Decorative capacitive sensor film

Abstract

A decorative capacitive sensor film includes a decorative layer, at least one conductive layer, and a non-conductive adhesive layer. The conductive layer is provided inside the non-conductive adhesive layer and / or on one surface or both surfaces of the non-conductive adhesive layer, and extends in an in-plane direction of the non-conductive adhesive layer. The decorative capacitive sensor film does not have irregularities on the front surface compared to conventional lighting switches, can impart decorative characteristics, and can be used in various switches and the like.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a decorative capacitive sensor film. BACKGROUND

[0002] In recent years, various capacitive touch sensors and the like have been developed.

[0003] Patent Document 1 (JP 2016-081582 A) describes a touch sensor that detects a pressed state of a prescribed operation surface in a pressing direction. The touch sensor includes a first electrode layer and a second electrode layer for detecting a change in capacitance, and a displacement layer provided between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer and capable of being displaced by a certain distance between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer in response to a press on the operation surface. The displacement layer is made of a polymer-type silane coupling agent dispersed in a rubber-like elastomer, and includes at least a plurality of column portions capable of being contracted in the pressing direction. The column portions are integrally joined with at least one of the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer.

[0004] Patent Document 2 (JP 2012-243119 A) describes a capacitive touch panel that includes a first electrode pattern for contact sensing in which a set of first long patterns extending in a first direction is made to be in conduction with a plurality of short patterns extending in a second direction to form a mesh structure having a substantially constant pitch, the second direction intersecting the first direction in a plan view, the set of first long patterns being provided separately from each other along the second direction, a second electrode pattern for contact sensing in which a set of second long patterns extending in the second direction is made to be in conduction with a plurality of short patterns extending in the first direction to form a mesh structure having a pitch identical to the pitch, the set of second long patterns being provided separately from each other along the first direction, the mesh structure having a pitch identical to the pitch being able to be formed even when the second long patterns intersect each other in a plan view without being in conduction with each other, a dummy pattern formed as a mesh structure having a pitch identical to the pitch and embedded in a space surrounded by the first electrode pattern and the second electrode pattern, a first pattern gap provided between the first electrode pattern and the dummy pattern facing each other in a plan view, and a second pattern gap provided between the second electrode pattern and the dummy pattern facing each other in a plan view. Respective distances of these first and second pattern gaps are set to have a length substantially half of the pitch.

[0005] List of citations

[0006] Patent Literature

[0007] Patent Document 1: JP 2016-081582 A

[0008] Patent Document 2: JP 2012-243119 A SUMMARY

[0009] Technical issues

[0010] For example, a decorative film can be applied to a wall or the like of a room, for example, so as to easily provide appropriate interior decoration. In this case, for example, the decorative film can be applied to a lighting switch installed on a wall surface or the like. However, since such a switch is different from a wall surface and generally has an uneven portion, even if the decorative film is applied to the switch, as Figure 6 illustrated, the presence of the switch is very conspicuous, and appropriate interior decoration of the entire room can not be obtained.

[0011] Since the decorative film is used by being attached to a wall or an adherend having a curved shape or the like, the decorative film generally has flexibility. On the other hand, the capacitive touch sensor and the touch panel described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 are generally not used for decorative purposes and do not have flexibility like a film. Therefore, such a touch sensor and a touch panel cannot be used as a decorative film.

[0012] The present disclosure provides a decorative capacitive sensor film that, for example, Figure 6 compared to a conventional lighting switch as illustrated, the front surface has no concave-convex, can be given a decorative property, and can be used for various switches or the like.

[0013] Solution to the problem

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a decorative capacitive sensor film including a decorative layer, at least one conductive layer, and a non-conductive adhesive layer, in which the conductive layer is disposed inside the non-conductive adhesive layer and / or on one surface or both surfaces of the non-conductive adhesive layer and extends in a planar direction of the non-conductive adhesive layer.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a laminate including: an adherend to which the film is adhered via the non-conductive adhesive layer; and an electrode in contact with at least a portion of the conductive layer.

[0016] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a system including the laminate described above and a control circuit and a power source connected to the electrode of the laminate, in which the control circuit controls a signal generated from the film of the laminate to drive an electrical device.

[0017] Advantageous Effects of the Invention

[0018] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a decorative capacitive sensor film that does not have a concave-convex on a front surface, can impart a decorative property, and can be used for various switches and the like, as compared with a conventional lighting switch or the like.

[0019] The above description should not be interpreted as encompassing all embodiments of the present invention and all advantages related to the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0020] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a decorative capacitive sensor film of an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a decorative capacitive sensor film of another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a decorative capacitive sensor film of another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a decorative capacitive sensor film of another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a laminate of one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 6 is a schematic view of a conventional lighting switch to which a decorative film is applied.

[0026] Figure 7 is a photograph of a laminate including a decorative capacitive sensor film of an embodiment of the present disclosure functioning as a switch.

[0027] Figure 8 is a photograph of a system including Figure 7 a laminate.

[0028] Figure 9 is another photograph of a system including Figure 7 a laminate. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] Hereinafter, representative embodiments of the present application will be described in more detail with reference to the attached drawings, as necessary for the purpose of illustration, but the present application is not limited to these embodiments. With respect to the reference numerals in the drawings, the components marked with like numerals throughout the drawings are similar or corresponding components.

[0030] In the present disclosure, the term "substantially" means to include variations caused by production errors, etc., and is intended to allow variations of about ±20%.

[0031] In the present disclosure, the term "(meth)acrylic" means acrylic or methacrylic, and the term "(meth)acrylate" means acrylate or methacrylate.

[0032] In the present disclosure, the term "film" encompasses an article referred to as "sheet".

[0033] In the present disclosure, "transparent" means that the average transmittance in the visible light region (wavelength of 400 nm to 700 nm) is about 80% or more as measured according to JIS K 7375, and the average transmittance desirably can be about 85% or more or about 90% or more. The upper limit of the average transmittance is not particularly limited, and can be, for example, about less than 100%, about 99% or less, or about 98% or less.

[0034] In the present disclosure, "translucent" means that the average transmittance in the visible light region (wavelength of 400 nm to 700 nm) is less than about 80% as measured according to JIS K 7375, and the average transmittance desirably can be less than or equal to about 75%, and "translucent" is intended to mean that the underlying layer is not completely hidden.

[0035] Hereinafter, the decorative capacitive sensor film of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings as necessary.

[0036] Figure 1 The decorative capacitive sensor film 100 in FIG. 1 includes a decorative layer 101, a non-conductive adhesive layer 103, and a conductive layer 105.

[0037] Hereinafter, for the purpose of illustrating representative embodiments of the present disclosure, some reference numerals will be omitted to describe the details of each component.

