Sensor and input device including the same

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention relates to a sensor and an input device including the same. A sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a first electrode including at least one first electrode pattern portion and one second electrode pattern portion alternately arranged in a first axis direction, the first electrode pattern part is electrically connected with the first electrode pattern part, and the second electrode pattern part is electrically connected with the second electrode pattern part; and a second electrode including a third electrode pattern portion and a fourth electrode pattern portion alternately arranged at least one along a second axis direction different from the first axis, and including a third electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the third electrode pattern portion and a fourth electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the fourth electrode pattern portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a sensor and an input device including the sensor. Background Art

[0002] Various types of input devices are used to operate computing systems. For example, buttons, keys, joysticks, and touch screens are used. Touch screens are increasingly used to operate computing systems because they are simple and easy to operate.

[0003] A touch sensor is an information input device that can be mounted on a display device. For example, a touch sensor can be attached to a display panel or integrated with the display panel. Users can input information by pressing or touching the touch sensor while viewing an image displayed on the display screen.

[0004] When a touch sensor implements driving electrodes and receiving electrodes through a single layer or a double layer, when a touch is performed without holding the touch input device on which the touch sensor is installed (floating state), there is a situation where the signal that should be sensed normally disappears due to low ground mass (LGM), or the signal that should be sensed is split and the signal appears to be touched at more than two points. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Technical problems to be solved

[0006] Embodiments of the present invention provide a sensor capable of improving touch sensing sensitivity and an input device including the sensor.

[0007] In addition, embodiments of the present invention provide a sensor capable of removing or improving noise in the sensor caused by driving a display panel, and an input device including the sensor.

[0008] In addition, embodiments of the present invention provide a sensor capable of removing or improving noise in a display panel caused by driving of the sensor, and an input device including the sensor.

[0009] In addition, embodiments of the present invention provide a sensor capable of removing or improving noise in the sensor in an LGM state and an input device including the sensor.

[0010] In addition, embodiments of the present invention provide a sensor capable of driving an external stylus pen or receiving a pen signal from the external stylus pen, and an input device including the sensor.

[0011] Technical Solution

[0012] A sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a first electrode, including a first electrode pattern portion and a second electrode pattern portion alternately arranged along at least one first axis direction, and including a first electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the first electrode pattern portion and a second electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the second electrode pattern portion; and a second electrode, including a third electrode pattern portion and a fourth electrode pattern portion alternately arranged along at least one second axis direction different from the first axis, and including a third electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the third electrode pattern portion and a fourth electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the fourth electrode pattern portion.

[0013] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a sensor includes: a first electrode, including a first electrode pattern portion and a second electrode pattern portion alternately arranged along at least one first axis direction, and including a first electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the first electrode pattern portion and a second electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the second electrode pattern portion; a second electrode, including a third electrode pattern portion and a fourth electrode pattern portion alternately arranged along at least one second axis direction different from the first axis, and including a third electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the third electrode pattern portion and a fourth electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the fourth electrode pattern portion; a first pen electrode arranged adjacent to the first electrode and configured to form a first capacitive coupling with the first electrode; and a second pen electrode arranged adjacent to the second electrode and configured to form a second capacitive coupling with the second electrode; a plurality of the first electrode, the second electrode, the first pen electrode and the second pen electrode are arranged, one end of each of the plurality of the first pen electrodes is electrically connected, and one end of each of the plurality of the second pen electrodes is electrically connected.

[0014] According to another embodiment of the present invention, an input device includes a sensor and a control unit configured to control the sensor, the sensor including: a first electrode including a first electrode pattern portion and a second electrode pattern portion alternately arranged at least one along a first axis direction, and including a first electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the first electrode pattern portion and a second electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the second electrode pattern portion; and a second electrode including a third electrode pattern portion and a fourth electrode pattern portion alternately arranged at least one along a second axis direction different from the first axis, and including a third electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the third electrode pattern portion and a fourth electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the fourth electrode pattern portion, the control unit including: a driving unit configured to apply at least one driving signal to either the first electrode or the second electrode; a sensing unit configured to receive at least one sensing signal from either the first electrode or the second electrode; and a control unit configured to determine a touch position based on a signal output from the sensing unit.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, an input device includes a sensor and a control unit configured to control the sensor, wherein the sensor includes: a first electrode including a first electrode pattern portion and a second electrode pattern portion alternately arranged along at least one first axis direction, and including a first electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the first electrode pattern portion and a second electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the second electrode pattern portion; a second electrode including a third electrode pattern portion and a fourth electrode pattern portion alternately arranged along at least one second axis direction different from the first axis, and including a third electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the third electrode pattern portion and a fourth electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the fourth electrode pattern portion; a first pen electrode arranged adjacent to the first electrode and configured to form a first capacitive coupling with the first electrode; and a second pen electrode. An electrode is arranged adjacent to a second electrode and is arranged to form a second capacitive coupling with the second electrode; a plurality of the first electrode, the second electrode, the first pen electrode and the second pen electrode are arranged, one end of each of the plurality of the first pen electrodes is electrically connected, and one end of each of the plurality of the second pen electrodes is electrically connected; the control unit includes: a driving unit, applying a touch driving signal to the first electrode, and applying a pen driving signal to at least one of the first electrode, the second electrode, the first pen electrode and the second pen electrode; a sensing unit, receiving a touch sensing signal from the second electrode, and receiving a pen sensing signal from at least two electrodes of the first electrode, the second electrode, the first pen electrode and the second pen electrode; the control unit determines the touch position of the object and the position of the stylus based on the signal output from the sensing unit.

[0016] Effects of the Invention

[0017] When the sensor according to the embodiment of the present invention and the input device including the sensor are used, there is an advantage in that the touch sensing sensitivity can be improved.

[0018] In addition, there is an advantage in that noise in the sensor caused by driving the display panel can be removed or improved.

[0019] In addition, the embodiments of the present invention have an advantage of being able to remove or improve noise in a display panel caused by driving of a sensor.

[0020] In addition, the embodiments of the present invention have the advantage of being able to remove or improve noise in the sensor in the LGM state.

[0021] The embodiments of the present invention have the advantage of being able to drive an external stylus or receive a pen signal from an external stylus to sense the position of the stylus. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1is a schematic diagram of a sensor including an input device of the sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 2 is based on Figure 1 A plan view of a portion of a sensor of one embodiment of sensor 10 is shown;

[0024] Figure 3 (a) to (b) is to Figure 2 A plan view of the sensors shown separated by layers;

[0025] Figure 4 Is used to explain the Figures 2 to 3 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a first driving method of a sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 5 Is used to explain the Figures 2 to 3 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a second driving method of a sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 6 Is used to explain the Figures 2 to 3 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a third driving method of a sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 7 Is used to explain the Figures 2 to 3 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a fourth driving method of a sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 8 Is used to explain the Figures 2 to 3 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a fifth driving method of a sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 9 is based on Figure 1 A plan view of a portion of a sensor of another embodiment of sensor 10 is shown;

[0031] Figure 10 (a) to (b) is to Figure 9 A plan view of the sensors shown separated by layers;

[0032] Figure 11 is based on Figure 1 A plan view of a portion of a sensor of yet another embodiment of sensor 10 is shown;

[0033] Figure 12 (a) to (b) is to Figure 11 A plan view of the sensors shown separated by layers;

[0034] Figure 13is a plan view of a portion of a sensor according to yet another embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 14 Only shows Figure 13 A plan view of the components of the sensor configured on the first layer;

[0036] Figure 15 Only shows Figure 13 A plan view of the components of the sensor configured on the second layer;

[0037] Figure 16 Is used to explain the Figures 13 to 15 FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a modified example of a sensor according to another embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] The detailed description of the invention described below is made with reference to the accompanying drawings which illustrate specific embodiments in which the invention may be implemented as examples. These embodiments are described in detail so that a person skilled in the art can implement them. It should be understood that the various embodiments of the invention are different from each other, but do not need to be mutually exclusive. For example, the specific shapes, structures and characteristics described herein can be implemented in another embodiment in relation to one embodiment without exceeding the spirit and scope of the invention. In addition, it should be understood that the position or configuration of individual components in each disclosed embodiment can be changed without exceeding the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the detailed description described below is not intended to be limiting, and the scope of the invention, if properly described, is limited only to all scopes equivalent to the claims and the appended claims. Similar reference numerals in the figures represent the same or similar functions in multiple aspects.

[0039] According to various embodiments of the present specification, the input device may be an electronic device, for example, a smartphone, a tablet personal computer, a car display device, a mobile phone, a video phone, an e-book reader, a laptop personal computer, a netbook computer, a mobile medical device, a camera, or a wearable device. The wearable device may be an accessory (e.g., a watch, a ring, a bracelet, an anklet, a necklace, glasses, contact lenses, or a head-mounted device (HMD)), a fabric or clothing-integrated device (e.g., an electronic garment), a body-attached device (e.g., a skin pad or a tattoo), or a bio-implantable device (e.g., an implantable circuit).

[0040] Figure 1 Schematic diagram of a sensor and an input device including the sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Reference Figure 1 The input device 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention may include a sensor 10 , a sensing unit 11 , a driving unit 12 , and a control unit 13 .

[0042] The driving unit 12 applies a driving signal (or TX signal) to the sensor 10 under the control of the control unit 13 , and the sensing unit 11 receives a sensing signal (or RX signal) from the sensor 10 .

[0043] The driving unit 12 can provide a driving signal to each driving electrode of the sensor 10. The driving unit 12 can provide a predetermined driving signal to at least two driving electrodes simultaneously under the control of the control unit 13, or can provide a driving signal to each driving electrode in sequence.

[0044] The sensing unit 11 receives signals output from the multiple receiving electrodes of the sensor 10. In addition to information about the capacitance change between adjacent drive electrodes and receiving electrodes, the received signals may also include various noise signals. These noise signals may include LGM noise signals and display noise signals.

[0045] The sensing unit 11 may convert the received signals output from the plurality of receiving electrodes into analog-to-digital signals and output the converted signals. To this end, the sensing unit 11 may include an ADC.

[0046] Alternatively, the sensing unit 11 may subtract two signals from the reception signals output from the plurality of reception electrodes to output a subtraction signal, and may perform analog-to-digital conversion on the output subtraction signal to output the subtraction signal. To this end, the sensing unit 11 may include a comparator and an ADC.

