Input System

Abstract

This invention presents an electronic device capable of sensing both an externally approached or touching object, such as a finger, and a stylus pen, and an input system including a ferrite core for a stylus pen that can improve the magnitude of the pen signal received by the electronic device, and a stylus pen containing the same. [Solution] The stylus pen is configured such that the distance between the magnetic material and the ferrite core is variable by an external force acting on one end. The controller includes 101 (first pattern), 103 (second pattern), and 104 (third pattern) and performs sensing of a finger-like object (101 and 103), and driving and / or sensing of the stylus pen (101 and 104).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an input system, and more particularly, to an electronic device capable of sensing both an object such as a finger in proximity or contact from the outside and a stylus pen, and a ferrite core for a stylus pen capable of improving the magnitude of a pen signal received by the electronic device, and an input system including the stylus pen including the same.

Background Art

[0002] Smartphones or tablet PCs mainly include a touch screen, and a user can specify a specific coordinate on the touch screen using a finger or a stylus pen. By specifying a specific coordinate on the touch screen, the user can input a specific signal to the smartphone.

[0003] Conventionally, many R-type touch screens that can simultaneously recognize a user's finger and a stylus pen on a touch screen have been used. However, in the case of an R-type touch screen, there was a problem due to reflection by an air layer between ITO layers. Therefore, recently, many C-type touch screens have been applied. A C-type touch screen is a touch screen that operates by sensing a difference in capacitance of a transparent electrode generated by contact of an object. However, the C-type touch screen has a disadvantage in that it is difficult to physically distinguish an object such as a finger and a stylus pen, and an operation error may occur due to unintended hand contact when the user uses the stylus pen.

[0004] To improve these shortcomings, conventional methods have involved using separate software to differentiate between the hand and the pen based on the contact area, or using an EMR (Electro Magnetic Resonance) type position measuring device in addition to a Type-C touchscreen to differentiate between the hand and the stylus pen. Here, the EMR method has the advantage of being insensitive to the display and external noise because, when using the touch function with a stylus pen while the touch and display are operating, the driving force is a magnetic field instead of an electric field.

[0005] However, in order for the EMR to create and transmit a magnetic field to the stylus pen, and to receive the magnetic field generated by the stylus pen again, it must be attached to the underside of a sensor film display panel made of an additional separate FPCB.

[0006] The aforementioned sensor film is also called a digitizer. When the position of the stylus pen that generates the magnetic field moves, a separate direct EMR circuit detects the change in the magnetic field generated by the interaction.

[0007] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating a foldable device, which is an example of a conventional electronic device.

[0008] Referring to Figure 1, the foldable device has one or more internal screens and one or more external screens. The foldable device includes an internal touchscreen 20 to represent the internal screen and an external touchscreen 25 to represent the external screen. Below the internal / external touchscreens 20, 25 are digitizers 30, 35 for driving and sensing a stylus pen 10.

[0009] The inductive resonant stylus pen 10, a type of passive stylus pen, receives electromagnetic signals from the digitizers 30 and 35, and the resonant signals emitted from the stylus pen 10 are received by the digitizers 30 and 35.

[0010] The digitizers 30 and 35 are equipped with a fine arrangement of coils that can induce an electric current from electromagnetic signals received from the stylus pen 10. Thus, since the foldable device has an additional digitizer 30 or 35 for each internal / external touchscreen 20 or 25, there are limitations to miniaturizing and slimming the overall device, and there are also problems with designing the internal structure flexibly.

[0011] Furthermore, since a magnetic field shielding material (not shown) and a copper layer (not shown) of a predetermined thickness are additionally bonded to the underside of the digitizers 30 and 35, there are further limitations on reducing the overall thickness of the device. In particular, most foldable smartphones currently on the market have touchscreens 20 and 25 on both the outer and inner sides, based on their folded form. However, the crucial stylus function is supported only by the internal touchscreen 20 on the inner side, and not by the external touchscreen 25 on the outer side. The reason for this is that, in order to operate an EMR-type stylus pen 10, as shown in Figure 1, digitizers 30 and 35 must be attached to the bottom of the internal touchscreen 20 and the external touchscreen 25, respectively. This leads to problems of increased overall device thickness and manufacturing costs.

[0012] A stylus pen is a pen-shaped device that allows users to input data by lightly touching the screen while dragging or clicking. Users utilize stylus pens for precise touch input.

[0013] Stylus pens can be classified into active stylus pens and passive stylus pens depending on whether or not they contain a battery and electronic components internally.

[0014] Recently, in order to realize passive stylus pens capable of sophisticated touch recognition, technologies such as the inductive EMR (Electro Magnetic Resonance) method and the capacitive resonance method have been proposed.

[0015] While the EMR method excels in the quality of writing / drawing, which is the core function of a stylus pen, it has the disadvantage of being thicker and more expensive because it requires a separate EMR sensor panel and EMR driver IC in addition to the capacitance touch panel.

[0016] Capacitive resonant technology is a method that uses common capacitance touch sensors and touch controller ICs to improve IC performance and support pen touch without incurring additional costs.

[0017] In EMR or capacitive resonant methods, for a touch sensor to more accurately identify a touch from a stylus pen, the amplitude of the resonant signal must be large. This ensures that the frequency of the drive signal transmitted to the stylus pen is approximately the same as the resonant frequency of the resonant circuit built into the stylus pen. However, conventional EMR or capacitive resonant methods suffer from a problem where, even if the resonant frequency and the drive signal frequency match, the signal transmission attenuation is very large, making signal transmission difficult. As a result, despite years of attempts by numerous touch controller IC vendors, sufficient output signals have not been achieved, and no company has yet succeeded in mass production.

[0018] Therefore, in order to manufacture an EMR or capacitive resonant stylus pen that can produce the maximum output signal, how the internal resonant circuit and the structure of the pen are designed is a crucial factor.

[0019] Figures 2(a) through (c) are diagrams illustrating one of the requirements of a conventional stylus pen.

[0020] The external design of conventional stylus pens, including the stylus pens 10a and 10b shown in Figures 2(a) and 2(c), must meet certain requirements in consideration of the user's environment.

[0021] One of the aforementioned requirements is that the conventional stylus pens 10a and 10b must be able to draw when tilted at a predetermined angle (e.g., 60°) with respect to a predetermined contact surface 31.

[0022] In particular, with some conventional stylus pens 10a and 10b, if a certain force F is applied after contact with the surface of the display panel 300, the pen tip is pressed and a portion of it enters the housing 19. However, even when the pen tip is pressed and tilted at a predetermined angle (e.g., 60°), some stylus pens 10a and 10b should not cause any problems with drawing.

[0023] In other words, when the conventional stylus pens 10a and 10b are tilted relative to the contact surface 31, the external mechanisms of the stylus pens 10a and 10b (e.g., the housing 19) must not prevent them from tilting to a predetermined angle (e.g., 60°).

[0024] Figure 2 is a simplified diagram showing the internal structure of a conventional stylus pen.

[0025] The conventional stylus pens 10c and 10d shown in Figure 2 consist of a pen tip 11, inductor sections 13 and 13', a capacitor section 15, and a housing 19. Other additional components may also exist.

[0026] The inductor sections 13 and 13' consist of ferrite cores 131 and 131' and a coil 133. The pen tip 11 has a structure in which a portion is inserted into the through-holes of the ferrite cores 131 and 131'.

[0027] The inductor sections 13, 13' and the capacitor section 15 are electrically connected to each other to form an LC resonance section. The LC resonance section can resonate with a drive signal provided from the transmitter side located outside the stylus pens 10c, 10d and is configured to emit a predetermined signal (hereinafter referred to as a pen signal) by resonance.

[0028] The shape of the ferrite core 131' of the inductor section 13' of the stylus pen 10d shown on the right right right right side of FIG. 3 is different from that of the ferrite core 131 of the inductor section 13 of the stylus pen 10c shown on the left side. Specifically, the ferrite core 131' of the stylus pen 10d shown on the right side has a shape in which the width becomes narrower as the lower end goes downward (hereinafter referred to as a taper shape). Through the taper shape, the ferrite core 131' can be arranged closer to the lower end side (or the pen tip side) in the housing 19 by a predetermined length H.

[0029] In the conventional stylus pens 10c, 10d shown in FIG. 3, the magnitude of the pen signal received on the receiver side located outside the stylus pens 10c, 10d can vary depending on the arrangement positions of the inductor sections 13, 13' in the housing 19. If possible, it is preferable to determine the positions of the inductor sections 13, 13' so that the magnitude of the pen signal becomes larger.

[0030] Since the ferrite core 131' of the stylus pen 10d shown on the right side of FIG. 3 is arranged closer to the tip of the pen than the ferrite core 131 of the stylus pen 10c shown on the left side, the magnitude of the pen signal received on the receiver side is relatively larger. However, the taper shape of the ferrite core 131' of the stylus pen 10d shown on the right side alone has a limit in maximizing the magnitude of the pen signal received on the receiver side.

[0031] Furthermore, it is also important to maximize the magnitude of the pen signal received on the receiver side while stably accommodating the inductor sections 13, 13' inside the housing 19.

[0032] On the other hand, stylus pens, due to their characteristics, are used in a variety of environments and are therefore highly susceptible to damage from external factors. In particular, moisture ingress can significantly affect the functionality of a stylus pen. Stylus pens contain delicate electronic components, and if moisture such as water or humidity enters, it can cause corrosion of these components or lead to electrical short circuits, degrading the stylus pen's functionality. Such problems shorten the lifespan of the stylus pen and cause inconvenience to the user.

[0033] While some stylus pens currently on the market are waterproof, they are not perfect or use expensive special materials, leading to high manufacturing costs. Therefore, there is a need to develop technologies that can prevent moisture from entering the inside of stylus pens in a more efficient and economical way. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0034] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide an input system including an electronic device that senses both touch and a stylus pen with a single sensor unit, eliminating the need for a separate stylus pen sensor unit to drive and / or sense only the stylus pen.

[0035] Furthermore, the aim is to provide an input system that includes an electronic device capable of double routing.

[0036] Furthermore, the invention provides an input system that includes an electronic device capable of reducing the number of channels between a sensor unit capable of sensing both an object and a stylus pen, and a touch controller.

[0037] Furthermore, the aim is to provide an input system that includes an electronic device capable of supporting stylus pen functionality not only with an internal touchscreen but also with an external touchscreen.

[0038] Furthermore, the invention provides an input system including a ferrite core optimized for a housing having a specific shape, and a stylus pen containing the same.

[0039] Furthermore, the invention provides an input system that includes a stylus pen capable of improving the magnitude of the pen signal received by the receiver.

[0040] Furthermore, the objective is to provide an input system including a stylus pen that can clearly distinguish between the hover state and the contact state of the stylus pen.

[0041] Furthermore, the invention provides an input system that includes a stylus pen capable of synchronizing the magnetic material with the movement of the core.

[0042] Furthermore, the invention provides an input system including a stylus pen that can electrically connect electrical elements without using internal wires.

[0043] Another objective is to provide an input system that includes a stylus pen that can be miniaturized.

[0044] Furthermore, the invention provides an input system including a stylus pen that can stably house the inductor unit inside the housing.

[0045] Furthermore, the invention provides an input system that includes a stylus pen capable of drawing even when tilted at a predetermined angle.

[0046] Furthermore, the objective is to provide a sealing member that can block multiple moisture inflow paths in a stylus pen, and a stylus pen including the same.

[0047] Furthermore, the objective is to provide a sealing member that can exhibit an additional moisture inflow blocking effect through the contact portion, and a stylus pen including the same.

[0048] Furthermore, the objective is to provide a cushioning member capable of performing both cushioning and waterproofing functions, a stylus pen including the same, and a method for minimizing the size of the cushioning member. [Means for solving the problem]

[0049] An input system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an electronic device comprising a sensor unit and a controller for controlling the sensor unit, and a stylus pen capable of interacting with the electronic device, wherein the sensor unit comprises a plurality of first patterns extending in a first direction, each electrically connected to the controller; a plurality of second patterns extending in a second direction different from the first direction so as to intersect the plurality of first patterns, each electrically connected to the controller at least one end; and a plurality of third patterns extending in the second direction, each adjacent to each of the plurality of second patterns, each electrically connected to one end; the stylus pen comprises a core disposed inside a housing and configured to move along the longitudinal direction of the housing by an external force acting on one end, a ferrite core fixedly disposed inside the housing and having a through hole through which the core passes, and the ferrite The device includes an inductor section containing a coil wound around the outer surface of a light core, a movable section that covers at least a portion of the other end of the core body inside the housing and is configured to be linked with the core body and synchronized with the movement of the core body, and a magnetic material that is coupled to the other end of the core body inside the housing and is linked with the core body, wherein the inductance of the inductor section is configured to be variable by the distance between the magnetic material and the ferrite core being increased by the external force acting on one end of the core body, the controller is configured to apply a touch drive signal in the plurality of first patterns and to receive a touch sensing signal in the plurality of second patterns, the controller is configured to apply a stylus pen drive signal in at least one of the plurality of first to third patterns and the controller is configured to receive a stylus pen sensing signal from at least one of the plurality of first to third patterns.

[0050] An input system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an electronic device comprising a sensor unit and a controller for controlling the sensor unit, and a stylus pen capable of interacting with the electronic device, wherein the sensor unit comprises a plurality of first patterns extending in a first direction, each electrically connected to the controller; a plurality of second patterns extending in a second direction different from the first direction so as to intersect the plurality of first patterns, each electrically connected to the controller at least one end; and a plurality of third patterns extending in the second direction, each adjacent to each of the plurality of second patterns, each electrically connected to one end; and the stylus pen comprises a housing, one end of which is located outside the housing, the other end of which is located inside the housing, and moves along its longitudinal direction due to an external force acting on the one end. The controller includes a core body configured to perform a stylus pen drive, an inductor portion disposed inside the housing and including a ferrite core having a through hole through which the core body passes, and a coil wound on the outer surface of the ferrite core, a capacitor portion electrically connected to the inductor portion to form a resonant circuit, and at least one sealing member configured to block a plurality of moisture inflow paths passing through the core body opening of the housing, wherein the controller is configured to apply a touch drive signal in the plurality of first patterns and to receive a touch sensing signal in the plurality of second patterns, the controller is configured to apply a stylus pen drive signal in at least one of the plurality of first to third patterns, and the controller is configured to receive a stylus pen sensing signal from at least one of the plurality of first to third patterns.

[0051] An input system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an electronic device comprising a sensor unit and a controller for controlling the sensor unit, and a stylus pen capable of interacting with the electronic device, wherein the sensor unit comprises a plurality of first patterns extending in a first direction, each electrically connected to the controller; a plurality of second patterns extending in a second direction different from the first direction so as to intersect the plurality of first patterns, each electrically connected to the controller at least one end; and a plurality of third patterns extending in the second direction, one adjacent to each of the plurality of second patterns, each electrically connected to one end; and the stylus pen comprises a housing, one end of which is located outside the housing and the other end of which is located inside the housing, and is configured to move along its longitudinal direction by an external force acting on the one end. The stylus pen includes a core body, an inductor portion disposed inside the housing and having a through hole through which the core body passes, and a coil wound around the outer surface of the ferrite core, a capacitor portion electrically connected to the inductor portion to form a resonant circuit, and a sealing member configured to block a path through which moisture flows into the inside of the stylus pen through the core body opening of the housing and through the through hole of the ferrite core, wherein the controller is configured to apply a touch drive signal in the plurality of first patterns and to receive a touch sensing signal in the plurality of second patterns, the controller is configured to apply a stylus pen drive signal in at least one of the plurality of first to third patterns, and the controller is configured to receive a stylus pen sensing signal from at least one of the plurality of first to third patterns.

[0052] An input system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an electronic device comprising a sensor unit and a controller for controlling the sensor unit, and a stylus pen capable of interacting with the electronic device, wherein the sensor unit comprises a plurality of first patterns extending in a first direction, each end of which is electrically connected to the controller; a plurality of second patterns extending in a second direction different from the first direction so as to intersect with the plurality of first patterns, each end of which is electrically connected to the controller; and a plurality of third patterns extending in the second direction, each adjacent to each of the plurality of second patterns, each end of which is electrically connected to one another, wherein the stylus pen comprises a housing, a core body with one end located outside the housing and the rest located inside the housing, configured to move along its longitudinal direction by an external force acting on the one end, and a ferrite core body located inside the housing and having a through hole through which the core body passes. The stylus pen includes an inductor portion including a core and a coil wound around the outer surface of the ferrite core; a capacitor portion electrically connected to the inductor portion to form a resonant circuit; a buffer member disposed between the inner surface of the housing and the other end of the ferrite core, and positioned to cover at least a portion of the other end of the ferrite core; and a sealing member capable of blocking a path through which moisture flows into the inside of the stylus pen via the space between the housing and the inductor portion, wherein the controller is configured to apply a touch drive signal in the plurality of first patterns and to receive a touch sensing signal in the plurality of second patterns, the controller is configured to apply a stylus pen drive signal in at least one of the plurality of first to third patterns, and the controller is configured to receive a stylus pen sensing signal from at least one of the plurality of first to third patterns.

[0053] An input system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an electronic device comprising a sensor unit and a controller for controlling the sensor unit, and a stylus pen capable of interacting with the electronic device, wherein the sensor unit comprises a plurality of first patterns extending in a first direction, each electrically connected to the controller; a plurality of second patterns extending in a second direction different from the first direction so as to intersect the plurality of first patterns, each electrically connected to the controller at least one end; and a plurality of third patterns extending in the second direction, each adjacent to each of the plurality of second patterns, each electrically connected to one end. The stylus pen comprises a housing, a core body with one end located outside the housing and the rest located inside the housing, configured to move along its longitudinal direction by an external force acting on the one end, and the core body located inside the housing. The device includes an inductor portion including a ferrite core having a through hole through which a wire passes and a coil wound on the outer surface of the ferrite core; a capacitor portion electrically connected to the inductor portion to form a resonant circuit; and a buffer member disposed between the housing and the other end of the ferrite core, disposed to cover at least a portion of the other end of the ferrite core, and having a fourth sealing member at one end, wherein the sealing member is disposed so that its outer shell is in close contact with the inner wall of the housing; the controller is configured to apply a touch drive signal in the plurality of first patterns and to receive a touch sensing signal in the plurality of second patterns; the controller is configured to apply a stylus pen drive signal in at least one of the plurality of first to third patterns; and the controller is configured to receive a stylus pen sensing signal from at least one of the plurality of first to third patterns. [Effects of the Invention]

[0054] Using an input system including an electronic device and a stylus pen according to an embodiment of the present invention has the advantage of eliminating the need for a separate stylus pen sensor unit to drive and / or sense only the stylus pen.

[0055] Furthermore, it has the advantage of enabling double routing.

[0056] Furthermore, it has the advantage of reducing the number of channels between the sensor unit, which can sense both the object and the stylus pen, and the touch controller.

[0057] Furthermore, it has the advantage of supporting stylus pen functionality not only on the internal touchscreen but also on the external touchscreen.

[0058] Furthermore, it can be optimized for housings with specific shapes.

[0059] Furthermore, it has the advantage of being able to improve the magnitude of the pen signal received by the receiver.

[0060] Furthermore, it has the advantage of clearly distinguishing between the hover state and the contact state of the stylus pen.

[0061] Furthermore, it has the advantage of being able to synchronize the movement of the magnetic material with that of the core.

[0062] Furthermore, it has the advantage of allowing electrical elements to be electrically connected without using internal wires.

[0063] Another advantage is that it allows for miniaturization of the stylus pen.

[0064] Furthermore, it has the advantage of allowing the inductor to be stably housed inside the housing.

[0065] Furthermore, it has the advantage of allowing drawing even when tilted at a predetermined angle.

[0066] Furthermore, it is possible to achieve waterproofing by blocking multiple water ingress routes into the stylus pen.

[0067] Furthermore, the special shape of the sealing component can provide an additional barrier against moisture inflow.

