2-3_B may further include a first cut pattern CTP1. The first cut pattern CTP1 is formed by cutting segments spaced apart from each other. The first cut pattern CTP1 does not necessarily form an isolated floating pattern. Thus, in sensor electrodes SP1-3_A, SP1-3_B, SP2-3_A, and SP2-3_B, some grid lines may have partially and additionally cut areas, but the change in the conductive area of ​​the sensor will not be large.

[0161] The auxiliary electrode IMP-3 may also include a second dicing pattern CTP2. The second dicing pattern CTP2 may also form partially diced grid lines, but the total area of ​​the auxiliary electrode IMP-3 will not change significantly.

[0162] According to some exemplary embodiments, the electronic device may also include multiple cut patterns CTP1 and CTP2, making it difficult for a user to identify the boundary between the sensor electrodes SP1-3_A, SP1-3_B, SP2-3_A, and SP2-3_B and the auxiliary electrode IMP-3. The more similar the shape or arrangement of the first cut pattern CTP1 and the second cut pattern CTP2 is to the shape of the side of each auxiliary electrode IMP-3, the more difficult it is to distinguish the sensor electrodes SP1-3_A, SP1-3_B, SP2-3_A, and SP2-3_B from the auxiliary electrode IMP-3. Therefore, in the electronic device according to one or more exemplary embodiments, it may be possible to suppress or prevent the sensor electrodes SP1-3_A, SP1-3_B, SP2-3_A, and SP2-3_B from being identified by reflection of external light.

[0163] Figures 11A to 11C This is an enlarged plan view showing an area of ​​an electronic device according to some exemplary embodiments. For ease of illustration and description, Figures 11A to 11C It shows the relationship with Figure 8A The region corresponding to that region. In the following text, reference will be made to... Figures 11A to 11C This describes an electronic device according to various exemplary embodiments. For the sake of brevity, it will not be compared with previous references. Figures 1 to 10 The elements and features shown and described are given a more detailed description.

[0164] like Figure 11A As shown, at least one of the sensor electrodes SP1-4_A, SP1-4_B, SP2-4_A, and SP2-4_B may further include a floating pattern FLP. For example, a set selected from the first sensor electrodes SP1-4_A and SP1-4_B and the second sensor electrodes SP2-4_A and SP2-4_B may include the floating pattern FLP, while another set of sensor electrodes SP1-4_A, SP1-4_B, SP2-4_A, and SP2-4_B may not include the floating pattern FLP. In other words, the floating pattern FLP may be asymmetrically disposed in any set of the first sensor electrodes SP1-4_A and SP1-4_B and the second sensor electrodes SP2-4_A and SP2-4_B.

[0165] like Figure 11A As seen, each of the left first sensor electrode SP1-4_A and the right first sensor electrode SP1-4_B may include a floating pattern FLP. Therefore, the effective sensor area of ​​each of the left first sensor electrode SP1-4_A and the right first sensor electrode SP1-4_B can reduce the area of ​​the floating pattern FLP.

[0166] Each of the left first sensor electrode SP1-4_A and the right first sensor electrode SP1-4_B can be divided into a floating pattern FLP and a sensor portion SNP. The effective sensor area of ​​each of the left first sensor electrode SP1-4_A and the right first sensor electrode SP1-4_B can be substantially equal to the total area of ​​the sensor portion SNP.

[0167] Each of the upper second sensor electrode SP2-4_A and the lower second sensor electrode SP2-4_B may not include the floating pattern FLP. Therefore, each of the upper second sensor electrode SP2-4_A and the lower second sensor electrode SP2-4_B may have a single-body shape. Therefore, the effective sensing area of ​​each of the upper second sensor electrode SP2-4_A and the lower second sensor electrode SP2-4_B may correspond to the total area of ​​each of the upper second sensor electrode SP2-4_A and the lower second second sensor electrode SP2-4_B.

[0168] Simultaneously, the actual sensor area of ​​each of the left first sensor electrode SP1-4_A and the right first sensor electrode SP1-4_B can be substantially equal to the area of ​​each of the upper second sensor electrode SP2-4_A and the lower second sensor electrode SP2-4_B. In an electronic device according to some exemplary embodiments, the floating pattern FLP can be configured to be asymmetrical relative to adjacent sensor electrodes, thus enabling two adjacent sensor electrodes to have equal areas.

