Light-transmissive conductive film, light-transmissive panel, and electronic device

Abstract

The application discloses a light-transmitting conductive film, a light-transmitting panel and an electronic device, and belongs to the technical field of electronics. The light-transmitting conductive film comprises a functional layer and a protective layer. The functional layer has light-transmitting and conductive properties. The protective layer has light-transmitting and conductive properties and covers the surface of the functional layer. The protective layer is a DLC material layer, which reduces mutual interference between different detection modules and is beneficial to improving the precision of signal collection and the efficiency of detection under the condition of reduced interference.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electronic technology, and in particular to a light-transmitting conductive film, a light-transmitting panel, and an electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, electronic devices such as smartwatches, smart bracelets, smart clothes, smart glasses, mobile phones, and tablets are increasingly integrating a wide range of functions, especially in the detection functions that interact with the human body, such as the detection of signals like electrocardiogram (ECG), body temperature, body fat, and blood oxygen.

[0003] However, in existing smart products, when multiple detection functions are running simultaneously, the detection modules are prone to mutual interference, which may affect the accuracy of the detection results or reduce the efficiency of the detection. Utility Model Content

[0004] This application provides a light-transmitting conductive film, a light-transmitting panel, and an electronic device, which improves the accuracy of detection results or increases the efficiency of detection, thereby at least partially solving the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, according to a first aspect of this application, a light-transmitting conductive film is provided, comprising:

[0006] The functional layer has both light transmittance and electrical conductivity; and

[0007] A protective layer, which is transparent and conductive, covers the surface of the functional layer. The protective layer is a DLC material layer and the thickness of the protective layer (200) is in the nanometer range.

[0008] In some embodiments, the functional layer includes a TCO material layer.

[0009] In some embodiments, the ratio of the thickness of the functional layer to the thickness of the protective layer is 0.6-200.

[0010] In some embodiments, the ratio of the thickness of the functional layer to the thickness of the protective layer is 8-75.

[0011] In some embodiments, the average transmittance of the transparent conductive film in the 380nm-1000nm wavelength band is greater than or equal to 70%.

[0012] In some embodiments, the average transmittance of the transparent conductive film in the 380nm-1000nm wavelength band is greater than or equal to 80%.

[0013] In some embodiments, the average surface resistance of the transparent conductive film is 0.1 kΩ / sq-20 kΩ / sq.

[0014] In some embodiments, the average surface resistance of the transparent conductive film is 0.1kΩ / sq-5kΩ / sq.

[0015] In some embodiments, the thickness of the functional layer is 20nm-200nm.

[0016] In some embodiments, the thickness of the functional layer is 80nm-150nm.

[0017] In some embodiments, the functional layer has an average transmittance of 85% or greater in the 380nm-1000nm wavelength band.

[0018] In some embodiments, the surface resistance of the functional layer is less than or equal to 40 Ω / sq.

[0019] In some embodiments, the thickness of the protective layer is 1nm-30nm.

[0020] In some embodiments, the thickness of the protective layer is 2nm-10nm.

[0021] In some embodiments, the hardness of the protective layer is greater than 8 GPa.

[0022] In some embodiments, the hardness of the protective layer is greater than or equal to 9 GPa.

[0023] According to a second aspect of this application, a light-transmitting panel is provided, comprising the light-transmitting conductive film described in the above technical solution, and further comprising a panel body, wherein the light-transmitting conductive film is disposed on the panel body.

[0024] In some embodiments, the light-transmitting conductive film is disposed on the surface of the panel body, and the protective layer is located on the side of the functional layer opposite to the panel body.

[0025] In some embodiments, the panel body includes a display panel or a light-transmitting panel.

[0026] According to a third aspect of this application, an electronic device is also provided, comprising the light-transmitting conductive film described in the above technical solution, or comprising the light-transmitting panel described in the above technical solution.

[0027] In some embodiments, the electronic device includes a wearable device.

[0028] In some embodiments, the wearable device includes a smartwatch or a smart bracelet.

[0029] The transparent conductive film of this application embodiment can not only collect electrical signals to detect electrocardiograms when in contact with human skin, but also allow detection light to pass through the transparent conductive film to collect optical signals such as blood oxygen, thereby simultaneously meeting the detection needs of multiple physiological signals at the same location. This structural design reduces mutual interference between different detection modules to a certain extent, and with reduced interference, it is beneficial to improve the accuracy of signal acquisition and the efficiency of detection.

[0030] Other features and advantages of this application will be described in detail in the following detailed description section. Attached Figure Description

[0031] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0032] To gain a more complete understanding of this application and its beneficial effects, the following description will be provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals in the following description denote the same parts.

[0033] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the light-transmitting panel provided in an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure.

[0034] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0035] 10. Transparent panel; 11. Panel body; 100. Functional layer; 110. First surface; 120. Second surface; 200. Protective layer. Detailed Implementation

[0036] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the protection scope of this application.

[0037] According to the first aspect of this application, referring to Figure 1 This disclosure provides a light-transmitting conductive film for use in electronic devices. For example, the light-transmitting conductive film is suitable for smart wearable devices, such as smartwatches or smart bracelets. Specifically, the light-transmitting conductive film can be disposed on the back cover or display panel surface of a smartwatch, enabling it to collect electrical signals when in contact with human skin, thereby obtaining physiological data such as electrocardiograms.

