Touch sensor

Abstract

The first receiving electrode (Rx3) has a first expanded portion (12a) which is located between the first electrode body (10a) and the second electrode body (10b) and which extends from the first electrode body (10a). The first extension portion (12a) of the first reception electrode (Rx3) is separated from the second electrode body (10b). In the first direction (D1), a first farthest portion (19a) of the first expanded portion (12a), which is located farthest from the first electrode main body (10a), is located on the first direction (D1) side of an end portion of the second electrode main body (10b) in a direction opposite to the first direction (D1).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a touch sensor. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, regarding electrostatic capacitive touch sensors, there are known touch sensors such as the one shown in Patent Document 1.

[0003] Specifically, Patent Document 1 discloses a touch sensor (touch panel) as an input device. The touch sensor has multiple driving electrodes and multiple detection electrodes. The multiple driving electrodes extend in the X-axis direction and are arranged along the Y-axis direction, which intersects the X-axis direction. The multiple detection electrodes extend in the Y-axis direction and are arranged along the X-axis direction.

[0004] The aforementioned detection electrode includes a main body and multiple protrusions (extensions). In a top view, the protrusions extend in a strip-like shape from the intersection region where the main body and the drive electrode intersect, respectively, in the positive and negative directions of the X-axis (for example, see Patent Document 1). Figure 7 The protrusion functions as an extension that expands the area of ​​the detection electrode.

[0005] Existing technical documents

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2014-153840 Summary of the Invention

[0008] -The technical problem the invention aims to solve-

[0009] In the touch sensor of Patent Document 1, among the adjacent detection electrodes Rx1 and Rx2, the protrusions extending from the main body of detection electrode Rx1 in the positive direction of the X-axis and the protrusions extending from the main body of detection electrode Rx2 in the negative direction of the X-axis are positioned opposite each other at a predetermined interval (for example, see Patent Document 1). Figure 7 Furthermore, the tip of the protrusion extending from the main body of the detection electrode Rx1 is in a state of separation from the intersection region of the main body of the detection electrode Rx2 and the driving electrode in the negative direction of the X-axis. Similarly, the tip of the protrusion extending from the main body of the detection electrode Rx2 is in a state of separation from the intersection region of the main body of the detection electrode Rx1 and the driving electrode in the positive direction of the X-axis.

[0010] In the above structure, when, for example, a detection object (a user's finger or stylus) touches directly above the main body of the detection electrode Rx1, a touch action is detected in the intersection area of ​​the main body of the detection electrode Rx1 and the driving electrode. Furthermore, when, for example, the detection object touches near the protrusion of the detection electrode Rx1, a touch action is detected in the intersection area of ​​the main body of the detection electrode Rx1 and the driving electrode. In other words, it is not limited to the case where the detection object touches directly above the main body; even if the detection object touches a part slightly farther from the main body (near the protrusion), the intersection area of ​​the main body and the driving electrode will exclusively possess touch sensitivity due to the function of the protrusion.

[0011] Therefore, even when the object being detected touches the vicinity of the tip of the protrusion in the detection electrode Rx1, the location where the touch action occurred (hereinafter referred to as the "touch position") is detected as part of the intersection area between the main body of the detection electrode Rx1 and the drive electrode. In other words, the touch position is detected not as the actual touch position (in the above example, a position near the middle between the detection electrodes Rx1 and Rx2), but as a position located in the intersection area between the main body of the detection electrode and the drive electrode. Thus, in the touch sensor of Patent Document 1, the accuracy of touch position detection is reduced.

[0012] If the accuracy of touch position detection decreases, it becomes difficult to accurately and appropriately detect continuous touch actions where the object moves in a straight line or curve using multiple detection electrodes. Furthermore, with the increasing size of touch sensors, there is a general tendency for the spacing between detection electrodes to increase, which leads to a problem where misalignment easily occurs between the actual trajectory (e.g., handwriting) of the continuous touch action and the detection result of the continuous touch action.

[0013] This disclosure is made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to accurately and appropriately detect touch actions on the object being detected.

[0014] - Technical solutions used to solve technical problems -

[0015] To achieve the above objectives, one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a touch sensor comprising a transmitting electrode, a first receiving electrode, and a second receiving electrode. The transmitting electrode extends along a first direction. The first receiving electrode has a first electrode body extending along a second direction orthogonal to the first direction and intersecting the transmitting electrode when viewed from above. The first receiving electrode is formed of a first thin wire. The second receiving electrode has a second electrode body extending along the second direction and intersecting the transmitting electrode when viewed from above. The second receiving electrode is located in the first direction of the first receiving electrode and is formed of a second thin wire. The first receiving electrode further has a first extension portion located between the first electrode body and the second electrode body and extending from the first electrode body. The first extension portion of the first receiving electrode is separate from the second electrode body. In the first direction, the first farthest portion of the first extension portion, located at a position furthest from the first electrode body, is located on a first direction side of the end of the second electrode body in a direction opposite to the first direction.

[0016] -The effects of the invention-

[0017] According to this disclosure, it is possible to accurately and appropriately detect touch actions on the object being detected. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is an overall perspective view of a touch sensor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 2 It shows along Figure 1 A sectional view taken along line II-II.

[0020] Figure 3 This is a perspective view that schematically shows the structure of the transmitting and receiving electrodes when viewed from the front side of the substrate.

[0021] Figure 4 This is a simplified diagram showing the transmitting electrode as viewed from the back side of the substrate.

[0022] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A magnified view of part V shown.

[0023] Figure 6 This is a simplified diagram showing the receiving electrode as viewed from the front side of the substrate.

[0024] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 A magnified view of part VII shown.

[0025] Figure 8 It is a diagram that schematically shows the structure of the unit constituting the first electrode body and the first extension.

[0026] Figure 9This is a diagram that schematically shows the structure of the unit constituting the second electrode body and the second extension.

[0027] Figure 10 It is a cross-sectional view showing the cross-sectional structure of the thin line.

[0028] Figure 11 This is a perspective view that schematically shows the structure of the transmitting electrode and the receiving electrode when viewed from the front side of the substrate in Modified Example 1.