[0169] Figure 11A The floating pattern FLP shown can have a boundary FLP_BL that extends in the third direction DR3 or the fourth direction DR4 and has a straight shape. Here, the boundary FLP_BL of the floating pattern FLP can have a different shape than the shape of the second side IMP-4_S2 of the auxiliary electrode IMP-4.

[0170] Optionally, such as Figure 11B As shown, the electronic device may include a floating pattern FLP-1 comprising a boundary FLP-1_BL with multiple protruding patterns. In this way, each of the left first sensor electrode SP1-5_A and the right first sensor electrode SP1-5_B can be divided into a sensor portion SLP-1 and a floating pattern FLP-1 by the boundary FLP-1_BL of the floating pattern FLP-1.

[0171] The shape of the boundary FLP-1_BL of the floating pattern FLP-1 can correspond to one of the two sides of the auxiliary electrode pattern IMP-5. For example... Figure 11BAs shown, the shape of the boundary FLP-1_BL of the floating pattern FLP-1 can have a shape corresponding to the shape of the second side IMP-5_S2 facing the adjacent upper second sensor electrode SP2-5_A. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the visibility problem between the floating pattern FLP-1, sensor electrodes SP1-5_A, SP1-5_B, SP2-5_A and SP2-5_B and auxiliary electrode IMP_5.

[0172] like Figure 11C As shown, the floating pattern FLP-2 can be associated with the upper second sensor electrode SP2-6_A and the lower second sensor electrode SP2-6_B. Therefore, each of the upper second sensor electrode SP2-6_A and the lower second sensor electrode SP2-6_B can be divided into a sensor portion SLP-2 and a floating pattern FLP-2.

[0173] According to some exemplary embodiments, the auxiliary electrode IMP-6 may be configured to be closer to the first sensor electrodes SP1-6_A and SP1-6_B than the second sensor electrodes SP2-6_A and SP2-6_B. The degree to which the first side IMP-6_S1 of the auxiliary electrode IMP-6 protrudes towards the right first sensor electrode SP1-6_B may be greater than (or less than) the degree to which the second side IMP-6_S2 of the auxiliary electrode IMP-6 protrudes towards the upper second sensor electrode SP2-6_A.

[0174] The areas of the upper second sensor electrode SP2-6_A and the lower second sensor electrode SP2-6_B can substantially correspond to the areas of the sensor portions SLP-2. The area of ​​each sensor portion SLP-2 can substantially equal the area of ​​each of the left first sensor electrode SP1-6_A and the right first sensor electrode SP1-6_B. However, the inventive concept is not limited to these examples, and the position and shape of the auxiliary electrode IMP-6 can be varied.

[0175] According to one or more exemplary embodiments, the electronic device may include floating patterns disposed at various locations, thus enabling the design of various sensor electrodes. The electronic device may include floating patterns selectively associated with one of two adjacent groups of sensor electrodes (e.g., associated with a first sensor electrode or associated with a second sensor electrode), so that adjacent sensor electrodes can be designed to have the same sensing area or a desired area ratio. Therefore, according to some exemplary embodiments, the sensor electrodes can be designed to have various sensing area ratios.

[0176] Figure 12 This is a perspective view illustrating an electronic device according to some exemplary embodiments. Figure 13A This illustrates some exemplary embodiments. Figure 12An enlarged plan view of the area of ​​the electronic device shown in the image. Figure 13B It is based on some exemplary embodiments along Figure 13A The sectional view taken along section line I-I'. In the following text, reference will be made to... Figures 12 to 13B This describes an electronic device according to some exemplary embodiments. For the purpose of brevity, previous references... Figures 1 to 11C The elements described may be identified by similar or identical reference numerals without repeating their descriptions.

[0177] like Figure 12 As shown, electronic device 1000-2 can be configured to sense an externally applied touch TC and provide an effective area AA for displaying an image IM. In one or more exemplary embodiments, electronic device 1000-2 may be a touchscreen device.

[0178] Reference Figure 13A and Figure 13B Electronic device 1000-2 may include a display component DM and a sensing component SM. The display component DM may be configured to display an image IM in response to an electrical signal applied thereto. The display component DM may include a substrate layer BSL, a display device DEM, and an encapsulation layer ECL.