[0038] In some embodiments, the light-transmitting conductive film includes a functional layer 100 and a protective layer 200 covering the surface of the functional layer 100. The functional layer 100 and the protective layer 200 are light-transmitting and conductive, allowing them to form electrical contact through direct contact with human skin, thereby acquiring electrocardiogram signals. The protective layer 200 has high hardness, which to some extent prevents the functional layer 100 from being worn or corroded during use due to contact with skin or external objects, thus helping to extend the service life of the film.

[0039] Since both the functional layer 100 and the protective layer 200 are transparent, when the film is applied to the surface of the smartwatch cover, the light required by the blood oxygen detection module can pass through the film and come into contact with the skin to collect blood oxygen and other data. When the transparent conductive film is applied to the surface of the display panel, it also allows the display image to pass through without affecting the visual effect. Thus, electrical and optical signals can be detected simultaneously at the same location, which helps to reduce mutual interference between different detection modules to a certain extent, and improves the acquisition accuracy and detection efficiency of multiple physiological signals with reduced interference.

[0040] In some embodiments, the protective layer 200 is a DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) material layer. This material has high hardness and chemical stability, giving the protective layer 200 a certain degree of corrosion resistance and wear resistance, making it suitable for long-term application on the cover surface of smartwatches. The thickness of the protective layer 200 is in the nanometer range, meaning that the thickness of the protective layer 200 is within the nanometer range, providing sufficient mechanical protection while ensuring light transmittance.

[0041] Through the above structural design, the light-transmitting conductive film can be used with different types of detection modules while having detection functions, making it suitable for use in smart wearable products that require multi-functional signal acquisition and have high requirements for appearance and durability.

[0042] It is understandable that DLC material layers typically lack light transmittance at conventional thicknesses. However, when their thickness is controlled within the nanometer range (e.g., between 1 and 30 nanometers), light can pass through due to the smaller layer thickness, thus maintaining high hardness while achieving light transmittance. This structural design allows the protective layer 200 to meet the light transmittance requirements of optical detection while also providing wear-resistant and corrosion-resistant mechanical protection for the functional layer 100.

[0043] In some embodiments, the protective layer 200 is a single DLC material layer. In other embodiments, the protective layer 200 may include multiple material layers, specifically a composite protective layer 200 formed by combining the DLC material layer with other material layers. Exemplarily, the DLC material layer may be a nanoscale thin film layer of hydrogen-containing diamond-like carbon (aC:H), hydrogen-free diamond-like carbon (aC), or doped diamond carbon (such as fluorine-doped, nitrogen-doped, etc.).

[0044] In some embodiments, the protective layer 200 covers only the side of the functional layer 100 that comes into contact with skin or external parts to provide targeted mechanical protection and corrosion resistance, while avoiding adverse effects on other surface properties of the functional layer 100. It also prevents the light transmittance of the transparent conductive film from being affected if the protective layer 200 is too thick.

[0045] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 1 The functional layer 100 has a first surface 110 and a second surface 120 facing away from each other, and a protective layer 200 covers the first surface 110. Exemplarily, the second surface 120 is used to fit with components such as the back cover of a smartwatch, while the first surface 110 is used to come into direct contact with the skin, thereby protecting the functional layer 100 from abrasion or corrosion that may occur when in contact with the skin.

[0046] The protective layer 200 only covers the first surface 110 of the functional layer 100 to avoid the protective layer 200 being too thick and having an adverse effect on the light transmittance, thereby maintaining the good light transmittance of the film while ensuring mechanical protection.

[0047] In some embodiments, the functional layer 100 is a TCO (Transparent Conductive Oxide) material layer. This TCO material layer is formed through processes such as chemical vapor deposition and sputtering, and has good electrical conductivity and light transmittance, which is beneficial for achieving stable acquisition of electrical signals and effective transmission of optical signals.

[0048] Structurally, the TCO material layer can collect electrical signals such as electrocardiogram (ECG) through its conductivity when in contact with human skin; at the same time, the high light transmittance of the material allows light to pass through the functional layer 100 for the detection of optical signals such as blood oxygen.

[0049] Since the TCO material layer itself has a certain degree of mechanical fragility, the protective layer 200 structure in this embodiment helps to mitigate the wear and corrosion risk to the functional layer 100 to a certain extent, thereby improving the overall durability and applicability of the film.

[0050] In addition, "TCO material layer" refers to oxide material that has a certain transmittance and conductivity in the visible light range. Common examples include indium tin oxide (ITO), aluminum zinc oxide (AZO), and tin-tungsten oxide (FTO), but it is not limited to these.

[0051] In some embodiments, the fabrication of the functional layer 100 includes the following steps:

[0052] a. Provide a glass substrate, and ultrasonically clean its surface with acetone and ethanol successively. Then, clean it with deionized water to remove residual impurities. Finally, dry the substrate surface in a vacuum environment to obtain a clean coating surface.

[0053] b. Place the treated glass substrate on the working stand of the sputtering coating machine and evacuate the chamber.