[0068] Furthermore, the size of the cushioning material that performs the cushioning and waterproofing functions can be minimized. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0069] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the problems that arise when applying an existing EMR pen to a display panel within a conventional electronic device to implement stylus pen functionality on both internal and external screens. [Figure 2] Figures 2(a) through (c) are diagrams illustrating one of the requirements of a conventional stylus pen. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a simplified diagram showing the internal structure of a conventional stylus pen. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the configuration of an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of an electronic device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the first mode (or touch sensing mode) for the electronic device shown in Figure 5 to sense an object. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating the second mode (or uplink mode) in which the electronic device shown in Figure 5 drives the stylus pen. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating the second mode (or uplink mode) in which the electronic device shown in Figure 5 drives the stylus pen. [Figure 9]Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the third mode (or downlink mode) for the electronic device shown in Figure 5 to sense (or detect) the stylus pen. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating a modified example of the sensor unit 100 shown in Figure 5. [Figure 11a] Figure 11a is a diagram illustrating a modified version of the touch controller 200 of the electronic device shown in Figure 9. [Figure 11b] Figure 11b is a diagram illustrating a modified version of the differential amplifier 250 shown in Figure 11a. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating a modified example of the sensor unit 100 shown in Figure 5. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating a modified example of the sensor unit 100' shown in Figure 12. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of the configuration of an electronic device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a simplified diagram showing a modified example of the sensor unit 10 shown in Figure 4. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a simplified diagram showing a modified version of the sensor unit 10' shown in Figure 15. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a simplified diagram showing a modified example of the sensor unit 10'' shown in Figure 16. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a simplified diagram showing yet another modification of the sensor unit 10'' shown in Figure 16. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a simplified diagram showing yet another modification of the sensor unit 10' shown in Figure 15. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is a simplified diagram showing a modified version of the sensor unit 10'''' shown in Figure 19. [Figure 21] Figure 21 is a diagram illustrating modified examples of the 3-1 pattern 103-1 and the 3-2 pattern 103-2 shown in Figure 20. [Figure 22]Figure 22 is a simplified diagram showing another modified example of the sensor unit 10'''' shown in Figure 19. [Figure 23] Figure 23 is a simplified diagram showing yet another modification of the sensor unit 10'''' shown in Figure 19. [Figure 24] Figure 24 is a simplified diagram of the sensor unit 100 shown in Figure 5. [Figure 25] Figure 25 is a simplified diagram showing a modified example of the sensor unit 100 shown in Figure 24. [Figure 26] Figure 26 is a simplified diagram showing a modified example of the sensor unit 100'' shown in Figure 25. [Figure 27] Figure 27 is a simplified diagram showing another modified example of the sensor unit 100'' shown in Figure 25. [Figure 28] Figure 28 is a simplified diagram showing yet another modified example of the sensor unit 100'' shown in Figure 25. [Figure 29] Figure 29 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 30] Figure 30 is a diagram illustrating a sensor unit in a conventional landscape configuration. [Figure 31] Figures 31(A) and (B) are diagrams illustrating other sensor components in a conventional landscape configuration. [Figure 32] Figures 32(A) and 32(B) are diagrams illustrating the sensor portion of an electronic device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 33] Figure 33 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 34] Figure 34 is a diagram illustrating the stack-up structure of electronic devices according to various embodiments shown in Figures 5 to 33. [Figure 35] Figure 35 is a schematic diagram of a foldable device, which is an example of an electronic device described in Figures 4 to 34. [Figure 36]Figure 36 is a perspective view of a stylus pen 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 37] Figure 37 is a cross-sectional view of part A of the stylus pen 100 shown in Figure 36. [Figure 38] Figure 38 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the inductor section 120 shown in Figure 37. [Figure 39] Figures 39(a) and 39(b) are diagrams illustrating the internal structure of a stylus pen according to one embodiment of the present invention shown in Figures 37 to 38, and the effects thereof. [Figure 40] Figures 40(a) to (c) are diagrams that further illustrate the internal configuration of a stylus pen according to one embodiment of the present invention shown in Figures 37 to 40, and the effects thereof. [Figure 41] Figure 41 is a diagram illustrating the increase in the magnitude of the pen signal due to a predetermined height S shown in Figures 40(a) to (c). [Figure 42] Figure 42 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the stylus pen 100 shown in Figure 36. [Figure 43] Figure 43(a) is a perspective view illustrating the structure of the internal case 110 and cushioning member 115 shown in Figure 42, and Figure 43(b) is a perspective view of the internal case 110 only. [Figure 44] Figure 44 is a perspective view excluding the internal case 110 shown in Figure 43(a). [Figure 45] Figures 45(a) and 45(b) are perspective views of the first fixing member 130 shown in Figures 42 and 44, viewed from various sides. [Figure 46] Figures 46(a) and 46(b) are perspective views of the movable member 170 shown in Figures 42 and 44 from various sides. [Figure 47] Figures 47(a) and 47(b) are perspective views of the second fixing member 190 shown in Figures 42 and 44 from various sides. [Figure 48] Figure 48 is a perspective view of a portion of the configuration shown in Figures 42 and 44, viewed from one side. [Figure 49]Figures 49(a) and 49(b) are perspective views showing only some of the components shown in Figures 42 and 44. [Figure 50] Figures 50(a) to (c) are diagrams illustrating the operation of the stylus pen 100 shown in Figures 42 to 44. [Figure 51] Figure 51(a) is a diagram illustrating the change in the LC value of the resonant circuit section due to the operation shown in Figures 50(a) to (c). Figure 51(b) is a graph showing the frequency characteristics for each operating state shown in Figures 50(a) to (c). [Figure 52] Figures 52(a) to (c) are diagrams illustrating problems that arise during the assembly of the stylus pen 100 shown in Figures 42 to 50 due to assembly deviations of the core body 102. [Figure 53] Figure 53 is a graph showing the change in resonant frequency due to the pressure applied to the core body 102 for each of Figures 52(a) to (c). [Figure 54] Figures 54(a) to (c) are diagrams illustrating problems that arise during the assembly of the stylus pen 100 shown in Figures 42 to 50 due to assembly deviations of the connection terminals 165a and 165b. [Figure 55] Figure 55 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a stylus pen according to a modified embodiment of the stylus pen 100 shown in Figure 36. [Figure 56] Figures 56(a) and (b) are diagrams illustrating the first elastic member 180' shown in Figure 55. [Figure 57] Figures 57(a) to (c) are diagrams illustrating the operation of the stylus pen shown in Figures 55 to 56. [Figure 58] Figures 58(a) and (b) are diagrams illustrating examples of assembly deviations occurring in the core body 102. [Figure 59] Figure 59 is a graph showing the change in resonant frequency due to the pressure applied to the core body 102, for Figures 58(a) and (b), respectively. [Figure 60]Figure 60 is a perspective view of a modified example of the ferrite core 121 shown in Figures 37 to 38. [Figure 61] Figure 61(a) is an enlarged front view of a portion of the ferrite core 121' shown in Figure 60, and Figure 61(b) is a cross-sectional view of Figure 61(a) along A-A'. [Figure 62] Figure 62 is a cross-sectional view of a stylus pen to which another variation of the ferrite core 121 shown in Figure 37 is applied. [Figure 63] Figure 63 is a cross-sectional view showing only the ferrite core 121'' and coil portion 123 shown in Figure 62. [Figure 64] Figure 64 is a perspective view of the ferrite core 121'' shown in Figures 62 and 63. [Figure 65] Figure 65(a) is an enlarged front view of a portion of the ferrite core 121'' shown in Figure 64, and Figure 65(b) is a cross-sectional view of Figure 64(a) along line B-B'. [Figure 66] Figure 66 is a perspective view of a stylus pen 1000 according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 67] Figure 67 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 66. [Figure 68] Figure 68 is a perspective view of the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 66, excluding the housing 1010. [Figure 69] Figure 69 is a perspective view of only the fixing bracket 1600 shown in Figure 58. [Figure 70] Figure 70 is a perspective view of the fixing bracket 1600 shown in Figure 69, viewed from a different direction. [Figure 71] Figure 71 is a partial perspective view of Figure 68 from a different angle. [Figure 72] Figure 72 is a perspective view excluding the inductor section 1200 and the fixing bracket 1600 shown in Figure 68. [Figure 73] Figure 73 is a perspective view of Figure 72 from a different direction. [Figure 74] Figure 74 is a cross-sectional view of Figure 72. [Figure 75] Figure 75 is a perspective view of only the elastic member 1800 shown in Figure 72. [Figure 76] Figure 76 is a perspective view of the substrate bracket 1900 and substrate 2100 shown in Figure 72. [Figure 77] Figure 77 is a diagram illustrating the movement of the movable bracket 1300 in conjunction with the movement of the core body 1020 shown in Figures 68 to 76, and the electrical contact and release between the fixed bracket 1600 and the movable bracket 1300. [Figure 78] Figure 78 is a diagrammatic representation of (A) and (B) in Figure 77, respectively. [Figure 79] Figure 79 shows a simplified stylus pen according to another embodiment of the present invention, with equivalent circuit diagrams representing Figures 77(A) and (B), respectively. [Figure 80] Figure 80 is a perspective view of the stylus pen 1000 according to another embodiment of the present invention shown in Figure 66, viewed from the direction of the nib 1020. [Figure 81] Figure 81(A) is a portion of the cross-sectional view of the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 80, cut along A-A'. Figure 81(B) is a portion of the cross-sectional view of the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 80, cut along B-B'. [Figure 82] Figure 82 is a drawing showing side views A and B and a cross-sectional view of the ferrite core 1210 shown in Figures 80 and 81. [Figure 83] Figure 83 is a diagram illustrating a modified example of the ferrite core 1210 shown in Figure 82. [Figure 84] Figure 84 is a perspective view of the inductor section 1200' in which a coil 1230' is wound around the outer surface of the ferrite core 1210' shown in Figure 83. [Figure 85] Figure 85 is a diagram showing the first and second moisture inflow paths through the core opening of the housing in the stylus pen shown in Figure 42. [Figure 86]Figure 86 is a diagram showing the first and second moisture inflow paths through the core opening of the housing in the stylus pen shown in Figure 67. [Figure 87] Figure 87 is a drawing showing one embodiment of a sealing member that blocks the first moisture inflow path in the stylus pen shown in Figure 85. [Figure 88] Figure 88 is a diagram showing one embodiment of a sealing member that blocks the first moisture inflow path in the stylus pen shown in Figure 86. [Figure 89] Figure 89 is a drawing showing another embodiment of the sealing member that blocks the first moisture inflow path in the stylus pen shown in Figure 85. [Figure 90] Figure 90 is a drawing showing another embodiment of the sealing member that blocks the first moisture inflow path in the stylus pen shown in Figure 86. [Figure 91] Figure 91 is a drawing showing one embodiment of a sealing member that blocks the second moisture inflow path in the stylus pen shown in Figure 85. [Figure 92] Figure 92 is a drawing showing one embodiment of a sealing member that blocks the second moisture inflow path in the stylus pen shown in Figure 86. [Figure 93] Figure 93 is a drawing showing the stylus pens shown in Figures 85 and 86, respectively, with the addition of a first sealing member and a second sealing member. [Figure 94] Figure 94 is a drawing showing a modified example of the sealing member shown in Figures 91 and 92. [Figure 95] Figure 95 is a drawing showing yet another embodiment of the sealing member that blocks the first moisture inflow path in the stylus pen shown in Figure 86. [Figure 96] Figure 96 is a diagram showing one embodiment of a buffer member that blocks the first and second moisture inflow paths in the stylus pen shown in Figure 86. [Figure 97] Figure 97 is a drawing showing a stylus pen including the sealing member shown in Figure 95 and the cushioning member shown in Figure 96. [Figure 98] Figure 98 is a diagram showing the third moisture inflow path through the button portion of the stylus pen shown in Figure 67. [Figure 99] Figure 99 is a diagram showing a fourth moisture inflow path through the joint between the housing and the rear bracket, as shown in Figure 67 with the stylus pen. [Figure 100] Figure 100 is a diagram showing a packing member that blocks the third moisture inflow path in the stylus pen shown in Figure 98. [Figure 101] Figure 101 is a drawing showing one embodiment of a sealing member that blocks the fourth moisture inflow path in the stylus pen shown in Figure 99. [Figure 102] Figure 102 is a diagram showing multiple waterproofing mechanisms provided in the stylus pen shown in Figure 67. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0070] The detailed description of the present invention described herein refers to the accompanying drawings illustrating specific embodiments in which the present invention may be carried out. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to be sufficient for those skilled in the art to carry out the present invention. It should be understood that the various embodiments of the present invention are distinct from one another but do not necessarily have to be mutually exclusive. For example, certain shapes, structures, and characteristics described herein may be embodied in other embodiments in relation to one embodiment, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. It should also be understood that the position or arrangement of individual components within each disclosed embodiment may be modified, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the detailed description described herein is not intended to be taken as restrictive, and the scope of the present invention is limited only by the accompanying claims, along with all equivalent claims, if appropriately described. Similar reference numerals in the drawings refer to the same or similar functions in various aspects.

[0071] The various embodiments of the input system described in this document include electronic devices and stylus pens.

[0072] The various embodiments of the electronic devices described herein may be electronic devices such as ordinary smartphones, or electronic devices having a rectangular screen that is relatively larger than the screen of an ordinary smartphone, with a diagonal length between approximately 10 inches and 13 inches. For example, they may include at least one of the following: a foldable smartphone, a tablet PC (tablet personal computer), a vehicle display device, an e-book reader, a laptop PC (laptop personal computer), or a netbook computer.

[0073] Furthermore, the electronic devices according to various embodiments of the present invention can not only detect the position of an object such as a finger located on the screen, but also output a drive signal for driving a stylus pen and detect the position of the stylus pen located on the screen by sensing the signal emitted from the stylus pen.

[0074] Furthermore, the electronic devices according to various embodiments of the present invention include foldable devices in which at least one screen can be folded, and such foldable devices include not only smartphones but also tablet PCs or notebook PCs.

[0075] Various embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0076] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the configuration of an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] Referring to Figure 4, the electronic device according to the first embodiment includes a sensor unit 10 and a touch controller 20, and includes a number of traces that electrically connect the sensor unit 10 and the touch controller 20, or electrically connect two or more patterns of the sensor unit 10.

[0078] The sensor unit 10 is configured to be able to sense objects such as fingers and to drive and / or sense a stylus pen.

[0079] The sensor unit 10 includes a large number of patterns (or a large number of electrodes).

[0080] The sensor unit 10 may include a number of first to fourth patterns 101, 102, 103, 104.

[0081] The first pattern 101 has a shape that extends along an arbitrary first direction X. The first direction may be the long axis of the display screen of the electronic device. The first pattern 101 may also be named TX (first touch electrode or touch driving electrode).

[0082] One end of each of the numerous first patterns 101 is electrically connected to the touch controller 20 via a trace, while the other end of each is electrically floating.

[0083] The second pattern 102 has a shape that extends along the first direction X, is positioned adjacent to the first pattern 101, and is positioned at a predetermined distance from the first pattern 101. The second pattern 102 may also be named STX (Stylus TX, first pen electrode or pen drive electrode).

[0084] One end of the second pattern 102 is electrically connected to at least one other second pattern via a trace, and the other end is electrically connected to the touch controller 20 via a trace.

[0085] Of the numerous second patterns 102, some may have one end positioned on the left and the other on the right. Conversely, the remaining second patterns may have one end positioned on the right and the other on the left.

[0086] The third pattern 103 has a shape that extends along a second direction Y, which is different from the first direction. The second direction Y may be perpendicular to the first direction X, and may be the short axis direction of the display screen of the electronic device. The third pattern 103 may also be named RX (second touch electrode or touch receiving electrode).

[0087] One end of each of the numerous third patterns 103 is electrically connected to the touch controller 20 via a trace, while the other end of each is electrically floating.

[0088] The fourth pattern 104 has a shape that extends along the second direction Y, is positioned adjacent to the third pattern 103, and is positioned at a predetermined distance from the third pattern 103. The fourth pattern 104 may also be named SRX (Stylus RX, second pen electrode or pen receiving electrode).

[0089] One end of each of the numerous fourth patterns 104 may be electrically connected via at least one trace, while the other end is electrically floating.

[0090] The third and fourth patterns 103 and 104 are arranged on the same layer as the first and second patterns 101 and 102, or on different layers, and are arranged at a predetermined distance from the first and second patterns 101 and 102.

[0091] Numerous first patterns 101 are arranged along the second direction Y, and numerous second patterns 102 are also arranged along the second direction Y. Numerous third patterns 103 are arranged along the first direction X, and numerous fourth patterns 104 are also arranged along the first direction X.

[0092] The first pattern 101 extends along the first direction X, and the third pattern 103 extends along the second direction Y. Since the first direction X is even shorter than the second direction Y, the number of multiple first patterns 101 is less than the number of multiple third patterns 103. Therefore, the number of channels in the multiple first patterns 101 is less than the number of channels in the multiple third patterns 103. Here, the number of multiple first patterns 101 and the number of multiple third patterns 103 may be increased or decreased depending on the size of the screen of the electronic device.

[0093] In electronic devices such as tablet PCs, laptops, or foldable devices, the display screen is in landscape orientation, resulting in a relatively larger number of channels (e.g., 8) in the numerous third patterns 103 compared to the number of channels (e.g., 5) in the numerous first patterns 101. Therefore, a number of second patterns 102 for driving and / or sensing the stylus pen must be arranged in addition to the number of channels (5) in the numerous first patterns 101. In this case, the overall resistance of the sensor unit 100 increases due to the traces electrically connecting the numerous second patterns 102 and the controller 200. This may result in the formation of parasitic capacitance between the traces. For example, in the case of an 11-inch to 16-inch tablet PC, the number of additional channels in the second patterns 102 exceeds approximately 30, so the parasitic capacitance acts as a considerable burden on the electronic device.

[0094] With reference to the following drawings, an embodiment of an electronic device that can solve these problems will be described in detail.

[0095] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of an electronic device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] Referring to Figure 5, the electronic device according to the second embodiment of the present invention includes a sensor unit 100 and a controller 200, and includes a number of traces that electrically connect the sensor unit 100 and the controller 200.

[0097] The sensor unit 100 includes a number of first patterns 101, a number of third patterns 103, and a number of fourth patterns 104, and the controller 200 includes a first circuit unit 210, a second circuit unit 220, a third circuit unit 230, and a control unit 240.

[0098] The sensor unit 100 shown in Figure 5 omits the second pattern 102 compared to the sensor unit 10 shown in Figure 4, and both ends of the first pattern 101, which is arranged in the first direction (or along the long axis), are electrically connected to the controller 200 via traces. More specifically, one end of the first pattern 101 is connected to the first circuit unit 210 of the controller 200 via one trace (or trace pattern), and the other end is connected to the second circuit unit 220 of the controller 200 via another trace (trace pattern). This method, in which both ends of each of the numerous first patterns 101 are electrically connected to the controller 200 via traces, will be hereafter referred to as the "double routing method".

[0099] In the sensor unit 100 of Figure 5, the first pattern 101 may be named the first pattern in the first direction X, the third pattern 103 the first pattern in the second direction Y, and the fourth pattern 104 the second pattern in the second direction Y. Alternatively, the first pattern 101 may be named the first pattern, the third pattern 103 the second pattern, and the fourth pattern 104 the third pattern. For the sake of explanation, the drawing numbers used in Figure 4 will be used in the following explanation.

[0100] Of the two ends of the third pattern 103, which is positioned in the second direction (or the short axis direction), the end closer to the controller 200 is electrically connected to the controller 200 via a trace, and the other end is electrically floating. Here, one end of the third pattern 103 may be connected to the third circuit section 230 of the controller 200.

[0101] The fourth pattern 104, which is positioned adjacent to the third pattern 103 and in the second direction (or short axis direction), has two ends: one end closer to the controller 200 is electrically floating, and the other end is electrically connected to the other end of the other third pattern via one or more traces.

[0102] The first circuit section 210 and the second circuit section 220 of the controller 200 may include a touch drive circuit section that outputs a touch drive signal, a first drive circuit section that outputs a first drive signal, a first inverse drive circuit section that outputs an inverted signal of the first drive signal, a ground circuit section, and a receiving circuit section that receives a pen signal. The third circuit section 230 may include a receiving circuit section that receives touch sensing signals and pen signals.

[0103] The sensor unit 100 of the electronic device according to the second embodiment of the present invention, compared to the sensor unit 10 of the electronic device shown in Figure 4, can not only sense objects such as fingers, but also drive and / or sense a stylus pen, even though it does not have a large number of second patterns 102. Furthermore, the number of channels between the sensor unit 100 and the controller 200 can also be reduced.

[0104] An electronic device according to a second embodiment of the present invention may be a landscape-type electronic device. In a landscape-type electronic device, the sensor unit 100 is configured such that its width in the first direction is greater than its height in the second direction, and a controller 200 for controlling the sensor unit 100 is located below the sensor unit 100. A landscape-type electronic device can take the form of, for example, a tablet PC or a foldable smartphone.

[0105] An electronic device according to a second embodiment of the present invention, including a sensor unit 100 and a controller 200, can not only detect the position of an object such as a finger located on the screen of the electronic device, but can also drive a stylus pen that is close to or in contact with the screen, and can sense the signal emitted from the stylus pen to detect the position of the stylus pen located on the screen. The details will be described below with reference to Figures 6 to 9.

[0106] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the first mode (or touch sensing mode) for the electronic device shown in Figure 5 to sense an object, Figures 7 and 8 are diagrams illustrating the second mode (or uplink mode) for the electronic device shown in Figure 5 to drive a stylus pen, and Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the third mode (or downlink mode) for the electronic device shown in Figure 5 to sense (or perceive) a stylus pen.

[0107] The controller 200 of the electronic device according to the second embodiment of the present invention can sense an object such as a finger that is close to or in contact with the sensor unit 100' using a plurality of first patterns 101 and a plurality of third patterns 103 of the sensor unit 100'.

[0108] Specifically, referring to Figure 6, the controller 200 can use a number of first patterns 101 of the sensor unit 100 as touch drive electrodes TX to which a touch drive signal is applied, and a number of third patterns 103 as touch receive electrodes RX to which a touch reception signal is output. The reverse configuration is also acceptable.

[0109] The control unit 240 of the controller 200 can control the first circuit unit 210 and the second circuit unit 220 so that touch drive signals are applied to a number of first patterns 101. For this purpose, the first circuit unit 210 and the second circuit unit 220 may each be configured to output touch drive signals based on control signals from the control unit 240.

[0110] The control unit 240 allows the first circuit unit 210 to apply a touch drive signal to one end of a plurality of first patterns 101, and the second circuit unit 220 to simultaneously apply the touch drive signal to the other end of a plurality of first patterns 101. In this way, if the same touch drive signal is applied to both ends of each first pattern 101, the position of maximum resistance in each first pattern 101 can be the center of that first pattern 101.

[0111] The control unit 240 can receive touch-sensing signals via a number of third patterns 103. Each received touch-sensing signal contains information about the change in capacitance between the first pattern 101 and the third pattern 103. The control unit 240 can determine the position of an object based on the change in capacitance.

[0112] On the other hand, although not shown in the separate drawings, the control unit 240 can control the system so that a touch drive signal is applied to the first pattern 101 and the third pattern 103, respectively, and a touch sensing signal is output from the first pattern 101 and the third pattern 103, respectively.

[0113] A controller 200 of an electronic device according to a second embodiment of the present invention can form a current loop for driving a stylus pen using a number of first patterns 101.

[0114] The controller 200 can form a current loop in the sensor unit 100 for driving the stylus pen using one of the two methods described below in Figures 7 and 8.

[0115] First, as shown in Figure 7, the controller 200 controls one or more of the numerous first patterns 101 to flow a preset current in a first direction X, and simultaneously controls one or more other first patterns to flow the same current in a first opposite direction -X, which is the opposite direction to the first direction X. Here, the controller 200 can select the one or more first patterns and the one or more other first patterns based on the proximity or contact position of the stylus pen 10. With respect to the position of the stylus pen 10, the first patterns positioned above may be the one or more first patterns, and the first patterns positioned below may be the one or more other first patterns.

[0116] The control unit 240 controls the application of a first drive signal to one or more of the numerous first patterns 101 via the first circuit unit 210, and controls the application of a first inverse drive signal, which is an inverse signal of the first drive signal, to the other end of the one or more first patterns via the second circuit unit 220, thereby causing a current to flow in the first direction X through the one or more first patterns. Here, the first drive signal may be a pulse waveform signal or a sine waveform signal.

[0117] Simultaneously, the control unit 240 can control the first circuit unit 210 to apply a first inverse drive signal to one end of one or more of the numerous first patterns 101, and the second circuit unit 220 to apply a first drive signal to the other end of the one or more other first patterns, so that a current in the first opposite direction -X flows through the remaining first patterns.

[0118] The current flowing in a first direction X through one of the first patterns and the current flowing in a first opposite direction -X through another part of the first pattern may form at least one current loop around the stylus pen 10. The formed current loop generates a magnetic field, which causes a resonant circuit inside the stylus pen 10 to resonate, thereby driving the stylus pen 10.

[0119] Next, as shown in Figure 8, the control unit 240 controls the application of a first drive signal to one end of some of the numerous first patterns 101 via the first circuit unit 210, and controls the connection of the other end of some of the first patterns to ground via the second circuit unit 220, thereby allowing a current to flow in the first direction X through some of the first patterns.

[0120] Simultaneously, the control unit 240 can control the system so that a first drive signal is applied to one end of the remaining first pattern 101 via the first circuit unit 210, and so that the other end of the remaining first pattern is grounded via the second circuit unit 220, causing a current in the first opposite direction -X to flow through the remaining first pattern.

[0121] The current flowing in a first direction X through a portion of the first pattern and the current flowing in the first opposite direction -X through the remaining first pattern may form at least one current loop around the stylus pen 10. The current loop generates a magnetic field, and the generated magnetic field resonates a resonant circuit inside the stylus pen 10, thereby driving the stylus pen 10.

[0122] The controller 200 of the electronic device according to the second embodiment of the present invention can receive stylus pen signals (hereinafter referred to as pen signals) emitted from a stylus pen using a number of first patterns 101 and a number of third patterns 103, and can determine the position of the stylus pen based on the received pen signals.

[0123] As shown in Figure 9, the pen signal can be detected using a large number of first patterns 101 and a large number of third patterns 103.

[0124] The control unit 240 can control the third circuit unit 230 to receive pen signals from each of the numerous third patterns 103. The control unit 240 can determine the position of the stylus pen in the first direction X based on the pen signals received by the third circuit unit 230. Here, the ability to receive pen signals via multiple third patterns 103 is due to the fact that the induction signal induced in the fourth pattern 104 is transmitted to the adjacent third pattern 103 via a capacitive coupling formed between adjacent third patterns 103 and fourth patterns 104.

[0125] Furthermore, the control unit 240 can control the first circuit unit 210 so that one end of each of the numerous first patterns 101 is electrically grounded, and can control the second circuit unit 220 so that it receives pen signals from the other end of each of the numerous first patterns 101. Based on the pen signals received by the second circuit unit 220, the control unit 240 can determine the position of the stylus pen in the second direction Y.

[0126] In Figure 9, the first circuit section 210 is configured to electrically ground one end of the numerous first patterns 101, and the second circuit section 220 is configured to receive pen signals from the other ends of the numerous first patterns 101; however, the configuration may be reversed.

[0127] Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating a modified version of the electronic device shown in Figure 5.

[0128] In comparison to the electronic device shown in Figure 5, the ends of each first pattern 101 of the sensor unit 100 shown in Figure 10 are electrically connected to each other via conductive traces, and then connected to the controller 200'.

[0129] The controller 200' can apply touch drive signals to a number of first patterns 101 using one first circuit section 210, and can receive touch sensing signals from a number of third patterns 103 using a third circuit section 230.

[0130] On the other hand, although not shown in Figure 10, a multiplexer (not shown) may be placed between the sensor unit 100 and the controller 200'. The multiplexer (not shown) may include a switch that electrically connects (shorts) or disconnects (opens) both ends of each first pattern 101 by a control signal. When the switch is turned on by the control signal, both ends of each first pattern 101 are electrically connected as shown in Figure 10, and when the switch is turned off by the control signal, both ends of each first pattern 101 are electrically disconnected from each other.

[0131] Figure 11a is a diagram illustrating a modified version of the controller 200 of the electronic device shown in Figure 9.

[0132] Referring to Figure 11a, the controller 200' includes a third circuit section 230, a control section 240, and a differential amplifier section 250.

[0133] The controller 200' shown in Figure 11a replaces the first circuit section 210 and the second circuit section 220 shown in Figure 9 with a single differential amplifier section 250.

[0134] As shown in Figure 11a, the third circuit unit 230 receives stylus pen signals from a number of third patterns 103, and the control unit 240 can determine the position of the stylus pen in the first direction X based on the signals detected by the third circuit unit 230.

[0135] Furthermore, the differential amplifier unit 250 receives stylus pen signals from both ends of each first pattern 101 and performs differential amplification, and the control unit 240 can determine the position of the stylus pen in the second direction Y based on the differential signal output from the differential amplifier unit 250.

[0136] Figure 11b is a diagram illustrating a modified version of the differential amplifier 250 shown in Figure 11a.

[0137] As shown in Figure 11b, the differential amplifier section 250' may include a number of differential amplifiers DP1, DPn, and DP1n. The pair of input terminals of the first differential amplifier DP1 are connected to the ends of either one of the first patterns 101-1, and the pair of input terminals of the second differential amplifier DPn are connected to the ends of the other first pattern 101-n. The pair of input terminals of the third differential amplifier DP1n are connected to the output terminals of the first differential amplifier DP1 and the second differential amplifier DPn, respectively. The output terminal of the third differential amplifier DPn1 is connected to the control unit 240 in Figure 10a.

[0138] Here, another first pattern 101-n can be immediately adjacent to any one of the first patterns 101-1.

[0139] Alternatively, another first pattern 101-n may be placed at a predetermined distance from any one of the first patterns 101-1. For example, one or more other first patterns (not shown) may be placed between another first pattern 101-n and any one of the first patterns 101-1.

[0140] Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating a modified example of the sensor unit 100 shown in Figure 5.

[0141] The sensor unit 100' shown in Figure 12 includes numerous first patterns 101, numerous third patterns 103, and numerous fourth patterns 104 shown in the sensor unit 100 shown in Figure 5, and further includes uplink channels UC1 and UC2. For reference, in Figure 12, the numerous first patterns 101, numerous third patterns 103, and numerous fourth patterns 104 are represented by lines, unlike in Figure 5.