[0179] The substrate layer BSL can be a substrate layer in which the display device DEM is disposed. In one or more exemplary embodiments, the substrate layer BSL can be at least one of a glass substrate, a plastic substrate, a silicon substrate, and an insulating film. In some exemplary embodiments, although not shown, the substrate layer BSL may include multiple driving devices. Therefore, the substrate layer BSL may include multiple insulating layers and multiple conductive layers.

[0180] The display device DEM can be disposed on the substrate layer BSL. The display device DEM can be connected to a driving device. The display device DEM can include various devices capable of displaying images (IM). For example, the display device DEM can include at least one of a liquid crystal capacitor, an organic light-emitting device, an electrophoresis device, and an electrowetting device. Figure 13B As seen in the illustration, an example of an organic light-emitting device being used as a display device DEM is shown, but the inventive concept is not limited thereto.

[0181] The display device DEM may include a first electrode layer EL1, a light-emitting layer EML, and a second electrode layer EL2. The display device DEM may be configured to use the potential difference between the first electrode layer EL1 and the second electrode layer EL2 to excite the light-emitting layer EML, thereby generating light.

[0182] The pixel definition layer (PDL), which defines multiple openings (OPs), can be disposed on the substrate layer (BSL). The openings (OPs) can define a pixel region (PXA). The emissive layer (EML) can include multiple emissive patterns disposed in the pixel region (PXA).

[0183] exist Figure 13B The diagram exemplarily illustrates two adjacent pixel regions PXA1 and PXA2. When viewed in a planar view, the two pixel regions PXA1 and PXA2 may have different areas from each other. In one or more exemplary embodiments, the two pixel regions PXA1 and PXA2 may be used to display different colors of light.

[0184] The sensing element SM can be disposed on the display element DM, but the inventive concept is not limited to this example. In some exemplary embodiments, the sensing element SM can be disposed below the display element DM or on the substrate layer BSL on which the display element DM is disposed. That is, the position of the sensing element SM can be changed in various ways.

[0185] The sensing element SM can be configured to sense touch TC. The sensing element SM can be coupled with... Figure 2 The touch structure 200 corresponds to this. The sensing component SM may include an insulating layer IL, multiple grid lines MSL1-A, MSL1-B, MSL2-A and MSL2-B, and a cover layer CVL.

[0186] Although not shown, a conductive pattern can be formed between the insulating layer IL and the encapsulation layer ECL. The conductive pattern can be connected to the second connection portion CP2-1 (for example, see...). Figure 7B )correspond.

[0187] The insulating layer IL can be configured to electrically separate the conductive pattern including the second connection portion CP2-1 from the plurality of grid lines MSL1-A, MSL1-B, MSL2-A, and MSL2-B. The second connection portion CP2-1 can be connected to at least one of the plurality of grid lines MSL1-A, MSL1-B, MSL2-A, and MSL2-B through a contact hole (not shown) formed through the insulating layer IL.

[0188] A cover layer CVL can be applied to multiple grid lines MSL1-A, MSL1-B, MSL2-A, and MSL2-B to protect the multiple grid lines MSL1-A, MSL1-B, MSL2-A, and MSL2-B. The cover layer CVL may include at least one insulating layer.

[0189] Refer again Figure 13AMultiple grid lines MSL1-A, MSL1-B, MSL2-A, and MSL2-B can be arranged to intersect each other, thereby defining an opening TS-OP. The opening TS-OP can be defined at a position corresponding to the pixel region PXA, and each opening TS-OP can be defined to have an area larger than the area of ​​each pixel region PXA. However, the inventive concept is not limited to this example; at least one of the multiple grid lines MSL1-A, MSL1-B, MSL2-A, and MSL2-B can be configured to overlap at least a portion of the pixel region PXA.

[0190] At least one of the multiple grid lines MSL1-A, MSL1-B, MSL2-A, and MSL2-B may include a cut section TS-CP. The cut section TS-CP may be formed by a cut line CL (e.g., see...). Figure 8B Multiple grid lines MSL1-A, MSL1-B, MSL2-A, and MSL2-B can be used to form each of the first sensor electrode, second sensor electrode, and auxiliary electrode patterns via the cutting section TS-CP.

[0191] According to one or more exemplary embodiments, the electronic device 1000-2 can be configured to display an image IM and sense a touch TC applied from an external source. Therefore, the availability of the electronic device 1000-2 can be expanded.