[0029] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 A magnified view of part XII shown.

[0030] Figure 13 This is a perspective view that schematically shows the structure of the transmitting electrode and the receiving electrode when viewed from the front side of the substrate in Modified Example 2.

[0031] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 A magnified view of part XIV shown. Detailed Implementation

[0032] The embodiments of this disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following description of the embodiments is merely illustrative in nature and is not intended to limit the disclosure, its application, or its uses.

[0033] Figure 1 The overall structure of the touch sensor 1 according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown. This touch sensor 1 is applied to the display 100 (see reference 100). Figure 2 This is a capacitive sensor-type input device. The touch sensor 1 is used, for example, as an input device for in-vehicle devices such as car navigation systems, display devices for personal computers, mobile phones, portable information terminals, portable game consoles, photocopiers, ticket vending machines, ATMs, watches, etc.

[0034] In the following description, the operating surface 2b of the cover component 2 (refer to...) will be described later. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The side containing the element is designated as the "front side" of the touch sensor 1, and the opposite side is designated as the "back side" of the touch sensor 1, thus defining the positional relationship of the elements constituting the touch sensor 1. Furthermore, in this embodiment, for ease of explanation, [the following is omitted as it is not part of the original text]. Figure 3 The direction from the left side of the paper to the right side is defined as "first direction D1". On the other hand, Figure 3 The direction from the bottom of the paper toward the top of the paper is defined as "second direction D2".

[0035] (Cover component)

[0036] like Figure 1and Figure 2 As shown, the touch sensor 1 includes a light-transmitting cover component 2. The cover component 2 is, for example, made of a glass cover or a plastic protective cover. The cover component 2 is, for example, formed into a rectangular plate shape when viewed from above. The cover component 2 is fixed to the second layer 5 of the substrate 3 (described later). Figure 10 )superior.

[0037] On the periphery of the back of the cover member 2, a dark-colored decorative portion 2a, resembling a border, is formed by screen printing or the like. The rectangular area enclosed by this decorative portion 2a becomes a light-transmitting visible area Va. In other words, the user can obtain visual information through this visible area Va, which comes from the display screen located on the back side of the touch sensor 1. Furthermore, the front of the cover member 2 within the visible area Va is configured as an operating surface 2b that is touched by the user's fingers or the like during touch actions.

[0038] (Substrate)

[0039] like Figures 2-4 and Figure 6 As shown, the touch sensor 1 includes a substrate 3. The first surface 3a of the substrate 3 corresponds to the back surface of the substrate 3 (see reference). Figure 2 and Figure 4 The second surface 3b of substrate 3 corresponds to the front surface of substrate 3 (see reference). Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 6 ).

[0040] like Figure 10 As shown, the substrate 3 has a first layer 4 and a second layer 5. The first layer 4 and the second layer 5 are respectively formed in a generally rectangular shape when viewed from above.

[0041] The first layer 4 is composed of a transparent resin material. Examples of transparent resin materials include PET (polyethylene terephthalate), PC (polycarbonate), COP (cyclic olefin polymer), and COC (cyclic olefin copolymer).

[0042] The second layer 5 is stacked on the front side of the first layer 4. Additionally, although not shown in the figure, in this embodiment, the second layer 5 is also stacked on the back side of the first layer 4. The second layer 5 is used to form the plurality of grooves 6 described later. The second layer 5 is made of a resin material that is both insulating and permeable. To ensure flexibility, the thickness of the second layer 5 is set, for example, to be 1.0 μm or more and 10.0 μm or less. Furthermore, the thickness of the second layer 5 is greater than the depth of the grooves 6 described later.

[0043] Multiple grooves 6 are provided on the front side of the second layer 5. Multiple grooves 6 are also provided on the back side of the second layer 5, which are not shown in the figure. Each groove 6 is recessed in the thickness direction of the substrate 3 and has a bottom. The depth of each groove 6 is, for example, set to be more than 0.9 μm and less than 3.0 μm.

[0044] (Adhesive layer)

[0045] like Figure 2 As shown, the touch sensor 1 includes an adhesive layer 7. The adhesive layer 7 is stacked between the cover member 2 and the substrate 3. The adhesive layer 7 is an optically clear adhesive (OCA). The thickness of the adhesive layer 7 is, for example, 25 μm or more and 250 μm or less.

[0046] (Flexible wiring board)

[0047] like Figure 1 As shown, the touch sensor 1 includes a flexible wiring board 8. The flexible wiring board 8 is configured to be flexible and its electrical properties do not change even when deformed. The flexible wiring board 8 is made of a flexible insulating film such as PI (polyimide), PET (polyethylene terephthalate), or PEN (polyethylene naphthalate).

[0048] (Sensor electrodes)

[0049] The touch sensor 1 includes multiple sensor electrodes based on electrostatic capacitance. These multiple sensor electrodes consist of multiple transmitting electrodes Tx (Tx1 to Tx5) and multiple receiving electrodes Rx (Rx1 to Rx5) (see reference). Figure 3 ).

[0050] For ease of explanation, the receiving electrode Rx3 will sometimes be referred to as the "first receiving electrode Rx3", and the receiving electrode Rx4 will be referred to as the "second receiving electrode Rx4". The second receiving electrode Rx4 is located on the first direction D1 side of the first receiving electrode Rx3 (refer to...). Figure 7 ).

[0051] like Figure 7 As shown, the first receiving electrode Rx3 has a first electrode body 10a (described later) and a first extension portion 12a (described later). The second receiving electrode Rx4 has a second electrode body 10b (described later) and a second extension portion 12b (described later).

[0052] Multiple transmitting electrodes Tx and multiple receiving electrodes Rx are arranged in substrate 3 and visible area Va (see reference). Figure 1At the corresponding position. The touch sensor 1 can detect touch operations performed by the user's finger (the object to be detected) that comes into contact with the operating surface 2b through multiple transmitting electrodes Tx and multiple receiving electrodes Rx located in the visible area Va.

[0053] Each transmitting electrode Tx is connected to a driving circuit (not shown) via a flexible wiring board 8. Each transmitting electrode Tx is configured to radiate an electric field to the surroundings through the driving circuit. On the other hand, each receiving electrode Rx is connected to a detection circuit (not shown) via the flexible wiring board 8. Each receiving electrode Rx is configured to receive the electric field emitted from each transmitting electrode Tx.