[0047] The control portion 13 may detect whether a touch is made and / or a touched position based on a digital signal output from the sensing portion 11 .

[0048] exist Figure 1 For ease of explanation, the sensing unit 11, the driving unit 12, and the control unit 13 are shown separately in the figure, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, at least one or two of the sensing unit 11, the driving unit 12, and the control unit 13 may be implemented as a module, unit, or chip, and the sensing unit 11, the driving unit 12, and the control unit 13 may also be implemented as a module, unit, or chip.

[0049] Figure 1 The input device 1 shown may include a display panel. In this case, the sensor 10 may be configured on the display panel or within the display panel. In certain cases, the sensor 10 may also be configured below the display panel. As an example, the sensor 10 may be directly formed on the outer surface (e.g., the upper surface of the upper substrate or the lower surface of the lower substrate) or the inner surface (e.g., the lower surface of the upper substrate or the upper surface of the lower substrate) of the upper substrate and / or the lower substrate of the display panel. The sensor 10 may be combined with the display panel to form a touch screen panel.

[0050] In the display panel, a plurality of scan lines (or gate lines) and a plurality of data lines may be configured, and sub-pixels may be located in areas where the scan lines and the data lines intersect.

[0051] The display panel may include an active area configured with a plurality of sub-pixels and an inactive area located outside the active area. The active area may constitute a display screen of the input device. The display screen may have a rectangular shape with a longitudinal length longer than a lateral length.

[0052] Figure 1 The input device shown may include a gate driving circuit, a data driving circuit, and a display control unit for driving various signal lines configured on a display panel, so as to drive the display panel.

[0053] The gate driving circuit is controlled by the display control unit and can control the driving timing of the plurality of sub-pixels by sequentially outputting display scanning signals to the plurality of scanning lines arranged on the display panel.

[0054] The data driving circuit receives image data from the display control unit and converts the image data into analog data voltages. The data driving circuit outputs data voltages Vdata to each data line according to the timing of applying scan signals through the scan lines to control the brightness of each sub-pixel according to the image data.

[0055] The display control unit provides various control signals to the gate drive circuit and the data drive circuit, and can control the operation of the gate drive circuit and the data drive circuit. Figure 1 The control unit 13 shown is constructed separately, but may also be constructed integrally.

[0056] The sensor 10 includes electrodes of a predetermined shape, and the predetermined electrodes may include a plurality of drive electrodes and a plurality of receiving electrodes. The plurality of drive electrodes and the plurality of receiving electrodes may form an orthogonal array, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The plurality of drive electrodes and the plurality of receiving electrodes may have any number of dimensions, such as diagonal, concentric, or three-dimensional random arrangements, and their application arrangements. The number of the plurality of drive electrodes and the plurality of receiving electrodes may be the same or different, and may vary depending on the input device of the embodiment.

[0057] The plurality of drive electrodes and the plurality of receiving electrodes may be formed in the same layer (one layer) or in different double layers (two layers). Some of the plurality of drive electrodes may be arranged in a different layer from the rest, and some of the plurality of receiving electrodes may be arranged in a different layer from the rest. The plurality of drive electrodes and the plurality of receiving electrodes may have a rhombus, a diamond pattern, a circle, an ellipse, or a polygonal shape.

[0058] Various embodiments and driving methods of the sensor 10 according to the embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the following drawings.

[0059] Figure 2 is based on Figure 1 A plan view of a portion of a sensor of one embodiment of sensor 10 is shown, Figure 3 (a) to (b) is to Figure 2 A plan view of the sensor shown separated by layers.

[0060] Reference Figures 2 to 3 The sensor according to one embodiment of the present invention may be configured in a touch input area of ​​an input device, or may be configured in a display area of ​​a display panel included in the input device.

[0061] A sensor according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of first electrodes 100 a , 100 b , 100 c , and 100 d and a plurality of second electrodes 500 a , 500 b , 500 c , and 500 d .

[0062] The plurality of first electrodes 100a, 100b, 100c, 100d are arranged along a first axis direction, and the plurality of second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, 500d are arranged along a second axis direction different from the first axis direction. Here, the second axis direction may be a direction perpendicular to the first axis direction.

[0063] When the plurality of first electrodes 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d are driving electrodes, the plurality of second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d may be receiving electrodes. Conversely, when the plurality of second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d are driving electrodes, the plurality of first electrodes 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d may be receiving electrodes.

[0064] The plurality of first electrodes 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d may include a 1a electrode 100a, a 1b electrode 100b, a 1c electrode 100c, and a 1d electrode 100d. The 1a electrode 100a, the 1b electrode 100b, the 1c electrode 100c, and the 1d electrode 100d may all have the same shape. Therefore, the structure of the 1a electrode 100a will be described in detail, and the description of the 1b through 1d electrodes 100b, 100c, and 100d will be replaced by the description of the 1a electrode 100a.

[0065] The 1a-th electrode 100a includes a first electrode pattern portion 110 and a second electrode pattern portion 130. The first electrode pattern portion 110 and the second electrode pattern portion 130 are alternately arranged along at least one first axis direction.

[0066] Each first electrode pattern portion 110 may include a pair of patterns symmetrical to each other about the second axis. Each of the pair of patterns may have a triangular shape. The pair of patterns may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. The first electrode 1a 100a may include a first connection pattern portion 110c for electrically connecting the pair of spaced-apart patterns of the first electrode pattern portion 110 to each other.

[0067] Each second electrode pattern portion 130 may include a pair of patterns symmetrical to each other about the second axis. Each of the pair of patterns may have a triangular shape. The pair of patterns may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. The first 1a electrode 100a may include a second connection pattern portion 130c for electrically connecting the pair of spaced-apart patterns of the second electrode pattern portion 130 to each other.

[0068] The first electrode 100a includes first electrode connection pattern portions 110d for electrically connecting the first electrode pattern portions 110 alternately arranged along the first axis. Furthermore, the first electrode 100a includes first control portion connection pattern portions 110e for connecting a control portion (not shown) to the first electrode pattern portions 110.

[0069] The first electrode 100a includes a second electrode connection pattern portion 130d for electrically connecting the second electrode pattern portions 130 alternately arranged along the first axis. Furthermore, the first electrode 100a includes a second control portion connection pattern portion 130e for connecting a control portion (not shown) to the second electrode pattern portions 130.

[0070] The plurality of second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d may include a 2a electrode 500a, a 2b electrode 500b, a 2c electrode 500c, and a 2d electrode 500d. The 2a electrode 500a, the 2b electrode 500b, the 2c electrode 500c, and the 2d electrode 500d may all have the same shape. Therefore, the structure of the 2a electrode 500a will be described in detail, and the description of the 2b through 2d electrodes 500b, 500c, and 500d will be replaced by the description of the 2a electrode 500a.

[0071] The 2a-th electrode 500a includes a third electrode pattern portion 510 and a fourth electrode pattern portion 530. The third electrode pattern portion 510 and the fourth electrode pattern portion 530 are alternately arranged along at least one of the second axis directions.

[0072] Each third electrode pattern portion 510 may include a pair of patterns symmetrical to each other about the first axis. Each of the pair of patterns may have a triangular shape. The pair of patterns may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. The 2a-th electrode 500a may include a third connection pattern portion 510c for electrically connecting the pair of spaced-apart patterns of the third electrode pattern portion 510 to each other.

[0073] Each fourth electrode pattern portion 530 may include a pair of patterns symmetrical to each other about the first axis. Each of the pair of patterns may have a triangular shape. The pair of patterns may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. The 2a-th electrode 500a may include a fourth connection pattern portion 530c for electrically connecting the pair of spaced-apart patterns of the fourth electrode pattern portion 530 to each other.

[0074] The 2a-electrode 500a includes a third electrode connection pattern portion 510d for electrically connecting the third electrode pattern portions 510 alternately arranged along the second axis. Furthermore, the 2a-electrode 500a includes a third control portion connection pattern portion 510e for connecting a control portion (not shown) to the third electrode pattern portion 510e.

[0075] The 2a-th electrode 500a includes a fourth electrode connection pattern portion 530d for electrically connecting the fourth electrode pattern portions 530 alternately arranged along the second axis. Furthermore, the 2a-th electrode 500a includes a fourth control portion connection pattern portion 530e for connecting a control portion (not shown) to the fourth electrode pattern portion 530.

[0076] Part of the components of the 1a electrode 100a are arranged in the first layer, and the remaining components can be arranged in a second layer different from the first layer. Figure 3 In (a) and (b), the first electrode pattern portion 110 and the second electrode pattern portion 130 of the 1a electrode 100a can be arranged in the first layer, and the connecting pattern portions 110c, 110d, and 110e can be arranged in the second layer. The second layer is another layer arranged on the upper part or the lower part of the first layer and is electrically insulated from the first layer. On the other hand, all components of the 2a electrode 500a can be arranged in the first layer. Although not shown in a separate figure here, all components of the 1a electrode 100a can be arranged in any one of the first layer and the second layer, some components of the 2a electrode 500a can be arranged in any one of the first layer and the second layer, and the remaining components can be arranged in the remaining layer. Alternatively, all components of the 1a electrode 100a can be arranged in the first layer, and all components of the 2a electrode 500a can be arranged in the second layer.

[0077] Any first electrode pattern portion 110 of the 1a electrode 100a and any third electrode pattern portion 510 of the 2a electrode 500a may be arranged adjacent to each other. A pair of patterns of the first electrode pattern portion 110 may be arranged to intersect a pair of patterns of the third electrode pattern portion 510 .

[0078] Any first electrode pattern of the 1b-th electrode 100b and any fourth electrode pattern portion 530 of the 2a-th electrode 500a may be disposed adjacent to each other. A pair of first electrode patterns may be disposed to intersect a pair of fourth electrode pattern portions 530 .

[0079] Any second electrode pattern portion 130 of the 1a electrode 100b and any third electrode pattern of the 2b electrode 500b may be arranged adjacent to each other. A pair of second electrode pattern portions 130 may be arranged to intersect a pair of third electrode patterns.

[0080] Any second electrode pattern of the 1b-th electrode 100b and any fourth electrode pattern of the 2b-th electrode 500b may be arranged adjacent to each other. A pair of second electrode patterns may be arranged to intersect with a pair of fourth electrode patterns.

[0081] The plurality of first electrodes 100a, 100b, 100c, 100d and the plurality of second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, 500d may be implemented as metal meshes.