[0192] Figure 14A This is a block diagram schematically illustrating an electronic device according to some exemplary embodiments. Figure 14B This illustrates an operation according to some exemplary embodiments. Figure 14A The diagram shows the timing of the changes in the drive signal of the electronic device. Figure 15A and Figure 15B This is a block diagram illustrating the operation of an electronic device in one mode according to some exemplary embodiments. Figure 16A and Figure 16B This is a block diagram illustrating the operation of an electronic device in one mode according to some exemplary embodiments. In the following, reference will be made to... Figures 14A to 16B This describes an electronic device according to some exemplary embodiments. For the purpose of brevity, previous references... Figures 1 to 13B The elements described may be identified by similar or identical reference numerals without repeating their descriptions.

[0193] like Figure 14A As shown, the electronic device 1000-3 may include a drive circuit 300 comprising a first drive portion 310 and a second drive portion 320. The first drive portion 310 may be configured to operate the touch structure 200 in a self-capacitance mode, and the second drive portion 320 may be configured to operate the touch structure 200 in a mutual capacitance mode.

[0194] like Figure 14B As shown, the first driving section 310 and the second driving section 320 can be driven alternately during a reference time interval TST allocated for touch sensing operations. During the reference time interval TST, a high-level HL self-capacitance sensing signal SELF can be applied to the first driving section 310 to execute a mode for sensing the self-capacitance signal. Here, the touch structure 200 can sense touch TC in the self-capacitance mode. During the reference time interval TST, a high-level HL mutual capacitance sensing signal MUTUAL can be applied to the second driving section 320 to execute a mode for sensing the mutual capacitance signal. Here, the touch structure 200 can sense touch TC in the mutual capacitance mode.

[0195] Figure 15A and Figure 15B The process of sensing touch TC using touch structure 200 in self-capacitance mode is illustrated. For example... Figure 15A As shown, if the first driving section 310 is activated, the first sensor electrode and the second sensor electrode of the touch structure 200 can be synchronized into a single sensor electrode SP. Here, the sensor electrode SP may have a base capacitance C0 relative to a predetermined ground terminal with a ground voltage. The capacitance of the sensor electrode SP measured by the measurement module MSR can be the base capacitance C0.

[0196] Next, as Figure 15B As shown, if a touch TC is applied from the outside, a touch capacitance C can be formed between the touch TC and the ground terminal. T An additional capacitor. In this case, the capacitance measured by the measurement module MSR can be the touch capacitance C. T The sum of the base capacitance C0. In self-capacitance mode, the first drive section 310 can sense which one or more sensing electrodes have increased capacitance (i.e., the location where touch TC occurs).

[0197] Figure 16A and Figure 16B The process of sensing touch TC using touch structure 200 in mutual capacitance mode is shown. For example... Figure 16A As shown, if the second driving portion 320 is activated, one of the first sensor electrode and the second sensor electrode of the touch structure 200 can be used to receive a driving signal, while the other can be used to output a sensing signal. In other words, the first sensor electrode SP1 and the second sensor electrode SP2 can operate under different electrical signals.

[0198] For example, if a predetermined drive power V is applied to the first sensor SP1 in mutual capacitance mode... g Then, a basic capacitance C can be formed between the first sensor SP1 and the second sensor SP2.m A capacitor. Furthermore, due to the grounding terminal, a capacitor with parasitic capacitance C can also be formed. p Parasitic capacitors.

[0199] Next, as Figure 16B As shown, if a touch TC is applied from the outside, a touch capacitance C can be formed between the touch TC and the ground terminal. T An additional capacitor. Here, there is a touch capacitor C. T and the basic capacitor C m The capacitors can be connected in parallel with each other. Therefore, the capacitance measured by the measurement module MSR can be greater than the basic capacitance C. m Small. In mutual capacitance mode, the second drive section 320 can sense which one or more sensing electrodes have reduced capacitance (i.e., the location where the touch TC occurs).

[0200] According to various exemplary embodiments, the electronic device can operate in both self-capacitance mode and mutual-capacitance mode, which enables improved sensitivity in such touch sensing operation and sensitivity to multi-touch events.

[0201] Furthermore, when the electronic device operates in self-capacitance mode, its operating characteristics are strongly influenced by the area of ​​the sensor electrodes. According to one or more exemplary embodiments, the electronic device can be designed such that the first and second sensors have the same total area. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the touch sensitivity of the electronic device from deteriorating due to differences in horizontal and vertical lengths. Moreover, regardless of the shape of the electronic device, it can operate stably in self-capacitance mode, thus eliminating the need for additional correction circuitry to correct for the area difference between the first and second sensors. This simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces the cost of manufacturing the electronic device.