[0054] like Figure 3 As shown, the transmitting electrodes Tx and the receiving electrodes Rx intersect (orthogonal) when viewed from above.

[0055] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, a plurality of transmitting electrodes Tx (Tx1 to Tx5) are disposed on the first surface 3a (back side of the substrate 3) of the substrate 3. Each transmitting electrode Tx extends along a first direction D1. The plurality of transmitting electrodes Tx are arranged at intervals from each other along a second direction D2.

[0056] The width dimension EW1 of the transmitting electrode Tx (refer to) Figure 4 For example, it can be set to 2mm or more and 6mm or less. Additionally, the spacing ES between the transmitting electrodes Tx and Tx (refer to...) Figure 5 For example, it can be set to be above 1μm and below 20μm.

[0057] like Figure 2 and Figure 6 As shown, multiple receiving electrodes Rx (Rx1 to Rx5) are disposed on the second surface 3b (front side of substrate 3) of substrate 3. That is, the multiple receiving electrodes Rx are arranged in substrate 3 on the viewing side of touch sensor 1 (the side where the operating surface 2b of cover member 2 is located). The multiple receiving electrodes Rx are insulated from the multiple transmitting electrodes Tx through substrate 3. Each receiving electrode Rx extends along the second direction D2. The multiple receiving electrodes Rx are arranged spaced apart from each other in the first direction D1.

[0058] Each transmitting electrode Tx is composed of a grid pattern (see reference). Figure 5 In addition, each receiving electrode Rx (unit 11 and extensions 12, 12 described later) is also composed of a grid pattern (see reference). Figure 8 and Figure 9 ).

[0059] like Figure 5 , Figure 8 as well as Figure 9As shown, the aforementioned mesh pattern is composed of multiple fine lines 20. Specifically, the mesh pattern has a mesh structure in which multiple fine lines 20 intersect each other and are arranged at equal intervals. Furthermore, the mesh patterns constituting each transmitting electrode Tx and the mesh patterns constituting each receiving electrode Rx are arranged to overlap each other in the thickness direction of the substrate 3.

[0060] Each fine wire 20 is conductive. Multiple fine wires 20 extend in a direction inclined relative to both the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. The linewidth of each fine wire 20 is, for example, 1 μm or more and 3 μm or less. It should be noted that the cross-sectional structure of the fine wires 20 will be described later.

[0061] Here, as Figure 8 As shown, the first receiving electrode Rx3 is formed from a first thin wire 20a. Additionally, as... Figure 9 As shown, the second receiving electrode Rx4 is formed by the second thin wire 20b. It should be noted that the first thin wire 20a and the second thin wire 20b both have the same structure as the thin wire 20 described above.

[0062] Next, a wiring section (not shown) is provided in the transmitting electrode Tx. The wiring section is connected to an end of the transmitting electrode Tx. Specifically, the wiring section is connected to... Figure 3 The transmitting electrode Tx shown is located at the end on the right side of the paper ( Figure 4 (The end located on the left side of the paper) is connected. The wiring section is made of the same fine wire as the fine wire 20.

[0063] Additionally, a wiring section (not shown) is also provided on the receiving electrode Rx. This wiring section is connected to the end of the electrode body 10 (described later) in the receiving electrode Rx. Specifically, the wiring section is connected to... Figure 3 and Figure 6 The electrode body 10 shown is connected to the end located on the underside of the paper.

[0064] (Main area)

[0065] like Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, a main region Ma is provided on each receiving electrode Rx. The main region Ma is a region capable of receiving the electric field emitted from each transmitting electrode Tx. The main region Ma extends along the second direction D2. The main region Ma has a generally strip-shaped form.

[0066] The width dimension EW2 of the main region Ma is configured to be smaller than the width dimension EW1 of the transmitting electrode Tx. Specifically, the width dimension EW2 is, for example, 2 mm or more.

[0067] In the plurality of receiving electrodes Rx, a plurality of main regions Ma are arranged at intervals between each other in the first direction D1. In this embodiment, the plurality of main regions Ma are arranged at equal intervals in the first direction D1.

[0068] In this embodiment, the spacing EP between the main regions Ma is configured to be smaller than the width dimension EW2 of the main regions Ma (see reference). Figure 3 Specifically, the spacing EP is, for example, 3mm or more and 7mm or less.

[0069] (node)

[0070] like Figure 7 As shown, nodes N are formed in the regions where each transmitting electrode Tx intersects with each main region Ma. Node N constitutes a region capable of generating electrostatic capacitance. At node N, the capacitance value is determined by the number of intersections between the multiple thin lines 20 constituting each transmitting electrode Tx and the multiple thin lines 20 constituting each main region Ma. It should be noted that in... Figure 7 In the diagram, for ease of explanation, and to emphasize the node corresponding to the position where the main region Ma intersects with the transmitting electrode Tx3 and the receiving electrodes Rx3 and Rx4, the node N is marked with a shading.

[0071] like Figure 7 As shown, the first receiving electrode Rx3 forms a first node N1 for generating electrostatic capacitance in the region where it intersects with the transmitting electrode Tx. The second receiving electrode Rx4 forms a second node N2 for generating electrostatic capacitance in the region where it intersects with the transmitting electrode Tx.

[0072] (Electrode body)

[0073] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, each receiving electrode Rx has an electrode body 10. The electrode body 10 is arranged in the main region Ma. That is, among the multiple receiving electrodes Rx, the multiple electrode bodies 10 are arranged at intervals from each other in the first direction D1.

[0074] For ease of explanation, the following will be... Figure 7 The electrode body 10 shown is located on the first receiving electrode Rx3 side (located in...). Figure 7 The electrode body 10 on the left side of the paper is referred to as the "first electrode body 10a", and the electrode body 10 on the left side of the paper is referred to as the "first electrode body 10a". Figure 7 The electrode body 10 on the second receiving electrode Rx4 side shown (located in...) Figure 7 The electrode body 10 on the right side of the paper is referred to as the "second electrode body 10b".