[0142] Numerous first patterns 101, numerous third patterns 103, and numerous fourth patterns 104 are placed in the active area (AA) of the display panel. Conversely, the uplink channels UC1 and UC2 are placed in the dead space (or bezel) of the display panel.

[0143] Each of the uplink channels UC1 and UC2 may include an uplink trace positioned in a first direction X which is the same direction as a number of first patterns 101, and a pair of connecting traces that connect both ends of the uplink trace to a pad (PAD). Here, the uplink trace and the connecting trace may be formed as a single unit.

[0144] The uplink trace of the first uplink channel UC1 may be placed on a number of first patterns 101, and the uplink trace of the second uplink channel UC2 may be placed below a number of first patterns 101. A number of first patterns 101 may be placed between the uplink trace of the first uplink channel UC1 and the uplink trace of the second uplink channel UC2.

[0145] As shown in Figure 5, the sensor unit 100 makes it difficult to form a current loop around the stylus pen 10 when the stylus pen 10 approaches or contacts the upper or lower edge region of the active region AA, because there are no separate patterns or traces in the dead space outside the active region AA through which current can flow.

[0146] However, in the sensor unit 100' shown in Figure 12, since uplink channels UC1 and UC2 are additionally arranged in the dead space, even if the stylus pen approaches or comes into contact with the upper or lower edge region of the active region AA, a predetermined current can be flowed through the uplink channels UC1 and UC2, thereby forming a current loop around the stylus pen.

[0147] Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating a modified example of the sensor unit 100' shown in Figure 12.

[0148] The sensor unit 100'' shown in Figure 13 differs from the sensor unit 100' shown in Figure 12 in the second uplink channel UC2', but the remaining configuration is identical.

[0149] The uplink trace of the second uplink channel UC2' may be formed to be relatively longer than the uplink trace of the second uplink channel UC2 shown in Figure 12.

[0150] The uplink trace of the second uplink channel UC2' may be formed to be relatively longer than the uplink trace of the first uplink channel UC1.

[0151] The coupling trace of the second uplink channel UC2' may include a portion of parallel traces P' arranged parallel to the uplink trace of the second uplink channel UC2'. In this case, it is preferable that the portion of parallel traces P' be arranged as far away as possible from the coupling trace of the second uplink channel UC2'. For example, it is preferable that traces coupled to one end of a plurality of first patterns 101 be arranged between the uplink trace of the second uplink channel UC2' and the portion of parallel traces P'. The reason for this will be explained with reference to Figure 12.

[0152] When a predetermined current flows through the second uplink channel UC2 of the sensor unit 100' shown in Figure 12, the direction of the current flowing through the uplink trace of the second uplink channel UC2 and the direction of the current flowing through a portion of the parallel traces P of the second uplink channel UC2 are opposite to each other, and the magnetic field for driving the stylus pen may be partially canceled out.

[0153] However, the sensor unit 100'' shown in Figure 13 can minimize magnetic field cancellation because the uplink trace of the second uplink channel UC2' is positioned further away from some of the parallel traces P'.

[0154] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of the configuration of an electronic device according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0155] Referring to Figure 14, the electronic device according to the third embodiment of the present invention includes a sensor unit 100A and a controller 200A, and includes a number of traces that electrically connect the sensor unit 100A and the controller 200A.

[0156] The sensor unit 100A includes a number of first patterns 101 and a number of third patterns 103. The sensor unit 100A shown in Figure 14 differs from the sensor unit 100 shown in Figure 5 in that the number of fourth patterns 104 is omitted, and both ends of each third pattern 103 are electrically connected to the controller 200A via traces. In other words, in the sensor unit 100A shown in Figure 14, not only the number of first patterns 101 but also the number of third patterns 103 are directly connected to the controller 200A using a double routing method.

[0157] Controller 200A may include the same first to third circuit sections 210, 220, 230 and control section 240 as controller 200 shown in Figure 5.

[0158] The electronic devices shown in Figure 14 are landscape-type electronic devices, and the number of devices in the third pattern 103 may be greater than the number of devices in the first pattern 101.

[0159] The sensor unit 100A and controller 200A of the electronic device shown in Figure 14 can not only detect the position of an object such as a finger located on the display screen, but can also drive a stylus pen that is close to or in contact with the display screen, and can sense the signal emitted from the stylus pen to detect the position of the stylus pen located on the display screen.

[0160] Specifically, as shown in Figure 6, the controller 200A controls the application of touch drive signals to both ends of a number of first patterns 101 and can receive touch sensing signals via a number of third patterns 103 to determine the position of an object.

[0161] As shown in Figure 7 or Figure 8, the controller 200A can cause the resonant circuit of the stylus pen to resonate by controlling a current in a first direction X to flow through a portion of the first patterns, which are separated based on the position of the stylus pen, and by controlling a current in a first opposite direction -X to flow through another portion of the first patterns.

[0162] As mentioned in Figure 9, the controller 200A can receive pen signals emitted from the stylus pen using a number of first patterns 101 and a number of third patterns 103, and can determine the position of the stylus pen based on the received pen signals. Here, the sensor unit 100A shown in Figure 14 does not have a number of fourth patterns 104, so the controller 200A can receive pen signals by controlling both ends of the number of third patterns 103 in the same way as both ends of the number of first patterns 101. In other words, the sensor unit 100A shown in Figure 14 can receive pen signals directly via the third patterns 103 without using the capacitive coupling method described in Figure 9.

[0163] Although not shown in separate drawings, the uplink channels UC1 and UC2 shown in Figure 12 or Figure 13 may be directly applied to the sensor unit 100A shown in Figure 14.

[0164] In the electronic device shown in Figure 14, each first pattern 101 is connected to the controller 200A using a double routing method. Therefore, when the controller 200A is driven in the third mode (or downlink mode) that senses the pen signal shown in Figure 9, the pen signal output via the first pattern 101 may be received directly by the controller 200A. Similarly, since each third pattern 103 is connected to the controller 200A using a double routing method, when the controller 200A is driven in the third mode (or downlink mode), the pen signal output via the third pattern 103 may be received directly by the controller 200A.

[0165] Figure 15 is a simplified diagram showing a modified example of the sensor unit 10 shown in Figure 4.

[0166] As shown in Figure 15, the sensor unit 10' includes the first to fourth patterns 101, 102, 103, and 104.

[0167] Of the numerous first patterns 101 of the sensor unit 10' in Figure 15, one end (left end) of the first pattern 101 located above the second direction Y is connected to a trace 101cl for connection to a touch controller (not shown), and the other end (right end) is floating. Then, of the numerous first patterns 101, the other end (right end) of the remaining half of the first pattern 101 located below the second direction Y is connected to a trace 101cr for connection to a touch controller (not shown), and one end (left end) is floating.

[0168] Of the numerous second patterns 102 in the sensor unit 10' in Figure 15, the right end of the half of the second patterns 102 located above the second direction Y is electrically connected via trace 102cr, while the left end is floating. Then, of the remaining half of the numerous second patterns 102 located below the second direction Y, the left end of the second pattern 102 is electrically connected via trace 102cl, while the right end is floating.

[0169] The lower ends of the numerous third patterns 103 of the sensor unit 10' in Figure 15 are connected to a touch controller (not shown) via traces, and the upper ends are floating.

[0170] The upper ends of the numerous fourth patterns 104 of the sensor unit 10' in Figure 15 are electrically connected via traces 104c. The lower ends of the numerous fourth patterns 104 may be connected in pairs in parallel to a touch controller (not shown). This part differs from the sensor unit 10 in Figure 4.

[0171] A touch controller (not shown) can be operated in a first mode (touch sensing mode) for sensing finger-like objects, consisting of multiple first patterns 101 and multiple third patterns 103.

[0172] The touch controller (not shown) can operate a number of fourth patterns 104 in a second mode (uplink mode) to drive the stylus pen.

[0173] A touch controller (not shown) can operate a plurality of first patterns 101 and a plurality of third patterns 103 in a third mode (downlink mode) for sensing a stylus pen. In this case, the pen signals output from the plurality of first patterns 101 may be transmitted from a plurality of second patterns 102 by capacitive coupling, and the pen signals output from the plurality of third patterns 103 may be transmitted from a plurality of fourth patterns 104 by capacitive coupling.

[0174] The sensor unit 10' shown in Figure 15 has the advantage of reducing the number of channels (or pins) of the touch controller (not shown) compared to the sensor unit 10 shown in Figure 4. This is due to the fact that the lower ends of the numerous fourth patterns 104 are arranged in pairs. For example, if there are 35 first patterns 101 and 35 second patterns 102, and 42 third patterns 103 and 44 fourth patterns 104, the touch controller (not shown) would require 35 pins to connect to the 35 first patterns 101, 42 pins to connect to the 42 third patterns 103, and 21 pins (= 42 * 1 / 2) to connect to the 42 fourth patterns 104. In other words, the touch controller (not shown) would require a total of 98 pins. On the other hand, in the case of the sensor unit 10 in Figure 4, since the lower ends of the fourth pattern 104 are not connected in parallel in pairs, the touch controller 20 requires an additional 21 pins for the fourth pattern 104.

[0175] Using the sensor unit 10' shown in Figure 15, the number of channels in the touch controller (not shown) can be reduced, which has the advantage of lowering the size and manufacturing cost of the touch controller (not shown).

[0176] Furthermore, in the sensor unit 10' shown in Figure 15, the left end of some of the first patterns 101, which are positioned above the second direction Y, are connected to a touch controller (not shown), and the right end of the remaining first patterns, which are positioned below, are connected to a touch controller (not shown). This arrangement reduces the number of traces that are placed in the bezel areas on both sides of the display panel.

[0177] On the other hand, in the sensor unit 10' shown in Figure 15, the first pattern 101lb, which is located at the bottom of the partial first pattern 101 whose left end is connected to a touch controller (not shown), and the first pattern 101ru, which is located at the top of the remaining first patterns whose right end is connected to a touch controller (not shown), are connected to the trace in opposite directions, not in the same direction. Therefore, if the signal output from the first pattern 101lb located at the bottom and the signal output from the first pattern 101ru located at the top are differentially connected in the touch controller (not shown), a problem arises in which distortion occurs in the output differential signal. This is also known as "half-half distortion." Such half-half distortion can cause ghost touches that the user did not intend.

[0178] Figure 16 is a simplified diagram showing a modified version of the sensor unit 10' shown in Figure 15.

[0179] As shown in Figure 16, the sensor unit 10'' includes the first to fourth patterns 101, 102, 103, and 104.

[0180] The sensor unit 10'' in Figure 16 differs from the sensor unit 10'' shown in Figure 15 in that all left ends of the numerous first patterns 101 are connected to a touch controller (not shown) via trace 101cl, and all right ends of the numerous second patterns 102 are electrically connected via trace 102cr. This difference has the advantage that even if the touch controller (not shown) differentially outputs the signal through the numerous first patterns 101 of the sensor unit 10'' in Figure 16, the aforementioned half-and-half distortion does not occur.

[0181] A touch controller (not shown) can be operated in a first mode (touch sensing mode) for sensing finger-like objects, consisting of multiple first patterns 101 and multiple third patterns 103.

[0182] The touch controller (not shown) can operate a number of fourth patterns 104 in a second mode (uplink mode) to drive the stylus pen.

[0183] A touch controller (not shown) can operate a plurality of first patterns 101 and a plurality of third patterns 103 in a third mode (downlink mode) for sensing a stylus pen. In this case, the pen signals output from the plurality of first patterns 101 may be transmitted from a plurality of second patterns 102 by capacitive coupling, and the pen signals output from the plurality of third patterns 103 may be transmitted from a plurality of fourth patterns 104 by capacitive coupling.

[0184] The number of channels in the touch controller (not shown) for the sensor unit 10'' in Figure 16 is the same as the number of channels in the touch controller (not shown) for the sensor unit 10' in Figure 15.

[0185] On the other hand, in the sensor section 10'' of Figure 16, since all left ends of the numerous first patterns 101 are connected to a touch controller (not shown) via traces 101cl, the number of traces 101cl placed in the left bezel area becomes relatively large, which can make the bezel relatively thicker. Also, since the resistance increases relatively due to the traces 101cl, a problem may arise in which the touch bandwidth becomes narrower.

[0186] Figure 17 is a simplified diagram showing a modified example of the sensor unit 10'' shown in Figure 16.

[0187] As shown in Figure 17, the sensor unit 10'' includes the first to fourth patterns 101, 102, 103, and 104.

[0188] The sensor unit 10'' in Figure 17 differs from the sensor unit 10'' shown in Figure 16 in that the lower ends of the numerous fourth patterns 104 are not connected in parallel in pairs, but are individually connected to a touch controller (not shown).

[0189] The sensor unit 10'' in Figure 17 can sense the pen signal emitted from the stylus pen by directly using a number of fourth patterns 104.

[0190] The sensor unit 10'' in Figure 17, like the sensor unit 10'' in Figure 16, has traces 101cl connected to the left end of a large number of first patterns 101, so that half-and-half distortion does not occur.

[0191] Furthermore, the sensor unit 10''' in Figure 17 can sense the pen signal emitted from the stylus pen by directly using a large number of fourth patterns 104, and therefore does not use capacitive coupling Cc between adjacent third patterns 103 and fourth patterns 104. Consequently, the capacitance value of the sensor unit 10''' is reduced, and the touch bandwidth can be further expanded relative to that of the sensor unit 10'' in Figure 16.

[0192] On the other hand, the number of channels (or pins) of the touch controller (not shown) for the sensor unit 10'' in Figure 17 is even greater than the number of channels of the touch controller (not shown) for the sensor unit 10'' in Figure 16. This is because each of the numerous fourth patterns 104 is connected to a touch controller (not shown).

[0193] Figure 18 is a simplified diagram showing yet another modification of the sensor unit 10'' shown in Figure 16.

[0194] As shown in Figure 18, the sensor unit 10'''' includes the first to fourth patterns 101, 102, 103, and 104.

[0195] The sensor unit 10'''' in Figure 18 differs from the sensor unit 10'' shown in Figure 16 in that it employs a double routing system in which not only the left end but also the right end of the numerous first patterns 101 are electrically connected to a touch controller (not shown) via traces 101cl and 101cr. This difference has the advantage of further expanding the touch bandwidth compared to the sensor unit 10'' in Figure 16.

[0196] Furthermore, the sensor unit 10'''' in Figure 18 does not exhibit the same 50 / 50 distortion as the sensor unit 10'' in Figure 16.

[0197] On the other hand, the number of channels (or pins) of the touch controller (not shown) for the sensor unit 10'''' in Figure 18 is even greater than the number of channels of the touch controller (not shown) for the sensor unit 10'' in Figure 16. This is because a large number of first patterns 101 are connected to the touch controller (not shown) in a double routing manner.

[0198] Figure 19 is a simplified diagram showing yet another modification of the sensor unit 10' shown in Figure 15.

[0199] As shown in Figure 19, the sensor unit 10'''' includes the first to fourth patterns 101, 102, 103, and 104.

[0200] The sensor unit 10'''''' in Figure 19 differs from the sensor unit 10' in Figure 15 in the numerous first patterns 101 and numerous second patterns 102.

[0201] The numerous first patterns 101 include some first patterns connected to one side trace 101cl' for connection to a touch controller (not shown), and other parts of first patterns connected to the other side trace 101cr'. The parts of first patterns and the other parts of first patterns are arranged alternately one by one along the second direction Y.

[0202] The numerous second patterns 102 also include some second patterns connected to one side trace 102cl for connection with a touch controller (not shown), and other parts of second patterns connected to the other side trace 102cr. The aforementioned partial second patterns and the other partial second patterns are arranged alternately one by one along the second direction Y.

[0203] If the left end of any one of the many first patterns 101 is connected to trace 101cl', then any one of the many second patterns 102 that is positioned adjacent to any one of the first patterns 101 may have its right end connected to trace 102cr.

[0204] As shown in Figure 19, the numerous first patterns 101 of the sensor unit 10'''' and the traces 101cl', 101cr' that connect to the touch controller (not shown) are arranged alternately along the second direction Y, once on the left and once on the right. This has the advantage of maintaining uniformity, as the number of traces arranged on the left and right sides is the same or similar.

[0205] The touch controller (not shown) can use the sensor unit 10'''''' shown in Figure 19 to sense the touch of an object such as a finger (first mode), drive a stylus pen (second mode), and sense a pen signal from the stylus pen (third mode). Specifically, refer to Table 1 below to explain how the touch controller (not shown) drives the sensor unit 10'''''' in each mode.

[0206] [Table 1]

[0207] Referring to both Figure 19 and Table 1, the touch controller (not shown) can operate the sensor unit 10'''''' in first mode (Touch).

[0208] As an example of the first mode (Touch), a touch controller (not shown) can apply a touch drive signal to at least one of the many first patterns 101 of the sensor unit 10''''' and receive touch sensing signals from the many third patterns 103. Here, the touch controller (not shown) can differentially process the touch sensing signals received from the many third patterns 103.

[0209] As another example of the first mode (Touch), a touch controller (not shown) can apply a touch drive signal to at least one of the many third patterns 103 of the sensor unit 10''''' and receive touch sensing signals from the many first patterns 101. Here, the touch controller (not shown) can differentially process the touch sensing signals received from the many first patterns 101. When the touch controller (not shown) differentially processes the touch sensing signals, it can differentially process the touch sensing signals output from the Nth first pattern 101 and the N+2th first pattern 101n from the many first patterns 101 in order to prevent the occurrence of the aforementioned "half-and-half distortion".

[0210] A touch controller (not shown) can operate the sensor unit 10'''' in a second mode (Stylus / drive). For example, the touch controller (not shown) can apply a pen drive signal to the sensor unit 10'''' using at least one of the many fourth patterns 104.

[0211] The touch controller (not shown) can operate the sensor unit 10''''' in third mode (Stylus / receive).

[0212] As an example of the third mode (Stylus / reception), a touch controller (not shown) can receive pen detection signals from a number of first patterns 101 and a number of third patterns 103 of the sensor unit 10''''''. The pen detection signal output from each first pattern 101 is transmitted via capacitive coupling from a second pattern 102 adjacent to the first pattern 101. The pen detection signal output from each third pattern 103 is transmitted via capacitive coupling from a fourth pattern 104 adjacent to the third pattern 103. Here, the touch controller (not shown) can differentiate the pen detection signals received from the number of first patterns 101 (or the number of third patterns 103). When the touch controller (not shown) differentiates the pen detection signals, it can differentiate the pen detection signals output from the Nth first pattern 101 and the N+2th first pattern 101n from the number of first patterns 101 to prevent the occurrence of the aforementioned "half-and-half distortion".

[0213] As another example of the third mode (Stylus / reception), a touch controller (not shown) can receive pen sensing signals from a number of first patterns 101 and a number of fourth patterns 104 of the sensor unit 10''''''. The pen sensing signal output from each first pattern 101 is transmitted via capacitive coupling from a second pattern 102 adjacent to that first pattern 101. The pen sensing signals output from the number of fourth patterns 104 are not transmitted via capacitive coupling as signals directly induced by pen signals from an external stylus pen. Here, the touch controller (not shown) can differentiate the pen sensing signals received from the number of first patterns 101 (or the number of fourth patterns 104). When the touch controller (not shown) differentiates the pen sensing signals, it can differentiate the pen sensing signals output from the Nth first pattern 101 from the top and the N+2th first pattern (101n) among the number of first patterns 101 in order to prevent the occurrence of the aforementioned "half-and-half distortion".

[0214] Although not shown in separate drawings, if one end of the numerous second patterns 102 of the sensor unit 10''''' shown in Figure 19 is electrically connected to a touch controller (not shown), the touch controller (not shown) can operate such a sensor unit (not shown) in a third mode (Stylus / receive). When operating in the third mode, the controller (not shown) can receive pen detection signals from numerous second patterns (not shown) and numerous third patterns 103 of the sensor unit (not shown), and can also receive pen detection signals from numerous second patterns (not shown) and numerous fourth patterns 104.

[0215] Figure 20 is a simplified diagram showing a modified version of the sensor unit 10'''' shown in Figure 19.

[0216] As shown in Figure 20, the sensor unit 10'''''' includes the first to fourth patterns 101, 102, 103', and 104.

[0217] The sensor unit 10'''''' in Figure 20 differs from the sensor unit 10'''''' in Figure 19 in numerous third patterns 103'.

[0218] Each of the numerous third patterns 103' includes a third-first pattern 103-1 and a third-second pattern 103-2, which are arranged adjacent to each other.

[0219] The third-first pattern 103-1 includes a number of main pattern portions 103-1a arranged along the second direction Y, and a connecting pattern portion 103-1c that connects two adjacent main pattern portions 103-1a to each other. Each main pattern portion 103-1a of the third-first pattern 103-1 may have a square, rhombic, or diamond shape, and may have an opening in which each main pattern portion 103-2a of the third-second pattern 103-2 can be arranged.

[0220] The third-second pattern 103-2 includes a number of main pattern sections 103-2a arranged along the second direction Y, and a connecting pattern section 103-2c that connects two adjacent main pattern sections 103-2a to each other. Each main pattern section 103-2a of the third-second pattern 103-2 may have a square, rhombus, or diamond shape. Each main pattern section 103-2a of the third-second pattern 103-2 may have a shape corresponding to each main pattern section 103-1a of the third-first pattern 103-1.

[0221] Each main pattern section 103-1a of pattern 3-1 103-1 is positioned more adjacent to pattern 101 relative to each main pattern section 103-2a of pattern 3-2 103-2.

[0222] Each of the multiple third patterns 103’ includes a third-1 pattern 103-1 and a third-2 pattern 103-2, and the third-1 pattern 103-1 and the third-2 pattern 103-2 are respectively connected to a touch controller (not shown). Therefore, compared with the sensor unit 10’’’’’ shown in FIG. 19, the number of pins for the multiple third patterns 103’ in the touch controller (not shown) doubles. However, when the touch controller (not shown) is driven in the first mode (touch driving mode), a touch driving signal is applied to the multiple first patterns 101, and if two touch sensing signals respectively output from the third-1 pattern 103-1 and the third-2 pattern 103-2 are differential from each other, display noise acting on the sensor unit 10’’’’’’ and LGM (Low Gound Mass) caused by a poor ground of an object can be offset, and there is an advantage that the sensing sensitivity can be improved.

[0223] FIG. 21 is a drawing for explaining a modified example of the third-1 pattern 103-1 and the third-2 pattern 103-2 shown in FIG. 20.

[0224] Referring to FIG. 21, the third-1 pattern 103-1’ includes a number of main pattern portions 103-1a’, 103-1b’ arranged along the second direction Y, and a connection pattern portion 103-1c’ that connects two adjacent main pattern portions 103-1a’, 103-1b’ among the number of main pattern portions 103-1a’, 103-1b’. Each main pattern portion 103-1a’, 103-1b’ of the third-1 pattern 103-1’ may include a first main pattern portion 103-1a’ and a second main pattern portion 103-1b’. The first main pattern portion 103-1a’ and the second main pattern portion 103-1b’ may have shapes that are symmetric to each other in the first direction X. For example, the first main pattern portion 103-1a’ may have an inverted triangular shape, and the second main pattern portion 103-1b’ may have an inverted triangular shape. The first main pattern portion 103-1a’ and the second main pattern portion 103-1b’ may be electrically connected to each other.

[0225] The 3-2 pattern 103-2' includes a number of main pattern portions 103-2a', 103-2b' arranged along the second direction Y, and a connecting pattern portion 103-2c' that connects two adjacent main pattern portions 103-2a', 103-2b' among the number of main pattern portions 103-2a', 103-2b'. Each main pattern portion 103-2a', 103-2b' of the 3-2 pattern 103-2' may include a first main pattern portion 103-2a' and a second main pattern portion 103-2b'. The first main pattern portion 103-2a' and the second main pattern portion 103-2b' may have shapes that are symmetric to each other in the first direction X. For example, the first main pattern portion 103-2a' may have an inverted triangular shape, and the second main pattern portion 103-2b' may have an inverted triangular shape. The first main pattern portion 103-2a' and the second main pattern portion 103-2b' may be electrically connected to each other.

[0226] A number of main pattern portions 103-1a', 103-1b' of the 3-1 pattern 103-1' and a number of main pattern portions 103-2a', 103-2b' of the 3-2 pattern 103-2' are alternately arranged one by one along the second direction Y.

[0227] FIG. 22 is a drawing that briefly shows another modification example of the sensor unit 10'''''.

[0228] As shown in FIG. 22, the sensor unit 10'''''' includes first to fourth patterns 101', 102, 103, 104.

[0229] The sensor unit 10'''''' in FIG. 22 has a difference in a number of first patterns 101' compared to the sensor unit 10'''' in FIG. 19.

[0230] Each of the number of first patterns 101' includes a 1-1 pattern 101-1 and a 1-2 pattern 101-2.

[0231] The first-first pattern 101-1 includes a number of main pattern portions 101-1a arranged along a first direction X, and a connecting pattern portion 101-1c that connects two adjacent main pattern portions 101-1a to each other. Each main pattern portion 101-1a of the first-first pattern 101-1 may have a square, rhombus, or diamond shape, and may have an opening in which each main pattern portion 103-2a of the first-second pattern 101-2 can be arranged.