[0054] c. When the vacuum level in the coating chamber reaches approximately 3 × 10⁻⁶ -3 When the temperature of the chamber reaches approximately 300°C, the ICP ion source is turned on and argon gas is introduced. The argon gas flow rate is controlled within the range of 250 sccm to 300 sccm. The ICP power is set to 0.7 kW and maintained for approximately 5 minutes for surface activation and cleaning.

[0055] d. Continuously introduce argon gas, turn on the sputtering power supply of indium tin oxide (ITO) target, set the sputtering power to 10kW, and the coating time to about 700 seconds to prepare a transparent functional layer 100 with a thickness of about 100nm. The average transmittance of the functional layer 100 in the 380nm to 1000nm wavelength range can reach about 87%, and the average surface resistance is about 35Ω / sq.

[0056] e. After sputtering is completed, turn off the target power supply. After the workpiece cools down, turn on the freezer to defrost. Finally, release the vacuum in the coating chamber and remove the workpiece after it returns to atmospheric pressure, thus completing the preparation of functional layer 100.

[0057] In some embodiments, the preparation of the transparent conductive film includes the following steps:

[0058] a. Provide a glass substrate, and ultrasonically clean the glass substrate in sequence with acetone and ethanol, then clean its surface with deionized water, and dry it in a vacuum environment.

[0059] b. Place the treated glass substrate on the working stand of the sputtering coating machine and perform a vacuuming operation.

[0060] c. When the vacuum level in the coating chamber reaches approximately 3 × 10⁻⁶ -3When the temperature of the chamber reaches approximately 300°C, the ICP ion source is turned on, and argon gas is introduced. The argon gas flow rate is controlled between 250 sccm and 300 sccm, and the ICP power is set to 0.7 kW. This is maintained for approximately 5 minutes for substrate surface activation.

[0061] d. Continuously introduce argon gas, turn on the indium tin oxide (ITO) target sputtering power supply, set the sputtering power to 10kW, and the sputtering time to about 700 seconds to obtain a functional layer 100 with a thickness of about 100nm. The average transmittance of the functional layer 100 in the 380nm to 1000nm wavelength band is about 87%, and the average surface resistance is about 35Ω / sq.

[0062] e. Turn off the ITO target sputtering power supply.

[0063] f. Turn on the graphite target bias power supply, set the bias voltage to about -300V, start the graphite carbon arc target, set the current to 80A, and perform sputtering for about 50 seconds to obtain a hard protective layer 200 with a thickness of about 5nm.

[0064] g. Turn off all target power supplies, and after the workpiece cools naturally, turn on the freezer for defrosting. Then release the vacuum in the coating chamber, and after the chamber returns to atmospheric pressure, remove the workpiece to complete the preparation of the transparent conductive film.

[0065] Comparative example:

[0066] The preparation steps of the above-mentioned transparent conductive film are adjusted as follows:

[0067] The sputtering time of the ITO target is extended to about 1400 seconds to obtain a transparent functional layer 100 with a thickness of about 200 nm. This results in the average transmittance in the 380 nm to 1000 nm band decreasing to about 70% and the average surface resistance increasing to about 100 Ω / sq.

[0068] The sputtering time of the graphite carbon arc target is extended to about 300 seconds to obtain a hardened protective layer 200 with a thickness of about 30 nm, forming a non-preferred transparent conductive film.

[0069] This comparative example shows that excessively thick functional layer 100 and protective layer 200 can lead to a sharp decrease in light transmittance, which may be detrimental to the effective acquisition of optical signals.

[0070] In some embodiments, the ratio of the thickness of the functional layer 100 to the thickness of the protective layer 200 is 0.6-200. This ratio range helps to achieve a performance balance of the light-transmitting and conductive film. Specifically, when the ratio is large, the functional layer 100 is relatively thick, which is beneficial for improving conductivity and stable acquisition of electrical signals, but the protective layer 200 is relatively thin, which may have limited effect on mechanical protection; conversely, when the ratio is small, the protective layer 200 is relatively thick, which is beneficial for improving the wear resistance and corrosion resistance of the film, but an excessively thick protective layer 200 may have a certain impact on light transmission performance.

[0071] Therefore, the thickness ratio design within this range is beneficial for balancing conductivity, light transmittance, and protective performance, thereby enabling the transparent conductive film to achieve relatively good overall performance in a variety of application environments.

[0072] In some embodiments, the ratio of the thickness of the functional layer 100 to the thickness of the protective layer 200 is 0.6, 1.4, 3.7, 2.1, 5.9, 8.3, 1.1, 12.5, 19.7, 6.2, 15.4, 9.8, 22.3, 4.5, 17.6, 11.9, 2.7, 14.1, 30.2, 7.6, 18.9, 25.3, 34.7, 13.8, 27.1, 36.5, 42.9, 29.6, 16.3, or 39.8. The values ​​are 44.2, 48.6, 51.7, 56.1, 61.4, 67.8, 72.3, 77.9, 81.5, 85.7, 90.2, 95.6, 100.3, 105.8, 110.1, 115.9, 120.7, 130.5, 140.6, 150.4, 160.3, 170.1, 175.6, 180.8, 185.2, 190.7, 195.4, or 200, but the embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0073] In some embodiments, the ratio of the thickness of the functional layer 100 to the thickness of the protective layer 200 is 8-75. This range of design is beneficial for optimizing the performance of the transparent conductive film. Specifically, within this ratio range, the thickness of the functional layer 100 is relatively moderate, which helps to maintain good conductivity and signal acquisition stability, while the thickness of the protective layer 200 can provide effective mechanical protection and corrosion resistance without significantly negatively impacting the light transmittance of the film.