[0075] The first electrode body 10a intersects with the transmitting electrode Tx when viewed from above. The second electrode body 10b intersects with the transmitting electrode Tx when viewed from above.

[0076] like Figure 7As shown, the electrode body 10 is composed of multiple units 11. The multiple units 11 are arranged in the main region Ma. The multiple units 11 are arranged in a row along the extension direction of the main region Ma (that is, the second direction D2).

[0077] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, unit 11 has a quadrilateral shape. This quadrilateral shape is formed by an imaginary first diagonal DL1 and a second diagonal DL2. The second diagonal DL2 is set to be longer than the first diagonal DL1. In this embodiment, the quadrilateral shape is a rhombus. As described above, each unit 11 is composed of a grid pattern, which is composed of multiple thin lines 20. It should be noted that in... Figure 6 In each of the electrode bodies 10 shown, located in Figure 6 The unit 11 on the upper side of the paper surface is formed in a generally V-shape with the upper side of the paper surface partially open. On the other hand, located on the upper side of the paper surface... Figure 6 The unit 11 on the lower side of the paper is formed into a roughly pentagonal shape.

[0078] Here, dummy patterns (not shown) may also be arranged on the inner side of each unit 11. Additionally, dummy electrodes (not shown) may be arranged between adjacent electrode bodies 10. Both the aforementioned dummy patterns and dummy electrodes are composed of multiple thin lines 20.

[0079] For ease of explanation, the following will be defined as... Figure 7 and Figure 8 The unit of the first electrode body 10a shown is designated as "11a", and the constituent elements are... Figure 7 and Figure 9 The unit of the second electrode body 10b shown is designated as "11b".

[0080] (Extension Section)

[0081] like Figures 6-9 As shown, each receiving electrode Rx has multiple extensions 12. These extensions 12 are electrically connected to the electrode body 10. Specifically, each extension 12 is electrically connected to each unit 11. It should be noted that, as described above, each extension 12 is composed of a grid pattern consisting of multiple fine lines 20.

[0082] Each extension portion 12 branches from each unit 11 of the electrode body 10 in a direction different from the second direction D2. Additionally, as... Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the width dimension WD2 of each extension 12 in a direction orthogonal to its extension direction is configured to be smaller than the width dimension WD1 of the outline in each unit 11. Specifically, the width dimension WD2 is approximately half the size of the width dimension WD1.

[0083] Here, located Figure 6 In the receiving electrode Rx on the left side of the paper, multiple extensions 12 are arranged only on the right side of the electrode body 10. Additionally, located on... Figure 6 In the receiving electrode Rx on the right side of the paper, multiple extensions 12 are arranged only on the left side of the electrode body 10. In contrast, Figure 6 In the receiving electrode Rx located in positions other than the left and right sides of the paper, multiple extensions 12 are arranged on both the left and right sides of the electrode body 10.

[0084] For ease of explanation, the following will be... Figure 7 The extension 12 on the side of the first electrode body 10a shown is called the "first extension 12a", and the extension 12 on the side of the first electrode body 10a is called the "first extension 12a". Figure 7 The extension 12 on the side of the second electrode body 10b shown is called the "second extension 12b".

[0085] like Figure 7 As shown, the first extension 12a is located between the first electrode body 10a and the second electrode body 10b, and extends from the first electrode body 10a. The first extension 12a of the first receiving electrode Rx3 is separate from the second electrode body 10b. In the first direction D1, the first farthest portion 19a of the first extension 12a, located at the position furthest from the first electrode body 10a, is located on the first direction D1 side of the end of the second electrode body 10b in the direction opposite to the first direction D1. A portion of the first extension 12a overlaps with the second node N2 when viewed from above.

[0086] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the first extension 12a includes a first connecting part 13a, a first intrusion part 14a, and a first supplement part 15a.

[0087] The first connecting portion 13a connects the first electrode body 10a of the first receiving electrode Rx3 and the first intrusion portion 14a. The first connecting portion 13a extends in a zigzag shape.

[0088] The first intrusion portion 14a is connected to the end of the first connecting portion 13a located on the opposite side of the unit 11a. The first intrusion portion 14a is inclined in a direction that is inclined relative to both the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. It should be noted that in Figure 8 In order to clearly indicate the location and extent of the first intrusion part 14a, the first intrusion part 14a is surrounded by a dashed line.

[0089] The first intrusion portion 14a extends along the outline of the second electrode body 10b of the second receiving electrode Rx4. The farthest part of the first intrusion portion 14a in the first direction D1 is the first extension portion 12a and the first farthest part 19a in the first direction D1.

[0090] like Figure 7 As shown, the second extension portion 12b is located between the first electrode body 10a and the second electrode body 10b, and extends from the second electrode body 10b. The second extension portion 12b of the second receiving electrode Rx4 is separate from the first electrode body 10a.

[0091] like Figure 7 and Figure 9 As shown, the second extension 12b includes a second connecting part 13b, a second intrusion part 14b, and a first supplement part 15b.

[0092] The second connecting portion 13b connects the second electrode body 10b of the second receiving electrode Rx4 and the second intrusion portion 14b. The second connecting portion 13b extends in a zigzag pattern.

[0093] The second intrusion portion 14b is connected to the end of the second connecting portion 13b located on the opposite side of the unit 11b. The second intrusion portion 14b extends in a direction inclined relative to both the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. It should be noted that in Figure 9 In order to clearly indicate the location and extent of the second intrusion part 14b, the second intrusion part 14b is surrounded by a dashed line.

[0094] like Figure 7 As shown, in the direction opposite to the first direction D1, the second furthest part 19b of the second extension 12b, located at the position furthest from the second electrode body 10b, is located on the side opposite to the first direction D1 at the end of the first electrode body 10a in the first direction D1. The first penetration part 14a of the first receiving electrode Rx3 and the second penetration part 14b of the second receiving electrode Rx4 are opposite to each other in the first direction D1.

[0095] The second intrusion portion 14b extends along the outline of the first electrode body 10a of the first receiving electrode Rx3. The furthest part of the second intrusion portion 14b in the direction opposite to the first direction D1 is the second extension portion 12b, and the second furthest part 19b in the direction opposite to the first direction D1 is the second extension portion 12b.