[0232] The first-second pattern 101-2 includes a number of main pattern portions 101-2a arranged along a first direction X, and a connecting pattern portion 101-2c that connects two adjacent main pattern portions 101-2a to each other. Each main pattern portion 101-2a of the first-second pattern 101-2 may have a square, rhombus, or diamond shape. Each main pattern portion 101-2a of the first-second pattern 101-2 may have a shape corresponding to each main pattern portion 101-1a of the first-first pattern 101-1.

[0233] Each main pattern section 101-1a of the first-first pattern 101-1 is positioned more adjacent to the third pattern 103 relative to each main pattern section 101-2a of the first-second pattern 101-2.

[0234] Each of the numerous first patterns 101' includes a 1-1 pattern 101-1 and a 1-2 pattern 101-2, and the 1-1 pattern 101-1 and the 1-2 pattern 101-2 are connected to a touch controller (not shown), respectively. Therefore, compared to the sensor unit 10'''''' shown in Figure 19, the number of pins for the numerous first patterns 101' doubles in the touch controller (not shown). However, when the touch controller (not shown) is driven in first mode (touch drive mode), if it applies a touch drive signal to the 1-1 pattern 101-1 and simultaneously applies a touch drive signal to the 1-2 pattern 101-2 with a phase inverted by 180 degrees, it can reduce or eliminate the occurrence of flicker in the display panel equipped with the sensor unit 10''''''''. Flicker refers to the appearance of flicker on the display panel due to the combined effect of touch drive signals applied simultaneously to at least two or more first patterns of the numerous first patterns 101 in Figure 19, affecting the display panel. In the sensor unit 10'''''' shown in Figure 22, two touch drive signals with opposite phases are simultaneously applied to each first pattern 101'. Therefore, even when the two touch drive signals are added together, their sum becomes "0", thus not affecting the display panel and preventing the flicker phenomenon.

[0235] On the other hand, although not shown in separate drawings, the 1-1 pattern 101-1 and the 1-2 pattern 101-2 of each of the first patterns 101' may have the pattern shapes shown in Figure 21.

[0236] Figure 23 is a simplified diagram showing yet another modification of the sensor unit 10'''' shown in Figure 19.

[0237] As shown in Figure 23, the sensor unit 10'''''''' includes the first to fourth patterns 101', 102, 103', and 104.

[0238] The sensor unit 10'''''''' in Figure 23 differs from the sensor unit 10'''''' in Figure 19 in the numerous first patterns 101' and third patterns 103'. The numerous first patterns 101' are identical to the numerous first patterns 101' shown in Figure 22, and the numerous third patterns 103' are identical to the numerous third patterns 103' shown in Figure 20.

[0239] Using the sensor unit 10'''''''' in Figure 23 has the disadvantage of slightly increasing the number of pins in the touch controller (not shown), but the technical effects of the sensor units 10'''''',10'''''' in Figures 20 and 22 can be achieved together. In other words, display noise and LGM (Low Ground Mass) caused by poor grounding of objects acting on the sensor unit 10'''''''' can be canceled out, improving sensing sensitivity and reducing or eliminating flicker in the display panel equipped with the sensor unit 10''''''''.

[0240] Figure 24 is a simplified diagram of the sensor unit 100 shown in Figure 5.

[0241] As shown in Figure 24, the sensor unit 100 includes a first pattern 101, a third pattern 103, and a fourth pattern 104. Here, the first pattern 101 may be named the first pattern in the first direction X, the third pattern 103 the first pattern in the second direction Y, and the fourth pattern 104 the second pattern in the second direction Y.

[0242] As shown in Figure 24, numerous first patterns 101 of the sensor unit 100 are connected to a touch controller (not shown) using a double routing method. Therefore, there is the advantage of expanded touch bandwidth and the advantage of no half-and-half distortion occurring.

[0243] The numerous fourth patterns 104 of the sensor unit 100 shown in FIG. 24 may not be electrically connected to a touch controller (not shown) and may be floating. When the touch controller (not shown) drives the sensor unit 100 in a third mode (or downlink mode) for sensing a pen signal, it can sense the pen signal through the numerous third patterns 103. The pen signal from the numerous third patterns 103 is transmitted from the numerous fourth patterns 104 by capacitive coupling. Also, the touch controller (not shown) can directly receive the pen signal through the numerous first patterns 101.

[0244] At least one fourth pattern 104a of the numerous fourth patterns 104 of the sensor unit 100 shown in FIG. 24 may be electrically connected to a touch controller (not shown). When the touch controller (not shown) operates the sensor unit 100 in a first mode (touch sensing mode), it can control the numerous fourth patterns 104 to be electrically grounded. By doing so, the influence by the numerous fourth patterns 104 in the first mode can be minimized.

[0245] On the other hand, when the sensor unit 100 shown in FIG. 24 uses the numerous first patterns 101 to drive a stylus pen, the total resistance of the numerous first patterns 101 and the traces connected thereto is relatively larger than when the double routing method is not used. Thus, the power consumption in the second mode (uplink mode) is relatively high. However, since all or almost most of the numerous fourth patterns 104 are not used, there is an advantage that the number of channels of the touch controller (not shown) can be reduced.

[0246] FIG. 25 is a drawing briefly showing a modified example of the sensor unit 100 shown in FIG. 24.

[0247] <了 As shown in FIG. 25, the sensor unit 100''' includes a first pattern 101, a third pattern 103, and a fourth pattern 104.

[0248] The sensor unit 100'' shown in Figure 25 differs from the sensor unit 100 shown in Figure 24 in that the lower ends of numerous fourth patterns 104 are connected in parallel in pairs, and the parallel-connected portion is electrically connected to a touch controller (not shown).

[0249] A touch controller (not shown) can use a number of first patterns 101 and a number of third patterns 103 when operating in the first mode (touch sensing mode). Specifically, the touch controller (not shown) may be configured to apply touch drive signals to a number of first patterns 101 and to receive touch sensing signals from a number of third patterns 103. The touch controller (not shown) can operate in the first mode in the manner described in Figure 6 or Figure 10.

[0250] When the touch controller (not shown) is operating in the second mode (uplink mode), multiple fourth patterns 104 can be used as patterns to drive the stylus pen. In this case, the overall resistance of the multiple fourth patterns 104 is relatively reduced compared to the sensor unit 100 in Figure 24 because the lower ends of the multiple fourth patterns 104 are connected in parallel in pairs. Therefore, there is an advantage in that power consumption can be reduced by up to half compared to when driving the stylus pen using the sensor unit 100 in Figure 24.

[0251] Furthermore, a touch controller (not shown) can directly receive pen signals via a plurality of first patterns 101 and can also receive pen signals via a plurality of third patterns 103. Here, the pen signals from the plurality of first patterns 101 may be sensed in any one of the methods shown in Figure 9, Figure 11a, or Figure 11b, for example, and the pen signals from the plurality of third patterns 103 may be transmitted and sensed via capacitive coupling from a plurality of fourth patterns 104.

[0252] Figure 26 is a simplified diagram showing a modified example of the sensor unit 100'' shown in Figure 25.

[0253] As shown in Figure 26, the sensor unit 100'''' includes a first pattern 101', a third pattern 103, and a fourth pattern 104.

[0254] The sensor unit 100'''' shown in Figure 26 differs from the sensor unit 100'''' shown in Figure 25 in numerous first patterns 101'.

[0255] Each of the numerous first patterns 101' includes a first-first pattern 101l and a first-second pattern 101r. The first-first pattern 101l and the first-second pattern 101r are arranged in the first direction X and are adjacent to each other. The first-first pattern 101l and the first-second pattern 101r are physically separated from each other and configured to form a capacitive coupling between them.

[0256] In pattern 1-1 101l, one end (left end) is electrically connected to a touch controller (not shown) via a trace 101cl, and in pattern 1-2 101r, the other end (right end) is electrically connected to a touch controller (not shown) via a trace (101cr).

[0257] The first-first pattern 101l includes a number of main pattern portions 101-1a arranged along a first direction X, and a connecting pattern portion 101-1c that connects two adjacent main pattern portions 101-1a to each other. Each main pattern portion 101-1a of the first-first pattern 101l may have a square, rhombic, or diamond shape, and may have an opening in which each main pattern portion 101-2a of the first-second pattern 101r can be arranged.

[0258] The first-second pattern 101r includes a number of main pattern portions 101-2a arranged along a first direction X, and a connecting pattern portion 101-2c that connects two adjacent main pattern portions 101-2a to each other. Each main pattern portion 101-2a of the first-second pattern 101r may have a square, rhombus, or diamond shape. Each main pattern portion 101-2a of the first-second pattern 101r may have a shape corresponding to each main pattern portion 101-1a of the first-first pattern 101l.

[0259] Each main pattern section 101-1a of pattern 1-1l is positioned more adjacent to pattern 3 103 relative to each main pattern section 101-2a of pattern 1-2r.

[0260] Each of the numerous first patterns 101' includes a 1-1 pattern 101l and a 1-2 pattern 101r, and the 1-1 pattern 101l and the 1-2 pattern 101r are connected to a touch controller (not shown) via traces 101cl and 101cr, respectively. Therefore, compared to the sensor unit 100''' shown in Figure 25, the touch controller (not shown) has twice the number of pins for the numerous first patterns 101'. However, when the touch controller (not shown) is driven in first mode (touch drive mode), it applies a touch drive signal to the numerous third patterns 103 and differentially generates the two touch sensing signals output from the 1-1 pattern 101l and the 1-2 pattern 101r, respectively. This has the advantage of canceling out display noise and LGM (Low Ground Mass) due to poor grounding of objects acting on the sensor unit 100'''', thereby improving sensing sensitivity.

[0261] On the other hand, although not shown in separate drawings, the 1-1 pattern 101l and 1-2 pattern 101r of each of the first patterns 101' may have the pattern shapes shown in Figure 21.

[0262] On the other hand, the touch controller (not shown) can operate in the second mode (uplink mode) using a number of fourth patterns 104.

[0263] Furthermore, a touch controller (not shown) can operate in a third mode (downlink mode) using a number of first patterns 101' and a number of third patterns 103. Here, the touch controller (not shown) may be configured to receive pen signals transmitted from the fourth pattern 104 to the third pattern 103 via capacitive coupling through a number of third patterns 103. The touch controller (not shown) may be configured to directly receive pen signals induced in a number of first patterns 101'.

[0264] Figure 27 is a simplified diagram showing another modified example of the sensor unit 100'' shown in Figure 25.

[0265] As shown in Figure 27, the sensor unit 100'''' includes a first pattern 101, a third pattern 103', and a fourth pattern 104.

[0266] The sensor unit 100'''' shown in Figure 27 differs from the sensor unit 100'''' shown in Figure 25 in numerous third patterns 103'.

[0267] Each of the numerous third patterns 103' includes a third-first pattern 103-1 and a third-second pattern 103-2, which are arranged adjacent to each other.

[0268] The third-first pattern 103-1 includes a number of main pattern sections 103-1a arranged along a second direction Y, and connecting pattern sections 103-1c that connect two adjacent main pattern sections 103-1a to each other. Each main pattern section 103-1a of the third-first pattern 103-1 may have a square, rhombic, or diamond shape, and may have an opening in which each main pattern section 103-2a of the third-second pattern 103-2 can be arranged.

[0269] The third-second pattern 103-2 includes a number of main pattern sections 103-2a arranged along the second direction Y, and a connecting pattern section 103-2c that connects two adjacent main pattern sections 103-2a to each other. Each main pattern section 103-2a of the third-second pattern 103-2 may have a square, rhombus, or diamond shape. Each main pattern section 103-2a of the third-second pattern 103-2 may have a shape corresponding to each main pattern section 103-1a of the third-first pattern 103-1.

[0270] Each main pattern section 103-1a of pattern 3-1 103-1 is positioned more adjacent to pattern 101 relative to each main pattern section 103-2a of pattern 3-2 103-2.

[0271] Each of the numerous third patterns 103' includes a third-first pattern 103-1 and a third-second pattern 103-2, and the third-first pattern 103-1 and the third-second pattern 103-2 are connected to a touch controller (not shown), respectively. Therefore, compared to the sensor unit 100'''' shown in Figure 25, the number of pins for the numerous first patterns 101' doubles in the touch controller (not shown), but when the touch controller (not shown) is driven in first mode (touch drive mode), if it applies a touch drive signal to the third-first pattern 103-1 and simultaneously applies a touch drive signal to the third-second pattern 103-2 with the phase of the touch drive signal inverted by 180 degrees, it can reduce or eliminate the occurrence of flicker in the display panel equipped with the sensor unit 100''''''.

[0272] On the other hand, although not shown in separate drawings, the 3-1 pattern 103-1 and the 3-2 pattern 103-2 of each of the 3rd patterns 103' may have the pattern shapes shown in Figure 21.

[0273] Figure 28 is a simplified diagram showing yet another modified example of the sensor unit 100'' shown in Figure 25.

[0274] As shown in Figure 28, the sensor unit 100'''''' includes a first pattern 101', a third pattern 103', and a fourth pattern 104.

[0275] The sensor unit 100'''''' in Figure 28 differs from the sensor unit 100''' in Figure 25 in the numerous first patterns 101' and third patterns 103'. The numerous first patterns 101' are identical to the numerous first patterns 101' shown in Figure 26, and the numerous third patterns 103' are identical to the numerous third patterns 103' shown in Figure 27.

[0276] Using the sensor unit 100'''''' in Figure 28 has the disadvantage of slightly increasing the number of pins in the touch controller (not shown), but the technical effects of the sensor units 100'''', 100'''''' in Figures 26 and 27 can be achieved together. That is, display noise and LGM (Low Ground Mass) due to poor grounding of objects acting on the sensor unit 100'''' can be canceled out, sensing sensitivity can be improved, and the occurrence of flicker in the display panel equipped with the sensor unit 100'''''' can be reduced or eliminated.

[0277] Figure 29 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0278] Referring to Figure 29, the electronic device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention includes a sensor unit 1500, a display panel 1000, a controller 2000, and a display controller 3000.

[0279] The sensor unit 1500 may be included in the display panel 1000 or may be configured separately. The sensor unit 1500 may include any one of the sensor units shown in Figures 4 to 25.

[0280] The sensor unit 1500 includes a plurality of first electrodes and a plurality of second electrodes. The plurality of first electrodes become a plurality of driving electrodes Tx0, Tx1, Tx2, Tx3, Tx4, Tx5, Tx6, Tx7, and the plurality of second electrodes become a plurality of receiving electrodes Rx0, Rx1, Rx2, Rx3.

[0281] Multiple driving electrodes Tx0, Tx1, Tx2, Tx3, Tx4, Tx5, Tx6, Tx7 may be a number of first patterns 101 shown in Figures 4 to 25, and multiple receiving electrodes Rx0, Rx1, Rx2, Rx3 may be a number of third patterns 103 shown in Figures 4 to 25. Conversely, multiple driving electrodes Tx0, Tx1, Tx2, Tx3, Tx4, Tx5, Tx6, Tx7 may be a number of third patterns 103 shown in Figures 4 to 25, and multiple receiving electrodes Rx0, Rx1, Rx2, Rx3 may be a number of first patterns 101 shown in Figures 4 to 25.

[0282] The controller 2000 controls the sensor unit 1500. The controller 2000 may include any one of the touch controllers shown in Figures 4 to 25. The controller 2000 may include a drive and sensing unit 2100 and a control unit 2200.

[0283] The controller 2000 can sequentially supply drive signals to multiple drive electrodes Tx0, Tx1, Tx2, Tx3, Tx4, Tx5, Tx6, and Tx7 of the sensor unit 1500, or it can simultaneously supply predetermined drive signals to at least two or more of the multiple drive electrodes Tx0, Tx1, Tx2, Tx3, Tx4, Tx5, Tx6, and Tx7.

[0284] The controller 2000 receives sensing signals output from multiple receiving electrodes Rx0, Rx1, Rx2, and Rx3 of the sensor unit 1500. The sensing signals may include information on the change in capacitance between each receiving electrode and the adjacent driving electrode, an LGM noise signal, and a display noise signal.

[0285] Each receiving electrode Rx0, Rx1, Rx2, and Rx3 may consist of a pair of receiving electrodes. For example, the 0th receiving electrode Rx0 includes a pair of receiving electrodes Rx0a and Rx0b, and many pairs of receiving electrodes Rx0a and Rx0b may be arranged alternately. Multiple 0a receiving electrodes Rx0a may be electrically connected to each other, and multiple 0b receiving electrodes Rx0b may be electrically connected to each other.

[0286] The 0a receiving electrode Rx0a may be arranged to form a dominant mutual capacitance with the 0th driving electrode Tx0, the 2nd driving electrode Tx2, the 4th driving electrode Tx4, and the 6th driving electrode Tx6, and the 0b receiving electrode Rx0b may be arranged to form a dominant mutual capacitance with the 1st driving electrode Tx1, the 3rd driving electrode Tx3, the 5th driving electrode Tx5, and the 7th driving electrode Tx7. On the other hand, the 0a receiving electrode Rx0a may be arranged to form a relatively small mutual capacitance with the 1st driving electrode Tx1, the 3rd driving electrode Tx3, the 5th driving electrode Tx5, and the 7th driving electrode Tx7, and the 0b receiving electrode Rx0b may be arranged to form a relatively small mutual capacitance with the 0th driving electrode Tx0, the 2nd driving electrode Tx2, the 4th driving electrode Tx4, and the 6th driving electrode Tx6.

[0287] The remaining receiving electrodes Rx1, Rx2, and Rx3 may be configured in the same way as the 0th receiving electrode Rx0.

[0288] The controller 2000 can convert the sensing signals output from multiple receiving electrodes Rx0, Rx1, Rx2, and Rx3 from analog to digital and output a digital sensing signal.

[0289] The controller 2000 can output a differential signal obtained by differentially extracting two of the sensing signals output from multiple receiving electrodes Rx0, Rx1, Rx2, and Rx3, and can output the resulting signal after analog-to-digital conversion. Based on the output digital signal, such a controller 2000 can detect the presence or absence of a touch and / or the touch location.

[0290] The controller 2000 may include a drive and sensing unit 2100 that applies drive signals to at least one drive electrode Tx0, Tx1, Tx2, Tx3, Tx4, Tx5, Tx6, Tx7 of the sensor unit 1500 and receives sensing signals from multiple receiving electrodes Rx0, Rx1, Rx2, Rx3 of the sensor unit 1500, and a control unit 2200 that controls the drive and sensing unit 2100.

[0291] The display panel 1000 may have a large number of scan lines (or gate lines) and a large number of data lines. Subpixels can be located in the region where the scan lines and data lines intersect.

[0292] The display panel 1000 may include an active region where a number of subpixels are arranged, and an inactive region (dead space or bezel) located outside the active region. The active region can constitute the display screen of an electronic device. The display screen may have a landscape shape in which the horizontal length is longer than the vertical length. Alternatively, the display screen may have a portrait shape in which the vertical length is longer than the horizontal length.

[0293] The display controller (3000) controls the display panel 1000 and includes a gate drive circuit 3100, a display control unit 3200, and a data drive circuit 3300.

[0294] Figure 30 is a diagram illustrating a sensor unit in a conventional landscape configuration.

[0295] The sensor unit shown in Figure 30 is configured to detect only the touch position of an object such as a finger. Such a sensor unit consists of a number of first patterns 101 extending in the first direction X, which is the long axis, and a number of third patterns 103 extending in the second direction Y, which is the short axis. The number of first patterns 101 and the number of third patterns 103 are arranged to intersect each other and are configured to be electrically isolated from each other.

[0296] In the sensor unit shown in Figure 30, a number of third patterns 103 function as drive electrodes TX to which a touch drive signal is applied, and a number of first patterns 101 function as receiving electrodes RX to which a touch sensing signal is output. Each first pattern 101 is separated into two with respect to a virtual cutting line CL.

[0297] In Figure 30, the numerous first patterns 101 consist of a total of 112 units. With respect to the cutting line CL, 56 first patterns 101 are arranged on the left side and 56 first patterns 101 are arranged on the right side. The numerous third patterns 103 consist of a total of 82 units. Therefore, the total number of channels (or pins) of the touch controller (not shown) for controlling the sensor unit shown in Figure 30 is 194.

[0298] Figures 31(A) and (B) are diagrams illustrating other sensor components in a conventional landscape configuration.

[0299] The conventional sensor unit shown in Figure 31(A) can not only sense the position of an object such as a finger, but can also drive a stylus pen and sense the position of the stylus pen. For this purpose, the conventional sensor unit shown in Figure 31(A) has an additional second pattern 102 and a fourth pattern 104 added to the sensor unit shown in Figure 30. Also, for noise reduction, each third pattern 103 that functions at the receiving electrode RX consists of a pair of electrodes 103a, 103b arranged alternately along the second direction Y, as shown in Figure 29.

[0300] The conventional sensor unit shown in Figure 31(A) has an additional number of second patterns 102 and fourth patterns 104 compared to the conventional sensor unit shown in Figure 30, and each third pattern 103 is composed of a pair of electrodes 103a and 103b. Therefore, the total number of channels in the touch controller (not shown) is 358, which is the sum of the number of first patterns 101 (56) located to the left of the cutting line CL, the number of first patterns (56) located to the right, the number of third patterns 103 (164), and the number of fourth patterns 104 (82). Here, the numerous second patterns 102 are excluded from the number of channels in the touch controller (not shown) because they are not electrically connected to the touch controller (not shown).

[0301] The sensor unit shown in Figure 31(B) differs from the sensor unit shown in Figure 31(A) in that a number of first patterns 101 function as receiving electrodes RX, and a number of third patterns 103 function as driving electrodes TX, with each first pattern 101 consisting of a pair of electrodes 101a, 101b arranged alternately along a first direction X.

[0302] The conventional sensor unit shown in Figure 31(B) is composed of a pair of electrodes 101a and 101b in which each first pattern 101 is arranged alternately along the first direction X, compared to the conventional sensor unit shown in Figure 31(A). Therefore, the total number of channels in the touch controller (not shown) is 388.

[0303] Comparing Figure 31(A) and Figure 31(B), it can be seen that, due to the characteristics of the landscape shape, the number of channels required for the touch controller (not shown) for the sensor unit in Figure 31(B) is relatively higher.

[0304] Figures 32(A) and 32(B) are diagrams illustrating the sensor portion of an electronic device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0305] The sensor unit shown in Figure 32(A) is connected to a touch controller (not shown) in a double routing method of numerous first patterns 101, and in the sensor unit shown in Figure 5, each third pattern 103 consists of a pair of electrodes 103a, 103b arranged alternately along the second direction Y, as shown in Figure 29.

[0306] The number of channels in the touch controller (not shown) for the sensor unit shown in Figure 32(A) is 276. Here, the numerous fourth patterns 104 are not electrically connected to the touch controller (not shown). Compared to the conventional touch controller (not shown) for the sensor unit shown in Figure 31(A), the numerous first patterns 101 connected in a double routing method also function in the second mode where the stylus pen is driven, which has the advantage of being able to relatively reduce the number of channels in the touch controller (not shown) by about 22%.

[0307] The sensor unit shown in Figure 32(B) is such that, in the sensor unit shown in Figure 5, each first pattern 101 is composed of a pair of electrodes 101a, 101b arranged alternately along the first direction X, as shown in Figure 29.

[0308] The touch controller (not shown) for the sensor unit shown in Figure 32(B) has 306 channels. Here, the numerous fourth patterns 104 are not electrically connected to the touch controller (not shown). Compared to the conventional touch controller (not shown) for the sensor unit shown in Figure 31(B), the numerous first patterns 101 connected in a double routing method also function in the second mode where the stylus pen is driven, which has the advantage of being able to relatively reduce the number of channels in the touch controller (not shown) by about 22%.

[0309] While there are no particular problems if the display screen size of the electronic device having the sensor section shown in Figures 31 and 32 is the size of a typical smartphone screen, for example, 6.9 inches, if the display screen size is larger, such as 11 inches or 16 inches, as in a tablet PC or foldable device, the lengths of the first to fourth patterns 101, 102, 103, and 104 of the sensor section shown in Figure 31 will also increase, thus increasing the overall resistance and capacitance of the sensor section. This increase in resistance and capacitance narrows the operating frequency bandwidth of the touch drive signal applied to the touch drive electrode TX and the pen drive signal applied to the stylus pen drive electrode STX, which may result in the inability to obtain the operating frequency bandwidth required during the design phase.

[0310] On the other hand, in the embodiment of the present invention shown in Figure 32, since there is no dedicated channel for the pen drive electrode STX, there is an advantage that the resistance and capacitance values ​​can be reduced, and the operating frequency bandwidth required for the design can be extended.

[0311] Figure 33 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0312] The electronic device shown in Figure 33 differs from the electronic device according to the fourth embodiment shown in Figure 29 in the following ways.

[0313] In the sensor unit 1500 shown in Figure 29, multiple first electrodes become multiple driving electrodes Tx0, Tx1, Tx2, Tx3, Tx4, Tx5, Tx6, Tx7, and multiple second electrodes become multiple receiving electrodes Rx0, Rx1, Rx2, Rx3. However, in the sensor unit 1500' shown in Figure 33, conversely, multiple first electrodes become multiple receiving electrodes Rx0, Rx1, Rx2, Rx3, Rx4, Rx5, Rx6, Rx7, and multiple second electrodes become multiple driving electrodes Tx0, Tx1, Tx2, Tx3.