[0038] The decorative capacitive sensor film (sometimes simply referred to as "sensor film") of the present disclosure includes a decorative layer, at least one conductive layer, and a non-conductive adhesive layer. The conductive layer is provided inside the non-conductive adhesive layer and / or on one surface or both surfaces of the non-conductive adhesive layer, and extends in the in-plane direction of the non-conductive adhesive layer. Since the sensor film of the present disclosure having at least such a configuration can function as a capacitive sensor, it can be used, for example, as a switch (without a Figure 6The illustrated protrusions, such as buttons, are used.

[0039] The sensor film of the present disclosure includes at least one conductive layer. The sensor film of the present disclosure can be used generally as described later, in a state where an electrode is connected to at least a portion of the at least one conductive layer and a control circuit, a power supply, and an electrical device, for example, are further connected. In this state, when a finger or the like contacts or approaches the conductive layer of the sensor film (i.e., the conductive layer connected to the electrode or the conductive reaction portion that contacts or approaches the conductive layer as described later), a capacitance is generated between the finger or the like and the conductive layer. The sensor film of the present disclosure can function as a capacitive sensor by utilizing a change in the capacitance before or after the finger or the like contacts or approaches the sensor film.

[0040] The number of the conductive layers can be one, but is preferably a plurality (e.g., two or more, or three or more). For example, in a mounting site where the sensor film of the present disclosure is pasted to a wall or the like, the position of a switch can be temporarily changed. In this case, when a plurality of conductive layers are present, the site position that responds as a switch can be appropriately changed as needed according to the situation. When a plurality of conductive layers are present, the conductive layers can be the same or different. From the viewpoint of obtaining stable quality, the conductive layers are preferably the same. Each of the conductive layers can have a single-layer structure or a layered structure.

[0041] When a plurality of conductive layers are present, the distance between the conductive layers can be different or can be substantially the same. From the viewpoint of obtaining stable response sensitivity of the sensor, for example, the distance between the conductive layers is preferably a substantially equal distance. When the distance between the conductive layers is a substantially equal distance, the advantage that post-processing of the sensor film becomes easy can be obtained. The distance between the conductive layers can be appropriately set in consideration of the stable response sensitivity of the sensor, the size of the conductive reaction portion described later, post-processability, and the like.

[0042] The conductive layer can be disposed on one surface of the non-conductive adhesive layer 103 as illustrated in Figure 1 The conductive layer can be disposed on one surface of the non-conductive adhesive layer 103 as illustrated in Figure 2 and Figure 3 The conductive layer can be disposed inside the non-conductive adhesive layer as illustrated in Figure 2 The conductive layer can be disposed on one surface of the non-conductive adhesive layer 103 as illustrated in Figure 3The conductive layer is exemplified as being provided in a part of the thickness direction of the non-conductive adhesive layer. Alternatively, the conductive layer can be provided inside the non-conductive adhesive layer as well as on one surface or both surfaces of the non-conductive adhesive layer. In particular, the conductive layer is preferably provided only inside the non-conductive adhesive layer. With such a configuration, irregularities caused by the thickness of the conductive layer are less likely to be reflected in the decorative layer, and thus a more excellent decorative performance can be exhibited.

[0043] As Figure 5 Exemplified is a case where the conductive layer extends in the in-plane direction of the non-conductive adhesive layer. Here, "extends" is a case where the conductive layer exists in a manner that it is elongated in the in-plane direction of the non-conductive adhesive layer. The conductive layer can be, for example, Figure 5 Exemplified is a case where the conductive layer extends from one end to the other end of the sensor film 500, or the conductive layer need not extend from one end to the other end of the sensor film, as long as the conductive layer and the electrode are configured to be connectable. The sensor film of the present disclosure is sometimes cut into an appropriate size or shape at the installation site. In this case, if the conductive layer extends from one end to the other end of the sensor film, the electrode of any size or shape can be appropriately connected to the conductive layer.

[0044] The arrangement shape of the conductive layer is not particularly limited, and can be, for example, Figure 5 Exemplified is a substantially linear shape (a substantially stripe shape when a plurality of conductive layers are present), a substantially wavy shape, a substantially zigzag shape, or a mixture of these shapes. From the viewpoint of productivity and the reaction sensitivity of the sensor, the arrangement shape of the conductive layer is preferably a substantially linear shape (a substantially stripe shape when a plurality of conductive layers are present). This shape can be formed so as to span across each conductive layer, or can be formed in a part of each conductive layer. For example, in a case where one conductive layer is formed at approximately the center of the sensor film, the portion near the center of the conductive layer can be configured to have a shape (for example, a substantially circular shape) similar to that of the conductive reaction portion described later, and the other portions can be configured to have a substantially linear shape. When the conductive layer has a configuration (for example, a similar shape) similar to that of the conductive reaction portion described later, this portion can exhibit a function similar to that of the conductive reaction portion described later.

[0045] The thickness of the conductive layer is not particularly limited, and can be appropriately set in consideration of the raw material or the like constituting the conductive layer to obtain, for example, a desired reaction sensitivity in the sensor. The thickness can be, for example, about 0.1 micrometers or more, about 0.5 micrometers or more, about 1 micrometer or more, about 5 micrometers or more, about 10 micrometers or more, or about 20 micrometers or more, and can be about 100 micrometers or less, about 50 micrometers or less, or about 30 micrometers or less. Note that, regarding the thickness of each layer in the sensor film of the present disclosure, a cross section in the thickness direction of the layered structure is measured using an optical microscope or a scanning electron microscope, and the thickness of each layer can be defined as the average of the thickness at at least any five points of the target layer (e.g., the conductive layer) in the layered structure.

[0046] The width of the conductive layer is not particularly limited, and can be appropriately set in consideration of the raw material or the like constituting the conductive layer to obtain, for example, a desired reaction sensitivity in the sensor. Here, for example, when one conductive layer has substantially the same shape (e.g., when the entire conductive layer has a substantially linear shape), the "width of the conductive layer" refers to the length in the lateral direction perpendicular to the thickness direction of the conductive layer 105 in the sensor film 100. Figure 1 When one conductive layer has portions of different shapes (e.g., when one conductive layer is formed at approximately the center of the sensor film, and the vicinity of the center of the conductive layer has a substantially circular shape, while other portions have a substantially linear shape), the width of the conductive layer is the length of the portions of the conductive layer other than the portions of different shapes. The size of the width of the conductive layer can be, for example, about 1 mm or more, about 3 mm or more, about 5 mm or more, about 7 mm or more, or about 1 cm or more, and can be about 5 cm or less, about 4 cm or less, about 3 m or less, about 2 cm or less, or about 1 cm or less. The size of the width of the conductive layer can be defined as the average of the sizes of the width at at least any five positions in the conductive layer when measured from the adhesive layer side on the side opposite the decorative layer using an optical microscope or a scanning electron microscope.

[0047] The conductive layer can be entirely or partially transparent, translucent, or opaque in the visible range, depending on the intended use of the sensor film or the like.