[0096] like Figure 7 As shown, in the first electrode body 10a and the second electrode body 10b that are adjacent to each other, the first extension portion 12a of the first electrode body 10a is configured such that the first intrusion portion 14a of the first extension portion 12a enters the second node N2 on the side where the second electrode body 10b is located, and is in a state of being insulated from the second electrode body 10b.

[0097] The first intrusion portion 14a of the first electrode body 10a is arranged to enter the portion of the second node N2 on the side where the second electrode body 10b is located (that is, the portion that enters the second node N2 on the side where the second electrode body 10b is located). Figure 7The shaded portion of the first intrusion portion 14a shown does not overlap with units 11b at the second node N2. Specifically, the first intrusion portion 14a of the first electrode body 10a is arranged such that, in the first direction D1, the portion entering the second node N2 on the side where the second electrode body 10b is located is spaced apart from the unit 11b located at the second node N2.

[0098] Furthermore, the first intrusion portion 14a of the first electrode body 10a extends in a direction parallel to the outline of the unit 11b located at the second node N2 on the side of the second electrode body 10b. Also, in the first intrusion portion 14a of the first electrode body 10a, the corner portion located in the middle of the first intrusion portion 14a ( Figure 7 The portion of the first farthest part 19a) shown is opposite to the portion of the second node N2 on the side of the second electrode body 10b at the connection point between the units 11b and 11b in the first direction D1.

[0099] As a specific example, such as Figure 7 As shown, the first penetration portion 14a of the first receiving electrode Rx3 extends in a direction parallel to the outline of the unit 11b located at the second node N2. Furthermore, the first penetration portion 14a of the first receiving electrode Rx3 is arranged such that the portion entering the second node N2 on the side of the second receiving electrode Rx4 is spaced apart from the unit 11b located at the second node N2 in the first direction D1. Moreover, in the first direction D1, the corner portion (located in the middle of the first penetration portion 14a of the first receiving electrode Rx3) Figure 7 The first farthest part 19a) shown is opposite to the part corresponding to the connection point between units 11b and 11b at the second node N2 on the side of the second receiving electrode Rx4.

[0100] Next, as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the first supplementary part 15a of the first receiving electrode Rx3 branches from the first intrusion part 14a in a direction different from the first intrusion part 14a.

[0101] The first supplementary portion 15a extends in a direction inclined relative to both the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. The first supplementary portion 15a is located between the first electrode body 10a of the first receiving electrode Rx3 and the second electrode body 10b of the second receiving electrode Rx4 (see reference). Figure 7 It should be noted that the first supplementary part 15a is configured such that most of it is located in the adjacent first electrode body 10a and second electrode body 10b, and does not enter the first node N1 on the side of the first electrode body 10a.

[0102] like Figure 7 and Figure 9As shown, the first supplementary portion 15b of the second receiving electrode Rx4 branches from the second intrusion portion 14b in a direction different from that of the second intrusion portion 14b.

[0103] The first supplementary portion 15b extends in a direction inclined relative to both the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. The first supplementary portion 15b is located between the first electrode body 10a of the first receiving electrode Rx3 and the second electrode body 10b of the second receiving electrode Rx4 (see reference). Figure 7 It should be noted that the first supplementary part 15b is configured such that most of it is located in the adjacent second electrode body 10b and first electrode body 10a, and does not enter the second node N2 on the side of the second electrode body 10b.

[0104] Next, as Figure 7 As shown, in the adjacent first electrode body 10a and second electrode body 10b, the first extension portion 12a of the first electrode body 10a and the second extension portion 12b of the second electrode body 10b are opposite to each other in the first direction D1. Furthermore, the first supplementary portion 15a included in the first extension portion 12a and the first supplementary portion 15b included in the second extension portion 12b extend in mutually parallel directions and are arranged at intervals in directions orthogonal to each extension direction.

[0105] (Cross-sectional structure of thin lines)

[0106] Each fine wire 20 includes conductive material embedded in each groove 6. For example... Figure 10 As shown, each fine line 20 is composed of a close-fitting layer 21, a seed layer 22, a conductive layer 23, and a blackening layer 24.

[0107] The tight-fitting layer 21 is an element used to ensure the tightness of the seed layer 22 relative to the groove 6. The tight-fitting layer 21 has the function of making the fine wire 20 difficult to see when viewed by the user from the operating surface 2b side.

[0108] The bonding layer 21 is, for example, a metal layer composed of a metal nitride or a metal oxide, wherein the metal nitride or metal oxide comprises at least one metal selected from the group consisting of Ti, Al, V, W, Ta, Si, Cr, Ag, Mo, Cu, and Zn. The bonding layer 21 can be a single layer or a stack of multiple layers with different compositions. The bonding layer 21 is arranged on the tank portion 6 in a thin film, for example, by vapor deposition or sputtering.

[0109] The seed layer 22 functions to bond the conductive layer 23 to the bonding layer 21. Specifically, for example, during an electroplating process to form the conductive layer 23, in this embodiment, the seed layer 22 functions as a cathode, which is used to deposit an electroplating solution containing copper (Cu) or the like onto the bonding layer 21. The seed layer 22 is deposited on the bonding layer 21 in a thin film form, for example, by vapor deposition or sputtering.

[0110] The conductive layer 23 is formed, for example, by electroplating. When electroplating is performed, the seed layer 22 and the conductive layer 23 are formed as a single unit. Therefore, the interface between the seed layer 22 and the conductive layer 23 is indistinguishable.

[0111] A blackening layer 24 is stacked on the front side of the conductive layer 23. The blackening layer 24 is formed by replacing the copper grains on the front side of the conductive layer 23 with palladium (which has undergone blackening treatment), with the replaced copper grains located at the boundaries between the copper grains. The thickness of the blackening layer 24 is, for example, 7 nm or more and 10 nm or less. The blackening layer 24 has the function of making the fine line 20 difficult to see when viewed by a user from the operating surface 2b side.