[0314] Multiple driving electrodes Tx0, Tx1, Tx2, Tx3 may be a number of first patterns 101 shown in Figures 4 to 25 and 32, and multiple receiving electrodes Rx0, Rx1, Rx2, Rx3, Rx4, Rx5, Rx6, Rx7 may be a number of third patterns 103 shown in Figures 4 to 25 and 32. Conversely, multiple driving electrodes Tx0, Tx1, Tx2, Tx3 may be a number of third patterns 103 shown in Figures 4 to 25 and 32, and multiple receiving electrodes Rx0, Rx1, Rx2, Rx3, Rx4, Rx5, Rx6, Rx7 may be a number of first patterns 101 shown in Figures 4 to 25 and 32.

[0315] Whether the multiple first electrodes become multiple drive electrodes, as shown in Figure 29, or multiple receiving electrodes, as shown in Figure 33, can be determined by the control of the control unit 2200.

[0316] In the control unit 2200, if a drive signal is applied to multiple first electrodes, the multiple first electrodes can become multiple drive electrodes, and if a drive signal is applied to multiple second electrodes, the multiple second electrodes can become multiple receiving electrodes.

[0317] Multiple driving electrodes Tx0, Tx1, Tx2, Tx3 and multiple receiving electrodes Rx0, Rx1, Rx2, Rx3, Rx4, Rx5, Rx6, Rx7 may be arranged so as to intersect each other. Each driving electrode Tx0, Tx1, Tx2, Tx3 may extend in the direction of the second axis, and each receiving electrode Rx0, Rx1, Rx2, Rx3, Rx4, Rx5, Rx6, Rx7 may extend in a first axis direction different from the first axis direction. Here, the first axis direction may be perpendicular to the second axis direction.

[0318] Some of the multiple driving electrodes Tx0, Tx1, Tx2, Tx3, Tx0a, Tx1a, Tx2a, Tx3a, ... may be arranged such that a mutual capacitance Cm is formed with some of the even-numbered receiving electrodes Rx0, Rx1, Rx2, ... of the multiple receiving electrodes Rx0, Rx1, Rx2, ... and the remaining driving electrodes Tx0b, Tx1b, Tx2b, Tx3b, ... may be arranged such that a mutual capacitance Cm is formed with the remaining odd-numbered receiving electrodes Rx1, Rx3, Rx5, Rx7, ... of the multiple driving electrodes Tx0, Tx1, Tx2, Tx3, Tx0b, Tx1b, Tx2b, Tx3b, ...

[0319] Some of the multiple driving electrodes Tx0, Tx1, Tx2, Tx3, Tx0a, Tx1a, Tx2a, Tx3a, ... may be positioned so as to be immediately adjacent to some of the even-numbered receiving electrodes Rx0, Rx2, Rx4, Rx6, ... of the multiple receiving electrodes Rx0, Rx1, Rx2, ..., while they may be positioned so as to be separated by a predetermined distance from the remaining odd-numbered receiving electrodes Rx1, Rx3, Rx5, Rx7, ...

[0320] Here, at least one other electrode may be placed between some of the driving electrodes Tx0a, Tx1a, Tx2a, Tx3a, ... and the remaining odd-numbered receiving electrodes Rx1, Rx3, Rx5, Rx7, ... These other electrodes may be some of the even-numbered receiving electrodes Rx0, Rx2, Rx4, Rx6, ...

[0321] Of the multiple driving electrodes Tx0, Tx1, Tx2, Tx3, the remaining driving electrodes Tx0b, Tx1b, Tx2b, Tx3b, ... may be arranged so as to be immediately adjacent to the odd-numbered receiving electrodes Rx1, Rx3, Rx5, Rx7, ... of the multiple receiving electrodes Rx0, Rx1, Rx2, ..., and may be arranged so as to be separated by a predetermined distance from some of the even-numbered receiving electrodes Rx0, Rx2, Rx4, Rx6, ... rather than being immediately adjacent.

[0322] Here, at least one other electrode may be placed between the remaining drive electrodes Tx0b, Tx1b, Tx2b, Tx3b, ... and some of the even-numbered receiving electrodes Rx0, Rx2, Rx4, Rx6, .... These other electrodes may be the remaining odd-numbered receiving electrodes Rx1, Rx3, Rx5, Rx7, ...

[0323] The drive signals applied to the remaining drive electrodes Tx0b, Tx1b, Tx2b, Tx3b, ... may be inverted drive signals obtained by inverting only the phase of the drive signals applied to some of the drive electrodes Tx0a, Tx1a, Tx2a, Tx3a, ... by 180 degrees.

[0324] For example, in the pair of drive electrodes Tx0a and Tx0b of the 0th drive electrode Tx0, the drive signal applied to Tx0b is an inverted drive signal obtained by inverting the drive signal applied to Tx0a.

[0325] The electronic device shown in Figure 33 is capable of multi-drive operation, simultaneously applying drive signals to all drive electrodes Tx0, Tx1, Tx2, Tx3,… of the sensor unit 1500'. This multi-drive operation has the advantage of preventing flicker issues in the display panel. Furthermore, because all drive electrodes Tx0, Tx1, Tx2, Tx3,… are capable of multi-drive operation, the drive time required for mutual sensing can be reduced. Additionally, the turn-on time of the analog front-end (AFE) can also be reduced, further decreasing power consumption.

[0326] Figure 34 is a diagram illustrating the stack-up structure of electronic devices according to various embodiments shown in Figures 4 to 33.

[0327] The electronic device may include a cover layer 310, a sensor section 320, a display section 330, a magnetic field shielding layer 340, and a conductive layer 350.

[0328] The cover layer 310 is placed on the display section 330 and is made of a transparent material, allowing the tip of a stylus pen to make direct contact with the surface (or touch surface) of the cover layer 310.

[0329] The display unit 330 is located beneath the cover layer 310 and visually provides predetermined information in response to control by a display controller (not shown). For example, the display unit 330 may be a flexible LCD module or a flexible OLED module.

[0330] A sensor unit 320 capable of not only sensing a finger but also driving and / or sensing a stylus pen may be placed between the cover layer 310 and the display unit 330. The sensor unit 320 may include at least one of the sensor units described earlier with reference to Figures 4 to 33.

[0331] The magnetic field shielding layer 340 can block magnetic fields so that other electronic components inside the electronic device are not affected by them. It can also dissipate heat emitted from the electronic components and block electromagnetic waves (EMI) from the electronic components.

[0332] The conductive layer 350 may be a metal such as copper or aluminum, or an alloy made by adding other metals or nonmetallic elements to at least one metal. The conductive layer 350 may have an electrical ground potential.

[0333] Figure 35 is a schematic diagram of a foldable device, which is an example of an electronic device described in Figures 4 to 34.

[0334] The foldable device includes an internal touchscreen 200 and an external touchscreen 250.

[0335] As described above, the electronic devices shown in Figures 4 to 34 can drive and / or sense not only objects such as fingers but also a stylus pen at the sensor part. Therefore, the foldable device as an electronic device according to the embodiment of the present invention does not require the digitizer described in Figure 4. Consequently, there is no need for a digitizer to be attached to the bottom of the internal touchscreen 200 and the external touchscreen 250, which prevents an increase in the overall thickness and manufacturing cost of the foldable device.

[0336] Furthermore, stylus pen functionality can be supported not only by the internal touchscreen but also by the external touchscreen.

[0337] Furthermore, by connecting the first pattern to the touch controller using a double routing method, the connection conditions of sensors such as drive, receive, ground, and floating during object touch and stylus touch can be flexibly controlled according to the user's requirements.

[0338] Furthermore, switching via a multiplexer within the touch controller becomes unnecessary, preventing current loss due to the resistance of the multiplexer itself and simplifying the configuration of the electronic device.

[0339] Furthermore, in the case of tablet PCs or foldable devices with larger screens, the elimination of the need for additional stylus sensing sensors reduces the number of touch-driven trace channels. This significantly reduces the number of channels compared to conventional finger-touch and stylus-touch screens, allowing for a substantial reduction in the thickness of the bezel in the width direction of the electronic device. Furthermore, by eliminating the need for additional stylus sensing sensors, stylus functionality becomes possible on both the internal and external touchscreens of foldable devices without increasing the thickness of the display panel or manufacturing costs.

[0340] Figure 36 is a perspective view of a stylus pen 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0341] Referring to Figure 36, a stylus pen 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a housing 101 and a nib 102.

[0342] The housing 101 forms the external appearance of the stylus pen 100. The housing 101 has a predetermined space formed inside and has an elongated shape in one direction. The housing 101 may be made up of two or more parts joined together, or it may be formed as a single, integrated part.

[0343] The housing 101 may be made of a non-conductive synthetic resin material.

[0344] The housing 101 may include a first housing 101a and a second housing 101b. The first housing 101a and the second housing 101b can be joined together to form the appearance of the stylus pen 100. Various components are housed inside the first housing 101a and the second housing 101b.

[0345] A button section 109 may be located in the housing 101. The button section 109 may be located on the intermediate outer surface of the second housing 101b. The button section 109 may be for performing a specific operation of the stylus pen 100. For example, it may be a mechanical or contact button for a cancel operation.

[0346] The core 102 includes one end that is located outside the housing 101, and the remaining portion, excluding the aforementioned end, is located inside the housing 101. Here, the end of the core 102 may also be called the pen tip.

[0347] An external force can cause a portion of one end of the core body 102 to move into the housing 101. The greater the external force, the greater the volume of the portion of the core body 102 that enters the housing 101. When the applied external force decreases, the portion of the core body 102 that enters the housing 101 will move out of the housing 101 again due to the mechanical movement of the components inside the housing 101. When the external force is removed, the portion of the core body 102 that enters the housing 101 returns to its original state.

[0348] The internal structure of housing 101 will be described below with reference to Figures 37 and 38.

[0349] Figure 37 is a cross-sectional view of part A of the stylus pen 100 shown in Figure 36, and Figure 38 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the inductor section 120 shown in Figure 37.

[0350] Referring to Figures 37 and 38, a stylus pen 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a buffer member 115, an inductor section 120, and a capacitor section (not shown) located inside the housing 101.

[0351] The cushioning member 115 is positioned inside the housing 101, between one end of the ferrite core 121 and the inner surface of the housing 101. The cushioning member 115 may be positioned inside the tapered portion 101t of the housing 101. Here, the tapered portion 101t of the housing 101 is the part of both ends of the housing 101 adjacent to one end of the core body 102, and has a shape in which its width and diameter decrease towards the end of one end of the housing 101.

[0352] The buffer member 115 has a conical or polygonal pyramidal shape and has a through hole through which one end of the ferrite core 121 and the body 102a of the core body 102 pass. The inner surface defining the through hole may have a shape corresponding to the outer surface of one end of the ferrite core 121 and the outer surface of the body 102a of the core body 102. Here, the body 102a of the core body 102 refers to the portion of the core body 102, which has an elongated shape in one direction, that is positioned within the through hole of the ferrite core 121.

[0353] The cushioning member 115 may be made of an elastic material such as rubber to act as a buffer between the ferrite core 121 and the housing 101. Such a cushioning member 115 can protect the housing 101, the ferrite core 121, etc., and block external electrical or magnetic influences.

[0354] The cushioning member 115 has a shape that covers one end of the ferrite core 121 or the lower end 121b of the ferrite core 121.

[0355] A virtual tangent line L1, which is in common contact with the tapered portion 101t of the housing 101 and a part of the core body 102 located outside the housing 101 (or the pen tip), forms a predetermined angle θ with the central axis Y of the core body 102. Here, it is preferable that the predetermined angle θ is within 30°. If the predetermined angle θ is within 30°, drawing becomes possible even when the stylus pen according to one embodiment of the present invention is tilted at 60° to the contact surface.

[0356] The inductor section 120 can constitute an LC resonant section with a capacitor section (not shown). The resonant frequency may be set by the inductance (L) value of the inductor section 120 and the capacitance (C) value of the capacitor section (not shown). The resonant frequency may be varied by changing the inductance (L) value of the inductor section 120 or the capacitance (C) value of the capacitor section (not shown).

[0357] The inductor section 120 includes a ferrite core 121 and a coil section 123 wound around the outer surface of the ferrite core 121.

[0358] The coil portion 123 may be wound around the ferrite core 121 in at least one layer.

[0359] The ferrite core 121 may have an overall cylindrical or polygonal cylindrical shape, and a through hole 121h may be formed that penetrates the interior along the longitudinal direction of the ferrite core 121.

[0360] The ferrite core 121 has a through-hole 121h through which the body 102a of the core 102 passes. The body 102a of the core 102 can reciprocate linearly along its longitudinal direction through the through-hole 121h.

[0361] One end of the ferrite core 121 may have a tapered shape in which the diameter or width decreases towards the end. Here, the outer surface of the tapered end may include at least one curved portion 121c that curves inward.

[0362] The ferrite core 121 may include an upper end 121a and a lower end 121b positioned below the upper end 121a. Here, the upper end 121a and the lower end 121b may be integrally formed.

[0363] The upper end portion 121a has a cylindrical, elliptical, or polygonal shape. Here, the diameter and width of the cylinder or polygonal tube may be constant as shown in the drawing. Alternatively, the diameter and width of the cylinder, elliptical, or polygonal tube may not be constant, and may differ from the diameter and width of a portion of the tube.

[0364] The upper end portion 121a has a part of a through hole 121h formed inside, through which the body 102a of the core 102 passes. The coil portion 123 is arranged on the outer surface of the upper end portion 121a.

[0365] The lower end portion 121b has the remainder of the through hole 121h through which the body 102a of the core body 102 passes.

[0366] The lower end portion 121b has a tapered shape, becoming narrower from top to bottom, but at least a portion of the outer surface of the lower end portion 121b has a curved portion 121c that curves inward from the lower end portion 121b. There may be at least one curved portion 121c. The technical effects of a stylus pen according to one embodiment of the present invention, which includes a ferrite core 121 having such a curved portion 121c, will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0367] Figures 39(a) and 39(b) are diagrams illustrating the internal structure and effects of a stylus pen according to one embodiment of the present invention shown in Figures 37 and 38. Specifically, Figure 39(b) is a cross-sectional view of the stylus pen according to one embodiment of the present invention shown in Figures 37 and 38, and Figure 39(a) is a cross-sectional view when the ferrite core 121 in Figure 39(b) is replaced with the ferrite core 131' shown on the right side of Figure 2.

[0368] Referring to Figures 39(a) and 39(b), the stylus pen according to one embodiment of the present invention shown in Figure 39(b) allows the ferrite core 121 to be positioned further down by a predetermined length S than the ferrite core 131' shown in Figure 39(a).

[0369] With this configuration, when using the stylus pen according to one embodiment of the present invention, the inductor portion 120 including the ferrite core 121 can be brought even closer to the receiver side (not shown) located below the core body 102 of the stylus pen. Therefore, there is an advantage in that the magnitude of the pen signal sensed by the receiver side becomes even larger. This is possible because the shape of the ferrite core 121 of the stylus pen according to one embodiment of the present invention allows for a reduction in the thickness of the buffer member 115 (between the inner and outer surfaces). This will be explained in detail below with reference to Figure 40.

[0370] Figures 40(a) to 40(c) are diagrams for further detailing the internal structure of a stylus pen according to one embodiment of the present invention shown in Figures 37 to 38 and the effects thereof. Specifically, Figure 40(a) is the same diagram as Figure 39(a), Figure 40(b) is the same diagram as Figure 39(b), and Figure 40(c) is a diagram showing the case where the ferrite core 121 is placed in the same position as the ferrite core 131' in Figure 40(a).

[0371] Referring to Figure 40(a), the cushioning member 115' has a certain thickness T2 between its inner and outer surfaces. The more the thickness T2 is minimized, the lower the ferrite core 131' can be positioned within the tapered portion 101t of the housing 101. However, due to the structure of the cushioning member 115' and other manufacturing process reasons, there is a limit to the thickness T2.

[0372] Here, assuming that the thickness T2 is the minimum thickness that the cushioning member 115' can have due to the structure of the cushioning member 115' or other manufacturing process reasons, if the conventional ferrite core 131' is positioned at the lowest end within the housing 101, then the result is as shown in Figure 40(a).

[0373] Referring to Figure 40(c), the ferrite core 121 is positioned in the same location as the ferrite core 131' in Figure 40(a). However, since the ferrite core 121 has a curved portion 121c, the cushioning member 115'' has a corresponding structural difference from the cushioning member 115' shown in Figure 40(a). Specifically, the inner surface of the cushioning member 115'' has a curved surface that is convex outward, corresponding to the curved portion 121c of the ferrite core 121.

[0374] The thickness between the outer surface and the curved inner surface of the cushioning member 115'' varies depending on the location. Specifically, the upper and lower ends of the inner surface of the cushioning member 115'' have a minimum thickness of T2 from the outer surface, while the middle portion of the inner surface of the cushioning member 115'' has a thickness between T2 and T1 (>T2).

[0375] In Figure 40(c), at least a portion of the cushioning member 115'' (upper and lower ends) meets the minimum thickness T2, and the middle portion of the cushioning member 115'' has a thickness T1 that is greater than the minimum thickness T2. Thus, since the thickness T1 of the middle portion of the cushioning member 115'' is greater than T2, there is an advantage in that the manufacturing of the cushioning member 115'' is even easier than that of the conventional cushioning member 115' in Figure 40(a).

[0376] Referring to (b) of FIG. 40, the inner surface of the buffer member 115 is formed into a curved surface by the curved surface portion 121c of the ferrite core 121. The upper and lower ends of the inner surface of the buffer member 115 have a thickness of T3 (<T2) with respect to the outer surface of the buffer member 115, and the middle portion of the inner surface of the buffer member 115 has a thickness between T3 and T2 with respect to the outer surface of the buffer member 115.

[0377] In (b) of FIG. 40, although the minimum thickness of T2 cannot be satisfied at the upper and lower ends of the buffer member 115, the minimum thickness of T2 can be satisfied at the middle portion of the buffer member 115, so that the buffer member 115 can be manufactured. The buffer member 115 manufactured in this way has a smaller minimum thickness than the buffer members 115' and 115'' shown in (a) and (c) of FIG. 40, so that the volume of the buffer member 115 can be further reduced. Therefore, the buffer member 115 can be arranged further downward from inside the tapered portion 101t of the housing 101, and thereby, the ferrite core 121 can be arranged further downward by a predetermined height S than in (a) or (c) of FIG. 40.

[0378] FIG. 41 is a drawing for explaining the increase amount of the pen signal magnitude according to the predetermined height S shown in (a) to (c) of FIG. 40.

[0379] Referring to the table shown in FIG. 41, it can be confirmed that the magnitude of the pen signal received on the receiver side increases as the predetermined height S increases.

[0380] As described above, the stylus pen 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention shown in Figures 37 to 40 has a different configuration from the conventional ferrite core 131' in the shape of the tapered portion of the ferrite core 121 of the inductor portion 120. This allows for a further reduction in the thickness of the buffer member 115, and enables the ferrite core 121 to be positioned closer to the end of the core body 102 inside the housing 101. Therefore, a stronger pen signal can be obtained from the receiver side that receives the pen signal emitted from the stylus pen 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention, thereby improving the sensing sensitivity of the stylus pen on the receiver side.

[0381] On the other hand, the receiver mentioned several times earlier means a module or device that receives pen signals emitted from a stylus pen 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The receiver may be a general digitizer or a display panel. The display panel may have a loop pattern of at least one conductive material. The loop pattern may be coupled to a touch sensor or coupled to the display panel separately from the touch sensor.

[0382] In the following, the specific internal structure of a stylus pen 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention, to which the ferrite core 121 and cushioning member 115 shown in Figures 37 to 40 are applied, will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0383] Figure 42 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the stylus pen 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention shown in Figure 36; Figure 43(a) is a perspective view illustrating the structure of the internal case 110 and buffer member 115 shown in Figure 42; Figure 43(b) is a perspective view of only the internal case 110; Figure 44 is a perspective view excluding the internal case 110 shown in Figure 43(a); and Figures 45(a) and (b) show the first fixing member 13 shown in Figures 42 and 44. Figure 46(a) and (b) are perspective views of the movable member 170 shown in Figures 42 and 44 from various sides, Figure 47(a) and (b) are perspective views of the second fixing member 190 shown in Figures 42 and 44 from various sides, Figure 48 is a perspective view of a partial configuration shown in Figures 42 and 44 from one side, and Figure 49(a) and (b) are perspective views of only a partial configuration shown in Figures 42 and 44.

[0384] Referring to Figure 42, the stylus pen 100 includes at least two of the following: an internal case 110, a buffer member 115, an inductor section 120, a capacitor section (not shown), a first fixing member 130, a magnetic material 140, a cover member 150, a ring terminal 161, contact terminals 165a, 165b, a movable member 170, a first elastic member 180, a second elastic member 185, an elastic body 155, a second fixing member 190, and a substrate 210.

[0385] The internal case 110 is made of a non-conductive material and is placed inside the housing 101. Specifically, the internal case 110 can be placed inside the first housing 101a of the housing 101. The internal case 110 may have a shape that surrounds the inductor section 120, the first fixing member 130, the ferrite chip 140, the cover member 150, the ring terminal 161, the contact terminals 165a, 165b, the movable member 170, the first elastic member 180, the second elastic member 185, the elastic body 155, and the second fixing member 190. The internal case 110 can serve to protect the various components placed inside from physical and / or electrical shocks.

[0386] Referring to Figures 42 and 43(a) and (b), the internal case 110 may have a first opening 111 in which the first projection 131 of the first fixing member 130 and the first projection (192) of the second fixing member 190 are positioned. The first opening 111 may have a base groove 111b that extends in the longitudinal direction of the stylus pen 100, and a number of extension grooves 111e that are connected to the base groove 111b and extend in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the base groove 111b. The number of extension grooves 111e may be formed at positions corresponding to the number of first projections 131 and 192. As an example, the first opening 111 may have an "E" shape.

[0387] The internal case 110 can be rotated counterclockwise or clockwise around the core body 102 as the axis of rotation, allowing the numerous first protrusions 131, 192 to be positioned from the numerous extension grooves 111e to the base groove 111b, or from the base groove 111b to the numerous extension grooves 111e. In particular, by positioning the numerous first protrusions 131, 192 from the base groove 111b to the numerous extension grooves 111e, the positions of the first fixing member 130 and the second fixing member 190 can be fixed inside the internal case 110. On the other hand, since the movable member 170 is not directly connected to the internal case 110, it can move in conjunction with the linear reciprocating motion of the core body 102 caused by external forces between the first fixing member 130 and the second fixing member 190.

[0388] The internal case 110 may have a second opening 113 in which extension coils 125a and 125b are positioned and connection terminals 165a and 165b are exposed. The second opening 113 provides space for the extension coils 125a and 125b and can protect them from external impacts. In addition, the mounting position of the connection terminals 165a and 165b can be easily confirmed through the second opening 113.

[0389] The buffer member 115 may be positioned between the inductor 120 and the housing 101, and between the core 102 and the internal case 110. The buffer member 115 has a through hole through which the core 102 passes. Such a buffer member 115 can guide the position of the core 102, stably fix the inductor portion 120, and block external electrical or magnetic influences on the inductor portion 120. Such a buffer member 115 may be configured separately from the internal case 110, but is not limited to this, and the buffer member 115 may be configured integrally with the internal case 110.

[0390] Referring to Figures 42 and 44, the buffer member 115, inductor section 120, first fixing member 130, movable member 170, and second fixing member 190 may be arranged sequentially along the longitudinal direction of the stylus pen 100 (hereinafter referred to as the "longitudinal direction") from one end of the core body 102. That is, the inductor section 120 may be arranged on the buffer member 115 along the longitudinal direction, the first fixing member 130 on the inductor section 120, the movable member 170 on the first fixing member 130, and the second fixing member 190 on the movable member 170.

[0391] The inductor section 120 includes a ferrite core 121 and a coil section 123 wound around the ferrite core 121. The ferrite core 121 has a through-hole through which a core body 102 passes. The core body 102 can reciprocate linearly along the longitudinal direction through the through-hole. The coil section 123 may be wound around the ferrite core 121 in at least one layer. Extension coils 125a and 125b may be connected to both ends of the coil section 123, respectively. The extension coils 125a and 125b extend along the longitudinal direction and may be connected to coil electrodes 213a and 213b, respectively, which are arranged on the substrate 210.

[0392] The inductor section 120 is fixedly installed inside the housing 101. The inductor section 120 may be fixed between the first fixing member 130 and the buffer member 115 in the longitudinal direction. The inductor section 120 may be fixed by the internal case 110 in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (hereinafter referred to as the "vertical direction").

[0393] The inductor section 120 may be fixed and positioned on one side of the first fixing member 130. Here, a portion of the inductor section 120 may be positioned in the second cavity 133b of the first fixing member 130.

[0394] The inductor section 120 can be electrically connected to a capacitor section (not shown) mounted on the substrate 210 to form a resonant circuit. The resonant frequency may be set by the inductance (L) value of the inductor section 120 and the capacitance (C) value of the capacitor section (not shown). Since the inductance (L) value of the inductor section 120 changes with the movement of the magnetic material 140, the resonant frequency may be variable.

[0395] The capacitor section (not shown) is placed on the substrate 210. It has a preset capacitance (C) value. The capacitor section (not shown) may include two or more capacitors. At least one of the two or more capacitors may be configured in a circuit where it is always electrically connected to the inductor section 120 as a basic capacitor.