[0048] The type of the conductive layer is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include a conductive plating layer, a conductive evaporation layer, a conductive resin layer, a wire, a metal foil, and a metal alloy foil. As the conductive layer, a conductive layer having such a configuration can be used alone or in combination of two or more. The conductive layer can be applied directly to the decorative layer and / or the non-conductive adhesive layer constituting the sensor film, for example, or indirectly via an adhesive layer or the like. For example, the conductive plating layer and the conductive evaporation layer can be applied directly to the decorative layer or the non-conductive adhesive layer constituting the sensor film using a mask or the like, or can be applied by cutting a laminate formed on a support by plating or evaporation into an appropriate size and shape.

[0049] The conductive raw material that can be used for preparing the conductive layer is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include a metal such as nickel, chromium, palladium, aluminum, iron, copper, and silver, or a metal alloy containing at least one of these metals, a conductive oxide such as indium tin oxide (ITO), and carbon. These components can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0050] In the conductive layer, a conductive resin layer is preferable, and a conductive adhesive layer is more preferable. The sensor film of the present disclosure can sometimes be applied to a large adherend such as a wall, or the film can sometimes be cut at the installation site. Since the conductive resin layer can be formed without using a device such as an evaporation device that is not suitable for enlargement of the size, it is possible to increase the area of the sensor film. Since the conductive resin layer is easily cut, it can be appropriately used for the sensor film of the present disclosure. In addition, for example, the conductive adhesive layer can be formed at the same time as the non-conductive adhesive layer by using stripe coating, and thus it is possible to improve the productivity. Since the conductive layer itself exhibits adhesion properties, the conductive adhesive layer can be appropriately joined to the adherend or other layers. The conductive resin layer can be in the form of a film, a nonwoven fabric, or a combination thereof.

[0051] The conductive resin layer can be formed, for example, by subjecting the resin layer to metal plating and / or metal evaporation or adding a conductive filler. Alternatively, a conductive resin layer having a configuration in which a resin layer blended with a conductive filler is applied to one surface or both surfaces of a resin layer subjected to metal plating and / or metal evaporation can be employed. The conductive filler is not particularly limited, and for example, a filler composed of the above-described conductive raw material can be used. The conductive filler can be used alone or in combination of two or more. The amount of the conductive filler is not particularly limited, and can be appropriately set depending on, for example, the kind or size of the conductive filler and the required reaction sensitivity of the sensor.

[0052] The resin raw material that can be used for the preparation of the electrically conductive resin layer is not particularly limited. Examples of the resin raw material include thermoplastic resins such as polyolefin resins (e.g., polyethylene and polypropylene), polyester resins (e.g., polyethylene terephthalate and polyethylene naphthalate), polycarbonate resins, polyamide resins, and polyphenylene sulfide resins; thermosetting resins such as epoxy resins, (meth)acrylic resins, resins having urethane bonds, silicone resins, unsaturated polyester resins, phenol resins, melamine resins, and polyimide resins; and rubber-based resins such as silicone rubber, isoprene rubber, butadiene rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber, chlorobutadiene rubber, ethylene-propylene rubber, ethylene-propylene-diene rubber, nitrile rubber, acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBR), hydrogenated NBR, acrylic rubber, polyurethane rubber, fluorine-based rubber, and natural rubber. The resin raw material can be used alone or in combination of two or more. Herein, in the present disclosure, the term "resin having urethane bonds" can include, for example, resins prepared using at least one selected from urethane (meth)acrylate and urethane (meth)acrylate oligomers in addition to urethane resins, and the urethane resins can also include (meth)acrylic urethane resins and the like.

[0053] When the electrically conductive adhesive layer is employed as the electrically conductive resin layer, the raw material for the non-conductive adhesive layer described later can be similarly used as the resin raw material thereof.

[0054] The sensor film of the present disclosure includes a decorative layer. Examples of the decorative layer include, but are not limited to, a color layer exhibiting a paint color such as a light color (such as white or yellow) and a dark color (such as red, brown, green, blue, gray, or black); a pattern layer imparting a design pattern (such as a wood grain, a stone grain, a geometric pattern, or a leather pattern), a logo, a picture, a character, a number, a symbol, a photograph, or a picture pattern to the article; a relief (embossed pattern) layer in which an uneven shape is provided on the surface; and a combination of these layers. The decorative layer can have a single-layer structure or a layered structure.

[0055] The decorative layer can be applied directly or indirectly via an adhesive layer or the like to the entire surface or a portion of the layer constituting the sensor film such as the non-conductive adhesive layer or the surface layer described later, but is not limited thereto.

[0056] The raw material for the color layer is not limited to the following, but for example, a raw material obtained by dispersing a pigment in a binder resin such as a (meth)acrylic resin or a resin having a urethane bond can be used. Examples of the pigment include: inorganic pigments such as carbon black, chrome yellow, yellow iron oxide, red iron oxide, or red iron oxide; or organic pigments such as phthalocyanine pigments such as phthalocyanine blue or phthalocyanine green, azo lake pigments, indigo pigments, pyrrone pigments, perylene pigments, quinophthalone pigments, diazine pigments, and quinacridone pigments such as quinacridone red. Among these, for example, from the viewpoint of impact resistance, a resin having a urethane bond is preferred.

[0057] The color layer can be formed using such a raw material, for example, by a coating method such as gravure coating, roll coating, die coating, bar coating, or blade coating.

[0058] The pattern layer is not limited to the following, but for example, a pattern layer obtained by directly applying a pattern such as a design pattern, a logo, or a picture pattern on a non-conductive adhesive layer, a surface layer described later, or the like using a printing method such as gravure direct printing, gravure offset printing, inkjet printing, laser printing, or screen printing can be employed. Alternatively, for example, a film or sheet having a design pattern, a logo, a picture pattern, or the like can also be formed by coating such as gravure coating, roll coating, die coating, bar coating, or blade coating, punching, or etching. For example, the same raw material as those used in the color layer can be used for the pattern layer.

[0059] For the relief layer, a thermoplastic resin film having an uneven shape on the surface obtained by a method well known in the art such as embossing finish, scratch finish, laser finish, dry etching finish, or heat press finish can be used. The relief layer can also be formed by a process of applying a thermosetting or radiation-curable resin such as a curable (meth)acrylic resin on a release liner having an uneven shape, curing the resin by heat or radiation, and removing the release liner.

[0060] The thermoplastic resin, thermosetting resin, and radiation-curable resin used in the relief layer are not particularly limited, but for example, a fluororesin, a polyester resin such as PET and PEN, a (meth)acrylic resin, a polyolefin resin such as polyethylene or polypropylene, a thermoplastic elastomer, a polycarbonate resin, a polyamide resin, an ABS resin, an acrylonitrile-styrene resin, a polystyrene resin, a vinyl chloride resin, or a resin having a urethane bond can be used. Among these, for example, from the viewpoint of impact resistance, a resin having a urethane bond is preferred. The relief layer can contain at least one of the pigments used in the color layer.