[0082] The connection pattern portions 110c, 110d, 110e, 130c, 130d, and 130e of the plurality of first electrodes 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d arranged in the second layer can have a bar pattern shape extending along the first axis and include at least one conductive via. The conductive via can be arranged at one or both ends of each connection pattern portion. The conductive via can be used to electrically connect the first electrode pattern portion 110 and the second electrode pattern portion 130 arranged in the first layer.

[0083] At least a portion of each of the connection pattern portions 110 c , 110 d , 110 e , 130 c , 130 d , and 130 e may be disposed in an active area of ​​a display panel (not shown).

[0084] The following will refer to Figures 4 to 8 Explanation Figures 2 to 3 Various driving methods of a sensor according to one embodiment of the present invention are shown.

[0085] The following various driving methods can be used including Figures 2 to 3 The control unit (not shown) of the sensor input device according to the embodiment of the present invention is executed.

[0086] The control unit (not shown) can apply a driving signal to at least one of the plurality of first electrodes 100a, 100b, 100c, 100d and the plurality of second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, 500d of the sensor, and can receive a sensing signal from at least one other electrode. Each driving method will be described in detail below with reference to the respective figures.

[0087] Figure 4 Is used to explain the Figures 2 to 3 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a first driving method of a sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] Reference Figure 4 In the first driving method, the plurality of first electrodes 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d may be used as driving electrodes TX0, TX1, TX2, and TX3, and the plurality of second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d may be used as receiving electrodes RX0, RX1, RX2, and RX3. To this end, a control unit (not shown) applies a driving signal DS to the plurality of first electrodes 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d, and receives sensing signals from the plurality of second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d. Here, the driving signal DS may be a pulse signal or a sinusoidal signal.

[0089] A control unit (not shown) can apply a drive signal DS to at least one of the plurality of first electrodes 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d. To apply the drive signal DS to the first electrode pattern portion 110 and the second electrode pattern portion 130 of each of the first electrodes 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d, the control unit (not shown) can electrically connect control unit connection pattern portions 110e and 130e to each of the first electrodes 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d. The electrical connection of the control unit connection pattern portions 110e and 130e can be performed by a drive unit 410 included in the control unit (not shown). The drive unit 410 can include a switching element capable of electrically short-circuiting or opening the two control unit connection pattern portions 110e and 130e according to control by the control unit (not shown).

[0090] The control unit (not shown) may receive a sensing signal from at least one second electrode among the plurality of second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d.

[0091] The control unit (not shown) may include a sensing unit 430 electrically connected to the control unit connection pattern portions 510e and 530e of each of the second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d. The sensing unit 430 may include a plurality of differential amplifiers 435. Each differential amplifier 435 is electrically connected to the control unit connection pattern portions 510e and 530e of each of the second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d. Each differential amplifier 435 differentially amplifies and outputs two sensing signals output from the two control unit connection pattern portions 510e and 530e. Based on the signals output from each differential amplifier 435, the control unit (not shown) can determine whether an object located on the sensor has touched the sensor and the touch location.

[0092] exist Figure 4 In the first driving method shown, each of the driving electrodes TX0 , TX1 , TX2 , and TX3 is driven in a single manner, and a differential signal is output from each of the receiving electrodes RX0 , RX1 , RX2 , and RX3 .

[0093] Therefore, according to Figure 4 In the first driving method, since differential signals are output from each of the second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d, noise caused by the display panel driving to the sensor (display to touch noise) and noise caused by LGM (Low Ground Mass) can be removed or improved.

[0094] Figure 5 Is used to explain the Figures 2 to 3FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a second driving method of a sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0095] Figure 5 The second driving method shown is the same as Figure 4 Compared with the driving method shown in FIG. 4 , only the sensing portion 430 ′ is different, and the remaining components are the same, so the description of the remaining components is replaced by the aforementioned content.

[0096] Figure 5 The sensing portion 430 ′ may include a switch element capable of electrically short-circuiting or opening the two control portion connection pattern portions 510 e and 530 e according to the control of the control portion (not shown).

[0097] exist Figure 5 In the second driving method shown, the control unit (not shown) electrically connects the two control units of the driving unit 410 to the pattern units 110e and 130e, and electrically connects the two control units of the sensing unit 430' to the pattern units 510e and 530e, so that the control unit can be used in a single drive and single receive manner. Figures 2 to 3 Alternatively, the sensor may be used as a pen sensing sensor for receiving a pen signal transmitted from a stylus pen.

[0098] Figure 6 Is used to explain the Figures 2 to 3 FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a third driving method of a sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0099] Reference Figure 6 The third driving method can use multiple first electrodes 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d as receiving electrodes RX0, RX1, and RX2, and multiple second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d as driving electrodes TX0-1, TX0-2, TX1-1, TX1-2, TX2-1, TX2-2, TX3-1, and TX3-2. To this end, a control unit (not shown) applies a first drive signal DS1 and a second drive signal DS2 to the multiple second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d, and receives sensing signals from the multiple first electrodes 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d. Here, the first drive signal DS1 and the second drive signal DS2 can be pulse signals or sinusoidal signals. The first drive signal DS1 and the second drive signal DS2 are signals with phases 180 degrees opposite to each other.

[0100] The control unit (not shown) may simultaneously apply the first driving signal DS1 and the second driving signal DS2 to at least one second electrode among the plurality of second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d.

[0101] The driving unit 610 of the control unit (not shown) may be electrically connected to the two control unit connection pattern portions 510 e and 530 e of each of the second electrodes 500 a , 500 b , 500 c , and 500 d .

[0102] The control unit (not shown) may apply the first driving signal DS1 to the third electrode pattern portion 510 of each of the second electrodes 500 a , 500 b , 500 c , and 500 d and apply the second driving signal DS2 to the fourth electrode pattern portion 530 through the driving unit 610 .

[0103] The control unit (not shown) may receive a sensing signal from at least one first electrode among the plurality of first electrodes 100 a , 100 b , 100 c , and 100 d through the sensing unit 630 .

[0104] The sensing portion 630 of the control portion (not shown) may be electrically connected to the control portion connection pattern portions 110 e and 130 e of the first electrodes 100 a , 100 b , 100 c , and 100 d .

[0105] The sensing unit 630 of the control unit (not shown) may include a switching element capable of electrically short-circuiting or opening the control unit connection pattern portions 110e and 130e of each of the first electrodes 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d. When the control unit (not shown) applies the first drive signal DS1 and the second drive signal DS2 to at least one of the second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d, the control unit (not shown) may control the switching element to electrically short-circuit the control unit connection pattern portions 110e and 130e of each of the first electrodes 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d.

[0106] The sensing unit 630 of the control unit (not shown) may include a plurality of differential amplifiers 635. Each differential amplifier 635 differentially amplifies and outputs sensing signals outputted from two first electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d. Based on the signals outputted from each differential amplifier 635, the control unit (not shown) can determine whether an object located on the sensor has touched the sensor and the touch location.

[0107] exist Figure 6 In the third driving method shown, the second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d are driven differentially, and sensing signals are output from the first electrodes 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d.

[0108] Therefore, according to Figure 6 In the third driving method, since the first drive signal DS1 and the second drive signal DS2 are simultaneously applied to each of the second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d serving as the drive electrodes TX0-1, TX0-2, TX1-1, TX1-2, TX2-1, TX2-2, TX3-1, and TX3-2, it is possible to reduce touch-to-display noise caused by the sensor driving on the display panel, such as flicker. Furthermore, since the drive signals can be applied simultaneously to all of the second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d, the touch drive time can be shortened, thereby reducing power consumption. Furthermore, noise caused by LGM (Low Ground Mass) can be eliminated or improved.

[0109] Figure 7 Is used to explain the Figures 2 to 3 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a fourth driving method of a sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0110] Figure 7 The fourth driving method shown is the same as Figure 6 Compared with the driving method shown in FIG. 6 , only the sensing portion 630 ′ is different, and the remaining components are the same, so the description of the remaining components is replaced by the aforementioned content.

[0111] Figure 7 The sensing portion 630 ′ may include a switch element capable of electrically short-circuiting or opening the two control portion connection pattern portions 110 e and 130 e according to the control of the control portion (not shown).

[0112] exist Figure 7 In the fourth driving method shown, the control unit (not shown) applies a first driving signal DS1 to the third electrode pattern portion 510 of each second electrode 500a, 500b, 500c, 500d of the driving unit 610, applies a second driving signal DS2 to the fourth electrode pattern portion 530, electrically connects the two control unit connection pattern portions 510e, 530e of the sensing unit 430', differentially drives each second electrode 500a, 500b, 500c, 500d, and outputs each sensing signal from each first electrode 100a, 100b, 100c, 100d. The sensing signals output from each first electrode 100a, 100b, 100c, 100d may include capacitance information obtained by subtracting the first capacitance signal between the third electrode pattern portion 510 and the first electrodes 100a, 100b, 100c, 100d and the second capacitance information between the fourth electrode pattern portion 530 and the first electrodes 100a, 100b, 100c, 100d.

[0113] Therefore, according to Figure 7 In the fourth driving method, since the first driving signal DS1 and the second driving signal DS2 are simultaneously applied to the second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d used as the driving electrodes TX0-1, TX0-2, TX1-1, TX1-2, TX2-1, TX2-2, TX3-1, and TX3-2, the same effect can be achieved. Figure 6 The effect of the third driving method.

[0114] Figure 8 Is used to explain the Figures 2 to 3 FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a fifth driving method of a sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0115] Reference Figure 8 The fifth driving method can use multiple first electrodes 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d as receiving electrodes RX0, RX1, and RX2, and multiple second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d as driving electrodes TX0-1, TX0-2, TX1-1, TX1-2, TX2-1, TX2-2, TX3-1, and TX3-2. To this end, a control unit (not shown) applies a first drive signal DS1 and a second drive signal DS2 to the multiple second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d, and receives sensing signals from the multiple first electrodes 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d. Here, the first drive signal DS1 and the second drive signal DS2 can be pulse signals or sinusoidal signals. The first drive signal DS1 and the second drive signal DS2 are signals whose phases are 180 degrees opposite to each other.

[0116] The control unit (not shown) may simultaneously apply the first driving signal DS1 and the second driving signal DS2 to at least one second electrode among the plurality of second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d.

[0117] The driving unit 810 of the control unit (not shown) may be electrically connected to the two control unit connection pattern portions 510 e and 530 e of each of the second electrodes 500 a , 500 b , 500 c , and 500 d .