[0396] The capacitor section (not shown) includes a jumping capacitor 215. The jumping capacitor 215 is mounted on the substrate 210 and may be configured to be electrically connected to connection terminals 165a and 165b. For example, the jumping capacitor 215 may be electrically connected to connection pads 211a and 211b located on the substrate 210 via conductive patterns 212a and 212b. The jumping capacitor 215 may be electrically connected to and disconnected from the basic capacitor as the core body 102 moves. When no external force is applied to the core body 102, the ring terminal 161 is in contact with the connection terminals 165a and 165b, and the jumping capacitor 215 is electrically connected to the basic capacitor. On the other hand, if an external force is applied to the core body 102 and the movable member 170, which is linked to the core body 102, moves toward the first elastic member 180, the ring terminal 161 will separate from the connection terminals 165a and 165b. At this time, the jumping capacitor 215 can be electrically isolated from the basic capacitor.

[0397] Referring to Figures 42, 44, and 45(a) and (b), the first fixing member 130 is positioned inside the internal case 110. The first fixing member 130 has an overall cylindrical shape. The first fixing member 130 has a first cavity 133a and a second cavity 133b. The magnetic material 140 shown in Figure 42 is positioned in the first cavity 133a, and one end of the ferrite core 121 of the inductor section 120 shown in Figure 42 is positioned in the second cavity 133b. A partition wall 132 is positioned between the first cavity 133a and the second cavity 133b, and the partition wall 132 has a through hole 132h through which the core body 102 passes.

[0398] An inductor section 120 is positioned on one side of the first fixing member 130, and a second fixing member 190 is positioned at a predetermined distance from the other side of the first fixing member 130.

[0399] The outer surface of the first fixing member 130 may have a number of the first protrusions 131 described above.

[0400] The outer surface of the first fixing member 130 may have a number of first grooves 135 in which the numerous extensions 171 of the movable member 170 are each positioned. Furthermore, the outer surface of the first fixing member 130 may have a second groove 137 formed along the longitudinal direction, which maintains a constant distance from the extension coils 125a and 125b shown in Figure 44.

[0401] Referring to Figures 42, 44, and 46(a) and (b), the movable member 170 is positioned between the first fixed member 130 and the second fixed member 190. The movable member 170 can reciprocate linearly between the first fixed member 130 and the second fixed member 190 in conjunction with the longitudinal movement of the core body 102.

[0402] The first fixing member 130 and the second fixing member 190 may also be named as fixing parts.

[0403] The movable member 170 is located inside the internal case 110. The movable member 170 has an overall cylindrical shape. The movable member 170 has a first cavity 173a and a second cavity 173b. A portion of the first elastic member 180 shown in Figure 42 is located in the first cavity 173a, and a portion of the cover portion 150 shown in Figure 42 is located in the second cavity 173b. A partition wall 172 is located between the first cavity 173a and the second cavity 173b, and the partition wall 172 is located between the cover portion 150 and the first elastic member 180. Here, the movable member 170 may also be named the movable part.

[0404] A number of extensions 171 are arranged on the outer surface of the movable member 170, which are positioned in the number of first grooves 135 of the first fixed member 130. The number of extensions 171 have a shape that extends along the longitudinal direction and can move along the first grooves 135 of the first fixed member 130.

[0405] A number of second grooves 175 may be formed on the outer surface of the movable member 170, each of which is positioned a second extension 193 of the second fixing member shown in Figure 47. As the movable member 170 moves linearly in the longitudinal direction, the second grooves 175 also move in conjunction, so the position of the second extension 193 of the second fixing member 190 positioned within the second grooves 175 can change.

[0406] The second groove 175 of the movable member 170 may have a shape corresponding to the second extension 193 of the second fixing member 190. The second groove 175 may have a shape that prevents the second extension 193 of the second fixing member 190 from completely detaching from the second groove 175 when the movable member 170 moves away from the second fixing member 190. For this purpose, the second groove 175 may have a shape in which the width of the second groove 175 narrows as it moves toward the second fixing member 190, and the second extension 193 of the second fixing member 190 may have a shape that protrudes in the width direction of the second groove 175.

[0407] A first groove 177 may be formed on the outer surface of the movable member 170. The first groove 177 is formed to be long along the longitudinal direction, and connection terminals 165a and 165b may be arranged in the first groove 177, as shown in Figure 49(b). The position of the connection terminals 165a and 165b can be fixed and guided by such a first groove 177. In addition, the first extension 192 of the second fixing member 190 may be arranged in the first groove 177 together with the connection terminals 165a and 165b.

[0408] The movable member 170 is positioned between the first fixed member 130 and the second fixed member 190. The extension 171 of the movable member 170 is positioned in the first groove 135 of the first fixed member 130, and the first and second extensions 193 and 199 of the second fixed member 190 are positioned in the first and second grooves 175 and 177 of the movable member 170. This has the advantage that the movable member 170 will not detach from the outside even when it is frequently moved.

[0409] The movable member 170 includes one surface 179 on which the first cavity 173a is located, and the ring terminals 161 shown in Figures 42 and 48 may be located on the surface 179. The shape of the surface 179 can correspond to the shape of the ring terminals 161. The ring terminals 161 located on the surface 179 may be guided by the inner surfaces of one or more extensions 171 located around the periphery.

[0410] Referring to Figures 42, 44, and 47, the second fixing member 190 is fixed and positioned inside the housing 101. At least a portion of the second fixing member 190 is fixed and positioned inside the internal case 110.

[0411] The second fixing member 190 includes a cylindrical base portion 191. One surface 191a of the base portion 191 has a cavity 195 in which a part of the first elastic member 180 shown in Figure 42 is arranged. The second elastic member 185 shown in Figure 42 is arranged on the one surface 191a of the base portion 191.

[0412] The second fixing member 190 includes a first extension 199 and a second extension 193 extending from one surface 191a of the base portion 191 toward the movable member 170. The first extension 199 and the second extension 193 may be arranged in multiple quantities on one surface 191a of the base portion 191. Specifically, two first extensions 199 may be arranged facing each other, and two second extensions 193 may be arranged facing each other. The multiple first and second extensions 191, 199 can guide the outer surface of the second elastic member 185 shown in Figure 42 from all sides. Thus, the position of the second elastic member 185 can be fixed by the multiple first and second extensions 191, 199.

[0413] The inner surface of the first extension 199 guides the outer surface of the second elastic member 185, and the outer surface of the first extension 199 can support a portion of the connection terminals 165a and 165b shown in Figures 42 and 44.

[0414] The second extension 193 may have a predetermined shape that prevents it from detaching from the second groove 175 of the movable member 170 after it has been coupled to it. For example, the second extension 193 may have a shape in which at least a portion protrudes so that it cannot detach from the second groove 175.

[0415] The second fixing member 190 may have a groove 194 formed on the outer surface of the base portion 191. The bottom surface of the groove 194 may be connected to the outer surface of the first extension portion 199 without any additional step. Parts of the connection terminals 165a and 165b shown in Figures 42 and 44 may be placed in the groove 194.

[0416] The second fixing member 190 may include an anchoring portion 196 extending along the longitudinal direction from the other side (not shown) of the base portion 191. The anchoring portion 196 may have a cavity 197 in which the substrate 210 shown in Figures 42 and 44 is placed.

[0417] The second fixing member 190 may have an opening 198 for connecting the connection terminals 165a and 165b shown in Figures 42 and 44 to the substrate 210 located in the cavity 197. The other ends of the connection terminals 165a and 165b may be positioned in the opening 198 and connected to the connection pads 211a and 211b of the substrate 210.

[0418] Referring to Figures 42, 44, 48, and 49(a) and (b), the core body 102 is formed to extend along the longitudinal direction to a predetermined length, and one end may have a pointed shape. Here, the one end is exposed to the outside of the housing 101.

[0419] The core body 102 includes a stepped portion 102T positioned in a part of the intermediate portion between one end and the other end. The thicknesses of the one end and the other end of the intermediate portion may differ from each other with respect to the stepped portion 102T. The first thickness D1 of the one end of the intermediate portion with respect to the stepped portion 102T may be formed to be even thicker than the second thickness D2 of the other end of the intermediate portion. With this configuration of the stepped portion 102T, when the core body 102 moves in the longitudinal direction due to an external force, the magnetic body 140 can be moved together with it. That is, when the core body 102 moves, the stepped portion 102T pushes one surface of the magnetic body 140, causing the magnetic body 140 to move in the longitudinal direction. As the magnetic body 140 moves along the longitudinal direction, the separation distance between the inductor portion 120 and the magnetic body 140 changes. The change in distance changes the inductance (L) value of the inductor portion 120, and the change in inductance value changes the resonant frequency of the stylus pen 100. A stylus pen sensing device that interacts with the stylus pen 100 can sense changes in the resonant frequency and detect the writing pressure (pressure) applied to the nib 102.

[0420] The magnetic material 140 is placed inside the first cavity 133a of the first fixing member 130 shown in Figure 45 and has a cylindrical shape. The magnetic material 140 has a through hole through which a part of the core body 102 passes. The diameter of the through hole may be the same as or larger than the second thickness D2 and smaller than the first thickness D1.

[0421] The magnetic material 140 may be a ferrite chip.

[0422] The magnetic material 140 can move linearly back and forth along the longitudinal direction in conjunction with the core body 102. As the magnetic material 140 moves in conjunction with the core body 102, the inductance (L) value of the inductor section 120 may change.

[0423] A cover portion 161 is positioned at the other end of the core body 102. The cover portion 161 may have a shape that covers the other end of the core body 102. For example, the cover portion 161 may have a cylindrical shape with different thicknesses at the top and bottom.

[0424] An elastic body 155 may be placed between the cover portion 161 and the magnetic material 140. The elastic body 155 may be a spring. One end of the elastic body 155 may be sandwiched in a part of the cover portion 161, and the other end of the elastic body 155 may be in contact with the magnetic material 140.

[0425] The elastic body 155 may be used to correct deviations in the magnetic body 140. For example, if the length (or height) of the magnetic body 140 is 0.1 mm smaller than the specified length, the elastic body 155 will cause the magnetic body 140 to be in close contact with the partition wall 132 of the first fixing member 130.

[0426] The ring terminal 161 is a hollow circle and electrically connects the two connection terminals 165a and 165b. Here, the shape of the ring terminal 161 is not limited to a circle, but may also be polygonal.

[0427] The ring terminal 161 is positioned on one surface of the movable member 170 and moves in conjunction with the movable member 170. That is, it moves together with the linear reciprocating motion of the movable member 170 in the longitudinal direction.

[0428] The connection terminals 165a and 165b include one side that contacts or separates from the ring terminal 161 and the other side that is connected to the substrate 210. The one side may contact or separate from the ring terminal 161 as the ring terminal 161 moves in conjunction with the movable member 170. The other side is directly connected to the connection pads 211a and 211b of the substrate 210 shown in Figure 42 by soldering or the like.

[0429] The connecting terminals 165a and 165b include a base portion positioned between the one side and the other side. The base portion may have a shape that extends in the longitudinal direction. The base portion may be positioned in the first groove 177 of the movable member 170 shown in Figure 46 and in the groove 194 of the second fixing member 190 shown in Figure 47, and guided by the first extension 199 of the second fixing member 190.

[0430] The first elastic member 180 is placed inside the second fixing member 190. The first elastic member 180 may have an elongated cylindrical shape in the longitudinal direction. The first elastic member 180 may be made of rubber.

[0431] The first elastic member 180 may have one end positioned in the cavity 195 of the second fixed member 190 shown in Figure 47, and the other end positioned in the first cavity 173a of the movable member 170 shown in Figure 46.

[0432] The second elastic member 185 is placed inside the second fixing member 190. The second elastic member 185 may have a flat cylindrical shape. The second elastic member 185 may be made of rubber. The second elastic member 185 may be made of a rubber material that is relatively harder than the first elastic member 180. Therefore, the second elastic member 185 may be made of hard rubber, and the first elastic member 180 may be made of soft rubber.

[0433] On the other hand, the second elastic member 185 may be a spring. The second elastic member 185 may be a spring configured to respond to a force that is relatively heavier than that of the first elastic member 180. The thickness of the second elastic member 185 in the longitudinal direction is thinner than that of the first elastic member 180, and the diameter in the vertical direction is wider than that of the first elastic member 180.

[0434] The second elastic member 185 is positioned to surround the intermediate portion of the first elastic member 180. Therefore, the second elastic member 185 has a through hole through which the first elastic member 180 passes.

[0435] The second elastic member 185 may have a groove 185g that is sandwiched in a portion of the first extension 199 of the second fixing member 190, as shown in Figure 49(b). Through this, the second elastic member 185 can be stably fixed to the second fixing member 190.

[0436] The operation of the stylus pen 100 according to one embodiment shown in Figures 42 to 49 will be described below with reference to Figure 50.

[0437] Figures 50(a) to (c) are diagrams illustrating the operation of the stylus pen 100 shown in Figures 42 to 49. Specifically, Figure 50(a) is a diagram showing the hover state H of the stylus pen 100, Figure 50(b) is a diagram showing the contact state C of the stylus pen 100, and Figure 50(c) is a diagram showing the writing pressure P state of the stylus pen 100.

[0438] Referring to Figure 50(a), in the hover state H, no external force acts on the core body 102, and therefore there is no change in the internal structure. In particular, the ring terminal 161 and the connecting terminals 165a and 165b remain in contact with each other.

[0439] Referring to Figure 50(b), in contact state C, a predetermined pressure is applied to one end of the core body 102. The applied pressure causes the core body 102 to move inward towards the housing 101. As the core body 102 moves, the cover portion 150 pushes the moving member 170 toward the first elastic member 180, causing the ring terminal 161 to separate from the connection terminals 165a and 165b. Therefore, the jumping capacitor 215 shown in Figure 42 is electrically disconnected from the basic capacitor, and the overall capacitance of the capacitor portion (not shown) decreases. Here, since the magnetic material 140 does not move, the inductance value of the inductor portion 120 remains unchanged. As the overall capacitance value of the capacitor portion (not shown) decreases, the resonant frequency changes.

[0440] Referring to Figure 50(c), in pen pressure state P, a greater pressure is applied to one end of the core body 102 than in contact state C. This greater pressure causes the core body 102 to move further inward towards the housing 101, thereby pressing the magnetic body 140 against the stepped portion 102T of the core body 102. As the magnetic body 140 is pressed, the elastic body 155 positioned between the cover portion 150 and the magnetic body 140 is compressed, and the movement of the moving member 170 compresses the first elastic member 180 and the second elastic member 185. At this point, as the magnetic body 140 moves away from the inductor portion 120, the inductance (L) value of the inductor portion 120 gradually decreases. At this point, the capacitance of the capacitor portion (not shown) is maintained in the same way as in contact state C. As the inductance value of the inductor portion 120 decreases, the resonant frequency changes.

[0441] Figure 51(a) shows an example of the change in LC values ​​of the resonant circuit due to the operation shown in Figures 50(a) to (c), where the Th section represents the hover state in Figure 50(a), the Tc point represents the contact state in Figure 50(b), and the Tp section represents the pen pressure state in Figure 50(c). Figure 51(b) is a graph showing the frequency characteristics for each operating state in Figures 50(a) to (c).

[0442] Referring to Figure 51(a), the LC value of the resonant circuit, which consists of a capacitor (not shown) and an inductor 120, remains constant until the stylus pen 100's core 102 contacts the touch surface (Th), and then decreases sharply immediately after the core 102 contacts the touch surface (Tc). Furthermore, in the section (Tp) where pressure is applied to the stylus pen 100 after it has contacted the touch surface, the LC value of the resonant circuit decreases further in accordance with the pressure. That is, in this section (Tp), the LC value of the resonant circuit may decrease gradually as the pressure applied to the stylus pen 100 increases. Referring to Figure 51(a), the LC value of the resonant circuit shows the state of hover > contact > pressure. Also, immediately after the core 102 contacts the touch surface, the change in the LC value may be larger as the pressure gradually increases thereafter.

[0443] If the inductance value of the inductor section 120 and the capacitance value of the capacitor section (not shown) are changed, the resonant frequency and Q value of the resonant circuit section can be changed. The resonant frequency of the resonant circuit section increases as the inductance of the resonant circuit section decreases, and the Q value decreases as the inductance decreases. Therefore, as shown in Figure 51(b), the frequency characteristics of the resonant signal Vpen output from the resonant circuit section may change as the distance traveled by the core body 102 increases, i.e., as the pen pressure increases, the resonant frequency increases (hover state < contact state < pen pressure state) and the Q value decreases (hover state > contact state > pen pressure state).

[0444] If the resonant frequency of the resonant circuit is changed, the phase of the electromagnetic signal output from the stylus pen 100 is changed. This phase change can be used to calculate the change in the LC value of the resonant circuit in a stylus pen sensing device that interacts with the stylus pen 100. Based on this, it is possible to detect whether or not the stylus pen 100 is in contact with the stylus pen sensing device and the pressure applied.

[0445] As described above, the stylus pen 100 according to one embodiment shown in Figures 42 to 49 can detect pen pressure with a stylus pen sensing device by changing at least one or both of the inductance and capacitance values ​​of the resonant circuit. It also has the advantage of being able to sense pen pressure precisely.

[0446] On the other hand, the stylus pen according to one embodiment shown in Figures 42 to 49 may experience assembly deviations during the assembly process. These assembly deviations can cause certain problems, which will be explained in detail below with reference to Figures 52 to 54.

[0447] Figures 52(a) to (c) are diagrams illustrating problems that arise due to assembly deviations of the core body 102 during the assembly of the stylus pen 100 shown in Figures 42 to 50.

[0448] Specifically, Figure 52(a) shows the case where the core body 102 is installed as pre-designed without any assembly deviation, while Figures 52(b) and 52(c) show cases where the core body 102 is not installed in the pre-designed position due to assembly deviations that occurred during the assembly process.

[0449] In Figure 52(a), the stepped portion 102T of the core body 102 is located at the through hole 132h formed in the partition wall 132 of the first fixing member 130. This is an example of proper assembly without deviation in the position of the stepped portion 102T. On the other hand, in Figures 52(b) and (c), due to assembly deviation, the stepped portion 102T is positioned at a location other than the through hole 132h in the partition wall 132. Specifically, in Figure 52(b), the stepped portion 102T is located in the second cavity 133b of the first fixing member 130 where the inductor portion 120 is located (see Figure 45(b)), and in Figure 52(c), the stepped portion 102T is located in the first cavity 133a of the first fixing member 130 where the magnetic material 140 is located (see Figure 45(a)).

[0450] In the case of Figure 52(b), where an assembly deviation occurs, even if pressure is continuously applied to the core body 102 immediately after the contact state in Figure 50(b), the inductance value of the inductor body 120 does not change immediately because the distance between the inductor body 120 and the magnetic material 140 remains constant. On the other hand, in the case of Figure 52(c), the magnetic material 140 moves due to the core body 102 between the hover state in Figure 50(a) and the contact state in Figure 50(b), and the inductance value of the inductor body 120 may change.

[0451] For each of Figures 52(a) to (c), the change in the resonant frequency due to the pressure applied to the core 102 will be explained with reference to Figure 53.

[0452] In the graph of Figure 53, "Line 1 (the line labeled 1 in the circled number in the figure)" which has no assembly deviation corresponds to Figure 52(a), "Line 2 (the line labeled 2 in the circled number in the figure)" which has assembly deviation corresponds to Figure 52(c), and "Line 3 (the line labeled 3 in the circled number in the figure)" which has assembly deviation corresponds to Figure 52(b).

[0453] Referring to Figure 53, in the case of "3 lines (line number 3 in the circled number in the figure)," the resonant frequency does not change even if the pressure increases immediately after the core body 102 makes contact. The stylus pen sensing device interacting with the stylus pen 100 cannot sense the pressure acting on the core body 102. In the case of "2 lines (line number 2 in the circled number in the figure)," the resonant frequency changes even when the core body 102 is in a hover state, so the stylus pen sensing device can recognize the core body 102 in a contact state that is not in a hover state. Thus, due to the assembly deviations in Figures 52(b) and (c), the stylus pen sensing device may have difficulty accurately sensing the stylus pen 100.

[0454] Figures 54(a) to (c) are diagrams illustrating problems that arise during the assembly of the stylus pen 100 shown in Figures 42 to 50 due to assembly deviations of the connection terminals 165a and 165b.

[0455] Specifically, Figure 54(a) shows the case where the connectors 165a and 165b are installed as designed in advance without any assembly deviation, while Figures 54(b) and 54(c) show the cases where the connectors 165a and 165b are not installed in the pre-designed positions due to assembly deviations that occurred during the assembly process.

[0456] In Figure 54(a), one end 165a1 of the connector 165a is positioned in contact with the ring terminal 161, and the other end 165a2 is positioned in contact with the connection pad 211a of the substrate 210. This is an example of the connector 165a being properly assembled without any deviation in its position. On the other hand, in Figures 54(b) and (c), the connector 165a is positioned in a location other than the pre-designed position due to assembly deviations. Specifically, in Figure 54(b), the connector 165a is offset by a predetermined distance toward the substrate 210, and one end 165a1 presses against the ring terminal 161 with considerable force. In Figure 54(c), the connector 165a is offset by a predetermined distance toward the first fixing member 130, and one end 165a1 is separated from the ring terminal 161 by a predetermined distance.

[0457] In the case of Figure 54(b), where an assembly deviation occurs, the connection terminal 165a and the ring terminal 161 are assembled while being pressed against each other, which increases the pressure required to recognize the contact state in Figure 50(b). On the other hand, in the case of Figure 54(c), the ring terminal 161 and the connection terminal 165a are separated from the hover state in Figure 50(a), so even if pressure is applied to the core body 102, it is impossible for the stylus pen sensing device to sense the contact state in Figure 50(b).

[0458] Figures 55 to 59 below illustrate a stylus pen according to another embodiment, in which the assembly deviation described in Figures 52 to 54 does not significantly affect performance, and in which the internal components can be reduced, thereby saving manufacturing costs.

[0459] The stylus pen shown in Figure 55 differs from the stylus pen 100 shown in Figures 42 to 50 in that 1) the first elastic member 180' is made of a spring that is not made of rubber, and 2) the ring terminal 161, connection terminals 165a, 165b, jumping capacitor 215, and the configuration for their electrical connection shown in Figures 42 to 50 of the stylus pen 100 are omitted. The remaining configurations are the same as those of the stylus pen 100 shown in Figures 42 to 50, so instead of explaining them in detail as previously explained, the following will focus on explaining the differences in configurations.

[0460] Referring to Figure 55, the first elastic member 180' is composed of a spring. The first elastic member 180' can be positioned to begin compressing from a low pressure (e.g., around 10 gf), have a low compressive strength, and compress quickly even with a slight increase in pressure.

[0461] Figures 56(a) and 56(b) are diagrams illustrating the first elastic member 180' shown in Figure 55. Figure 56(a) shows the situation when no force is acting on the first elastic member 180', and Figure 56(b) shows that the first elastic member 180' is positioned between the movable member 170 and the second fixed member 190 shown in Figure 55.

[0462] The first elastic member 180' can be positioned between the movable member 170 and the second fixed member 190, as shown in Figure 56(b), in a partially compressed (or incompletely compressed) state. In this configuration, the first elastic member 180' will not be compressed unless a force greater than the force (or repulsive force) applied by the movable member 170 and the second fixed member 190 is applied. Here, the force (or repulsive force) may be, for example, around 10 (gf). On the other hand, the second elastic member 190 will be compressed if a force greater than the force that caused the compression is applied via the movable member 170.

[0463] The equation below, <Equation 1> (Equation 1), shows the force (or repulsive force, F) of the partially compressed first elastic member 180'.

[0464]

number

[0465] In the above equation 1, G is the shear modulus of the spring, Na is the number of effective windings of the spring, D is the diameter of the spring, d is the diameter of the wire, and x is the length of the spring when compressed (in the - direction).

[0466] On the other hand, the first elastic member 180' may be positioned between the movable member 170 and the second fixed member 190 even when it is not compressed. Therefore, stylus pens according to other embodiments of the present invention are not limited to those in which a portion of the first elastic member 180' is positioned between the movable member 170 and the second fixed member 190 in a compressed state.

[0467] The first elastic member 180' may be configured to react with a weight that is relatively larger than that of the elastic body 155.

[0468] The operation of the stylus pen according to other embodiments shown in Figures 55 to 56 will be described below with reference to Figure 57.

[0469] Figures 57(a) to (c) are diagrams illustrating the operation of the stylus pen shown in Figures 55 to 56. Specifically, Figure 57(a) is a diagram showing the hover state H of the stylus pen, Figure 57(b) is a diagram showing the contact state C of the stylus pen, and Figure 57(c) is a diagram showing the pressure state P of the stylus pen.

[0470] Referring to Figure 57(a), in the hover state H, no external force acts on the core body 102, and therefore there is no change in the internal structure.