[0061] The thickness of the decorative layer will be appropriately adjusted according to the desired decoration or the like, and is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, about 1 micron or more, about 3 microns or more, or about 5 microns or more, and can be about 200 microns or less, about 150 microns or less, or about 100 microns or less.

[0062] The sensor film of the present disclosure includes a non-conductive adhesive layer. The non-conductive adhesive layer is generally a layer that can be applied to an adherend. The non-conductive adhesive layer can be applied over the entire surface of the sensor film, as Figure 1 illustrated, or can be partially applied over the sensor film, as Figure 2 illustrated.

[0063] The non-conductive adhesive layer can be directly applied to the decorative layer, or can be indirectly applied to the decorative layer via another layer (e.g., an adhesive layer).

[0064] The raw material of the non-conductive adhesive layer is not particularly limited, and a generally used adhesive such as a (meth)acrylic, polyolefin, polyurethane, polyester, or rubber-based solvent type, emulsion type, pressure sensitive type, heat sensitive type, heat set type, or ultraviolet curing type adhesive can be used, for example. In the present disclosure, a “pressure sensitive adhesive” refers to an adhesive that adheres to various surfaces with light pressure and does not exhibit a phase change (from liquid to solid) and has permanent adhesion at room temperature. The adhesive can be crosslinked using a crosslinking agent, by thermal crosslinking or radiation (e.g., electron beam or ultraviolet light).

[0065] The thickness of the non-conductive adhesive layer is not particularly limited, and can be, for example, about 5 microns or more, about 10 microns or more, or about 20 microns or more, and can be about 100 microns or less, about 80 microns or less, or about 50 microns or less.

[0066] The sensor film of the present disclosure can include any additional configuration. Examples of the additional configuration include at least one selected from the group consisting of a conductive reaction portion, a surface layer, an adhesive layer, an intermediate film layer, and a release liner. The additional configuration can be applied to the entire surface or a portion of the sensor film. The additional configuration can have a three-dimensional shape such as an embossed pattern on its surface.

[0067] In some embodiments, the sensor film of the present disclosure includes one or more of the conductive reaction portions. As Figure 7As illustrated, the electrically conductive reaction portion refers to a portion or constituent member that generates a capacitance between a finger or the like and the electrically conductive reaction portion when the finger or the like contacts or approaches a region in which the electrically conductive reaction portion of the sensor film exists, and thus enables the sensor film of the present disclosure to function as a capacitive sensor (e.g., a switch). The electrically conductive reaction portion can be configured as a separate body separate from the electrically conductive layer as described later, or can be configured as a single body integral with the electrically conductive layer by adjusting the shape of the electrically conductive layer described above. It is preferable that the electrically conductive reaction portion be configured as a separate body separate from the electrically conductive layer, because thereby the portion desired to react as a sensor can be freely set at, for example, a site of installation.

[0068] The electrically conductive reaction portion can be provided at a position at which a change in capacitance occurs when a finger or the like contacts or approaches the electrically conductive reaction portion in the sensor film. For example, the electrically conductive reaction portion can be provided on the outermost surface of the sensor film, or can be provided closer to the non-conductive adhesive layer side than to the outermost surface. When the electrically conductive reaction portion is provided closer to the non-conductive adhesive layer side than to the outermost surface, for example, the electrically conductive reaction portion can be provided on the surface on the side opposite the decorative layer of the non-conductive adhesive layer (e.g., similar to the configuration illustrated in FIG. 6), between the decorative layer and the non-conductive adhesive layer, between the electrically conductive layer and the non-conductive adhesive layer in the configuration illustrated in FIG. 6, between any other layer constituting the sensor film, or between any other layer and the decorative layer, the electrically conductive layer, or the non-conductive adhesive layer. Here, the "outermost surface" refers to the surface on the side opposite the adherend side when the sensor film is applied to the adherend. Figure 4 Figure 1 The electrically conductive reaction portion can be provided at a position at which a change in capacitance occurs when a finger or the like contacts or approaches the electrically conductive reaction portion in the sensor film. For example, the electrically conductive reaction portion can be provided on the outermost surface of the sensor film, or can be provided closer to the non-conductive adhesive layer side than to the outermost surface. When the electrically conductive reaction portion is provided closer to the non-conductive adhesive layer side than to the outermost surface, for example, the electrically conductive reaction portion can be provided on the surface on the side opposite the decorative layer of the non-conductive adhesive layer (e.g., similar to the configuration illustrated in FIG. 6), between the decorative layer and the non-conductive adhesive layer, between the electrically conductive layer and the non-conductive adhesive layer in the configuration illustrated in FIG. 6, between any other layer constituting the sensor film, or between any other layer and the decorative layer, the electrically conductive layer, or the non-conductive adhesive layer. Here, the "outermost surface" refers to the surface on the side opposite the adherend side when the sensor film is applied to the adherend.

[0069] The size of the electrically conductive reaction portion is not particularly limited, and can be appropriately set in accordance with, for example, the intended use of the sensor film or the desired function of the electrically conductive reaction portion in the sensor film. For example, the electrically conductive reaction portion can have an area whose size is set to extend over at least a portion of at least one electrically conductive layer 505 (e.g., the width of the electrically conductive layer), as illustrated in, for example, FIG. 6. Figure 5 The electrically conductive reaction portion having the size illustrated is advantageous when used as a switch or the like that is used by intentionally contacting or approaching a finger or the like to or near the electrically conductive reaction portion as illustrated in, for example, FIG. 6. Figure 5 The electrically conductive reaction portion having the size illustrated is advantageous when used as a switch or the like that is used by intentionally contacting or approaching a finger or the like to or near the electrically conductive reaction portion as illustrated in, for example, FIG. 6. Figure 7 The size (e.g., the maximum length) of the electrically conductive reaction portion is not particularly limited, and can be, for example, about 3 cm or more, about 5 cm or more, about 7 cm or more, or about 10 cm or more, and can be about 30 cm or less, about 20 cm or less, about 15 cm or less, or about 10 cm or less.

[0070] ​The conductive reaction portion may be provided substantially over the entire surface of the sensor membrane, or a plurality of such conductive reaction portions may be arranged so as to be dispersed over the entire surface of the sensor membrane. A conductive reaction portion having such a configuration is advantageous when used as an unintentional sensor, such as a sensor that reacts when a person steps on or passes by the sensor membrane when the sensor membrane is placed on the ground.

[0071] By adjusting the distance or shape of the conductive layers, or adjusting the size or shape of the conductive reaction portion, the conductive reaction portion can be configured to extend across or contact multiple conductive layers. With this configuration, even if one conductive layer is disconnected, the other conductive layers can still function as a sensor.