[0112] [Effects of the Implementation Method]

[0113] As described above, the first extension 12a of the first receiving electrode Rx3 is separated from the second electrode body 10b. In the first direction D1, the first farthest part 19a of the first extension 12a, located at the position furthest from the first electrode body 10a, is located on the first direction D1 side of the end of the second electrode body 10b in the direction opposite to the first direction D1. Therefore, the touch sensitivity is not concentrated at the second node N2 on the side where the second electrode body 10b is located, but is dispersed relative to the first node N1 on the side where the first electrode body 10a is located. In other words, the touch sensitivity is not concentrated at the second node N2 on the side where the second electrode body 10b is located, but is dispersed towards the first node N1 on the side where the first electrode body 10a is located. Thus, in the touch sensor 1, unlike the structure of the prior art (e.g., the structure disclosed in Patent Document 1 above), the deviation of touch sensitivity at a specific node N is eliminated. It should be noted that the above-mentioned touch sensitivity is calculated as a value obtained by dividing the capacitance value absorbed by the detected object (e.g., the user's finger) by the capacitance value between the electrode body 10 and the extension 12 and the transmitting electrode Tx.

[0114] Here, for example, suppose that in the area where the main regions Ma of the transmitting electrode Tx3 and the second receiving electrode Rx4 intersect, i.e., in the second node N2, the detected object is located at the position of the first intrusion portion 14a, which includes the second electrode body 10b located in the second node N2 and the first receiving electrode Rx3 (refer to...). Figure 3 and Figure 7 The symbol Tp is shown as the contact point. In this case, the touch sensitivity is not concentrated solely on the second electrode body 10b, located at the intersection of the main regions Ma of the transmitting electrode Tx3 and the second receiving electrode Rx4, i.e., the second node N2. Specifically, the touch sensitivity is distributed to the first node N1, located at the intersection of the main regions Ma of the transmitting electrode Tx3 and the first receiving electrode Rx3, via the first intrusion portion 14a (first extension portion 12a) of the first receiving electrode Rx3. Thus, the touch position can be accurately and appropriately detected by multiple receiving electrodes Rx in such a way that the position of the touch action of the detected object (hereinafter referred to as the "touch position") becomes the actual touch position. As a result, the detection accuracy of the touch position is improved in the touch sensor 1.

[0115] If the detection accuracy of the touch position is improved, for example, continuous touch actions involving the linear or curvilinear movement of the object being detected can be accurately and appropriately detected using multiple receiving electrodes Rx. As a result, the operability and descriptive quality of the user's touch actions (especially the aforementioned continuous touch actions) are good in the touch sensor 1. Specifically, the actual trajectory (e.g., handwriting) based on the aforementioned continuous touch actions matches the detection result of the aforementioned continuous touch actions (e.g., text displayed on the screen of a display device connected to the touch sensor 1). Furthermore, even when the touch sensor 1 is enlarged, according to the feature structure involved in the embodiments of this disclosure described above, the actual trajectory based on the aforementioned continuous touch actions still matches the detection result of the aforementioned continuous touch actions. In other words, good operability and descriptive quality can be obtained even when the touch sensor 1 is enlarged.

[0116] Therefore, in the touch sensor 1 according to the embodiments of this disclosure, the touch action of the object being detected can be accurately and appropriately detected.

[0117] Furthermore, the first extension portion 12a includes a first intrusion portion 14a extending along the outline of the second electrode body 10b of the second receiving electrode Rx4, the farthest part of the first intrusion portion 14a in the first direction D1 being the first farthest part 19a of the first extension portion 12a in the first direction D1. Through this first intrusion portion 14a, the first intrusion portion 14a disposed on the first electrode body 10a can be kept insulated from the second electrode body 10b, and most of the first intrusion portion 14a enters the second node N2 on the side of the second electrode body 10b. Therefore, deviations in touch sensitivity at a specific node N can be eliminated.

[0118] Furthermore, the first extension portion 12a also includes a first connecting portion 13a, which connects the first electrode body 10a and the first intrusion portion 14a of the first receiving electrode Rx3. Through this first connecting portion 13a, the first intrusion portion 14a of the first extension portion 12a provided on the first electrode body 10a can be adjusted to the second node N2 entering the second electrode body 10b side according to the interval between the adjacent first electrode bodies 10a and the second electrode bodies 10b (specifically, the distance EP between the main regions Ma and the main regions Ma).

[0119] Furthermore, the first connecting portion 13a extends in a zigzag pattern. As a result, the distance from the first electrode body 10a to the first intrusion portion 14a can be adjusted according to the interval between the adjacent first electrode body 10a and second electrode body 10b (specifically, the distance EP between the main regions Ma and the main regions Ma).

[0120] Furthermore, the first extension 12a of the first receiving electrode Rx3 also has a first supplementary portion 15a, which branches from the first intrusion portion 14a in a direction different from the first intrusion portion 14a. The first supplementary portion 15a is located between the first electrode body 10a of the first receiving electrode Rx3 and the second electrode body 10b of the second receiving electrode Rx4. This first supplementary portion 15a can compensate for the touch position detection accuracy between the first node N1 on the first electrode body 10a side and the second node N2 on the second electrode body 10b side. In other words, the first supplementary portion 15a can improve the touch position detection accuracy even at locations other than the first node N1 and the second node N2.

[0121] Furthermore, the second receiving electrode Rx4 also has a second extension 12b, which is located between the first electrode body 10a and the second electrode body 10b and extends from the second electrode body 10b. The second extension 12b of the second receiving electrode Rx4 is separated from the first electrode body 10a. In the direction opposite to the first direction D1, the second farthest part 19b of the second extension 12b, located at the position furthest from the second electrode body 10b, is located on the side opposite to the first direction D1 at the end of the first electrode body 10a. Thus, the deviation in touch sensitivity between the adjacent first electrode body 10a and second electrode body 10b is eliminated. As a result, the touch action of the detected object can be detected accurately and appropriately.

[0122] [Modification 1 of the implementation method]

[0123] In the above embodiment, a first supplementary portion 15a is shown branching out from the first intrusion portion 14a in a direction different from the first intrusion portion 14a, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, such as Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown in Modification 1, a second supplementary part 16a can be provided to replace the first supplementary part 15a. Specifically, in Figure 12 In the first receiving electrode Rx3, the first extension portion 12a has a second supplementary portion 16a. Additionally, the second extension portion 12b of the second receiving electrode Rx4 has a second supplementary portion 16b.