[0471] Referring to Figure 57(b), in contact state C, a predetermined pressure is applied to one end of the core body 102. The applied pressure causes the core body 102 to move inward towards the housing 101. As the core body 102 moves, the cover portion 150 pushes the moving member 170 toward the first elastic member 180', pushing the moving member 170 up to the second elastic member 185. In this situation, the first elastic member 180' is compressed by the amount that the moving member 170 is pushed. As the core body 102 moves, the stepped portion 102T of the core body 102 pushes the magnetic material 140 toward the first elastic member 180'. The magnetic material 140 is pushed, changing the distance between the inductor portion 120 and the magnetic material 140. This change in distance changes the inductance value of the inductor portion 120, and ultimately changes the resonant frequency.

[0472] Referring to Figure 57(c), under pen pressure state P, a greater pressure is applied to one end of the core body 102 than under contact state C. This greater pressure causes the core body 102 to move further inward towards the housing 101, thereby moving the magnetic material 140 further away from the inductor portion 120. As the magnetic material 140 is pushed, the elastic body 155 positioned between the cover portion 150 and the magnetic material 140 is compressed, and the movement of the moving member 170 further compresses the first elastic member 180', which in turn compresses the second elastic member 185. As the magnetic material 140 moves further away from the inductor portion 120, the inductance (L) value of the inductor portion 120 gradually decreases. As the inductance value of the inductor portion 120 decreases, the resonant frequency changes.

[0473] Figures 58(a) and (b) are diagrams illustrating examples of assembly deviations occurring in the core body 102, and Figure 59 is a graph showing the change in resonant frequency due to the pressure applied to the core body 102 for each of Figures 58(a) and (b).

[0474] Figure 58(a) shows that, due to assembly deviations during the assembly process, the stepped portion 102T of the core body 102 is offset toward the magnetic material 140 and positioned almost flush with one surface of the magnetic material 140, while Figure 58(b) shows that, due to assembly deviations, the stepped portion 102T of the core body 102 is offset toward the inductor portion 120.

[0475] In the graph of Figure 59, "Line 1 (the line labeled 1 in the circled number in the figure)" corresponds to Figure 55, representing the case where no assembly deviation occurs; "Line 2 (the line labeled 2 in the circled number in the figure)" corresponds to Figure 58(a); and "Line 3 (the line labeled 3 in the circled number in the figure)" corresponds to Figure 58(b).

[0476] Referring to Figure 59, a stylus pen according to another embodiment of the present invention, including the first elastic member 180', exhibits less change in performance even if there is some assembly deviation in the core body 102, compared to when there is no assembly deviation. Therefore, it has further advantages in mass production compared to the stylus pen 100 shown in Figure 42.

[0477] Furthermore, the stylus pens shown in Figures 55 to 57 do not use components such as the jumping capacitor 215, ring terminal 161, and connection terminals 165a, 165b found in the stylus pen 100 shown in Figures 42 to 49. This allows for a simpler internal structure and reduces manufacturing costs. In addition, to accommodate the connection terminals 165a, 165b, parts of the groove 194 in the second fixing member 190 shown in Figure 47 and the first groove 177 in the movable member 170 shown in Figure 46 are unnecessary.

[0478] On the other hand, although not shown in separate drawings, a stylus pen according to yet another embodiment of the present invention may be one in which the first elastic member 180 in the stylus pen 100 shown in Figure 42 is replaced with the first elastic member 180' shown in Figures 55 and 56.

[0479] On the other hand, although not shown in separate drawings, the ferrite core 121 and cushioning member 115 shown in Figure 37 can be applied not only to the stylus pens mentioned in Figures 42 to 59, but also to other conventional stylus pens.

[0480] Figure 60 is a perspective view of a modified ferrite core 121 shown in Figures 37 to 38, Figure 61(a) is an enlarged front view of a portion of the ferrite core 121' shown in Figure 60, and Figure 61(b) is a cross-sectional view of Figure 61(a) along A-A'.

[0481] Referring to Figures 60 to 61, the ferrite core 121' has a cylindrical shape. A flat portion 121d may be provided on at least a portion of the outer surface of the ferrite core 121'. Another flat portion corresponding to the flat portion 121d may also be provided on the other portion of the outer surface of the ferrite core 121'. The flat portion 121d allows the ferrite core 121' to be stably positioned inside the housing.

[0482] The ferrite core 121' has a cylindrical upper end 121a' and a lower end 121b', and the lower end 121b' may have at least two curved portions 121c'. The curved portions 121c' may be portions that start from the outer surface of the lower end 121b' and curve to a portion adjacent to the through hole 121h of the ferrite core 121'. Such curved portions 121c' may be arranged on opposite sides of the lower end 121b' with respect to the through hole 121h.

[0483] The curved portion 121c of the ferrite core 121 shown in Figures 37 to 38 may be arranged on the entire outer surface of the lower end portion 121b', but the curved portion 121c' of the ferrite core 121' shown in Figures 60 to 61 may be arranged on a part of the outer surface of the lower end portion 121b'.

[0484] The planar portion 121d may be located at the upper end 121a' and the lower end 121b', respectively, and these may be connected to each other and arranged continuously. Here, the planar portion 121d located at the lower end 121b' may be located between two curved portions 121c' that are facing each other on the outer surface of the lower end 121b'.

[0485] The ferrite core 121' shown in Figures 60 to 61 can be used as a substitute for the stylus pen shown in Figures 42 to 59. In this case, the cushioning member (not shown) may have a shape that can cover a portion of the lower end portion 121b' of the ferrite core 121'.

[0486] Figure 62 is a cross-sectional view of a stylus pen to which another modification of the ferrite core 121 shown in Figure 37 is applied; Figure 63 is a cross-sectional view showing only the ferrite core 121'' and coil portion 123 shown in Figure 62; Figure 64 is a perspective view of the ferrite core 121'' shown in Figures 62 and 63; Figure 65(a) is an enlarged front view of a portion of the ferrite core 121'' shown in Figure 64; and Figure 65(b) is a cross-sectional view of Figure 64(a) along B-B'.

[0487] Referring to Figures 62 to 64, the ferrite core 121'' in other modifications includes an upper end 121a'' and a lower end 121b''.

[0488] The lower end portion 121b'' has a tapered shape, and the outer surface of the lower end portion 121b'' includes at least one stepped portion 121c''.

[0489] The stepped portion 121c'' may be arranged on the entire outer surface of the lower end portion 121b'', or it may be arranged on a portion of the outer surface as shown in Figures 64 to 65.

[0490] The stepped portion 121c'' may include a first surface 121c1, a second surface 121c2 connected to the first surface 121c1, and a third surface 121c3 connected to the second surface 121c2. The first surface 121c1 may be a surface perpendicular to the through-hole 121h in the direction of penetration, and the third surface 121c3 may be a surface parallel to the through-hole 121h in the direction of penetration. The second surface 121c2 can connect the first surface 121c1 and the third surface 121c3. Here, although not shown in the separate drawings, the second surface 121c2 may be a curved surface that curves inward or outward.

[0491] The ferrite core 121'' has a cylindrical shape. A flat portion 121d may be provided on at least a portion of the outer surface of the ferrite core 121''. A flat portion corresponding to the flat portion 121d may also be provided on another portion of the outer surface of the ferrite core 121''. The flat portion 121d may allow the ferrite core 121'' to be stably positioned inside the housing.

[0492] The flat portion 121d may be located at the upper end 121a'' and the lower end 121b'', respectively, and these may be connected to each other and arranged continuously. Here, the flat portion 121d located at the lower end 121b'' may be located between two stepped portions 121c'' that are facing each other on the outer surface of the lower end 121b''.

[0493] Since the ferrite core 121'' shown in Figures 62 to 65 includes a stepped portion 121c'', it may have substantially the same or similar effects as the ferrite core 121 shown in Figures 37 to 38.

[0494] The ferrite core 121'' shown in Figures 62 to 65 can also be used as a substitute for the stylus pen shown in Figures 42 to 59. In this case, the cushioning member (not shown) may have a shape that can cover a portion of the lower end 121b'' of the ferrite core 121''.

[0495] Figure 66 is a perspective view of a stylus pen 1000 according to another embodiment of the present invention, Figure 67 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 66, and Figure 68 is a perspective view of the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 66, excluding the housing 1010.

[0496] Referring to Figures 66 to 68, the housing 1010 forms the external appearance of the stylus pen 1000. The housing 1010 has a predetermined space formed inside and has an elongated shape in one direction. The housing 1010 may be made up of two or more parts joined together, or it may be formed as a single, integrated part.

[0497] The housing 1010 may be made of a non-conductive synthetic resin material.

[0498] A button section 1090 may be located in the housing 1010. The button section 1090 may be for performing a specific operation of the stylus pen 1000. For example, it may be a button for a cancel operation or for operating a special function.

[0499] The core 1020 includes one end that is located outside the housing 1010, and the remaining portion, excluding the aforementioned end, is located inside the housing 1010. Here, the end of the core 1020 may also be called the pen tip.

[0500] The core body 1020 may be made of a non-conductive material.

[0501] The core body 1020 may include a base portion 1021 and an outer casing portion 1025. The base portion 1021 has an elongated shape that extends along the longitudinal direction of the stylus pen 1000. The outer casing portion 1025 surrounds the sides of the base portion 1021. One end of the base portion 1021 is not covered by the outer casing portion 1025 and is exposed to the outside. The material of the outer casing portion 1025 is made of a material that is relatively harder than the material of the base portion 1021, reinforcing and protecting the base portion 1021.

[0502] An external force can cause a portion of one end of the core body 1020 to move into the housing 1010. The greater the external force, the greater the volume of the portion of the core body 1020 that enters the housing 1010. When the applied external force decreases, the portion of the core body 1020 will move out of the housing 1010 again. When the external force is removed, the portion of the core body 1020 will return to its original state.

[0503] The cushioning member 1150 is placed inside the housing 1010 and positioned between one end of the ferrite core 1210 and the inner surface of the housing 1010. The cushioning member 1150 may be placed inside the tapered portion 1010t of the housing 1010. Here, the tapered portion 1010t of the housing 1010 is the part adjacent to one end of the core body 1020 at both ends of the housing 1010, and has a shape in which its width and diameter become narrower towards the end of one end of the housing 1010.

[0504] The buffer member 1150 has a conical or polygonal pyramidal shape and has a through hole through which one end of the ferrite core 1210 and the body portion between one end and the other end of the core body 1020 pass. The inner surface defining the through hole may have a shape corresponding to the outer surface of one end of the ferrite core 1210 and the outer surface of the body portion of the core body 1020. Here, the body portion of the core body 1020 refers to the portion of the core body 1020, which is elongated in one direction, that is placed within the through hole of the ferrite core 1210.

[0505] The cushioning member 1150 may be made of an elastic material such as rubber to serve as a buffer between the ferrite core 1210 and the housing 1010. Such a cushioning member 1150 can block external electrical or magnetic influences.

[0506] The cushioning member 1150 has a shape that covers one end of the ferrite core 1210.

[0507] The tapered portion 1010t of the housing 1010 and the virtual tangent line that commonly contacts a portion of the core body 1020 located outside the housing 101 (or the pen tip) can form a predetermined angle, as shown in Figure 37. Here, the predetermined angle is preferably within 30°. If the predetermined angle is within 30°, there is an advantage that the stylus pen according to other embodiments of the present invention can be drawn with the contact surface tilted at 60°.

[0508] The inductor section 1200 can constitute an LC resonant section with a capacitor section (not shown). The resonant frequency can be set by the inductance (L) value of the inductor section 1200 and the capacitance (C) value of the capacitor section (not shown). The resonant frequency may be varied by changing the inductance (L) value of the inductor section 1200 and / or the capacitance (C) value of the capacitor section (not shown).

[0509] The inductor section 1200 includes a ferrite core 1210 and a coil section 1230 wound around the outer surface of the ferrite core 1210.

[0510] The ferrite core 1210 may have an overall cylindrical, elliptical, or polygonal cylindrical shape, and a through-hole 1210h may be formed that penetrates the interior along the longitudinal direction of the ferrite core 1210.

[0511] The ferrite core 1210 has a through-hole 1210h through which the body portion of the core 1020 passes. The body portion of the core 1020 can reciprocate linearly along its longitudinal direction through the through-hole 1210h.

[0512] One end of the ferrite core 1210 may have a tapered shape in which the diameter or width decreases towards the end. Here, the outer surface of the tapered end may include at least one inwardly curved portion 121c, as shown in Figure 38.

[0513] The ferrite core 1210 may include an upper end 121a and a lower end 121b positioned below the upper end 121a, as shown in Figure 38. Here, the upper end 121a and the lower end 121b may be integrally formed.

[0514] The coil portion 1230 may be wound around a ferrite core (1230) in at least one layer.

[0515] The coil portion 1230 is electrically connected to the substrate 2100. The coil portion 1230 may include a first connecting portion 1231 and a second connecting portion 1232 for connecting to the substrate 2100. The first connecting portion 1231 is positioned on the fixing bracket 1600 and its end is electrically connected to a first terminal portion 2131 of the substrate 2100. The second connecting portion 1232 is positioned on the fixing bracket 1600 and its end is electrically connected to a second terminal portion 2132 of the substrate 2100. Here, the fixing bracket 1600 may have grooves in which the first connecting portion 1231 and the second connecting portion 1232 are positioned. The grooves may be formed on the outer surface of the fixing bracket 1600 along the longitudinal direction of the stylus pen 1000. The grooves can guide the first connecting portion 1231 and the second connecting portion 1232 of the coil portion 1230, and have the advantage of protecting the first connecting portion 1231 and the second connecting portion 1232 from external impacts.

[0516] Figure 69 is a perspective view of only the fixed bracket 1600 shown in Figure 58, Figure 70 is a perspective view of the fixed bracket 1600 shown in Figure 69 from a different direction, and Figure 71 is a part of a perspective view of Figure 68 from a different direction.

[0517] Referring to Figures 68 to 71, the fixing bracket 1600 is fixed and positioned inside the housing 1010. The fixing bracket 1600 may be positioned inside the housing 1010 between the inductor section 1200 and the substrate bracket 1900. One end of the fixing bracket 1600 may be coupled to the inductor section 1200, and the other end of the fixing bracket 1600 may be coupled to the substrate bracket 1900.

[0518] One end of the fixed bracket 1600 may include an insertion groove 1620 into which the other end of the ferrite core 1210 of the inductor portion 1200 is inserted. The insertion groove 1620 can be defined as the first partition wall 1611 and the inner wall 1622 of the fixed bracket 1600.

[0519] The first partition wall 1611 can contact the other end of the ferrite core 1210, and the first partition wall 1611 has a through hole 1610 through which the core body 1020 passes.

[0520] The inner wall 1622 may include a number of projections 1621 that protrude into the insertion groove 1620. The number of projections 1621 can contact the outer surface of the other end of the ferrite core 1210 and serve to position the ferrite core 1210.

[0521] The other end of the fixing bracket 1600 may include locking holes 1660, 1665 into which the locking portions 1960, 1965 of the substrate bracket 1900 are inserted. There may be at least one locking hole 1660, 1665, and as shown in the drawing, one may be located on the upper side and one on the lower side of the fixing bracket 1600. The fixing bracket 1600 may be connected to the substrate bracket 1900 by the locking portion 1960 of the substrate bracket 1900 being connected to the locking hole 1660.

[0522] The other end of the fixing bracket 1600 may include a guide projection 1667. The guide projection 1667 may be formed as an extension along the longitudinal direction of the fixing bracket 1600. The guide projection 1667 may be connected to a guide portion 1967 of the substrate bracket 1900. By connecting the guide projection 1667 to the guide portion 1967 of the substrate bracket 1900, the fixing bracket 1600 can be positioned along the longitudinal direction of the stylus pen 1000.

[0523] The other end of the fixing bracket 1600 may include a second partition wall 1680. The second partition wall 1680, together with the base plate bracket 1900, fixes the position of the elastic member 1800. That is, the elastic member 1800 may be fixedly mounted between the second partition wall 1680 and the base plate bracket 1900.

[0524] The fixed bracket 1600 is positioned to surround the movable bracket 1300, the elastic body 1700, and the elastic member 1800. The fixed bracket 1600 may have an internal storage space 1640 in which the movable bracket 1300, the elastic body 1700, and the elastic member 1800 are arranged. Within the storage space 1640 of the fixed bracket 1600, the movable bracket 1300 can move back and forth in a straight line.

[0525] The fixed bracket 1600 may include two or more electrode patterns 1690. At least two or more electrode patterns 1690 may be arranged on the outer surface of the fixed bracket 1600. For example, the electrode patterns 1690 may be arranged on both outer surfaces of the fixed bracket 1600. The electrode patterns 1690 may be plated on the outer surface of the fixed bracket 1600 made of a nonconductive material. For example, the electrode patterns 1690 may be formed on the outer surface of a nonconductive fixed bracket 1600 using LDS (Laser direct structuring) and LMA (Laser Manufacturing Antenna).

[0526] On the outer surface of the fixed bracket 1600, a groove (or cavity) corresponding to the shape of the electrode pattern 1690 may be formed. The electrode pattern 1690 may be plated in the groove (or cavity). Although not shown in a separate drawing, as another embodiment, a protrusion corresponding to the shape of the electrode pattern 1690 may be formed on the outer surface of the fixed bracket 1600, and the electrode pattern 1690 may be plated on the protrusion.

[0527] The electrode pattern 1690 may be disposed around the guide hole 1630 of the fixed bracket 1600 and may have a concavo-convex shape or a "zigzag" shape. One end of the electrode pattern 1690 may contact or be disposed at a predetermined interval from the electrode pattern 1390 of the moving bracket 1300, and the other end of the electrode pattern 1690 may be electrically connected to the terminal portions 2191 and 2192 of the substrate 2100.

[0528] Due to the movement of the moving bracket 1300 synchronized with the movement of the core body 1020, the electrode pattern 1690 may contact the electrode pattern 1390 of the moving bracket 1300 or may be disposed at a predetermined interval from the electrode pattern 1390 of the moving bracket 1300. This will be described later with reference to a separate drawing.

[0529] FIG. 72 is a perspective view excluding the inductor portion 1200 and the fixed bracket 1600 shown in FIG. 68, FIG. 73 is a perspective view of FIG. 72 viewed from another direction, and FIG. 74 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 72.

[0530] Referring to FIGS. 67 to 72, the moving bracket 1300 moves together in synchronization with the core body 1020. If an external force is applied to one end of the core body 102, the core body 102 moves inside the housing 1010, and the moving bracket 1300 moves together with the core body 102.

[0531] The movable bracket 1300 is configured to house the other end of the core body 1020, the magnetic material 1400, and the protective member 1500. The movable bracket 1300 may have a housing section for housing the other end of the core body 1020, the magnetic material 1400, and the protective member 1500. Here, the movable bracket 1300 may also be named the movable section.

[0532] Inside the storage compartment, the magnetic material 1400 and the protective member 1500 are arranged to surround the other end of the core body 1020. For this reason, the magnetic material 1400 may be cylindrical and have a through-hole through which the other end of the core body 1020 passes, and the protective member 1500 may be cylindrical and have a through-hole through which the other end of the core body 1020 passes.

[0533] The magnetic material 1400 contains a magnetic substance and moves in sync with the movement of the core body 1020. The movement of the magnetic material 1400 changes the distance between it and the inductor section 1200, which is fixedly positioned inside the housing 1010. This change in distance changes the inductance of the inductor section 1200.

[0534] The protective member 1500 contains an elastic material and may be positioned between the other end of the core body 1020 and the movable bracket 1300. The protective member 1500 may protect the other end of the core body 1020, and because the protective member 1500 is positioned between the other end of the core body 1020 and the movable bracket 1300, the movement of the movable bracket 1300 may be synchronized with the movement of the core body 1020.

[0535] The protective member 1500 may include a protruding portion 1510 that protrudes outward on its outer surface, as shown in Figure 71. The protruding portion 1510 may be sandwiched in an insertion groove 1310 formed in the movable bracket 1300. The protective member 1500 may be stably fixed to the movable bracket 1300 by the protruding portion 1510 of the protective member 1500 and the insertion groove 1310 of the movable bracket 1300, thereby fixing the other end of the core body 1020 to the movable bracket 1300.

[0536] The movable bracket 1300 may include a first projection 1330a and a second projection 1330b. The first projection 1330a and the second projection 1330b can project outward from the outer surface of the movable bracket 1300 or perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the stylus pen 1000. The first projection 1330a and the second projection 1330b may be positioned in the guide hole 1630 of the fixed bracket 1600 shown in Figure 68. When the movable bracket 1300 moves in synchronization with the movement of the core body 1020, the first projection 1330a and the second projection 1330b can move along the guide hole 1630 of the fixed bracket 1600.

[0537] The movable bracket 1300 may include a third projection 1350. The third projection 1350 can project outward from the outer surface of the movable bracket 1300 or perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the stylus pen 1000. The third projection 1350 may be positioned in the guide hole 1650 of the fixed bracket 1600 shown in Figure 68. When the movable bracket 1300 moves in synchronization with the movement of the core body 1020, the third projection 1350 can move along the guide hole 1650 of the fixed bracket 1600.

[0538] The movable bracket 1300 may include an extension 1370. The extension 1370 may extend along the longitudinal direction of the stylus pen 1000 on the outer surface of the movable bracket 1300. Alternatively, the extension 1370 may extend along the longitudinal direction of the core body 1020 on the outer surface of the movable bracket 1300. The extension 1370 may have a structure and shape that allows it to be placed inside the elastic body 1700. An extension 1870 of the elastic member 1800 may be placed above the end of the extension 1370.

[0539] The movable bracket 1300 may include an electrode pattern 1390. The electrode pattern 1390 may be arranged on the outer surface of the movable bracket 1300 on which the extension portion 1370 is formed, and on the first and second protrusions 1330a and 1330b.

[0540] The electrode pattern 1390 may be electrically connected by contact with the elastic body 1700 surrounding the extension 1370 of the movable bracket 1300. The electrode pattern 1390 may be electrically connected by contact with the electrode pattern 1690 of the fixed bracket 1600 shown in Figure 68, and the contact with the electrode pattern 1690 of the fixed bracket 1600 may be separated by the movement of the core body 1020, thereby electrically separating them.

[0541] The electrode pattern 1390 may be plated onto the outer surface of the movable bracket 1300, which is made of a non-conductive material. For example, the electrode pattern 1390 may be formed on the outer surface of the movable bracket 1300, which is made of a non-conductive material, using LDS (Laser direct structuring) and LMA (Laser Manufacturing Antenna).

[0542] The electrode pattern 1390 may include a base electrode pattern 1391 and first and second extension patterns 1393a and 1393b.

[0543] The base electrode pattern 1391 is positioned on the outer surface of the movable bracket 1300 and may be positioned to surround the extension 1370 of the movable bracket 1300. The base electrode pattern 1391 is in contact with one end of the elastic body 1700.

[0544] The first and second extension patterns 1393a and 1393b extend from both sides of the first electrode pattern 1391, respectively. The first extension pattern 1393a may be positioned on the first projection 1330a, and the second extension pattern 1393b may be positioned on the second projection 1330b. The first and second extension patterns 1393a and 1393b may contact the electrode pattern 1690 of the fixed bracket 1600 shown in Figure 68, or the contact may be released by the movement of the core body 1020.

[0545] The elastic body 1700 is made of a conductive material and may have a spring shape. The elastic body 1700 may be placed between the movable bracket 1300 and the elastic member 1800. Here, the elastic body 1700 may be sandwiched between the movable bracket 1300 and the elastic member 1800 in a partially compressed state, rather than fully compressed. If the external force applied to the movable bracket 1300, which is synchronized with the movement of the core body 1020, is smaller than the elastic force pushing outward from the partially compressed elastic body 1700, the elastic body 1700 will not be compressed. If the external force becomes larger than the elastic force, the elastic body 1700 will begin to be compressed.

[0546] The extension 1370 of the movable bracket 1300 and the extension 1870 of the elastic member 1800 may be arranged together inside the elastic body 1700. This allows for the utilization of the internal space of the elastic body 1700, which has the advantage of reducing the internal volume of the stylus pen 1000.

[0547] One end of the elastic body 1700 is electrically connected to the electrode pattern 1390 of the movable bracket 1300, and the other end is electrically connected to the terminal portion 2110 of the substrate 2100. The elastic body 1700 may include a connecting wire 1710 that connects the elastic body 1700 to the terminal portion 2110 of the substrate 2100. One end of the connecting wire 1710 may be connected to the elastic body 1700, and the other end may be connected to the terminal portion 2110 of the substrate 2100.

[0548] To protect and guide the connecting wire 1710, the elastic member 1800 and the substrate bracket 1900 may have guide grooves in which the connecting wire 1710 is positioned.

[0549] The elastic member 1800 is made of a non-conductive material and has a predetermined elasticity. For example, the elastic member 1800 may be rubber.

[0550] The elastic member 1800 may be placed between the movable bracket 1300 and the substrate bracket 1900.

[0551] Figure 75 is a perspective view of only the elastic member 1800 shown in Figure 72, and Figure 76 is a perspective view of the substrate bracket 1900 and substrate 2100 shown in Figure 72.

[0552] Referring to Figures 69 to 76, the elastic member 1800 may include an extension 1870. The extension 1870 may extend from the outer surface of the elastic member 1800 toward the movable bracket 1300. The extension 1870 may be located inside the elastic body 1700.

[0553] The elastic member 1800 may include a guide groove 1810. The guide groove 1810 may be formed on the outer surface of the elastic member 1800 along the longitudinal direction of the stylus pen 1000. A connecting line 1710 of the elastic body 1700 may be placed in the guide groove 1810.