[0072] The shape of the conductive reaction portion is not particularly limited. Figure 5 As illustrated, examples of the shape of the conductive reaction portion that appears when the sensor film is visually observed include a substantially circular shape, a substantially polygonal shape (for example, a substantially triangular shape, a substantially square shape, a substantially rectangular shape, a substantially regular pentagonal shape, a substantially hexagonal shape, a substantially regular octagonal shape, a substantially trapezoidal shape, a substantially rhombus shape, and a substantially star shape, etc.), and a substantially elliptical shape.

[0073] The type of conductive reaction part is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include a conductive plating layer, a conductive vapor-deposited layer, a conductive resin layer, a metal foil, and a metal alloy foil. Regarding these raw materials, for example, the raw materials for the conductive layer described above can be similarly adopted. As the conductive reaction part, a conductive reaction part having such a structure can be used alone or in combination of two or more. For example, the conductive reaction part can be directly applied to each layer constituting the sensor film (for example, a decorative layer, a conductive layer, and a non-conductive adhesive layer), or can be applied indirectly via an adhesive layer or the like.

[0074] The thickness of the conductive reaction portion is not particularly limited and can be appropriately set in consideration of the raw material constituting the conductive reaction portion, etc., to obtain, for example, the desired reaction sensitivity in the sensor. The thickness can be, for example, approximately 0.1 μm or greater, approximately 0.5 μm or greater, approximately 1 μm or greater, approximately 5 μm or greater, approximately 10 μm or greater, or approximately 20 μm or greater, and can also be approximately 100 μm or less, approximately 70 μm or less, approximately 50 μm or less, or approximately 30 μm or less.

[0075] In some embodiments, the sensor film of the present disclosure includes a surface layer. The raw material of the surface layer is not particularly limited, and for example, one type or a blend of two or more types of the following can be used: (meth)acrylic resins such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and (meth)acrylic copolymers; resins having urethane bonds (e.g., polyurethane); fluororesins such as ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene copolymer (ETFE), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), methyl methacrylate-polyvinylidene fluoride copolymer (PMMA / PVDF), and tetrafluoroethylene-hexafluoropropylene-polyvinylidene fluoride copolymer (THV); silicone resins; polyvinyl chloride (PVC); polycarbonate (PC); polyolefins such as polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP); polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene naphthalate (PEN); polyamides such as nylon; and copolymers such as ethylene / acrylic acid copolymer (EAA) and ionomers thereof, ethylene-ethyl acrylate copolymer, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, and ethylene-ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH). The surface layer can have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure. For example, the surface layer can be a laminate of films formed of the above-described resins, or can be a multi-layer coating of the above-described resins. The surface layer can have a three-dimensional uneven shape such as an embossed pattern on the entire or part of the surface of the surface layer.

[0076] The surface layer can be formed by coating a resin composition directly or via an adhesive layer or the like on the decorative layer. The coating of the surface layer can be performed before or after the sensor film is applied to the adherend. Alternatively, a surface layer film can be formed by coating a release liner with a resin composition, and this film can be laminated on the decorative layer directly or via an adhesive layer or the like. For example, the surface layer film can be formed by coating a release liner with a resin raw material such as a curable (meth)acrylic resin composition or a reactive polyurethane composition by blade coating, bar coating, knife coating, doctor blade coating, roll coating, or cast coating, and then performing photocuring or thermocuring as necessary.

[0077] A surface layer that is formed into a film in advance by extrusion, stretching, or the like can be used. Such a film can be laminated on the decorative layer directly or via an adhesive layer or the like. By using a film having high flatness as this film, a higher surface flatness appearance can be given to the product (laminate). A surface layer can also be formed with another layer by multilayer extrusion. For example, a (meth)acrylic film can be used as the other layer. For example, a resin including polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polybutyl acrylate, a (meth)acrylic copolymer, an ethylene / acrylic acid copolymer, an ethylene vinyl acetate / acrylic acid copolymer can be formed into a film, and used as a (meth)acrylic film. The (meth)acrylic film exhibits excellent properties in terms of transparency and / or scratch resistance, heat resistance and / or light resistance, and is less likely to cause discoloration and / or gloss change. Furthermore, even if a plasticizer is not used, excellent mold processability can be obtained, and since the use of a plasticizer is not required, excellent stain resistance can be achieved. Among them, a (meth)acrylic film having PMMA as a main component is preferred. For example, in a case where a (meth)acrylic resin having excellent scratch resistance and the like is used as the other layer, and a fluororesin such as ETFE, PVDF, or PMMA / PVDF having excellent chemical resistance and the like is used as the surface layer, the surface layer formed can be a surface layer having the properties of both of these layers.

[0078] The surface layer of the present disclosure can contain, as an optional component, for example, a filler, an antioxidant, an ultraviolet absorber, a light stabilizer, a heat stabilizer, a hard coat material, a gloss imparting agent, a dispersant, a plasticizer, a flow improver, a surfactant, a leveling agent, a silane coupling agent, a catalyst, a pigment, and a dye, within a range that does not impair the performance based on the purpose (for example, the protective performance). Among them, for example, the use of an ultraviolet absorber such as benzotriazole, Tinuvin 329 (available from BASF), and a hindered amine light stabilizer (HALS) such as Tinuvin 292 (available from BASF) can be effective in preventing discoloration, fading, and deterioration of the layer located at the lower layer. TM 400 (available from BASF)) and a hindered amine light stabilizer (HALS) such as Tinuvin 292 (available from BASF) can be effective in preventing discoloration, fading, and deterioration of the layer located at the lower layer. TM 292 (available from BASF)) can be effective in preventing discoloration, fading, and deterioration of the layer located at the lower layer. A hard coat material can be contained in the surface layer, or can be applied as a hard coat by separate coating on the surface layer.

[0079] The surface layer can be transparent or can be translucent or opaque. From the viewpoint of visibility of the decorative layer, for example, the surface layer is preferably transparent.

[0080] The thickness of the surface layer can vary and, for example, can be about 1 micron or more, about 5 microns or more, about 10 microns or more, about 20 microns or more, or about 30 microns or more, and can be about 200 microns or less, about less than 200 microns, about 180 microns or less, about 150 microns or less, about 130 microns or less, about 100 microns or less, or about 80 microns or less.

[0081] In the sensor film of the present disclosure, an adhesive layer (e.g., sometimes referred to as a “primer layer” or the like) can be used to join each layer that constitutes the sensor film.

[0082] For example, the adhesive layer can include a resin having a urethane bond, a (meth)acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, a phenoxy resin, or a resin blend of two or more types of resins among them. In one embodiment, the adhesive layer includes a resin blend of a resin having a urethane bond and a phenoxy resin.