[0074] This thickness ratio range is beneficial for maintaining high optical transmittance while ensuring the durability and mechanical strength of the film, making it suitable for applications such as smart wearable devices that have high requirements for multifunctional inspection and appearance.

[0075] In some embodiments, the average transmittance of the transparent conductive film in the 380nm-1000nm wavelength range is greater than or equal to 70%. This transmittance performance is mainly due to the selection of materials for the functional layer 100 and the protective layer 200 and their reasonable thickness design. Specifically, the functional layer 100 typically uses transparent conductive oxide (TCO) materials, such as indium tin oxide (ITO), which inherently possess high transmittance for visible and near-infrared light, and with the thickness controlled within an appropriate range, it helps to reduce light reflection and absorption losses.

[0076] The choice of material and thickness of the protective layer 200 also affect the light transmittance. The protective layer 200 is usually made of nanoscale thin film materials, such as hydrogen-containing diamond-like carbon (aC:H). When the thickness is properly controlled, such materials can maintain a certain level of light transmittance while providing mechanical protection and chemical stability for the functional layer 100.

[0077] The overall structural design of the transparent conductive film aims to achieve a balance between light transmittance and electrical conductivity: a thicker functional layer 100 is beneficial to improving conductivity, but may have a certain impact on light transmittance; if the protective layer 200 is too thick, it may lead to a decrease in optical transmittance. Therefore, in practical applications, by reasonably adjusting the thickness ratio of the functional layer 100 and the protective layer 200, optical transmittance and electrical performance can be balanced to a certain extent.

[0078] The light-transmitting conductive film has an average transmittance of over 70% in this wavelength range, which is beneficial for its use in smart wearable devices to achieve the joint acquisition of multiple physiological signals such as electrocardiogram (ECG) and blood oxygen (SpO2), while ensuring the reduction of interference between signals and the improvement of detection efficiency.

[0079] In some embodiments, the average transmittance of the light-transmitting conductive film in the 380nm-1000nm wavelength band is greater than or equal to 80%. This high transmittance performance is mainly due to the optimal selection of materials for the functional layer 100 and the protective layer 200, and the reasonable control of their thickness. Achieving an average transmittance of not less than 80% in this wavelength band is beneficial for the efficient acquisition of various physiological signals in smart devices, reducing interference between signals, and improving the accuracy and stability of detection.

[0080] In some embodiments, the average transmittance of the light-transmitting conductive film in the 380nm-1000nm wavelength band is 70%, 71.5%, 73%, 74.8%, 76.2%, 77.9%, 79.1%, 80%, 81.4%, 82%, 83.6%, 85.2%, 86.7%, 87.5%, 88.3%, 89.9%, 90.5%, 91.7%, 92.4%, 93.8%, 94.1%, 95.3%, 96.6%, 97.2%, 98%, 98.8%, 99.1%, 99.5%, 99.8%, or 100%, and the embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0081] In some embodiments, the average surface resistance of the transparent conductive film is 0.1 kΩ / sq–20 kΩ / sq. This range of surface resistance is beneficial for achieving a balance between conductivity and optical transmittance. Specifically, a lower surface resistance value typically corresponds to a thicker or more conductive functional layer 100, which helps to stabilize the acquisition of electrical signals and improve signal quality, but may reduce light transmittance to some extent; conversely, a higher surface resistance value corresponds to a thinner or less conductive functional layer 100, which may help to improve light transmittance, but may reduce conductivity.

[0082] In some embodiments, the average surface resistivity of the transparent conductive film is 0.1 kΩ / sq, 0.15 kΩ / sq, 0.22 kΩ / sq, 0.35 kΩ / sq, 0.48 kΩ / sq, 0.52 kΩ / sq, 0.67 kΩ / sq, 0.75 kΩ / sq, 0.89 kΩ / sq, 1.1 kΩ / sq, 1.4 kΩ / sq, 1.8 kΩ / sq, 2.3 kΩ / sq, 2.7 kΩ / sq, 3.2 kΩ / sq. The values ​​are Ω / sq, 4.0kΩ / sq, 4.8kΩ / sq, 5.5kΩ / sq, 6.1kΩ / sq, 7.3kΩ / sq, 8.4kΩ / sq, 9.6kΩ / sq, 10.2kΩ / sq, 11.7kΩ / sq, 13.5kΩ / sq, 14.6kΩ / sq, 15.8kΩ / sq, 17.3kΩ / sq, 18.9kΩ / sq, or 20kΩ / sq, but the embodiments of this application are not limited to these values.