[0124] like Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, in the touch sensor 1 of Modified Example 1, unlike the embodiment described above, the spacing EP between the main regions Ma is larger than the width dimension EW2 of the main regions Ma. Therefore, in Modified Example 1, the distance from the first electrode body 10a to the first intrusion portion 14a is relatively longer compared to the embodiment described above. That is, in the first connecting portion 13a of this modified example, the length in the first direction D1 is longer than the length of the first connecting portion 13a shown in the embodiment described above.

[0125] In this modified example, even assuming that a first supplementary portion 15a branching off from the first intrusion portion 14a is provided (in... Figure 11 and Figure 12 (Not shown in the figure), sometimes this is insufficient to supplement the accuracy of the touch position detection between the first node N1 on the first electrode body 10a side and the second node N2 on the second electrode body 10b side. Therefore, in the touch sensor 1 according to Modification 1, a second supplementary part 16a is provided to replace the first supplementary part 15a.

[0126] The second supplementary portion 16a of the first receiving electrode Rx3 branches off from the first connecting portion 13a in a direction different from the first connecting portion 13a. In this modified example, the second supplementary portion 16a extends from approximately the center of the first connecting portion 13a in the first direction D1, in a direction inclined relative to both the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. Furthermore, the second supplementary portion 16a is located between the first electrode body 10a of the first receiving electrode Rx3 and the second electrode body 10b of the second receiving electrode Rx4 (see reference). Figure 12 ).

[0127] The second supplementary portion 16b of the second receiving electrode Rx4 branches off from the second connecting portion 13b in a direction different from the second connecting portion 13b. The second supplementary portion 16b is located between the first electrode body 10a of the first receiving electrode Rx3 and the second electrode body 10b of the second receiving electrode Rx4 (see reference). Figure 12 ).

[0128] In this modified example, even when the distance EP between the main regions Ma is larger than the width EW2 of the main regions Ma, it is easy to arrange the second supplementary part 16a at the midpoint between adjacent main regions Ma in the first direction D1. As a result, the detection accuracy of the touch position between the first node N1 on the first electrode body 10a side and the second node N2 on the second electrode body 10b side can be improved. Furthermore, the second supplementary part 16b also achieves the same effect as the second supplementary part 16a.

[0129] [Modification 2 of the implementation method]

[0130] In the above embodiment, the first connecting portion 13a is shown to extend in a zigzag pattern, but it is not limited to this method. For example, it can also be as follows: Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown in the individual variation 2, the first connecting portion 13a extends in a straight line along the first direction D1. Even with this structure, the distance from the first electrode body 10a to the first intrusion portion 14a can be adjusted according to the interval between the adjacent first electrode body 10a and second electrode body 10b (specifically, the distance EP between the main regions Ma and the main regions Ma).

[0131] Here, in Modification 2, similar to Modification 1, the distance EP between the main regions Ma is larger than the width EW2 of the main regions Ma. Therefore, in Modification 2, similar to Modification 1, a second supplementary part 16a and a second supplementary part 16b are provided. It should be noted that the specific structure and function of the second supplementary part 16a and the second supplementary part 16b are the same as in Modification 1, so their detailed description is omitted.

[0132] [Other Implementation Methods]

[0133] In the above embodiment, a method of applying a roughly rectangular visible area Va is shown, but it is not limited to this method. For example, the visible area Va may also have a roughly circular shape, a pentagonal shape, or a polygonal shape when viewed from above.

[0134] In the above embodiment, a method using one substrate 3 is shown, but it is not limited to this method. That is, it is also possible to use two substrates 3 (not shown). Two substrates 3 can be stacked on the front or back of the first layer 4 using the second layer 5, which is not shown.

[0135] In the above embodiment, a method is shown in which the substrate 3 has a first layer 4 and a second layer 5, but the embodiment is not limited to this method. For example, the substrate 3 may also have only a first layer 4. In this method, a plurality of grooves 6 may be formed on at least one side of the front and back sides of the first layer 4.

[0136] In the above embodiments, Figure 3 The direction from left to right on the paper is defined as the first direction D1. On the other hand, Figure 3 The direction from the bottom to the top in the paper is defined as the second direction D2, but it is not limited to this. For example, it can also be... Figure 3 The direction from bottom to top in the paper is defined as the first direction D1. On the other hand, Figure 3 The direction from left to right on the paper is defined as the second direction D2.

[0137] In the above embodiment, a plurality of transmitting electrodes Tx are shown disposed on the back side of the substrate 3, while a plurality of receiving electrodes Rx are disposed on the front side of the substrate 3. However, this embodiment is not limited to this configuration. For example, it is also possible to configure a plurality of transmitting electrodes Tx to be disposed on the front side of the substrate 3, while a plurality of receiving electrodes Rx are disposed on the back side of the substrate 3, which is not shown. It should be noted that even in such a configuration, dummy patterns and dummy electrodes (not shown) are also arranged on the front side of the substrate 3 (the viewing side of the touch sensor 1).

[0138] In the above embodiment, a touch sensor 1 is shown in a state where the cover member 2 and the flexible wiring board 8 have been mounted on the substrate 3, but it is not limited to this method. That is, the concept of the touch sensor 1 disclosed herein includes the state before the cover member 2 and the flexible wiring board 8 are mounted on the substrate 3. Furthermore, the concept of the touch sensor 1 disclosed herein also includes a structure in which the aforementioned plurality of transmitting electrodes Tx and plurality of receiving electrodes Rx are formed on a strip-shaped base material (e.g., a strip-shaped hoop member not shown) in a state before the substrate 3 is formed.

[0139] In the above embodiment, each unit 11 is shown to be rhomboid in shape, but is not limited to this method. That is, each unit 11 can be a quadrilateral formed by an imaginary first diagonal DL1 and an imaginary second diagonal DL2 that is longer than the first diagonal DL1.