[0083] For example, the thickness of the adhesive layer can be about 0.1 microns or more, about 0.2 microns or more, or about 0.5 microns or more, and can be about 10 microns or less, about less than 10 microns, about 5.0 microns or less, about 2.0 microns or less, about 1.0 microns or less, about 0.5 microns or less, or about less than 0.5 microns.

[0084] The sensor film can optionally include, for example, an intermediate film layer interposed between the surface layer and the decorative layer, between the decorative layer and the non-conductive adhesive layer, or between the conductive layer and the decorative layer or the non-conductive adhesive layer. The intermediate film layer can enhance the strength of the sensor film.

[0085] As the intermediate film layer, for example, a resin film of a resin having a urethane bond, polyvinyl chloride, a polyolefin such as polyethylene and polypropylene, a polyester such as polyethylene terephthalate and polybutylene terephthalate, a (meth)acrylic polymer, or a fluorine compound polymer can be used. The intermediate film layer preferably has thermoplasticity.

[0086] The thickness of the intermediate film layer can be, for example, about 5.0 microns or more, about 10 microns or more, or about 15 microns or more, and can be about 200 microns or less, about 100 microns or less, or about 50 microns or less.

[0087] In the sensor film of the present disclosure, the release liner is typically capable of being attached to the surface of the non-conductive adhesive layer side. Examples of the release liner include paper; plastic materials such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester (e.g., PET), and cellulose acetate; and paper coated with such plastic materials. These liners can have a surface that has been subjected to a release treatment with a release agent such as silicone.

[0088] The thickness of the release liner can generally be about 5 micrometers or more, about 15 micrometers or more, or about 25 micrometers or more, and can be about 500 micrometers or less, about 300 micrometers or less, or about 250 micrometers or less.

[0089] The maximum thickness of the sensor film of the present disclosure excluding the release liner is not particularly limited, and can be, for example, about 50 micrometers or more, about 70 micrometers or more, about 100 micrometers or more, about 150 micrometers or more, or about 200 micrometers or more, and can be about 500 micrometers or less, about 300 micrometers or less, or about 250 micrometers or less. Since the sensor film has such a thickness, the sensor film can exhibit flexibility, and thus is easily fitted to an adherend having unevenness or an adherend having a curved shape, or can be appropriately cut to a desired size at a mounting site where the sensor film is to be attached, and the like. Here, the "maximum thickness" refers to the maximum thickness in the thickness direction of the sensor film, and corresponds to, for example, the length from the uppermost portion of the decorative layer 101 to the lowermost portion of the conductive layer 105 in FIG. 1, and the length from the uppermost portion of the decorative layer 401 to the lowermost portion of the conductive layer 405 in FIG. 4. Figure 1 Figure 4 The maximum thickness corresponds to, for example, the length from the uppermost portion of the decorative layer 101 to the lowermost portion of the conductive layer 105 in FIG. 1, and the length from the uppermost portion of the decorative layer 401 to the lowermost portion of the conductive layer 405 in FIG. 4.

[0090] In the sensor film of the present disclosure, a pattern or picture pattern (e.g., a switch button) by which the position of a switch or the like can be identified can be formed, for example, in the decorative layer described above, or can be formed in or on the surface layer independently of the decorative layer.

[0091] Within a range that does not adversely affect the effects of the present disclosure, each layer constituting the sensor film of the present disclosure can contain, for example, fillers, reinforcing agents, antioxidants, flame retardants, ultraviolet absorbers, light stabilizers, heat stabilizers, dispersants, plasticizers, flow improvers, surfactants, leveling agents, silane coupling agents, tackifying resins, catalysts, crosslinking agents, pigments, and dyes, and the like, as optional components. These optional components can be used alone, or in combination of two or more types. The individual amount and the total amount of the optional components can be determined within a range that does not impair the required properties of each layer.

[0092] The sensor film of the present disclosure can be, for example, a sheet-shaped article, a roll body wound in a roll shape, or an article having a three-dimensional shape. Unlike a general touch panel, the sensor film of the present disclosure can be sufficiently flexible to be wound in a roll shape.

[0093] ​The sensor film of the present disclosure can function as a contact-type sensor, or can function as a non-contact-type sensor. The contact-type or non-contact-type can be set by, for example, appropriately specifying a threshold value of a capacitance evaluation value to be detected. The capacitance evaluation value can be obtained by using software (Capacitive-Type Film Sensor: Configuration Tool Ver 1.0.5746.32822) attached to a capacitance control board (Model ADFCS01, available from Bit Trade One, Ltd., Sagamihara-shi, Kanagawa-ken, Japan).

[0094] When the sensor film of the present disclosure functions as a contact-type or non-contact-type sensor, the sensor film can be designed so that the sensor responds to the type of an object that contacts or approaches the sensor film. The sensor film of the present disclosure can exhibit, for example: a capacitance evaluation value in the range of about 7000 to about 9000 in the case where the contacting object is a hand; a capacitance evaluation value in the range of about 2000 to about 4000 in the case where the contacting object is a finger; a capacitance evaluation value in the range of about 2000 to about 3000 in the case where the contacting object is a shoe; and a capacitance evaluation value in the range of about 1000 to about 2000 in the case where the contacting object is a smartphone. Thus, the sensor film of the present disclosure can detect a difference in the capacitance evaluation value depending on the object that contacts or approaches the sensor film. Thus, the sensor film of the present disclosure can also be designed so that the sensor responds to the type of the object that contacts or approaches the sensor film. The type of the object that contacts or approaches the sensor film is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include: a part of a human body (for example, a finger, a hand, a nose, an arm, an elbow, a nail, a back, a hip, a leg, a foot, a knee, a chest, and an abdomen), a shoe, a piece of clothing, a stationery item (for example, a pen), a card (for example, an access card and a transportation card), a mobile phone (for example, a smartphone or the like), and a tire.

[0095] Further, the sensor film of the present disclosure can also detect a difference in the capacitance evaluation value depending on the length of time or the number of times that an object contacts or approaches the sensor film. Thus, the sensor film of the present disclosure can be designed so that the sensor responds to at least one selected from the group consisting of the length of time and the number of times that an object contacts or approaches the sensor film.

[0096] The capacitance evaluation value that can be exhibited when an object contacts or approaches the sensor film is not particularly limited as long as the sensor film can function as a sensor. The sensor film of the present disclosure can exhibit, for example, a capacitance evaluation value of about 100 or more, about 200 or more, about 500 or more, about 700 or more, or about 1000 or more, and can be about 30000 or less, 20000 or less, 15000 or less, or 10000 or less.

[0097] The manufacturing method of the sensor film of the present disclosure is not particularly limited, and the sensor film can be manufactured, for example, according to the following process.