[0083] In some embodiments, the average surface resistivity of the transparent conductive film is 0.1 kΩ / sq to 5 kΩ / sq. This resistance range is beneficial for achieving a better balance between conductivity and light transmittance. Specifically, lower surface resistivity helps improve the stability and accuracy of electrical signal acquisition, while higher surface resistivity helps improve optical transmittance and reduce optical signal loss.

[0084] By rationally adjusting the material composition, thickness, and fabrication process of the functional layer 100, the performance of the thin film can be optimized within this resistance range to meet the electrical and optical performance requirements of various physiological signal detection in smart wearable devices.

[0085] In some embodiments, the thickness of the functional layer 100 is 20 nm to 200 nm. This thickness range is beneficial for achieving a balance between the conductivity and light transmittance of the functional layer 100. Specifically, when the thickness of the functional layer 100 is within this range, sufficient conductivity can be ensured to a certain extent to achieve stable electrical signal acquisition, while the moderate thickness also facilitates light transmission and reduces optical loss.

[0086] A thinner functional layer 100 is beneficial for improving light transmittance, but may relatively weaken conductivity; a thicker functional layer 100 is beneficial for improving conductivity, but may have some impact on light transmittance. By selecting an appropriate thickness range, it is helpful to meet the comprehensive performance requirements of smart wearable devices for detecting multiple physiological signals.

[0087] In summary, this thickness range is beneficial for balancing the electrical stability and optical transmittance of the functional layer 100, thereby improving the overall detection accuracy and efficiency of the equipment.

[0088] In some embodiments, the thickness of the functional layer 100 is 20nm, 21nm, 23nm, 26nm, 28nm, 30nm, 33nm, 35nm, 38nm, 40nm, 43nm, 46nm, 49nm, 52nm, 55nm, 58nm, 60nm, 63nm, 67nm, 70nm, 74nm, 77nm, 80nm, 83nm, 87nm, 90nm, 94nm, 97nm, 10 The nm wavelengths used in this application are 0nm, 104nm, 108nm, 112nm, 115nm, 119nm, 123nm, 127nm, 130nm, 135nm, 138nm, 142nm, 146nm, 150nm, 155nm, 159nm, 163nm, 167nm, 172nm, 176nm, 180nm, 185nm, 190nm, 195nm, or 200nm, but this application does not limit the specific nm wavelengths used.

[0089] In some embodiments, the thickness of the functional layer 100 is 80 nm to 150 nm. This thickness range is beneficial for balancing electrical conductivity and light transmittance, making it suitable for applications such as smart wearable devices that require efficient acquisition of physiological signals. The wider thickness range allows the thickness of the functional layer 100 to be adjusted according to specific material properties and processing conditions to achieve optimal electrical stability and optical transmittance.

[0090] Within this range, adjusting the thickness of the functional layer 100 can affect the resistivity and optical absorption of the thin film to some extent. A thinner layer is beneficial for improving light transmittance, while a thicker layer is beneficial for enhancing the reliability and stability of electrical signal acquisition.

[0091] In some embodiments, the functional layer 100 has an average transmittance of 85% or greater in the 380nm-1000nm wavelength range. This high transmittance is mainly due to the transparent conductive oxide material used in the functional layer 100 and its reasonable thickness control.

[0092] The functional layer 100 is typically made of transparent conductive materials such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or aluminum zinc oxide (AZO). These materials exhibit excellent optical transmittance in this wavelength range, which is beneficial for the effective transmission of light. By adjusting the thickness of the functional layer 100, light scattering and absorption losses can be reduced to a certain extent, thereby achieving a higher average transmittance.

[0093] In addition, higher transmittance is beneficial to improving the detection sensitivity of optical signals in smart wearable devices, especially in the process of acquiring multimodal physiological signals, which can improve the accuracy of optical signals such as blood oxygen and heart rate.

[0094] In summary, functional layer 100 achieves an average transmittance of no less than 85% in the 380nm-1000nm wavelength band, which helps to meet the comprehensive requirements of intelligent devices for optical and electrical performance and promotes the joint acquisition of multifunctional signals.

[0095] In some embodiments, the average transmittance of the functional layer 100 in the 380nm-1000nm band is 85%, 85.3%, 86%, 86.7%, 87.2%, 87.9%, 88.4%, 89.1%, 89.7%, 90.3%, 91.2%, 91.8%, 92.5%, 93.1%, 93.8%, 94.4%, 95.0%, 95.7%, 96.3%, 96.9%, 97.5%, 98.2%, 98.8%, 99.3%, 99.7%, 99.9%, or 100%, but this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0096] In some embodiments, the surface resistance of the functional layer 100 is less than or equal to 40 Ω / sq. Here, "surface resistance" generally refers to the resistance of a material per unit area to current flow, and its value is obtained using common testing methods such as the four-probe method. This surface resistance range can be adjusted by controlling the thickness, material composition, and fabrication process parameters of the functional layer 100. For example, optimizing sputtering time, sputtering power, and working atmosphere can help obtain higher carrier concentrations and more uniform thin film structures.

[0097] When the surface resistivity is less than or equal to 40 Ω / sq, the functional layer 100 can reduce Joule heating to a certain extent, thereby helping to reduce the temperature rise of the device during long-term operation and extend the device life. Those skilled in the art will understand that the specific surface resistivity value can be flexibly selected according to the application scenario and is not limited to the above-mentioned range.