[0140] In the above embodiments, a method is shown where the transmitting electrode Tx does not contain a dummy pattern, but it is not limited to this method. That is, the transmitting electrode Tx may also include a dummy pattern not shown.

[0141] In the above embodiments, a method is shown in which no dummy electrodes are provided between the transmitting electrodes Tx, but this method is not limited to this. For example, when the electrode width EW1 of the transmitting electrode Tx is relatively small, dummy electrodes (not shown) may be provided between the transmitting electrodes Tx and Tx.

[0142] In the above embodiments, a structure containing copper (Cu) as the main component of the plating solution has been described, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the plating solution may also contain silver, gold, or copper alloys.

[0143] In the above embodiment, the extension portion 12 is shown to include the connecting portion 13, but it is not limited to this embodiment. For example, in comparison with the above embodiment, when the distance EP between the main regions Ma is extremely small, the connecting portion 13 may be omitted. That is, the intrusion portion 14 may also be directly provided in each unit 11 of the electrode body 10.

[0144] In the above embodiment, the first extension 12a is shown to include a first supplementary part 15a, but it is not limited to this form. That is, in comparison with the above embodiment, if the distance EP between the main regions Ma becomes extremely small, it may sometimes be unnecessary to supplement the detection accuracy of the touch position between the first node N1 on the first electrode body 10a side and the second node N2 on the second electrode body 10b side. In this case, the first supplementary part 15a may not be specifically provided. The same applies to the first supplementary part 15b of the second extension 12b.

[0145] -Industry Applicability-

[0146] This disclosure enables the use of touch sensors in industry.

[0147] - Symbol Explanation -

[0148] 1: Touch sensor

[0149] 2: Cover component

[0150] 2a: Decoration Department

[0151] 2b: Operating surface

[0152] 3: Substrate

[0153] 3a: First page

[0154] 3b: Second page

[0155] 4: First floor

[0156] 5: Second layer

[0157] 6: Groove

[0158] 7: Adhesive layer

[0159] 8: Flexible wiring board

[0160] 10: Electrode body

[0161] 10a: First electrode body

[0162] 10b: Second electrode body

[0163] 11: Unit

[0164] 12: Extension Section

[0165] 12a: First extension

[0166] 12b: Second Extension

[0167] 13: Connecting parts

[0168] 13a: First connecting section

[0169] 13b: Second connecting section

[0170] 14: Intrusion Section

[0171] 14a: First Intrusion Section

[0172] 14b: Second Intrusion Section

[0173] 15a, 15b: First Supplementary Section

[0174] 16a, 16b: Second Supplementary Section

[0175] 19a: First farthest part

[0176] 19b: Second farthest part

[0177] 20: Thin line

[0178] 20a: First fine line

[0179] 20b: Second fine line

[0180] 21: Close-knit layer

[0181] 22: Seed layer

[0182] 23: Conductive layer

[0183] 24: Blackening layer

[0184] Tx: Transmitting electrode

[0185] Rx: Receiving electrode

[0186] Ma: Main Region

[0187] N1: First node

[0188] N2: Second node.

Claims

1. A touch sensor characterized by: the touch sensor including a transmission electrode, a first reception electrode, and a second reception electrode, the transmission electrode extending in a first direction, the first reception electrode being formed of a first thin wire and having a first electrode body extending in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction and intersecting the transmission electrode in plan view, the second reception electrode being located in the first direction of the first reception electrode and being formed of a second thin wire, the second reception electrode having a second electrode body extending in the second direction and intersecting the transmission electrode in plan view, the first reception electrode further having a first extension portion located between the first electrode body and the second electrode body and extending from the first electrode body, the first extension portion of the first reception electrode being separated from the second electrode body, in the first direction, a first most distal portion of the first extension portion at a position most distal from the first electrode body being located on the first direction side of an end portion of the second electrode body in a direction opposite to the first direction.

2. The touch sensor according to claim 1, characterized by: the first extension portion including a first intrusion portion extending along an outline of the second electrode body of the second reception electrode, a most distal portion of the first intrusion portion in the first direction being the first most distal portion of the first extension portion in the first direction.

3. The touch sensor according to claim 1, characterized by: the first extension portion further including a first link portion connecting the first electrode body of the first reception electrode and the first intrusion portion.

4. The touch sensor according to claim 3, characterized by: the first link portion extending in a zigzag shape.

5. The touch sensor according to claim 3, characterized by: the first link portion extending in a straight line shape in the first direction.

6. The touch sensor according to claim 2, characterized by: the first extension portion of the first reception electrode further having a first supplemental portion branching from the first intrusion portion in a direction different from the first intrusion portion, the first supplemental portion being located between the first electrode body of the first reception electrode and the second electrode body of the second reception electrode.

7. The touch sensor according to claim 3, characterized by: the first extension portion of the first reception electrode further having a second supplemental portion branching from the first link portion in a direction different from the first link portion, the second supplemental portion being located between the first electrode body of the first reception electrode and the second electrode body of the second reception electrode.

8. The touch sensor according to claim 1, characterized by: the second reception electrode further having a second extension portion located between the first electrode body and the second electrode body and extending from the second electrode body, the second extension portion of the second reception electrode being separated from the first electrode body, In a direction opposite to the first direction, a second distal portion of the second extension portion, which is located at a position farthest from the second electrode main body, is located on a side, in the direction opposite to the first direction, of an end portion of the first electrode main body in the first direction.

9. The touch sensor according to claim 8, wherein: the first invasion portion of the first receiving electrode and the second invasion portion of the second receiving electrode are opposed to each other in the first direction.

10. The touch sensor according to claim 1, wherein: the first receiving electrode forms a first node generating an electrostatic capacitance at a region crossing the transmitting electrode, the second receiving electrode forms a second node generating an electrostatic capacitance at a region crossing the transmitting electrode, a portion of the first extension portion overlaps the second node when viewed from above.

11. The touch sensor according to claim 1, wherein: the touch sensor further includes a substrate, the transmitting electrode is arranged on a first face of the substrate, the first receiving electrode is arranged on a second face of the substrate which is opposed to the first face of the substrate, the second receiving electrode is arranged on the second face of the substrate.

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