[0118] The control unit (not shown) may apply the first driving signal DS1 to the third electrode pattern portion 510 of each of the second electrodes 500 a , 500 b , 500 c , and 500 d and apply the second driving signal DS2 to the fourth electrode pattern portion 530 through the driving unit 810 .

[0119] The control unit (not shown) may receive a sensing signal from at least one first electrode among the plurality of first electrodes 100 a , 100 b , 100 c , and 100 d through the sensing unit 830 .

[0120] The sensing portion 830 of the control portion (not shown) may be electrically connected to the control portion connection pattern portions 110 e and 130 e of the first electrodes 100 a , 100 b , 100 c , and 100 d .

[0121] The sensing unit 830 may include multiple differential amplifiers 835. Each differential amplifier 835 is electrically connected to the control unit connection pattern portion 110e, 130e of each first electrode 100a, 100b, 100c, 100d. Each differential amplifier 835 differentially amplifies and outputs two sensing signals output from the two control unit connection pattern portions 110e, 130e. Based on the signals output from each differential amplifier 835, the control unit (not shown) can determine whether an object located on the sensor has touched the sensor and the touch location.

[0122] exist Figure 8 In the fifth driving method shown, the second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d are differentially driven, and the sensing signals output from the first electrodes 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d are differentiated and output.

[0123] Therefore, according to Figure 8 The fifth driving method can simultaneously exert the technical effects of the first driving method and the second driving method.

[0124] Specifically, since the first drive signal DS1 and the second drive signal DS2 are simultaneously applied to each of the second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d serving as the drive electrodes TX0-1, TX0-2, TX1-1, TX1-2, TX2-1, TX2-2, TX3-1, and TX3-2, it is possible to reduce the noise (touch to display noise) caused by the sensor driving the display panel, such as flicker. In addition, since the drive signal can be applied simultaneously to all of the second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d, the touch drive time can be shortened, thereby reducing power consumption. In addition, noise caused by LGM (Low Ground Mass) can be eliminated or improved. In addition, since differential signals are output from each of the first electrodes 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d, it is possible to eliminate or improve the noise (display to touch noise) caused by the display panel driving the sensor.

[0125] Figure 9 is based on Figure 1 A plan view of a portion of a sensor of another embodiment of the sensor 10 is shown. Figure 10 (a) to (b) is to Figure 9A plan view of the sensor shown separated by layers.

[0126] according to Figures 9 and 10 The sensor of another embodiment shown includes a plurality of first electrodes 100a', 100b', 100c', 100d' and a plurality of second electrodes 500a', 500b', 500c', 500d'.

[0127] according to Figures 9 and 10 The sensor of another embodiment shown is Figures 2 to 3 Compared to the sensor of the illustrated embodiment, the first to fourth electrode pattern portions 110, 130, 510, 530, the first to fourth connection pattern portions 110c, 130c, 510c, 530c, and the control unit connection pattern portions 110e and 530e of the first and fourth electrode pattern portions 110 and 530 are identical in shape. However, the electrode connection pattern portions 110d', 130d', 510d', 530d' and the control unit connection pattern portions 130e' and 510e' of the second and third electrode pattern portions 130 and 510 are different in shape. Furthermore, the patterns or pattern portions arranged on the first and second layers are also different. The patterns or pattern portions arranged on the first and second layers can be modified in various ways depending on the design.

[0128] according to Figures 9 and 10 Another embodiment of the sensor shown is Figures 2 to 3 The illustrated example of one variation of the sensor should be understood to mean that the shape or position of the pattern or pattern portion can be modified in various ways.

[0129] Similarly, according to Figures 9 and 10 Another embodiment of the sensor shown can be Figures 4 to 8 The method is any one of the first to fifth driving methods shown.

[0130] Figure 11 is based on Figure 1 A plan view of a portion of a sensor of yet another embodiment of the sensor 10 is shown. Figure 12 (a) to (b) is to Figure 11 A plan view of the sensor shown separated by layers.

[0131] according to Figures 11 to 12 The sensor of another embodiment shown includes a plurality of first electrodes 100a", 100b", 100c", 100d" and a plurality of second electrodes 500a", 500b", 500c", 500d", 500e".

[0132] Multiple first electrodes 100a", 100b", 100c", 100d" are arranged along a first axis direction, and multiple second electrodes 500a", 500b", 500c", 500d", 500e" may be arranged along a second axis direction perpendicular to the first axis direction.

[0133] When the plurality of first electrodes 100a", 100b", 100c", 100d" are driving electrodes, the plurality of second electrodes 500a", 500b", 500c", 500d", 500e" may be receiving electrodes. Conversely, when the plurality of second electrodes 500a", 500b", 500c", 500d", 500e" are driving electrodes, the plurality of first electrodes 100a", 100b", 100c", 100d" may be receiving electrodes.

[0134] The plurality of first electrodes 100a", 100b", 100c", and 100d" may include a 1a electrode 100a, a 1b electrode 100b, a 1c electrode 100c, and a 1d electrode 100d. The 1a electrode 100a", the 1b electrode 100b", the 1c electrode 100c", and the 1d electrode 100d" may all have the same shape. Therefore, the structure of the 1a electrode 100a" will be described in detail, and the description of the 1b to 1d electrodes 100b", 100c", and 100d" will be replaced by the description of the 1a electrode 100a".

[0135] The first electrode 100a" includes a first electrode pattern portion 110' and a second electrode pattern portion 130'. The first electrode pattern portion 110' and the second electrode pattern portion 130' are alternately arranged along at least one first axis direction.

[0136] Each first electrode pattern portion 110' may include a pair of patterns symmetrical to each other about a first axis. Each of the pair of patterns may have a triangular shape. The pair of patterns may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. The first 1a electrode 100a" may include a first connection pattern portion 110c' for electrically connecting the pair of spaced-apart patterns of the first electrode pattern portion 110'. Here, the pair of patterns and the first connection pattern portion 110c' may be integrally formed.

[0137] Each first electrode pattern portion 110 ′ may be disposed between two third electrode pattern portions 510 ′ or two fourth electrode pattern portions 530 ′ adjacent to each other in the first axis direction.

[0138] Each second electrode pattern portion 130' may include a pair of patterns symmetrical to each other about the first axis. Each of the pair of patterns may have a triangular shape. The pair of patterns may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. The first 1a electrode 100a" may include a second connection pattern portion 130c' for electrically connecting the pair of spaced-apart patterns of the second electrode pattern portions 130'. Here, the pair of patterns and the second connection pattern portion 130c' may be integrally formed.

[0139] Each second electrode pattern portion 130 ′ may be disposed between two third electrode pattern portions 510 ′ or two fourth electrode pattern portions 530 ′ adjacent to each other in the first axis direction.

[0140] The 1a-electrode 100a" includes an electrode connection pattern portion 110d' for electrically connecting the first electrode pattern portions 110' alternately arranged along the first axis direction. In addition, the 1a-electrode 100a" includes a control portion connection pattern portion 110e' for connecting a control portion (not shown) to the first electrode pattern portion 110'.

[0141] The first electrode 100a" includes an electrode connection pattern portion 130d' ​​for electrically connecting to the second electrode pattern portions 130' alternately arranged along the first axis direction. In addition, the first electrode 100a" includes a control portion connection pattern portion 130e' for connecting a control portion (not shown) to the second electrode pattern portion 130'.

[0142] Multiple second electrodes 500a", 500b", 500c", 500d", and 500e" may include a 2a electrode 500a", a 2b electrode 500b", a 2c electrode 500c", a 2d electrode 500d", and a 2e electrode 500e". The 2a electrode 500a", the 2b electrode 500b", the 2c electrode 500c", the 2d electrode 500d", and the 2e electrode 500e" may all have the same shape. Therefore, the structure of the 2a electrode 500a" is described in detail, and the description of the 2b electrode to the 2e electrode 500b", 500c", 500d", and 500e" is replaced by the description of the 2a electrode 500a".

[0143] The 2a-th electrode 500a″ includes a third electrode pattern portion 510 ′ and a fourth electrode pattern portion 530 ′. The third electrode pattern portion 510 ′ and the fourth electrode pattern portion 530 ′ are alternately arranged along at least one of the second axis directions.

[0144] Each third electrode pattern portion 510' may have a triangular or rhombus (or diamond) shape. For example, the patterns at both ends of the plurality of third electrode pattern portions 510' along the first axis may have a triangular shape, while the remaining patterns may have a rhombus shape. The triangular pattern may have an area half that of the rhombus pattern.

[0145] As one feature of the configuration, at least one third electrode pattern portion 510 ′ may be disposed between the first electrode pattern portion 110 ′ and the second electrode pattern portion 130 ′ adjacent to each other in the first axis direction.

[0146] Each fourth electrode pattern portion 530' may have a triangular or rhombus (or diamond) shape. For example, the patterns at both ends of the plurality of fourth electrode pattern portions 530' along the first axis may have a triangular shape, and the remaining patterns may have a rhombus shape. The triangular pattern may have an area half that of the rhombus pattern.

[0147] As one feature of the configuration, at least one fourth electrode pattern portion 530 ′ may be disposed between the first electrode pattern portion 110 ′ and the second electrode pattern portion 130 ′ adjacent to each other in the first axis direction.

[0148] The 2a-electrode 500a" includes an electrode connecting pattern portion 510d' for electrically connecting the third electrode pattern portions 510' alternately arranged along the second axis direction. In addition, the 2a-electrode 500a" includes a control portion connecting pattern portion 510e' for connecting a control portion (not shown) and the third electrode pattern portion 510'.

[0149] The 2a-electrode 500a" includes an electrode connecting pattern portion 530d' for electrically connecting the fourth electrode pattern portions 530' alternately arranged along the second axis direction. In addition, the 2a-electrode 500a" includes a control portion connecting pattern portion 530e' for connecting a control portion (not shown) and the fourth electrode pattern portion 530'.

[0150] All components of the 1a electrode 100a" and part of the 2a electrode 500a" may be arranged in a first layer, and the remaining components of the 2a electrode 500a" may be arranged in a second layer different from the first layer. For example, referring to Figure 12(a) and (b), the first electrode pattern portion 110' and the second electrode pattern portion 130', the first connection pattern portion 110c' and the second connection pattern portion 130c', the electrode connection pattern portions 110d', 130d' ​​and the control portion connection pattern portions 110e', 130e' of the 1a-electrode 100a" may be arranged on the first layer together with the third electrode pattern portion 510' and the fourth electrode pattern portion 530' of the 2a-electrode 500a", and the electrode connection pattern portions 510d', 530d' and the control portion connection pattern portions 510e', 530e' of the 2a-electrode 500a" may be arranged on the second layer. The second layer is another layer arranged on the upper part or the lower part of the first layer and is electrically insulated from the first layer.