[0098] In some embodiments, the surface resistance of the functional layer 100 is 1Ω / sq, 3Ω / sq, 5Ω / sq, 12Ω / sq, 7Ω / sq, 28Ω / sq, 15Ω / sq, 33Ω / sq, 9Ω / sq, 21Ω / sq, 18Ω / sq, 4Ω / sq, 35Ω / sq, 26Ω / sq, 6Ω / sq, 39Ω / sq, 2Ω / sq, 24Ω / sq, 31Ω / sq, 8Ω / sq, 16Ω / sq, 22Ω / sq, 13Ω / sq, 37Ω / sq, or 40Ω / sq, and the embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0099] In some embodiments, the thickness of the protective layer 200 is 1 nm to 30 nm. This thickness range is advantageous in two ways: firstly, it provides mechanical reinforcement while maintaining high light transmittance; secondly, an excessively thick protective layer 200 may cause a decrease in light transmittance, thus affecting the performance of the transparent conductive film in optical applications. Therefore, by controlling the thickness of the protective layer 200 within this range, a more balanced effect can be achieved between mechanical protection and optical transmittance.

[0100] In this embodiment, "protective layer 200" generally refers to a covering material located on the outer surface of functional layer 100, which has the functions of inhibiting scratches and wear to a certain extent, and protecting functional layer 100. The material of protective layer 200 can be a hard carbon-based thin film (such as DLC), diamond-like carbon film, silicon nitride film, oxide film, etc., and is not limited to a single material type.

[0101] In practical implementation, for example, when the thickness of the protective layer 200 is around 5 nm, it can improve scratch resistance to a certain extent, and its impact on the transmittance in the 380 nm-1000 nm wavelength band is relatively small. When the thickness is close to 30 nm, the protective ability may be stronger, but the transmittance may decrease accordingly, which is suitable for applications requiring higher mechanical protection. This application does not limit the specific value of the thickness of the protective layer 200, and it can be adjusted within this range according to actual application requirements, manufacturing process, and material properties.

[0102] In some embodiments, the thickness of the protective layer 200 is 1nm, 2nm, 2.6nm, 3.4nm, 4.1nm, 5.8nm, 6.3nm, 7.2nm, 8.5nm, 9.7nm, 10.2nm, 11.9nm, 12.4nm, 13.6nm, 14.8nm, 15.3nm, 16.7nm, 18.1nm, 19.5nm, 20.9nm, 22.3nm, 23.6nm, 25.1nm, 27.4nm, 29.8nm, or 30nm, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0103] In some embodiments, the thickness of the protective layer 200 is 2nm-10nm. When the thickness of the protective layer 200 is in a medium range (e.g., 2nm-10nm), it can balance light transmittance and abrasion resistance to a certain extent, making it suitable for scenarios that require a balance between optical performance and surface protection, such as the skin-touch optical sensing window of a smart wearable device. A thicker protective layer 200 (e.g., close to 30nm) is beneficial for improving resistance to mechanical shock and chemical corrosion, but in some cases it may have a certain impact on light transmittance, making it suitable for applications with relatively relaxed light transmittance requirements but high durability requirements.

[0104] In some embodiments, the protective layer 200 has a hardness greater than 8 GPa. This hardness range is beneficial for improving the wear resistance and mechanical strength of the protective layer 200, thereby enhancing the film's resistance to external mechanical wear, scratches, and impacts to a certain extent. A higher hardness protective layer 200 can effectively reduce potential damage to the functional layer 100 when in contact with human skin or during friction with the external environment, extending the service life of the transparent conductive film.

[0105] In some embodiments, the hardness of the protective layer 200 is 8 GPa, 9 GPa, 9.5 GPa, 10.2 GPa, 11.7 GPa, 12.3 GPa, 13.1 GPa, 14.6 GPa, 15.4 GPa, 16.0 GPa, 17.8 GPa, 18.3 GPa, 19.1 GPa, 19.7 GPa, or 20.0 GPa, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0106] In some embodiments, the hardness of the protective layer 200 is greater than or equal to 9 GPa. This hardness range is beneficial in improving the wear resistance and scratch resistance of the protective layer 200 to a certain extent, thereby enhancing the stability and durability of the transparent conductive film during long-term use. The higher hardness of the protective layer 200 helps reduce damage to the functional layer 100 caused by external mechanical forces such as friction and impact, and is beneficial in maintaining the conductive and optical transmittance properties of the film.

[0107] The optical properties, electrical properties, and reliability of the transparent conductive film and related samples were tested and characterized as follows:

[0108] Transmittance testing: Ultraviolet-visible-near-infrared spectrometers were used for testing, with a wavelength range of 380 nm to 1000 nm. The spectrometer's wavelength accuracy was no more than ±1 nm, and its resolution was no more than 2 nm. This test was used to evaluate the optical transmittance performance of the transparent conductive film in the relevant wavelength bands.