[0098] For example, a decorative layer and a non-conductive adhesive layer, and optionally an additional layer, are formed on a release liner, respectively, using a coating method or the like, and then a conductive layer having a prescribed size is coated on the non-conductive adhesive layer, whereby the sensor film of the present disclosure can be manufactured. In addition, a release liner can be laminated on the non-conductive adhesive layer so as to cover the conductive layer. Note that, as the coating method, for example, a well-known method such as a doctor blade coater, a die coater, a roll coater, a bar coater, a flow coater, a notch bar coater, a gravure coater, or a rod coater can be used.

[0099] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a laminate is provided, which includes: an adherend to which the sensor film of the present disclosure is adhered via a non-conductive adhesive layer; and an electrode which is in contact with at least a portion of the conductive layer. The above-described conductive reaction portion can be applied not only to the sensor film but also to the adherend, or can be applied to both the sensor film and the adherend.

[0100] The material for the adherend is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include: resin raw materials (for example, polyolefin resins, polyester resins, (meth)acrylic resins, polycarbonate resins, and acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers), inorganic raw materials (for example, glass, ceramics, concrete, gypsum, calcium silicate, natural stone, and asphalt), rubber raw materials, cloth materials (for example, woven fabrics, knitted fabrics, and nonwoven fabrics), and wooden raw materials. The front surface of the adherend can be subjected to surface treatment, coating, or the like. For example, when an insulating treatment (for example, coating) is applied to the adherend, a metal or metal alloy raw material (for example, iron, aluminum, and stainless steel) can also be used as the raw material of the adherend.

[0101] The shape of the adherend is not particularly limited, and can be, for example, a flat shape such as a film or a plate; a curved surface shape; or various three-dimensional shapes.

[0102] In the laminate of the present disclosure, for example, as shown on the left side of the center of Figure 9 The electrode is connected to the conductive layer of the sensor film. Thus, when an object contacts or approaches the sensor film, a capacitance is generated, and a sensor function such as a switch can be exhibited by using a change in the capacitance.

[0103] Typically, when an object contacts or approaches the sensor film, the electrode can be in contact with the conductive layer present in a region in which a change in the capacitance is desired to be detected. For example, Figure 8The laminate including the sensor film shown on the left side is provided with a conductive reaction portion substantially at the center. Therefore, in the laminate, the electrode is connected to the conductive layer (the central conductive layer) overlapping the conductive reaction portion Figure 9 (upper left photograph).

[0104] The material for the electrode is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include metal or metal alloy raw materials (for example, copper, brass, copper-tungsten alloy, and silver-tungsten alloy) and carbon-based raw materials (for example, graphite).

[0105] The use form of the laminate of the present disclosure is not particularly limited, and the laminate can be a movable product or a non-movable product. For example, when the adherend of the laminate is a wall surface of a building or a road, the laminate can be a non-movable product. Specific examples of the use form of the laminate of the present disclosure include an exterior or an interior member for a vehicle (for example, an automobile, a motorcycle, and a train), an airplane, a ship, and a building and a structure (for example, various rooms, a door, a window, a floor, a kitchen, a toilet in a house or a building, a bridge, and a road), furniture, an electric appliance (for example, a television, an air conditioner, a refrigerator, a personal computer, a mobile phone, and a lighting device), a signboard, a guideboard, a billboard, an advertisement, a poster, and a mat.

[0106] The laminate of the present disclosure can also be used for a construction system. The system can include, for example, the laminate of the present disclosure, a control circuit connected to the electrode of the laminate, and a power source, and can be configured so that the control circuit controls a signal related to the capacitance generated from the sensor film of the present disclosure configured in the laminate to drive an electric device. Here, in the present disclosure, "drive an electric device" includes, in addition to operating the electric device, for example, stopping the electric device and operating the electric device.

[0107] Although the system of the present disclosure is not limited to the following, an example thereof will be described below with reference to Figures 7 to 9 .

[0108] Figure 8 The sample shown on the upper left corresponds to the laminate of the present disclosure, and the sample on the upper right corresponds to the electric device of the present disclosure. As Figure 9 shown, in the laminate of the present disclosure, the electrode is connected to the conductive layer of the sensor film constituting the laminate, and a power source unit corresponding to the power source, a control circuit, and a member provided with a display-type LED module corresponding to the electric device are connected through a lead applied to the electrode to form a circuit as a whole. When a finger or the like touches the sensor reaction portion (a portion in which the conductive reaction portion is present) of the sensor film of the present disclosure configured in the laminate of the system, as Figure 7 shown, a signal related to the capacitance generated from the sensor film is generated, the control circuit controls the signal to drive the LED module, and the LED is lit or extinguished.

[0109] In the system of the present disclosure, the laminate and the electrical device can be configured as separate bodies as shown, or can be configured as a single body. Figures 7 to 9

[0110] The electrical device is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include electric appliances (e.g., lighting devices, air conditioners, refrigerators, microwave ovens, telephones, televisions, personal computers, projectors, water heaters, monitors, electronic locks, and automatic doors); various electrical devices in vehicles (e.g., automobiles, motorcycles, and trains), airplanes, and ships (e.g., car navigation systems and audio systems); and detection devices for detecting persons, animals, and vehicles (e.g., automobiles, motorcycles, bicycles, and wheelchairs). The sensing device can be, for example, a device including a component that can sense a thing that has been detected by at least any one of the five senses (sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell). Such a component includes a component capable of transmitting detection by video, sound, music, odor, and vibration. The electrical device can also be connected with, for example, an Internet line. In this case, other electrical devices or machines can be remotely driven or operated via the Internet.

[0111] The method of using the system of the present disclosure is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include: a method in which the system of the present disclosure is used as a switch for operating various electrical devices; and a method in which the system of the present disclosure is used as a detection component for detecting persons, animals, vehicles, or the like that approach or pass a site. The detection component can not only be configured to detect persons or the like, but also can be configured to drive various electrical products based on a detected signal. When the system of the present disclosure is used as a detection component, it can sometimes be required that the laminate of the present disclosure, which can be contacted by a person, a vehicle, or the like, has a large area. A general touch panel and a touch sensor are not suitable for expansion of the size. However, the sensor film of the present disclosure is also capable of accommodating expansion of the area, and thus the system of the present disclosure is also applicable to the detection component described above.

[0112] Example

[0113] In the following examples, specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be illustrated, but the present invention is not limited to these examples.

[0114] Example 1: Use as a contact sensor and the influence of an object allowed to come into contact with the conductive reaction portion .