[0151] The plurality of first electrodes 100a", 100b", 100c", 100d" and the plurality of second electrodes 500a", 500b", 500c", 500d", 500e" may be implemented as metal meshes.

[0152] The connection pattern portions 510d', 530d', 510e', 530e' of the plurality of second electrodes 500a", 500b", 500c", 500d", 500e" arranged on the second layer may have a bar pattern shape extending along the second axis direction and include at least one conductive through-hole. The conductive through-hole may be arranged on one side or both ends of each connection pattern portion. Through the conductive through-hole, electrical connection may be achieved with the third electrode pattern portion 510' and the fourth electrode pattern portion 530' arranged on the first layer.

[0153] and Figures 2 to 3 The sensor shown is compared to Figures 11 to 12 The sensor shown has the advantage of a simpler structure. In particular, the structure of the third electrode pattern portion 510' and the fourth electrode pattern portion 530' of the plurality of second electrodes 500a", 500b", 500c", 500d", 500e" becomes simple, and no need Figures 2 to 3 The connection pattern portions 510c and 530c of the plurality of second electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c and 500d of the sensor are formed, so it is easier to manufacture the plurality of second electrodes 500a", 500b", 500c", 500d" and 500e".

[0154] In addition, you can Figures 11 to 12 The above mentioned sensor is also applied in the sensor shown Figures 4 to 8 The first driving method to the fifth driving method.

[0155] Figure 13 is a plan view of a portion of a sensor according to yet another embodiment of the present invention, Figure 14 Only shows Figure 13A plan view of the components arranged on the first layer in the sensor shown, Figure 15 Only shows Figure 13 A plan view of the components of the sensor configured on the second layer is shown.

[0156] Reference Figures 13 to 15 , a sensor according to one embodiment of the present invention can not only sense the touch of a finger or a conductive object, but also drive an external stylus pen and sense a pen signal emitted from the stylus pen.

[0157] Reference Figures 13 to 15 According to one embodiment of the present invention, a sensor includes a plurality of first electrodes 100a', 100b', 100c', 100d', a plurality of second electrodes 500a', 500b', 500c', 500d', a plurality of first pen electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d, and a plurality of second pen electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, 600d.

[0158] Multiple first electrodes 100a', 100b', 100c', 100d' are arranged along a first axis direction, and multiple second electrodes 500a', 500b', 500c', 500d' can be arranged along a second axis direction different from the first axis direction. The second axis direction can be a direction perpendicular to the first axis direction.

[0159] When the plurality of first electrodes 100a', 100b', 100c', 100d' are driving electrodes, the plurality of second electrodes 500a', 500b', 500c', 500d' may be receiving electrodes. Conversely, when the plurality of second electrodes 500a', 500b', 500c', 500d' are driving electrodes, the plurality of first electrodes 100a', 100b', 100c', 100d' may be receiving electrodes.

[0160] The plurality of first electrodes 100a', 100b', 100c', 100d' may include a first electrode 100a', a first electrode 100b', a first electrode 100c', and a first electrode 100d'. The first electrode 100a', the first electrode 100b', the first electrode 100c', and the first electrode 100d' may all have the same shape. Therefore, the structure of the first electrode 100a' will be described in detail, and the description of the first to second electrodes 100b', 100c', and 100d' will be replaced by the description of the first electrode 100a'.

[0161] The first electrode 100a''' includes a first electrode pattern portion 110'' and a second electrode pattern portion 130''. The first electrode pattern portion 110'' and the second electrode pattern portion 130'' are alternately arranged along at least one first axis direction.

[0162] Each first electrode pattern portion 110 ″ may include a pair of patterns that are symmetrical with respect to the second axis. Each of the pair of patterns may have a triangular shape. Here, the pair of patterns may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. Each of the pair of patterns may have a shape that surrounds at least a portion of the electrode pattern portion 210 disposed adjacent to the pair of patterns among the plurality of first pen electrodes 200 a , 200 b , 200 c , and 200 d .

[0163] The first 1a electrode 100a''' may include a first connection pattern portion 110c'' for electrically connecting a pair of patterns of the first electrode pattern portion 110'' to each other.

[0164] Each second electrode pattern portion 130" may include a pair of patterns symmetrical to each other with respect to the second axis. Each of the pair of patterns may have a triangular shape. The pair of patterns may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. Each of the pair of patterns may have a shape that surrounds at least a portion of the electrode pattern portion 210 adjacent to the pair of patterns among the plurality of first pen electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d.

[0165] The 1a-th electrode 100a''' may include a second connection pattern portion 130c'' for electrically connecting a pair of patterns of the second electrode pattern portion 130'' to each other.

[0166] The first electrode 100a'' includes a first electrode connection pattern portion 110d'' for electrically connecting the first electrode pattern portions 110'' arranged along the first axis direction. In addition, the first electrode 100a'' includes a first control portion connection pattern portion 110e'' for connecting a control portion (not shown) to the first electrode pattern portion 110''.

[0167] The first electrode 100a'' includes a second electrode connection pattern portion 130d'' for electrically connecting to the second electrode pattern portion 130'' arranged along the first axis. In addition, the first electrode 100a'' includes a second control portion connection pattern portion 130e'' for connecting to a control portion (not shown) and the second electrode pattern portion 130''.

[0168] The plurality of second electrodes 500a', 500b', 500c', 500d' may include a 2a electrode 500a', a 2b electrode 500b', a 2c electrode 500c', and a 2d electrode 500d'. The 2a electrode 500a', the 2b electrode 500b', the 2c electrode 500c', and the 2d electrode 500d' may all have the same shape. Therefore, the structure of the 2a electrode 500a' is described in detail, and the description of the 2b to 2d electrodes 500b', 500c', and 500d' is replaced by the description of the 2a electrode 500a'.

[0169] The 2a-electrode 500a'' includes a third electrode pattern portion 510'' and a fourth electrode pattern portion 530''. The third electrode pattern portion 510'' and the fourth electrode pattern portion 530'' are alternately arranged along at least one of the second axis directions.

[0170] Each third electrode pattern portion 510" may include a pair of patterns that are symmetrical to each other with respect to the first axis. Each of the pair of patterns may have a triangular shape. The pair of patterns may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. Each of the pair of patterns may have a shape that surrounds at least a portion of the electrode pattern portion 610 arranged adjacent to the pair of patterns among the plurality of second pen electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, and 600d.

[0171] The 2a-th electrode 500a''' may include a third connection pattern portion 510c'' for electrically connecting a pair of patterns of the third electrode pattern portion 510'' that are spaced apart from each other.

[0172] Each fourth electrode pattern portion 530″ may include a pair of patterns that are symmetrical to each other with respect to the first axis. Each of the pair of patterns may have a triangular shape. The pair of patterns may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. Each of the pair of patterns may have a shape that surrounds at least a portion of the electrode pattern portion 610 arranged adjacent to the pair of patterns among the plurality of second pen electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, and 600d.

[0173] The 2a-th electrode 500a''' may include a fourth connection pattern portion 530c'' for electrically connecting a pair of patterns of the fourth electrode pattern portion 530'' that are spaced apart from each other.

[0174] The 2a-electrode 500a''' includes an electrode connecting pattern portion 510d'' for electrically connecting to the third electrode pattern portion 510'' arranged along the second axis direction. The 2a-electrode 500a''' includes a third control portion connecting pattern portion 510e'' for connecting a control portion (not shown) to the third electrode pattern portion 510''.

[0175] The 2a-electrode 500a''' includes an electrode connecting pattern portion 530d'' for electrically connecting to the fourth electrode pattern portion 530'' arranged along the second axis direction. The 2a-electrode 500a''' includes a fourth control portion connecting pattern portion 530e'' for connecting a control portion (not shown) to the fourth electrode pattern portion 530''.

[0176] It is possible to configure some components of the first electrode 100a'' in the first layer, and the remaining components in the second layer different from the first layer. Figure 14 and Figure 15 The first electrode pattern portion 110″ and the second electrode pattern portion 130″ of the 1a electrode 100a″′ can be configured on the first layer, and the connection pattern portions 110c″, 110d″, 110e″, 130c″, 130d″, and 130e″ can be configured on the second layer. The second layer is another layer configured above or below the first layer and is electrically insulated from the first layer.

[0177] All components of the 2a electrode 500a"' can be arranged in the first layer. Although not shown in a separate figure here, all components of the 1a electrode 100a"' can be arranged in either the first layer or the second layer, some components of the 2a electrode 500a"' can be arranged in either the first layer or the second layer, and the remaining components can be arranged in the remaining layer. Alternatively, all components of the 1a electrode 100a"' can be arranged in the first layer, and all components of the 2a electrode 500a"' can be arranged in the second layer.

[0178] Any first electrode pattern portion 110" of the 1a electrode 100a"' and any third electrode pattern portion 510" of the 2a electrode 500a"' can be arranged adjacent to each other. A pair of patterns of the first electrode pattern portion 110" can be arranged in a manner that intersects with a pair of patterns of the third electrode pattern portion 510". The pair of patterns of the first electrode pattern portion 110" can be arranged symmetrically on both sides with the third connection pattern portion 510c" as a reference.

[0179] Any first electrode pattern portion of the 1b electrode 100b″′ and any fourth electrode pattern portion 530″ of the 2a electrode 500a″′ can be arranged adjacent to each other. A pair of patterns of any first electrode pattern portion can be arranged in a form that intersects with a pair of patterns of the fourth electrode pattern portion 530″. The pair of patterns of any first electrode pattern portion can be arranged symmetrically on both sides with the fourth connection pattern portion 530c″ as a reference.

[0180] Any second electrode pattern portion 130" of the 1a electrode 100a"' and any third electrode pattern portion of the 2b electrode 500b"' can be arranged adjacent to each other. A pair of patterns of the second electrode pattern portion 130" can be arranged in a manner that intersects with a pair of patterns of the third electrode pattern portion. A pair of patterns of the third electrode pattern portion 130" can be arranged symmetrically on both sides with the third connection pattern portion of the 2b electrode 500b"' as a reference.