[0109] Surface resistance testing: A four-probe resistance meter was used for measurement, with an instrument accuracy not exceeding ±1%. The testing environment was controlled at a temperature of 23±2℃ and a relative humidity of 50±5% RH. The testing procedure included: first, calibrating the four probes to ensure uniform probe spacing (1 mm recommended); second, gently pressing the four probes vertically onto the sample surface with a pressure of 10–20 g, avoiding scratching the sample; then, applying a constant current (1 mA recommended) and measuring the voltage between the probes; five different points were selected for testing for each sample, and the average value was taken as the final result.

[0110] Surface hardness testing (nanohardness): A nanoindenter equipped with a triangular pyramidal Berkovich indenter was used, with a load accuracy not exceeding ±1% and a displacement resolution not exceeding 0.1 nm. The testing procedure included: first, calibrating the indenter area function using a standard sapphire sample; second, selecting 5 test points with a spacing of not less than 50 μm to avoid mutual interference; then, performing a load-unload test according to a procedure of loading rate 100 μN / s, maximum load 500 μN, holding time 10 s, and unloading rate 100 μN / s; recording the load-displacement curve, and calculating the hardness value according to the formula H=P / A, where P is the maximum load (N), and A is the effective indentation area (m²) calculated from the indentation depth and indenter geometry. 2 ).

[0111] Abrasion resistance test (denim abrasion): A reciprocating abrasion tester equipped with a friction head covered with denim fabric is used for testing. The denim fabric is 100% cotton, with a weight of 200~220 g / m². 2 The warp and weft density is no less than 120 threads / inch. The friction head size is 20mm*20mm, and the friction pressure is set to 5N / cm. 2 The friction speed was 50 times / minute, the friction stroke was 50mm, and the number of friction cycles was 3000. The test procedure was as follows: the sample was fixed on the testing machine platform with the surface facing upwards; the friction head covered with denim was kept flat and wrinkle-free; the specified pressure was applied to start the test; after the test, the sample surface was cleaned with a lint-free cloth and the presence of scratches or wear was visually observed.

[0112] Corrosion Resistance Test (Oleic Acid Corrosion): The test reagent is chemically pure oleic acid (purity ≥98%), used undiluted. A constant temperature and humidity chamber is used, with a temperature control accuracy of ±1℃, along with glass petri dishes. The test procedure includes: sample size 20mm*20mm, surface cleaned; pour oleic acid into the petri dish to a depth of not less than 2mm; completely immerse the sample in the oleic acid and seal the petri dish; place it in the constant temperature chamber, set the temperature to 60℃, and the corrosion time is 72 hours; after removing the sample, clean the surface with ethanol and dry it; observe the sample surface visually or with a scanning electron microscope for corrosion pits, discoloration, etc.

[0113] The table below shows a comparison of the performance of preferred / non-preferred transparent ECG films:

[0114]

[0115] According to the second aspect of this disclosure, referring to Figure 1 A light-transmitting panel 10 is provided, including the light-transmitting conductive film in the above embodiments, and also including a panel body 11, wherein the light-transmitting conductive film is disposed on the panel body 11. This light-transmitting panel 10 has all the beneficial effects of the aforementioned light-transmitting conductive film, which will not be elaborated further in this disclosure.

[0116] In some embodiments, a light-transmitting conductive film is disposed on the surface of the panel body 11, and a protective layer 200 is located on the side of the functional layer 100 away from the panel body 11. Specifically, the functional layer 100 is in direct contact with the panel body 11, playing a dual role of conductivity and light transmission, while the protective layer 200 covers the side of the functional layer 100 away from the panel body 11 to provide mechanical protection and wear resistance.

[0117] This structural layout helps to maintain light transmittance and conductivity while reducing the impact of the protective layer 200 on the optical coupling between the panel body 11 and the functional layer 100, thereby maintaining a relatively high optical transmittance to a certain extent. At the same time, the protective layer 200 is placed on the side away from the panel body 11, which facilitates its direct contact with the external environment or human skin, allowing it to exert its wear resistance and protective function, and mitigating the risk of mechanical wear and corrosion of the functional layer 100 during actual use.

[0118] "Panel body 11" typically refers to the substrate or base plate in a smart device, such as a display panel, cover glass, or other light-transmitting materials, serving as a support for the light-transmitting conductive film. This support structure provides a certain degree of support for the overall stability and mechanical properties of the film layer.

[0119] In some embodiments, the panel body 11 includes a display panel or a light-transmitting plate. Here, "display panel" generally refers to an electronic display element used to present image information, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light-emitting diode display (OLED), etc., which has light transmittance and can serve as a carrier substrate for a light-transmitting conductive film.

[0120] "Light-transmitting plate" generally refers to a flat plate material with a certain optical transmittance, such as glass plate, transparent plastic plate or optical film. It is mainly used for light transmission and distribution, and can provide stable support for the light-transmitting conductive film without significantly obstructing the passage of light.

[0121] Applying a light-transmitting conductive film to the surface of the panel body 11 facilitates integrated design, enabling the light-transmitting conductive film to directly participate in the signal acquisition or transmission process, while ensuring the optical performance and mechanical stability of the overall structure, thus meeting the needs of smart wearable devices for thinness, high light transmittance, and multi-functional integration.