[0115] ​Three pieces of conductive double-sided tape (3M (tradename), conductive double-sided tape CN4490, purchased from Tokyo Chuo-ku, Japan, which includes a conductive adhesive layer on both surfaces of a nickel-plated polyester nonwoven fabric cut to about 50 micrometers thick and about 0.5 cm wide) were disposed at substantially equal distances from one end to the other end of the decorative film to form a conductive layer, as exemplified with respect to the adhesive layer of the decorative film (3M (tradename) DI-NOC (tradename) film FW series FW-1113 (purchased from 3M Japan Limited (Tokyo Chuo-ku, Japan), which includes a gravure-printed decorative layer having a thickness of 1.5 micrometers and a non-conductive acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive layer having a thickness of 0.5 micrometers). Figure 5 Next, near the approximate center of the conductive layer located at the approximate center, a conductive double-sided tape cut to a substantially circular shape having a diameter of about 10 cm was pasted near the approximate center to form a conductive reaction portion, thereby preparing a decorative capacitive sensor film.

[0116] A copper electrode was connected near a side end portion of the conductive layer located at the approximate center of the obtained decorative capacitive sensor film, a lead was further connected to the electrode, and then the film was pasted to a plasterboard to prepare a laminate. The obtained laminate, a control circuit (model M5Stack, purchased from M5Stack Technology Co., Ltd. (China)), and a power supply unit (model BTF-50-5, purchased from BTF-LIGHTING Technology Co., Ltd. (China)) were connected by the lead of the laminate to construct a system such that they together constitute a circuit. A capacitance evaluation value can be obtained by using software attached to a capacitance control board (model ADFCS01, purchased from Bit Trade One, Ltd. (Kanagawa Prefecture, Sagamihara-shi, Japan)) (Capacitive film sensor: Configuration tool version 1.0.5746.32822).

[0117] In a state where no object contacts the conductive reaction portion of the obtained system, the capacitance evaluation value is about 0. On the other hand, when the conductive reaction portion is touched with a hand, the capacitance evaluation value is in the range of about 7000 to about 9000; when the conductive reaction portion is touched with a finger, the capacitance evaluation value is in the range of about 2000 to 4000; when the conductive reaction portion is touched with a shoe sole, the capacitance evaluation value is in the range of about 2000 to about 3000; and when the conductive reaction portion is touched with a smartphone, the capacitance evaluation value is in the range of about 1000 to about 2000.

[0118] According to the above results, it was confirmed that the sensor film of the present disclosure can be used as a contact-type sensor. When the object contacting the electroconductive reaction portion is different, the generated capacitance evaluation value is different. Therefore, it was also confirmed that the sensor can be made to react depending on the type of the contacting object.

[0119] Example 2: Effect of duration and number of object contacts

[0120] The system of Example 1 was used to study the effects of the length of time and the number of times an object contacted the electroconductive reaction portion.

[0121] When the electroconductive reaction portion was touched with a finger once, twice, or three times, it was confirmed that the capacitance evaluation value changed depending on the timing of the touching.

[0122] It was confirmed that when the length of time the electroconductive reaction portion was touched with a finger was changed, the capacitance evaluation value also changed depending on the change.

[0123] According to the above results, it was confirmed that the sensor can be made to respond depending on the length of time or the number of times an object contacts the sensor.

[0124] Example 3: Use as a non-contact sensor

[0125] The system of Example 1 was used to study whether the sensor film of the present disclosure can be used as a non-contact-type sensor.

[0126] When a hand was brought close to the electroconductive reaction portion without allowing the electroconductive reaction portion to be contacted, it was confirmed that the capacitance evaluation value of about 0 changed to be in the range of about 200 to about 300.

[0127] According to the above results, it was confirmed that the sensor film of the present disclosure can be used as a non-contact-type sensor.

[0128] Example 4: Use as a sensor (switch)

[0129] In addition to using a device provided with a display-type module as shown in Figure 8 and Figure 9 instead of the capacitance detection device, the system was constructed in the same manner as Example 1. Here, the device including the display-type module was prepared as follows.

[0130] As shown in Figure 9A center portion of a support raw material (white calcium silicate board) having a size of about 30 cm x about 30 cm x about 6 mm was cut out in a substantially square shape having a size of about 16 cm x about 16 cm on the right side as shown in FIG. 1. Subsequently, a transparent polyvinyl chloride plate having a size of about 30 cm x about 30 cm x about 1 mm and the decorative film used in Example 1 were sequentially attached to one side of the support raw material. Next, a display-type module (model WS2812B, available from Shenzhen Puhuibie Lighting Technology Co., Ltd. (China)) was installed in the cut-out portion of the support raw material, and a heat sink was further applied thereto to prepare an electrical device including the display-type module.

[0131] When the conductive reaction portion in the obtained system was touched with a hand, as shown in FIG. 2, the LED was lit. Figure 7

[0132] According to the above results, it was also confirmed that the sensor film of the present disclosure can be used as a sensor (e.g., a switch).

[0133] Various modifications and alterations of the above described embodiments and examples will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. It should be understood that this disclosure is not intended to be unduly limited by the foregoing description, and that modifications and / or alterations extending to the specific embodiments and examples therefrom will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0134] Reference Signs List

[0135] 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 decorative capacitive sensor film

[0136] 101, 201, 301, 401 decorative layer

[0137] 103, 203, 303, 403 non-conductive adhesive layer

[0138] 105, 205, 305, 405, 505 conductive layer

[0139] 407, 507 conductive reaction portion

[0140] 509 adherend​

Claims

1. A decorative capacitive sensor film, comprising: a decorative layer; at least one electrically conductive layer; and a non-conductive adhesive layer, wherein the electrically conductive layer is disposed on the inside of the non-conductive adhesive layer and / or on one or both surfaces of the non-conductive adhesive layer and extends in the plane of the non-conductive adhesive layer.

2. The film of claim 1, further comprising an electrically conductive reactive portion.

3. The film of claim 2, wherein the electrically conductive reactive portion has an area sized to extend beyond at least a portion of at least one of the electrically conductive layers.

4. The film of claim 2, wherein the electrically conductive reactive portion is disposed on an outermost surface.

5. The film of claim 2, wherein the electrically conductive reactive portion is disposed closer to the non-conductive adhesive layer side than to the outermost surface.

6. The film of claim 2, wherein the electrically conductive reactive portion is applied to the non-conductive adhesive layer.

7. The film of claim 1, wherein the electrically conductive layer is an electrically conductive adhesive layer.

8. The film of claim 1, wherein the electrically conductive layer is arranged in a substantially linear shape, a substantially wavy shape, or a substantially zigzag shape.

9. The film of claim 1, wherein the film is a touch sensor.

10. The film of claim 9, wherein the sensor responds to the type of object that is touched.

11. The film of claim 9, wherein the sensor responds to at least one selected from the group consisting of the length of time and the number of times of contact with an object.

12. The film of claim 1, wherein the film is a non-touch sensor.

13. A laminate, comprising: an adherend to which the film of claim 1 is adhered via the non-conductive adhesive layer; and an electrode in contact with at least a portion of the electrically conductive layer.

14. A system, comprising: the laminate of claim 13; and a control circuit and a power source connected to the electrode of the laminate, wherein the control circuit controls a signal generated from the film of the laminate to drive an electrical device.

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