[0181] Any second electrode pattern portion of the 1b electrode 100b″′ and any fourth electrode pattern portion of the 2b electrode 500b″′ can be arranged adjacent to each other. The pair of patterns of the second electrode pattern portion can be arranged in a manner intersecting with the pair of patterns of the fourth electrode pattern portion. The pair of patterns of any second electrode pattern portion can be arranged symmetrically on both sides with the fourth connection pattern portion of the 2b electrode 500b″′ as a reference.

[0182] The plurality of first electrodes 100a'", 100b'", 100c'", 100d'" and the plurality of second electrodes 500a'", 500b'", 500c'", 500d'" may be implemented as metal meshes.

[0183] The connection pattern portions 110c", 110d", 110e", 130c", 130d", 130e" of the plurality of first electrodes 100a", 100b", 100c", 100d" arranged on the second layer may have a bar pattern shape extending along the first axis direction and include at least one conductive through-hole. The conductive through-holes may be arranged on one side or both side ends of each connection pattern portion. Through the conductive through-holes, electrical connection may be achieved with the first electrode pattern portion 110" and the second electrode pattern portion 130" arranged on the first layer.

[0184] At least a portion of each of the connection pattern portions 110 c ″, 110 d ″, 110 e ″, 130 c ″, 130 d ″, and 130 e ″ may be disposed in an active area of ​​a display panel (not shown).

[0185] Because of this Figures 13 to 15 The sensor shown includes a plurality of first electrodes 100a', 100b', 100c', 100d' and a plurality of second electrodes 500a', 500b', 500c' and 500d', so the above-mentioned Figures 4 to 8 The first to fifth driving methods can produce corresponding effects.

[0186] The plurality of first pen electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d are arranged along a first axis, and the plurality of second pen electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, and 600d are arranged along a second axis different from the first axis. Here, the second axis may be perpendicular to the first axis.

[0187] Each first pen electrode 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d is disposed adjacent to each first electrode 100a'', 100b'', 100c'', 100d'', and each second pen electrode 600a, 600b, 600c, 600d is disposed adjacent to each second electrode 500a'', 500b'', 500c'', 500d''.

[0188] Capacitive coupling can be formed between adjacent first pen electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d and first electrodes 100a', 100b', 100c', and 100d'. This capacitive coupling allows charge to flow between adjacent first pen electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d and first electrodes 100a', 100b', 100c', and 100d'. This allows current generated on one side of the first pen electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d and first electrodes 100a', 100b', 100c', and 100d' to flow to the other side. This capacitive coupling principle can be used to drive an external stylus or receive stylus signals from an external stylus.

[0189] Similarly, capacitive coupling can be formed between adjacent second pen electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, and 600d and second electrodes 500a', 500b', 500c', and 500d'. This capacitive coupling allows charge to flow between adjacent second pen electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, and 600d and second electrodes 500a', 500b', 500c', and 500d'. This allows current generated on one side of the second pen electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, and 600d and second electrodes 500a', 500b', 500c', and 500d' to flow to the other side. This capacitive coupling principle can be used to drive an external stylus or receive stylus signals from an external stylus.

[0190] The plurality of first pen electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d or the plurality of second pen electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, and 600d can function as pen driving electrodes for driving an external stylus, or as pen receiving electrodes for receiving pen signals transmitted from the external stylus. If the external stylus is an active stylus, since the active stylus has its own battery, there is no need to drive the active stylus. Therefore, the plurality of first pen electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d or the plurality of second pen electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, and 600d can function solely as the pen receiving electrodes.

[0191] The plurality of first pen electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d include a first pen electrode 200a, a first pen electrode 200b, a first pen electrode 200c, and a first pen electrode 200d. One end of each of the first pen electrode 200a, the first pen electrode 200b, the first pen electrode 200c, and the first pen electrode 200d can be electrically connected. The inter-electrode connection pattern 210c can be electrically connected to the one end.

[0192] The inter-electrode connection pattern portion 210c forms a current loop through which current (or induced current) can flow among the 1a-th pen electrode 200a, the 1b-th pen electrode 200b, the 1c-th pen electrode 200c, and the 1d-th pen electrode 200. The inter-electrode connection pattern portion 210c is electrically connected to the electrode pattern portion located on one edge of the multiple electrode pattern portions 210 of the 1a-th pen electrode 200a, to the electrode pattern portion located on one edge of the multiple electrode pattern portions of the 1b-th pen electrode 200b, to the electrode pattern portion located on one edge of the multiple electrode pattern portions of the 1c-th pen electrode 200c, and to the electrode pattern portion located on one edge of the multiple electrode pattern portions of the 1d-th pen electrode 200d.

[0193] The pen electrode 1a 200a, the pen electrode 1b 200b, the pen electrode 1c 200c, and the pen electrode 1d 200d can all have the same shape. The structure of the pen electrode 1a 200a will be described in detail below. The description of the pen electrode 1b 200b, the pen electrode 1c 200c, and the pen electrode 1d 200d will be replaced by the description of the pen electrode 1a 200a.

[0194] The first pen electrode 200a includes a plurality of electrode pattern portions 210 arranged along the first axis. Each electrode pattern portion 210 may be arranged to be surrounded by the first electrode pattern portion 110 ″ or the second electrode pattern portion 130 ″. Here, the electrode pattern portion 210 may be referred to as a fifth electrode pattern portion.

[0195] Two electrode pattern portions 210 disposed at both side edges among the plurality of electrode pattern portions 210 may be disposed to be surrounded by one first electrode pattern portion 110 ″ or one second electrode pattern portion 130 ″. Each of the two electrode pattern portions 210 disposed at both side edges may have a triangular shape.

[0196] Each of the plurality of electrode pattern portions 210, except for the two electrode pattern portions 210 arranged at the two side edges, can be configured to be surrounded by a first electrode pattern portion 110″ and a second electrode pattern portion 130″. With any of the remaining electrode pattern portions as a reference, a first electrode pattern portion and a second electrode pattern portion can be arranged on both sides, respectively. Each of the remaining electrode pattern portions can have a rhombus or diamond shape. Here, each of the two electrode pattern portions 210 arranged at the two side edges can be equal to half of each of the remaining electrode pattern portions.

[0197] A portion 535d" of the electrode connection pattern portion 530d" of a plurality of second electrodes 500a"', 500b"', 500c"', 500d"' may be arranged between at least one of the remaining electrode pattern portions and the first electrode pattern portion adjacent thereto. Here, the portion 535d" of the electrode connection pattern portion 530d" may have a structure corresponding to the outer shape of the at least one electrode pattern portion.

[0198] A portion 515d" of the electrode connection pattern portion 510d" of a plurality of second electrodes 500a"', 500b"', 500c"', 500d"' may be arranged between at least another electrode pattern portion among the remaining electrode pattern portions and the second electrode pattern portion adjacent thereto. Here, the portion 515d" of the electrode connection pattern portion 510d" may have a structure corresponding to the outer shape of the at least another electrode pattern portion.

[0199] The pen electrode 200a of the first electrode 1a includes an electrode connection pattern portion 210d for electrically connecting a plurality of electrode pattern portions 210d arranged along the first axis. This electrode connection pattern portion 210d may be referred to as the fifth electrode connection pattern portion. This electrode connection pattern portion 210d may be arranged on a second layer, separate from the first layer where the plurality of electrode pattern portions 210 are arranged. The inter-electrode connection pattern portion 210c may also be arranged on the second layer.

[0200] The plurality of second electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, and 600d include a 2a-th pen electrode 600a, a 2b-th pen electrode 600b, a 2c-th pen electrode 600c, and a 2d-th pen electrode 600. One end of each of the 2a-th pen electrode 600a, the 2b-th pen electrode 600b, the 2c-th pen electrode 600c, and the 2d-th pen electrode 600d can be electrically connected. The inter-electrode connection pattern 610c can electrically connect these one ends.

[0201] The inter-electrode connection pattern portion 610c forms a current loop with the 2a pen electrode 600a, the 2b pen electrode 600b, the 2c pen electrode 600c, and the 2d pen electrode 600. The inter-electrode connection pattern portion 610c can be electrically connected to the electrode pattern portion located on one edge of the multiple electrode pattern portions 610 of the 2a pen electrode 600a, to the electrode pattern portion located on one edge of the multiple electrode pattern portions of the 2b pen electrode 600b, to the electrode pattern portion located on one edge of the multiple electrode pattern portions of the 2c pen electrode 600c, and to the electrode pattern portion located on one edge of the multiple electrode pattern portions of the 2d pen electrode 600d.

[0202] The 2a-th pen electrode 600a, the 2b-th pen electrode 600b, the 2c-th pen electrode 600c, and the 2d-th pen electrode 600 can all have the same shape. The structure of the 2a-th pen electrode 600a will be described in detail below. The description of the 2b-th pen electrode 600b, the 2c-th pen electrode 600c, and the 2d-th pen electrode 600 will be replaced by the description of the 2a-th pen electrode 600a.

[0203] The second-a pen electrode 600a includes a plurality of electrode pattern portions 610 arranged along the second axis. Each electrode pattern portion 610 may be arranged to be surrounded by the third electrode pattern portion 510 ″ or the fourth electrode pattern portion 530 ″. Here, the electrode pattern portion 610 may be referred to as a sixth electrode pattern portion.

[0204] Two electrode pattern portions 610 disposed at both side edges among the plurality of electrode pattern portions 610 may be disposed to be surrounded by one third electrode pattern portion 510 ″ or one fourth electrode pattern portion 530 ″. Each of the two electrode pattern portions disposed at both side edges may have a triangular shape.

[0205] Each of the remaining electrode pattern portions 610 other than the two electrode pattern portions 610 arranged at the two side edges can be configured to be surrounded by a third electrode pattern portion 510″ and a fourth electrode pattern portion 530″. A third electrode pattern portion and a fourth electrode pattern portion can be respectively arranged on both sides based on any electrode pattern portion among the remaining electrode pattern portions. Each of the remaining electrode pattern portions can have a rhombus or diamond shape. Here, each of the two electrode pattern portions 610 arranged at the two side edges can be equal to half of each of the remaining electrode pattern portions.

[0206] The second-axis pen electrode 600a includes an electrode connection pattern portion 610d for electrically connecting the plurality of electrode pattern portions 610 arranged along the second axis. This electrode connection pattern portion 610d may be referred to as the sixth electrode connection pattern portion. This electrode connection pattern portion 610d may be arranged on a second layer, different from the first layer where the plurality of electrode pattern portions 610 are arranged. The inter-electrode connection pattern portion 610c may be arranged on the first layer.