[0202] According to one or more exemplary embodiments, even when the sensor deforms due to changes in the shape of the electronic device, it is possible to maintain high touch sensitivity and provide a stable touch environment for the user. Furthermore, according to one or more exemplary embodiments, it is possible to prevent the boundary between sensors used for sensing external touches from being easily identified by the user through reflection of external light.

[0203] Although certain exemplary embodiments and implementations have been described herein, other embodiments and modifications will be apparent from this description. Therefore, the inventive concept is not limited to such embodiments, but rather to the broader scope of the given claims and various apparent modifications and equivalent arrangements.

Claims

1. An electronic device, the electronic device comprising: The display component includes a display device layer configured to display an image and an encapsulation layer covering the display device layer; An insulating layer is directly disposed on the encapsulation layer; The first electrode and the second electrode are disposed on the insulating layer and spaced apart from each other; as well as The third electrode is disposed on the insulating layer and between the first electrode and the second electrode; The third electrode extends in one direction, and The third electrode includes a first side facing the first electrode and a second side facing the second electrode, and The first side and the second side have shapes that are asymmetrical with respect to a central axis extending in one direction. 2.The electronic device of claim 1, wherein, The width of the third electrode in the intersection direction with the first direction varies along the first direction.

3. The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein, The central axis passes through the center of the portion of the third electrode that has the minimum width in the intersecting direction.

4. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein: The third electrode includes: The first part includes the first side; and The second part includes the second side, and the first part and the second part are divided by the central axis. The first part has an area different from that of the second part.

5. The electronic device according to claim 4, wherein: The first electrode has an area larger than that of the second electrode, and The area of ​​the first part is smaller than the area of ​​the second part.

6. The electronic device according to claim 5, wherein, The sum of the area of ​​the first electrode and the area of ​​the first portion is equal to the sum of the area of ​​the second electrode and the area of ​​the second portion.

7. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, At least one of the first electrode and the second electrode includes: The sensor portion is adjacent to the third electrode; and A floating pattern is spaced apart from the third electrode, and the sensor portion is disposed between the floating pattern and the third electrode. The floating pattern and the sensor portion are electrically disconnected.

8. The electronic device according to claim 7, wherein: The floating pattern includes: The first floating side extends in said one direction; and The second floating side extends in an intersecting direction that intersects the first floating side, and the first floating side connects to the second floating side. At least one of the first side and the second side has the same shape as the first floating side.

9. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein: The first side includes a plurality of first protrusion patterns protruding toward the first electrode, the plurality of first protrusion patterns being spaced apart from each other according to a first pitch, and The second side includes a plurality of second protrusion patterns protruding toward the second electrode, the plurality of second protrusion patterns being spaced apart from each other according to a second pitch.

10. The electronic device according to claim 9, wherein, The first pitch is the same as the second pitch.

11. The electronic device according to claim 10, wherein: The plurality of first protrusion patterns and the plurality of second protrusion patterns have the same shape, and The plurality of first protrusion patterns and the plurality of second protrusion patterns include at least portions that do not overlap with each other in an intersecting direction that intersects with the first direction.

12. The electronic device according to claim 9, wherein, The plurality of first protrusion patterns and the plurality of second protrusion patterns have different shapes from each other.

13. The electronic device according to claim 9, wherein, The first pitch is smaller than the second pitch, and Wherein, the area of ​​each of the plurality of first protrusion patterns is smaller than the area of ​​each of the plurality of second protrusion patterns.

14. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The central axis is defined as being closer to one of the centers of the first electrode and the second electrode, and The area of ​​the first electrode is different from the area of ​​the second electrode.

15. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode includes: A plurality of first grid lines, spaced apart from each other in an intersecting direction intersecting the said one direction, each of the plurality of first grid lines extending in the said one direction; and A plurality of second grid lines, spaced apart from each other and connected to the plurality of first grid lines in the one direction, each of the plurality of second grid lines extending in the intersecting direction and intersecting the plurality of first grid lines, and Each of the first side and the second side is defined by an imaginary cutting line that connects the cutting portions of the plurality of first grid lines and the cutting portions of the plurality of second grid lines.

16. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode are disposed on the same layer.

17. An electronic device, the electronic device comprising: Display components, including light-emitting elements; as well as A sensing layer is disposed on the display component; The sensing layer includes: a first electrode including a plurality of first protrusion patterns; a second electrode including a plurality of second protrusion patterns and spaced apart from the first electrode in a first direction; and a third electrode disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode, and insulated from and spaced apart from the first electrode and the second electrode. Each of the first and second electrodes comprises: a plurality of first grid lines, each extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction and spaced apart along the first direction; and a plurality of second grid lines, each extending in the first direction and spaced apart along the second direction. Wherein, each of the plurality of first protrusion patterns protrudes toward the second electrode, and each of the plurality of second protrusion patterns protrudes toward the first electrode. The plurality of first protrusion patterns and the plurality of second protrusion patterns have different shapes from each other.

18. The electronic device according to claim 17, wherein, The width of each of the plurality of first protrusion patterns in the second direction is different from the width of each of the plurality of second protrusion patterns in the second direction.

19. The electronic device according to claim 17, wherein, The length of each of the plurality of first protrusion patterns in the first direction is different from the length of each of the plurality of second protrusion patterns in the first direction.

20. The electronic device according to claim 17, wherein, The area of ​​each of the plurality of first protrusion patterns is different from the area of ​​each of the plurality of second protrusion patterns.

21. The electronic device according to claim 17, wherein, The plurality of first protrusion patterns have a first pitch, and the plurality of second protrusion patterns have a second pitch different from the first pitch.

22. The electronic device according to claim 17, wherein: The third electrode extends in the second direction, and The third electrode includes: Multiple first grid lines, each extending in the second direction and spaced apart along the first direction; and Multiple second grid lines extend in the first direction and are spaced apart along the second direction.

23. The electronic device according to claim 22, wherein, The width of the third electrode in the first direction is variable along the second direction.

24. The electronic device according to claim 22, wherein, The third electrode also includes: Multiple third protrusion patterns, each third protrusion pattern protruding toward the first electrode and disposed between adjacent first protrusion patterns among the multiple first protrusion patterns, and A plurality of fourth protrusion patterns, each fourth protrusion pattern protruding toward the second electrode and disposed between adjacent second protrusion patterns among the plurality of second protrusion patterns.

25. The electronic device according to claim 24, wherein: The third electrode is divided into a first portion and a second portion by a central axis extending along the second direction. The first portion includes the plurality of third protrusion patterns, and the second portion includes a second portion of the plurality of fourth protrusion patterns. The central axis passes through the center of the portion of the third electrode that has the minimum width in the first direction, and The first part and the second part have shapes that are asymmetrical with respect to the central axis.

26. The electronic device according to claim 22, wherein: The plurality of second grid lines of the first electrode and the plurality of second grid lines of the third electrode, which face each other, are broken and spaced apart by a plurality of first cut portions, and The plurality of second grid lines of the second electrode and the plurality of second grid lines of the third electrode, which face each other, are broken and spaced apart by a plurality of second cuts.

27. The electronic device according to claim 22, wherein: The plurality of first grid lines of the first electrode and the plurality of first grid lines of the third electrode, which face each other, are broken and spaced apart by a plurality of third cut portions, and The plurality of first grid lines of the second electrode and the plurality of first grid lines of the third electrode, which face each other, are broken and spaced apart by a plurality of fourth cutting portions.

28. The electronic device according to claim 17, wherein: The display component also includes an encapsulation layer covering the light-emitting element. The sensing layer also includes an insulating layer directly disposed on the encapsulation layer, and The first electrode and the second electrode are disposed on the insulating layer.

29. An electronic device, the electronic device comprising: Display components are configured to display images; An insulating layer is disposed on the display component; as well as Multiple grid lines The first and second cutting lines are defined within the plurality of grid lines, so that the first, second, and third electrodes are formed by cutting corresponding grid lines among the plurality of grid lines. The third electrode is disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode, and The first cutting line and the second cutting line have shapes that are asymmetrical with respect to the central axis that is superimposed on the third electrode.

30. The electronic device according to claim 29, wherein: The first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode receive different signals.

31. The electronic device according to claim 29, wherein: The length of the first cutting line is different from the length of the second cutting line.

Images