[0122] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, an electronic device is provided, including the light-transmitting conductive film of the above embodiments, or including the light-transmitting panel 10 of the above embodiments. This electronic device possesses all the beneficial effects of the above-described light-transmitting conductive film or light-transmitting panel 10, which will not be elaborated further herein.

[0123] In some embodiments, electronic devices include wearable devices. The term "wearable device" as used herein can refer to electronic devices that can be worn directly on or attached to the human body, such as smartwatches, smart bracelets, and health monitoring devices. Such devices place high demands on thin, flexible, highly transparent, and multifunctional integrated light-transmitting conductive films.

[0124] Applying the transparent conductive film of this application to wearable devices is beneficial for achieving simultaneous detection of multiple physiological signals, such as electrocardiogram, blood oxygen saturation, body temperature, and body fat, thereby improving the functional integration of the device and the user experience. Simultaneously, the high light transmittance and conductivity of the transparent conductive film help ensure the accuracy and stability of signal acquisition and reduce mutual interference between different detection modules.

[0125] In some embodiments, wearable devices include smartwatches or smart bracelets. As typical wearable devices, smartwatches and smart bracelets usually need to integrate multiple physiological parameter detection functions, such as electrocardiogram (ECG), blood oxygen saturation (SpO2), body temperature, and motion monitoring. Applying a light-transmitting conductive film to such devices is beneficial for achieving a high degree of integration between sensors and display or optical modules.

[0126] In smartwatches or smart bracelets, the light-transmitting conductive film is typically placed in areas that come into direct contact with the skin, such as the back cover or sensor window. This allows light to pass through the film while simultaneously collecting electrical signals. This structure helps reduce signal interference between different detection modules, improving the accuracy and stability of signal acquisition to some extent, thereby enhancing the overall detection performance of the device and the user experience.

[0127] In the description of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more features. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0128] In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment have different focuses. For parts not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions in other embodiments.

[0129] The embodiments, implementation methods, and related technical features of this application can be combined and substituted for each other without conflict.

[0130] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application in any way. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of this application without departing from the scope of the technical solution of this application shall still fall within the scope of the technical solution of this application.

Claims

1. A light-transmitting conductive film, characterized in that, include: The functional layer is both transparent and conductive; and A protective layer, which is transparent and conductive, covers the surface of the functional layer. The protective layer is a DLC material layer and its thickness is in the nanometer range.

2. The transparent conductive film according to claim 1, characterized in that, The functional layer is a TCO material layer.

3. The transparent conductive film according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ratio of the thickness of the functional layer to the thickness of the protective layer is 0.6-200.

4. The light-transmitting conductive film according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that, The ratio of the thickness of the functional layer to the thickness of the protective layer is 8-75.

5. The light-transmitting conductive film according to claim 1, characterized in that, The light-transmitting conductive film has an average transmittance of greater than or equal to 70% in the 380nm-1000nm wavelength band.

6. The light-transmitting conductive film according to claim 1 or 5, characterized in that, The light-transmitting conductive film has an average transmittance of greater than or equal to 80% in the 380nm-1000nm wavelength band.

7. The transparent conductive film according to claim 1, characterized in that, The average surface resistance of the transparent conductive film is 0.1kΩ / sq-20kΩ / sq.

8. The light-transmitting conductive film according to claim 1 or 7, characterized in that, The average surface resistance of the transparent conductive film is 0.1kΩ / sq-5kΩ / sq.

9. The transparent conductive film according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thickness of the functional layer is 20nm-200nm.

10. The light-transmitting conductive film according to claim 1 or 9, characterized in that, The thickness of the functional layer is 80nm-150nm.

11. The light-transmitting conductive film according to claim 1, characterized in that, The functional layer has an average transmittance of 85% or greater in the 380nm-1000nm wavelength band.

12. The transparent conductive film according to claim 1, characterized in that, The surface resistance of the functional layer is less than or equal to 40 Ω / sq.

13. The light-transmitting conductive film according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thickness of the protective layer is 1nm-30nm.

14. The light-transmitting conductive film according to claim 1 or 13, characterized in that, The thickness of the protective layer is 2nm-10nm.

15. The light-transmitting conductive film according to claim 1, characterized in that, The hardness of the protective layer is greater than 8 GPa.

16. The light-transmitting conductive film according to claim 1 or 15, characterized in that, The hardness of the protective layer is greater than or equal to 9 GPa.

17. A light-transmitting panel, characterized in that, The panel includes the light-transmitting conductive film according to any one of claims 1 to 16, and also includes a panel body, wherein the light-transmitting conductive film is disposed on the panel body.

18. The light-transmitting panel according to claim 17, characterized in that, The light-transmitting conductive film is disposed on the surface of the panel body, and the protective layer is located on the side of the functional layer opposite to the panel body.

19. The light-transmitting panel according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that, The panel body includes a display panel or a light-transmitting panel.

20. An electronic device, characterized in that, It includes the light-transmitting conductive film according to any one of claims 1 to 16, or the light-transmitting panel according to any one of claims 17 to 19.

21. The electronic device according to claim 20, characterized in that, The electronic devices include wearable devices.

22. The electronic device according to claim 21, characterized in that, The wearable devices include smartwatches or smart bracelets.

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