[0207] The plurality of first pen electrodes 200 a , 200 b , 200 c , and 200 d and the plurality of second pen electrodes 600 a , 600 b , 600 c , and 600 d may be implemented as metal meshes.

[0208] The electrode connection pattern portion 210d of the plurality of first pen electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d arranged on the second layer can have a bar pattern extending along the first axis, and the inter-electrode connection pattern portion 210c can have a bar pattern extending along the first and second axes. These electrodes include at least one conductive via. The conductive via can be located on one or both ends of each connection pattern portion. Electrical connection to the electrode pattern portion 210 arranged on the first layer can be achieved through the conductive via.

[0209] The electrode connection pattern portion 610d of the plurality of second pen electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, and 600d arranged on the second layer can have a bar pattern extending along the first and second axes. These electrodes include at least one conductive via. The conductive via can be located on one or both ends of each connection pattern portion. Electrical connection to the electrode pattern portion 610 arranged on the first layer can be achieved through the conductive via.

[0210] Here, at least a portion of the electrode connection pattern portion 610d of the second pen electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, and 600d disposed in the second layer may be disposed between two electrode connection pattern portions 210d of the first pen electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d.

[0211] At least a portion of each connection pattern portion 210c, 210d, or 610d may be disposed in an active area of ​​a display panel (not shown).

[0212] The following describes how the control unit (not shown) of the input device can be used Figures 13 to 15 The illustrated embodiment shows various methods of a sensor according to another embodiment of the present invention for driving an external stylus or sensing a pen signal from an external stylus.

[0213] Various combinations of the plurality of first electrodes 100a', 100b', 100c', 100d', the plurality of second electrodes 500a', 500b', 500c', 500d', the plurality of first pen electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d, and the plurality of second pen electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, 600d are shown in Table 1 below. In the following Table 1, "1" refers to a plurality of first electrodes 100a", 100b, 100c, and 100d; "2" refers to a plurality of first pen electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d; "3" refers to a plurality of second pen electrodes 500a, 500b, 500c, and 500d; and "4" refers to a plurality of second pen electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, and 600d.

[0214]

Table 1

[0215]

[0216] Referring to Table 1 above, in multiple combinations (No. 1 to No. 32), multiple first electrodes 100a', 100b', 100c', 100d' and multiple second electrodes 500a', 500b', 500c', 500d' sense touches by objects such as fingers or conductive objects.

[0217] At least one or two of the plurality of first electrodes 100a', 100b', 100c', 100d', the plurality of second electrodes 500a', 500b', 500c', 500d', the plurality of first pen electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d, and the plurality of second pen electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, 600d can be used as pen driving electrodes for driving an external stylus.

[0218] At least one or two of the plurality of first electrodes 100a', 100b', 100c', 100d', the plurality of second electrodes 500a', 500b', 500c', 500d', the plurality of first stylus electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d, and the plurality of second stylus electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, 600d can be used to form a current loop for driving an external stylus. The X-axis drive can be any of the multiple first electrodes 100a", 100b", 100c", and 100d" and the multiple first stylus electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d. The Y-axis drive can be any of the multiple second electrodes 500a", 500b", 500c", and 500d" and the multiple second stylus electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, and 600d. The stylus can be driven by either X-axis drive or Y-axis drive, or both.

[0219] At least two of the plurality of first electrodes 100a', 100b', 100c', 100d', the plurality of second electrodes 500a', 500b', 500c', 500d', the plurality of first pen electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d, and the plurality of second pen electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, 600d can function as receiving electrodes for receiving pen signals transmitted from an external stylus. In order to receive the pen signal and detect the position of an external stylus, both X-axis and Y-axis sensing are required. Therefore, two patterns are used among the plurality of first electrodes 100a", 100b", 100c", 100d", a plurality of second electrodes 500a", 500b", 500c", 500d", a plurality of first pen electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d, and a plurality of second pen electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, 600d.

[0220] Specifically, the X-axis sensing may be any one of the plurality of first electrodes 100a', 100b', 100c', 100d' and the plurality of first pen electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d, and the Y-axis sensing may be any one of the plurality of second pen electrodes 500a', 500b', 500c', 500d' and the plurality of second pen electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, 600d.

[0221] In the above , the so-called "uplink signal size" refers to the size of the pen drive signal used to drive the external stylus. When directly using the plurality of first pen electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d and any one or two of the plurality of second pen electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, 600d, the size of the pen drive signal is relatively large. On the contrary, when using any one or two of the plurality of first electrodes 100a", 100b, 100c, 100d and any one or two of the plurality of second electrodes 500a", 500b, 500c, 500d, the size of the pen drive signal applied to the plurality of first electrodes 100a", 100b, 100c, 100d and / or the plurality of second electrodes 500a", 500b, 500c, 500d is relatively large. The pen driving signal 500d″ is transmitted to the plurality of first pen electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d and / or the plurality of second pen electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, 600d via capacitive coupling. Therefore, the magnitude of the pen driving signal flowing through the plurality of first pen electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d and / or the plurality of second pen electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, 600d is relatively small.

[0222] The so-called "downlink signal magnitude" refers to the magnitude (amplitude) of the pen signal received from an external stylus. When directly using any one or two of the plurality of first stylus electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d and the plurality of second stylus electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, 600d, the magnitude of the received pen signal is relatively large. In contrast, when using any one or two of the plurality of first electrodes 100a", 100b, 100c, 100d and the plurality of second electrodes 500a", 500b, 500c, 500d, the pen signal induced in the plurality of first stylus electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d and / or the plurality of second stylus electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, 600d is transmitted to the plurality of stylus electrodes via capacitive coupling. The first pen electrodes 100a', 100b', 100c', 100d' and / or the plurality of second electrodes 500a', 500b', 500c', 500d', therefore, the magnitude of the pen signal flowing through the plurality of first electrodes 100a', 100b', 100c', 100d' and / or the plurality of second electrodes 500a', 500b', 500c', 500d' is relatively small.

[0223] The term "stylus additional channels" refers to whether the control unit (not shown) needs to configure additional channels for driving and / or receiving external styluses, in addition to the channels configured for touch sensing. When using multiple first stylus electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d or / and multiple second stylus electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, and 600d to drive or sense a stylus, the multiple first stylus electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d or / and the multiple second stylus electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, and 600d must be electrically connected to the control unit (not shown). Therefore, the control unit (not shown) must have multiple channels for the multiple first stylus electrodes 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d or / and the multiple second stylus electrodes 600a, 600b, 600c, and 600d. If the plurality of first pen electrodes 200 a , 200 b , 200 c , 200 d or / and the plurality of second pen electrodes 600 a , 600 b , 600 c , 600 d are not used when driving or sensing the stylus, the plurality of channels are not needed.

[0224] As mentioned above, Figures 13 to 15 The sensor shown can not only Figures 4 to 8 The touch screen can be driven by any of the first to fifth driving methods shown, and can also drive an external stylus, such as a passive stylus, or can also receive a pen signal from an external stylus, such as an active or passive stylus.

[0225] Figure 16 Is used to explain the Figures 13 to 15 The schematic diagram of a modified example of a sensor according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 14 A modified example of the plan view.

[0226] Reference Figure 16 , according to the modified example of the sensor and Figures 13 to 15 Compared to the sensor shown in FIG. 1 , there are structural differences in the first electrode pattern portion 110 ″′ and the second electrode pattern portion 130 ″′ arranged on both side edges of the first electrode in the first axial direction, the third electrode pattern portion 510 ″′ and the fourth electrode pattern portion 530 ″′ arranged on both side edges of the second electrode in the second axial direction, the electrode pattern portion 210 ′ of the first pen electrode, and the electrode pattern portion 610 ′ of the second pen electrode.

[0227] Figure 16 The first electrode pattern portion 110'', the second electrode pattern portion 130'', the third electrode pattern portion 510'', the fourth electrode pattern portion 530'', the first pen electrode electrode pattern portion 210' and the second pen electrode electrode pattern portion 610' are all shown in the figure. Figure 14However, any one or more of the first electrode pattern portion 110 ', the second electrode pattern portion 130 ', the third electrode pattern portion 510 ', the fourth electrode pattern portion 530 ', the first pen electrode electrode pattern portion 210 ' and the second pen electrode electrode pattern portion 610 ' may be configured as follows. Figure 16 As shown, the rest of the Figure 14 Same structure.

[0228] Reference Figure 16 At least one of the first electrode pattern portion 110'', the second electrode pattern portion 130'', the third electrode pattern portion 510'', and the fourth electrode pattern portion 530'' may have a shape of a portion of a rhombus. For example, at least one of the first electrode pattern portion 110'', the second electrode pattern portion 130'', the third electrode pattern portion 510'', and the fourth electrode pattern portion 530'' may have a pentagonal diamond shape.

[0229] At least one of the first pen electrode pattern portion 210 ′ and the second pen electrode pattern portion 610 ′ may have a diamond shape. For example, at least one of the first pen electrode pattern portion 210 ′ and the second pen electrode pattern portion 610 ′ may have a pentagonal diamond shape.

[0230] The first electrode pattern portion 110 ″′, the second electrode pattern portion 130 ″′, the third electrode pattern portion 510 ″′, and the fourth electrode pattern portion 530 ″′ may have a shape surrounding at least a portion of the first pen electrode electrode pattern portion 210 ′ or the second pen electrode electrode pattern portion 610 ′.

[0231] The features, structures, and effects described in the above embodiments are included in one embodiment of the present invention and are not necessarily limited to one embodiment. Furthermore, the features, structures, and effects described in each embodiment can be implemented by combining or modifying other embodiments by a person skilled in the art. Therefore, it should be understood that the contents related to such combinations and modifications are included in the scope of the present invention.

[0232] Furthermore, the above description focuses on the embodiments, but this is merely illustrative and does not limit the present invention. A person skilled in the art can make various modifications and applications not shown above without departing from the essential characteristics of the embodiments. For example, the components specifically shown in the embodiments may be implemented in various variations. Furthermore, differences related to these variations and applications should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A sensor comprising: A first electrode including at least one first electrode pattern portion and a second electrode pattern portion alternately arranged along a first axis direction, and including a first electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the first electrode pattern portion and a second electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the second electrode pattern portion; as well as The second electrode includes a third electrode pattern portion and a fourth electrode pattern portion alternately arranged along at least one second axis direction different from the first axis, and includes a third electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the third electrode pattern portion and a fourth electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the fourth electrode pattern portion.

2. The sensor according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the third electrode pattern portions or at least one of the fourth electrode pattern portions is arranged between the first electrode pattern portion and the second electrode pattern portion adjacent to each other in the first axis direction.

3. The sensor according to claim 2, wherein: The at least one third electrode pattern portion and the fourth electrode pattern portion have a rhombus or diamond shape.

4. The sensor according to claim 1, wherein: The first electrode further comprises: a first control portion connecting pattern portion electrically connected to a first electrode pattern portion disposed at one side edge of the first electrode pattern portion; and The second control portion is connected to the pattern portion and is electrically connected to the second electrode pattern portion arranged at one edge of the second electrode pattern portion. The second electrode further comprises: a third control portion connecting pattern portion electrically connected to a third electrode pattern portion disposed at one side edge of the third electrode pattern portion; and The fourth control portion is connected to the pattern portion and is electrically connected to a fourth electrode pattern portion disposed at one edge of the fourth electrode pattern portions.

5. The sensor according to claim 4, wherein: When at least one driving signal is received through the first control unit connection pattern portion and the second control unit connection pattern portion, a sensing signal is output through the third control unit connection pattern portion and the fourth control unit connection pattern portion; or When at least one driving signal is received through the third control part connection pattern portion and the fourth control part connection pattern portion, a sensing signal is output through the first control part connection pattern portion and the second control part connection pattern portion.

6. The sensor according to claim 5, wherein: The at least one driving signal includes a first driving signal and a second driving signal, The second drive signal is a signal whose phase is inverted by 180 degrees from the first drive signal.

7. The sensor according to claim 1, wherein include: a first pen electrode, arranged adjacent to the first electrode and arranged to form a first capacitive coupling with the first electrode; as well as a second pen electrode, arranged adjacent to the second electrode and arranged to form a second capacitive coupling with the second electrode; There are a plurality of the first electrode, the second electrode, the first pen electrode, and the second pen electrode. One end of each of the plurality of first electrodes is electrically connected, One end of each of the plurality of second electrodes is electrically connected.

8. The sensor according to claim 7, wherein: The first pen electrode includes a fifth electrode pattern portion arranged along the first axis direction and a fifth electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the fifth electrode pattern portion; The second pen electrode includes a sixth electrode pattern portion arranged along the second axis direction and a sixth electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the sixth electrode pattern portion.

9. The sensor according to claim 8, wherein: The first to sixth electrode pattern portions are arranged together on the first layer. At least one of the fifth electrode pattern portions is disposed between the first electrode pattern portion and the second electrode pattern portion, At least one of the sixth electrode pattern portions is disposed between the third electrode pattern portion and the fourth electrode pattern portion.

10. The sensor according to claim 9, wherein: The third electrode connection pattern portion and the fourth electrode connection pattern portion are arranged on the first layer, The first and second electrode connection pattern portions and the fifth and sixth electrode connection pattern portions are arranged on a second layer electrically insulated from the first layer.

11. The sensor according to claim 10, wherein: comprising a first pattern portion electrically connecting one end of each of the plurality of first pen electrodes, comprising a second pattern portion electrically connecting one end of each of the plurality of second pen electrodes, The first pattern portion is disposed on the second layer, and the second pattern portion is disposed on the first layer.

12. The sensor according to claim 10, wherein: At least one of the third electrode connection pattern portions includes a portion that is disposed between the fifth electrode pattern portion and any one of the first and second electrode pattern portions and corresponds to an outer shape of the fifth electrode pattern portion.

13. The sensor according to claim 10, wherein: At least one of the fourth electrode connection pattern portions includes a portion that is disposed between the fifth electrode pattern portion and any one of the first and second electrode pattern portions and corresponds to an outer shape of the fifth electrode pattern portion.

14. The sensor according to claim 8, wherein: Two of the fifth electrode pattern portions arranged at both side edges in the first axis direction have a triangular or pentagonal diamond shape, and the remaining fifth electrode pattern portions except the two fifth electrode pattern portions have a rhombus shape. Two sixth electrode pattern portions arranged at both side edges in the second axis direction of the sixth electrode pattern portion have a triangular or pentagonal diamond shape, and the remaining sixth electrode pattern portions except the two sixth electrode pattern portions have a rhombus shape.

15. The sensor according to claim 8, wherein: The shapes of the two fifth electrode pattern portions arranged at both side edges in the first axis direction of the fifth electrode pattern portion correspond to a portion of the shapes of the remaining fifth electrode pattern portions except the two fifth electrode pattern portions. At least one of the first electrode pattern portion and the second electrode pattern portion is configured to surround at least a portion of the two fifth electrode pattern portions. The shapes of the two sixth electrode pattern portions arranged at both side edges in the second axis direction of the sixth electrode pattern portion correspond to a portion of the shapes of the remaining sixth electrode pattern portions except the two sixth electrode pattern portions. At least one of the third electrode pattern portion and the fourth electrode pattern portion is arranged to surround at least a portion of the two sixth electrode pattern portions.

16. The sensor according to claim 7, wherein: Each of the plurality of first pen electrodes includes a fifth control portion connection pattern portion connected to one end, or each of the plurality of second pen electrodes includes a sixth control portion connection pattern portion connected to one end, receiving a pen driving signal through any one of the plurality of first pen electrodes and the plurality of second pen electrodes, A pen sensing signal induced by a pen signal transmitted from a stylus pen is generated through the plurality of the first pen electrodes and the plurality of the second pen electrodes.

17. An input device comprising a sensor and a control unit configured to control the sensor. The sensor comprises: A first electrode including at least one first electrode pattern portion and a second electrode pattern portion alternately arranged along a first axis direction, and including a first electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the first electrode pattern portion and a second electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the second electrode pattern portion; as well as The second electrode includes a third electrode pattern portion and a fourth electrode pattern portion alternately arranged along at least one second axis direction different from the first axis, and includes a third electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the third electrode pattern portion and a fourth electrode connection pattern portion electrically connected to the fourth electrode pattern portion. The control unit includes: a driving unit configured to apply at least one driving signal to any one of the first electrode and the second electrode; a sensing portion configured to receive at least one sensing signal from any one of the first electrode and the second electrode; and The control unit is configured to determine a touch position based on the signal output from the sensing unit.

18. The input device according to claim 17, wherein: The first electrode further comprises: a first control portion connecting pattern portion electrically connected to a first electrode pattern portion disposed at one side edge of the first electrode pattern portion; and The second control portion is connected to the pattern portion and is electrically connected to the second electrode pattern portion arranged at one edge of the second electrode pattern portion. The second electrode further comprises: a third control portion connecting pattern portion electrically connected to a third electrode pattern portion disposed at one side edge of the third electrode pattern portion; and The fourth control portion is connected to the pattern portion and is electrically connected to a fourth electrode pattern portion disposed at one edge of the fourth electrode pattern portions.

19. The input device according to claim 18, wherein: When the at least one driving signal is applied through the first control portion connecting pattern portion and the second control portion connecting pattern portion, the at least one sensing signal is output through the third control portion connecting pattern portion and the fourth control portion connecting pattern portion; or When the at least one driving signal is applied through the third control part connection pattern portion and the fourth control part connection pattern portion, the at least one sensing signal is output through the first control part connection pattern portion and the second control part connection pattern portion.

20. The input device according to claim 19, wherein: The at least one driving signal includes a first driving signal and a second driving signal, The second drive signal is a signal whose phase is inverted by 180 degrees from the first drive signal.

21. The input device according to claim 19, wherein: The driving unit includes a switch element for electrically short-circuiting or opening the first control unit connection pattern unit and the second control unit connection pattern unit, The sensing unit includes: The differential amplifier is electrically connected to the third control unit connection pattern portion and the fourth control unit connection pattern portion and differentially amplifies two sensing signals output from the third control unit connection pattern portion and the fourth control unit connection pattern portion.

22. The input device according to claim 19, wherein: The driving portion includes a switch element for electrically short-circuiting or opening the first control portion connecting pattern portion and the second control portion connecting pattern portion; The sensing portion includes a switch element for electrically short-circuiting or opening the third control portion connecting pattern portion and the fourth control portion connecting pattern portion.

23. The input device according to claim 19, wherein: The driving portion applies a first driving signal to the third control portion connecting pattern portion and applies a second driving signal to the fourth control portion connecting pattern portion. The sensing unit includes: A differential amplifier differentially amplifies two sensing signals output from the first electrode and another first electrode adjacent to the first electrode.

24. The input device according to claim 19, wherein: The driving portion applies a first driving signal to the third control portion connecting pattern portion and applies a second driving signal to the fourth control portion connecting pattern portion. The sensing portion includes a switch element for electrically short-circuiting or opening the first control portion connecting pattern portion and the second control portion connecting pattern portion.

25. The input device according to claim 19, wherein the driving portion applies a first driving signal to the third control portion connecting pattern portion and applies a second driving signal to the fourth control portion connecting pattern portion. The sensing unit includes: The differential amplifier is electrically connected to the first control part connection pattern portion and the second control part connection pattern portion, and differentially amplifies two sensing signals output from the third control part connection pattern portion and the fourth control part connection pattern portion.

26. The input device according to claim 17, wherein the sensor comprises: a first pen electrode, arranged adjacent to the first electrode and arranged to form a first capacitive coupling with the first electrode; as well as a second pen electrode, arranged adjacent to the second electrode and arranged to form a second capacitive coupling with the second electrode; There are a plurality of the first electrode, the second electrode, the first pen electrode, and the second pen electrode. One end of each of the plurality of first electrodes is electrically connected, One end of each of the plurality of second electrodes is electrically connected, The control unit is configured to apply a pen driving signal to at least one of the first electrode, the second electrode, the first pen electrode, and the second pen electrode. The control unit is configured to receive a pen sensing signal from at least two electrodes among the first electrode, the second electrode, the first pen electrode, and the second pen electrode. The control portion is configured to discriminate a touch position of the object and a position of a stylus pen based on a signal output from the sensing portion. 27 . The input device according to claim 26 , wherein either the first pen electrode or the second pen electrode includes a control unit connection pattern portion electrically connected to the control unit.

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