[0554] The elastic member 1800 may include a mounting groove 1850. The mounting groove 1850 is formed on the outer surface of the elastic member 1800. The mounting groove 1850 may be located on the side opposite to the extension 1870. The mounting portion 1910 of the substrate bracket 1900 may be inserted into the mounting groove 1850. A locking groove 1851 may be formed inside the mounting groove 1850, having a shape corresponding to the projection 1915 of the mounting portion 1910 of the substrate bracket 1900. The elastic member 1800 may be stably fixed and mounted to the substrate bracket 1900 through this.

[0555] The substrate bracket 1900 supports the substrate 2100 inside the housing 1010 and connects with the elastic member 1800 to support the elastic member 1800.

[0556] The substrate bracket 1900 may include a side portion 1940 that guides and supports the side portion of the substrate 2100.

[0557] The substrate bracket 1900 may include a mounting portion 1910 for connection with the elastic member 1800. The mounting portion 1910 protrudes from the substrate bracket 1900 toward the movable bracket 1300. The mounting portion 1910 may include projections 1915 that protrude from its outer surface. The projections 1915 may protrude in a direction perpendicular to the projection direction of the mounting portion 1910.

[0558] The substrate bracket 1900 may include a guide groove 1920. The guide groove 1920 can guide and protect the connecting wire 1710 of the elastic body 1700.

[0559] The circuit board 2100 is placed on the circuit board bracket 1900.

[0560] The substrate 2100 may include a number of terminal portions 2110, 2131, 2132, 2191, and 2192. Of the number of terminal portions 2110, 2131, and 2132, terminal portion 2110 is electrically connected to the elastic body 1700, and the first and second terminal portions 2131 and 2132 are electrically connected to the coil portion 1230 of the inductor portion 1200. The third and fourth terminal portions 2191 and 2192 are electrically connected to electrode patterns 1690 arranged on both sides of the outer surface of the fixing bracket 1600, respectively.

[0561] The substrate 2100 includes a capacitor section (not shown). One or more capacitors constituting the capacitor section (not shown) may be arranged on the substrate 2100.

[0562] The substrate 2100 may include a circuit pattern that electrically connects one or more capacitors (not shown) in the capacitor section to a number of terminal sections 2110, 2131, 2132.

[0563] Figure 77 is a diagram illustrating the movement of the movable bracket 1300 due to the movement of the core body 1020 shown in Figures 68 to 76, and the electrical contact and release of contact between the fixed bracket 1600 and the movable bracket 1300.

[0564] Figure 77(A) shows the state when no external force acts on the core body 1020, and Figure 77(B) shows the state when a predetermined external force acts on the core body 1020 and the movable bracket 1300 moves in one direction.

[0565] First, referring to Figure 77(A), if no external force acts on the core 1020, the electrode pattern 1390 of the movable bracket 1300 will be in contact with the electrode pattern 1690 of the fixed bracket 1600. In other words, the electrode pattern 1390 of the movable bracket 1300 and the electrode pattern 1690 of the fixed bracket 1600 are electrically connected to each other.

[0566] The elastic body 1700 pushes the second projection 1330b of the movable bracket 1300 toward the core body 1020, allowing the electrode pattern 1390 positioned on the outer surface of the second projection 1330b to maintain contact with the electrode pattern 1690 of the fixed bracket 1600.

[0567] Next, referring to Figure 77(B), when a predetermined external force acts on the core body 1020 and the core body 1020 moves in one direction, the movable bracket 1300 moves in the same direction in conjunction with the core body 1020. As the movable bracket 1300 moves in the same direction, the second projection 1330b also moves in the same direction. As the second projection 1330b moves, the electrode pattern 1390 of the movable bracket 1300 is released from contact with the electrode pattern 1690 of the fixed bracket 1600. Similarly, the first projection 1330a, located on the opposite side of the second projection 1330b, also moves, and the electrode pattern 1390 of the movable bracket 1300 is released from contact with the electrode pattern 1690 of the fixed bracket 1600. Then, the elastic body 1700 is compressed by the movement of the movable bracket 1300.

[0568] As shown in Figure 77(B), when a predetermined external force acts on the core 1020 and the core 1020 moves in one direction, the contact between the electrode pattern 1390 of the movable bracket 1300 and the electrode pattern 1690 of the fixed bracket 1600 is released. This release of contact changes the capacitance of the capacitor (not shown) mounted on the substrate 2100. This change in capacitance alters the frequency of the pen signal emitted from the stylus pen 1000. The receiving side that receives the pen signal can sense the changed frequency and determine that the stylus pen 1000 has made contact with the screen.

[0569] As the movable bracket 1300 moves, the magnetic material 1400, which is located inside the movable bracket 1300, also moves. The movement of the magnetic material 1400 increases the distance between the inductor section 1200 and the magnetic material 1400. The change in distance between the inductor section 1200 and the magnetic material 1400 changes the inductance of the inductor section (not shown). The change in inductance occurs together with the change in capacitance, as described earlier. Here, the change in capacitance may be configured to be more dominant than the change in inductance. In the limited space inside the housing of the stylus pen, it is easier to rapidly change the capacitance than to rapidly change the inductance. On the other hand, in some cases, the change in inductance may be configured to be more dominant than the change in capacitance. Alternatively, the change in capacitance and the change in inductance may be configured to have substantially similar characteristics. In all three of the above cases, the movement of the movable bracket 1300 causes both capacitance and inductance to change, and these changes in capacitance and inductance cause a change in the resonant frequency of the resonant circuit formed by the inductor section 1200 and the capacitor section. The receiving side that receives the pen signal can sense this change in resonant frequency and determine that the stylus pen 1000 has made contact with the screen.

[0570] Figure 78 is a schematic representation of Figures 77(A) and (B), respectively, and Figure 79 is a simplified representation of a stylus pen according to another embodiment of the present invention, with Figures 77(A) and (B) respectively constructed as equivalent circuit diagrams.

[0571] Referring to Figures 78 and 79 (A) and (B), a number of capacitors C1, C2, C3, and Cs are arranged on the substrate 2100. The number of capacitors C1, C2, C3, and Cs can constitute a capacitor section (not shown). At least one of the capacitors C1, C2, and C3 is connected in parallel to each other to maintain a constant capacitance value, and the auxiliary capacitor Cs is connected in parallel to or not connected to the basic capacitor by contact or release between the electrode pattern 1690 of the fixed bracket 1600 and the electrode pattern 1390 of the movable bracket 1300 shown in Figure 77.

[0572] First, as shown in Figures 78(A) and 79(A), with no external force acting on the core 1020, the electrode pattern 1690 of the fixed bracket 1600 and the electrode pattern 1390 of the movable bracket 1300 are in contact with each other, so the auxiliary capacitor Cs is connected in parallel with the basic capacitors C1, C2, and C3. Therefore, the capacitance of the capacitor section (not shown) is the sum of the capacitance values ​​of the basic capacitors C1, C2, and C3 and the capacitance of the auxiliary capacitor Cs.

[0573] Next, as shown in Figures 78(B) and 79(B), when a predetermined external force is applied to the core body 1020, the movement of the movable bracket 1300, which is synchronized with the movement of the core body 1020, causes the electrode pattern 1390 of the movable bracket 1300 to release contact with the electrode pattern 1690 of the fixed bracket 1600. Therefore, the auxiliary capacitor Cs cannot be electrically connected to the basic capacitors C1, C2, and C3, and the capacitance of the capacitor section (not shown) is changed to the capacitance values ​​of the basic capacitors C1, C2, and C3.

[0574] In particular, referring to Figure 79(B), it can be seen that the electrode pattern 1390 of the movable bracket 1300 and the electrode pattern 1690 of the fixed bracket 1600 are in contact in two places. This can be understood from the fact that, as shown in Figures 72 and 73, the fixed bracket 1600 has two electrode patterns 1690, and the first and second extension patterns 1393a and 1393b are positioned on the first and second projections 1330a and 1330b of the movable bracket 1300.

[0575] If the external force applied to the core body 1020 is not strong enough to separate the first and second extension patterns 1393a and 1393b from the two electrode patterns 1690 of the fixed bracket 1600, that is, if the first extension pattern 1393a separates from one electrode pattern 1690 of the fixed bracket 1600, but the second extension pattern 1393b does not separate from the other electrode pattern 1690 of the fixed bracket 1600, then the auxiliary capacitor Cs remains connected in parallel with the basic capacitors C1, C2, and C3.

[0576] On the other hand, the auxiliary capacitor Cs is electrically disconnected from the basic capacitors C1, C2, and C3 only when the external force applied to the core body 1020 is strong enough to completely separate the first and second extension patterns 1393a and 1393b from the two electrode patterns 1690 of the fixed bracket 1600. Therefore, using the stylus pen 1000 according to another embodiment of the present invention has the advantage of clearly defining the reference pressure that distinguishes between hover and contact, thereby clearly distinguishing between hover and contact. In particular, even if one of the extension patterns 1393a and 1393b does not make contact with one of the two electrode patterns 1690 of the fixed bracket 1600 due to manufacturing process problems or user negligence during the production of the stylus pen, the stylus pen 1000 according to another embodiment of the present invention has the advantage of clearly distinguishing between the hover state and the contact state, as one electrode pattern different from the other extension pattern can still be maintained in contact.

[0577] Figure 80 is a perspective view of the stylus pen 1000 according to another embodiment of the present invention shown in Figure 66, viewed from the direction of the core body 1020; Figure 81(A) is a part of a cross-sectional view of the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 80, cut along A-A'; Figure 81(B) is a part of a cross-sectional view of the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 80, cut along B-B'; and Figure 82 is a drawing showing side views A and B and a cross-sectional view of the ferrite core 1210 shown in Figures 80 and 81.

[0578] Referring to Figures 68, 80, and 82, the housing 1010 of the stylus pen 1000 has a rectangular cylindrical shape with rounded corners, and the portion of the nib 1020 that is exposed from the housing 1010 has a shape in which its width narrows as it moves outward.

[0579] The external shape of the housing 1010 determines the internal components that are arranged within it, and the internal components also correspond to the shape of the housing 1010. Among the internal components, the ferrite core 1210 of the inductor section 1200 also has an optimized structure that corresponds to the external shape of the housing 1010.

[0580] As shown in Figures 81(A) and (B), the ferrite core 1210 has a first cross-sectional shape when cut in a first vertical direction (direction A-A' in Figure 80) perpendicular to the axial direction x of the ferrite core 1210 (or the longitudinal direction of the stylus pen 1000), which is different from the second cross-sectional shape when cut in a second vertical direction (direction B-B' in Figure 80). Specifically, the thickness w1 of the ferrite core 1210 in the first vertical direction is different from the thickness w2 in the second direction. More specifically, the thickness w1 in the first vertical direction is smaller than the thickness w2 in the second direction. Here, the first vertical thickness w1 can be defined as the shortest distance from the through hole 1210h of the ferrite core 1210 to the outer surface of the ferrite core 1210 in the first cross-sectional shape, and the second vertical thickness w2 can be defined as the shortest distance from the through hole 1210h of the ferrite core 1210 to the outer surface of the ferrite core 1210 in the second cross-sectional shape. Alternatively, as shown in the drawings, the first vertical thickness w1 may be the total thickness of the ferrite core 1210 in the first cross-sectional shape, and the second vertical thickness w2 may be the total thickness of the ferrite core 1210 in the second cross-sectional shape.

[0581] The ferrite core 1210 has a cylindrical or tube-like shape. A flat portion 1210d may be provided on at least a portion of the outer surface of the ferrite core 1210. A flat portion corresponding to the flat portion 1210d may also be provided on another portion of the outer surface of the ferrite core 1210. The flat portion 1210d allows the ferrite core 1210 to be stably positioned inside the housing 1010. The flat portion 1210d is formed to extend from one end to the other of the ferrite core 1210 along the axial direction x of the ferrite core 1210.

[0582] One end of the ferrite core 1210 may include at least two or more curved surfaces 1210c. At least a portion of the curved surfaces 1210c appears in the second cross-sectional shape, as shown in Figures 81(A) and (B), but not in the first cross-sectional shape. The curved surfaces 1210c may be curved in the direction toward the through-hole 1210h, from one side of one end of the ferrite core 1210 to the portion adjacent to the through-hole 1210h of the ferrite core 1210. Such curved surfaces 1210c may be arranged on opposite sides of the through-hole 1210h at one end of the ferrite core 1210, with respect to the through-hole 1210h.

[0583] As shown in "1" (the circled number 1 in the figure), "2" (the circled number 2 in the figure), and "3" (the circled number 3 in the figure) in Figure 82, the curved portion 1210c changes from an aspherical shape to a spherical shape as it moves along the axial direction x of the ferrite core 1210. "3" (the circled number 3 in the figure) in Figure 82 indicates that the curved portion 1210c is aspherical, and "1" (the circled number 1 in the figure) in Figure 82 indicates that the curved portion 1210c is spherical. Furthermore, "2" (the circled number 2 in the figure) in Figure 82 indicates that the curved portion 1210c is an intermediate shape between an aspherical and a spherical shape.

[0584] At one end of the ferrite core 1210, the flat portion 1210d has a shape in which its width gradually narrows as it moves in the axial direction x of the ferrite core 1210. Here, the width of the flat portion 1210d may decrease non-linearly.

[0585] By using the ferrite core 1210 described above, the inductor section 1200, including the ferrite core 1210, can be positioned even closer to the tip of the core body 1020 inside the stylus pen 1000, as previously mentioned in Figures 39 to 41. Therefore, the inductor section 1200 can be brought even closer relative to the receiver side (not shown), which has the advantage of increasing the magnitude of the pen signal received by the receiver side.

[0586] On the other hand, the ferrite core 1210 shown in Figures 80 to 82 may be applied to the stylus pen shown in Figure 36 or Figure 55. Furthermore, the ferrite core of the stylus pen shown in Figure 36 or Figure 55 may be applied to the stylus pen of Figure 66.

[0587] Figure 83 is a diagram illustrating a modified version of the ferrite core 1210 shown in Figure 82, and Figure 84 is a perspective view of the inductor section 1200' in which a coil 1230' is wound around the outer surface of the ferrite core 1210' shown in Figure 83.

[0588] Referring to Figure 83, the ferrite core 1210' has a cylindrical shape.

[0589] One end of the ferrite core 1210' may include a curved portion 1210c'. The curved portion 1210c' may be a curved surface that is curved toward the through hole 1210h, from one end of the ferrite core 1210' to the portion adjacent to the through hole 1210h of the ferrite core 1210'.

[0590] The ferrite core 1210' has a through hole 1210h that extends through the axial direction x. The through hole 1210h may have a constant diameter from one end to the other.

[0591] As shown in Figure 83, "1 (number 1 in the boxed figure)", "2 (number 2 in the boxed figure)", and "3 (number 3 in the boxed figure)", the outer diameter of the curved portion 1210c' decreases as you move along the axial direction x of the ferrite core 1210', while the inner diameter remains constant. Here, the inner diameter defines the through hole 1210h. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 83, "1 (number 1 in the boxed figure)", "2 (number 2 in the boxed figure)", and "3 (number 3 in the boxed figure)", the thickness between the outer diameter and inner diameter of the curved portion 1210c' gradually decreases as you move along the axial direction x of the ferrite core 1210'.

[0592] The rate at which the outer diameter decreases or the thickness (between the outer diameter and the inner diameter) decreases along the axial x of the ferrite core 1210' may be nonlinear. More specifically, when one end of the ferrite core 1210' is divided into an upper end (the part where "3" (the circled number 3 in the figure) is located), a middle end (the part where "2" (the circled number 2 in the figure)) is located), and a lower end (the part where "1" (the circled number 1 in the figure)) is located), the rate at which the outer diameter or thickness decreases from the upper end to the middle end may be relatively larger than the rate at which the outer diameter or thickness decreases from the middle end to the lower end. In other words, the rate at which the decrease decreases from the upper end to the middle end may be relatively steep, and the rate at which the decrease decreases from the middle end to the lower end may be relatively gradual.

[0593] Referring to Figure 84, the coil 1230' may be wound around the outer surface (or outer circumference) of the ferrite core 1210'.

[0594] The inductor section 1200', including the ferrite core 1210' and coil 1230', may be placed inside a cylindrical housing (not shown) other than the housing 1000 shown in Figure 80. Although not shown in separate drawings, the ferrite core of the inductor section may have a shape corresponding to the internal shape of the housing.

[0595] Overall configuration of a waterproof stylus pen

[0596] A stylus pen 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a housing 101, a core 102, an inductor 120, a capacitor (not shown), a first fixing member 130, and sealing members 200a, 200a', and 200b. The details of the housing 101, core 102, inductor 120, capacitor, and first fixing member 130 are the same as described above.

[0597] A stylus pen 1000 according to another embodiment of the present invention may include a housing 1010, a core 1020, an inductor 1200, a capacitor (not shown), a fixing bracket 1600, and sealing members 2000a, 2000a', and 2000b. The details of the housing 1010, core 1020, inductor 1200, capacitor, and fixing bracket 1600 are the same as described above.

[0598] On the other hand, the sealing members 200a, 200a', and 200b of the stylus pen 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention, and the sealing members 2000a, 2000a', and 2000b of the stylus pen 1000 according to another embodiment of the present invention, may be made of synthetic rubber or thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). For example, the synthetic rubber may be nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR), fluoroelastic polymer (FKM), ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), or silicone rubber. However, it is not limited thereto.

[0599] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings attached to this specification, sealing members 200a, 200a', and 200b for a stylus pen 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention and sealing members 2000a, 2000a', and 2000b for a stylus pen 1000 according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0600] Water inflow pathways

[0601] Figure 85 is a diagram showing the first and second moisture inflow paths through the core opening of the housing in the stylus pen shown in Figure 42.

[0602] Figure 86 is a diagram showing the first and second moisture inflow paths through the core opening of the housing in the stylus pen shown in Figure 67.

[0603] As shown in Figure 85, moisture may enter the stylus pen 100 shown in Figure 42 through the core opening (not shown) of the housing 101. Here, the core opening may refer to the separation space between the housing 101 and the core 102.

[0604] Specifically, as shown in Figure 85(a), moisture may enter the interior of the stylus pen 100 via a first moisture inflow path P1, which is a path through which moisture flows into the interior of the stylus pen 100 via the space between the housing 101 and the inductor part 120, passing through the core opening of the housing 101. Alternatively, specifically, as shown in Figure 85(b), moisture may enter the interior of the stylus pen 100 via a second moisture inflow path P2, which is a path through which moisture flows into the interior of the stylus pen 100 via the through-hole of the ferrite core 121, passing through the core opening of the housing 101.

[0605] As shown in Figure 86, moisture may enter the interior of the stylus pen 1000 through the core opening of the housing 1010, as shown in Figure 67. Specifically, as shown in Figure 86(a), moisture may enter the interior of the stylus pen 1000 via a first moisture inflow path P1', which is a path through which moisture enters the interior of the stylus pen 1000 via the space between the housing 1010 and the inductor part 1200, passing through the core opening of the housing 1010. Alternatively, specifically as shown in Figure 86(b), moisture may enter the interior of the stylus pen 1000 via a second moisture inflow path P2', which is a path through which moisture enters the interior of the stylus pen 1000 via the through-hole of the ferrite core 1210, passing through the core opening of the housing 1010.

[0606] A stylus pen containing a sealing component that can block multiple water inflow routes.

[0607] The stylus pen 100 shown in Figure 42 may include a plurality of sealing members 200a, 200a', and 200b that can block a plurality of moisture inflow paths P1 and P2 passing through the core opening of the housing 101. Specifically, the plurality of moisture inflow paths P1 and P2 may include a first moisture inflow path P1 and a second moisture inflow path P2. Furthermore, specifically, the plurality of sealing members 200a, 200a', and 200b may include a first sealing member 200a, 200a' that can block the first moisture inflow path P1 and a second sealing member 200b that can block the second moisture inflow path P2.

[0608] The stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 67 may include a plurality of sealing members 2000a, 2000a', and 2000b that can block a plurality of moisture inflow paths P1' and P2' that pass through the core opening of the housing 1010. Specifically, the plurality of moisture inflow paths P1' and P2' may include a first moisture inflow path P1' and a second moisture inflow path P2'. Furthermore, specifically, the plurality of sealing members 2000a, 2000a', and 2000b may include a first sealing member 2000a, 2000a' that can block the first moisture inflow path P1' and a second sealing member 2000b that can block the second moisture inflow path P2'.

[0609] Arrangement of the first sealing member

[0610] Figure 87 is a diagram showing one embodiment of a sealing member that blocks the first moisture inflow path in the stylus pen shown in Figure 85. Figure 88 is a diagram showing one embodiment of a sealing member that blocks the first moisture inflow path in the stylus pen shown in Figure 86. Figure 89 is a diagram showing another embodiment of a sealing member that blocks the first moisture inflow path in the stylus pen shown in Figure 85. Figure 90 is a diagram showing another embodiment of a sealing member that blocks the first moisture inflow path in the stylus pen shown in Figure 86.

[0611] Arrangement surrounding the outer surface of the ferrite core

[0612] Figure 87(a) is a drawing showing one embodiment of a first sealing member 200a positioned to cover the outer surface of the ferrite core 121 of the stylus pen 100 shown in Figure 85. Figure 87(b) is a cross-sectional view of the stylus pen 100 shown in Figure 87(a) cut along line A-A'.

[0613] As shown in Figure 87, the first sealing member 200a may be positioned to cover at least a portion of the outer surface of the ferrite core 121. Alternatively, the first sealing member 200a may be positioned to be in close contact with the inner wall of the housing 101. In this way, the first sealing member 200a can prevent moisture from flowing into the first moisture inflow path P1.

[0614] On the other hand, as described above, the stylus pen 100 shown in Figure 85 may further include an internal case 110 that is placed inside the housing 101. If the stylus pen 100 further includes an internal case 110, the first sealing member 200a may be positioned to be in close contact with the inner wall of the internal case 110.

[0615] Figure 88(a) is a drawing showing one embodiment of a first sealing member 2000a positioned to cover the outer surface of the ferrite core 1210 of the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 86. Figure 88(b) is a cross-sectional view of the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 88(a) cut along B-B'. As shown in Figure 88, the first sealing member 2000a may be positioned to cover at least a portion of the outer surface of the ferrite core 1210. Alternatively, the first sealing member 2000a may be positioned to be in close contact with the inner wall of the housing 1010. This allows the first sealing member 2000a to prevent moisture from flowing into the first moisture inflow path P1'.

[0616] Arrangement surrounding the outer surface of the fixing bracket (or first fixing member)

[0617] Figure 89(a) is a drawing showing one embodiment of the first sealing member 200a' which is positioned to cover the outer surface of the first fixing member 130 of the stylus pen 100 shown in Figure 85. Figure 89(b) is a cross-sectional view of the stylus pen 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention shown in Figure 89(a), cut along C-C'.

[0618] As shown in Figure 89, the first sealing member 200a' may be positioned to cover at least a portion of the outer surface of the first fixing member 130. Alternatively, the first sealing member 200a' may be positioned to be in close contact with the inner wall of the housing 101. In this way, the first sealing member 200a' can prevent moisture from flowing into the first moisture inflow path P1.

[0619] On the other hand, as described above, the stylus pen 100 shown in Figure 85 may further include an internal case 110 that is placed inside the housing 101. If the stylus pen 100 further includes an internal case 110, the first sealing member 200a' may be positioned to be in close contact with the inner wall of the internal case 110.

[0620] Figure 90(a) is a drawing showing one embodiment of a first sealing member 2000a' that is positioned to cover the outer surface of the fixing bracket 1600 of the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 86. Figure 90(b) is a cross-sectional view of the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 90(a) cut along line D-D'.

[0621] As shown in Figure 90, the first sealing member 2000a' may be positioned to cover at least a portion of the outer surface of the fixing bracket 1600. Alternatively, the first sealing member 2000a' may be positioned to be in close contact with the inner wall of the housing 1010. In this way, the first sealing member 2000a' can prevent moisture from flowing into the first moisture inflow path P1'.

[0622] Arrangement of the second sealing member

[0623] Figure 91 is a diagram showing a sealing member that blocks the second moisture inflow path in the stylus pen shown in Figure 85. Figure 92 is a diagram showing a sealing member that blocks the second moisture inflow path in the stylus pen shown in Figure 86.

[0624] Figure 91(a) is a drawing showing one embodiment of a second sealing member 200b positioned in the partition wall 132 of the first fixing member 130 of the stylus pen 100 shown in Figure 85. Figure 91(b) is a perspective view showing the connection between the first fixing member 130 and the second sealing member 200b.

[0625] As shown in Figure 91, the second sealing member 200b may be positioned on the partition wall 132 such that the core body 102 fills the outer perimeter of the through-hole 132h of the partition wall 132 through the first fixing member 130. Alternatively, the second sealing member 200b may be positioned so as to be in close contact with the core body 102 at the portion where the core body 102 penetrates the through-hole 132h of the partition wall 132. In this way, the second sealing member 200b can prevent moisture from flowing into the second moisture inflow path P2. On the other hand, the details of the first fixing member 130, partition wall 132, and through-hole 132h are the same as described above.

[0626] Figure 92(a) is a drawing showing one embodiment of a second sealing member 2000b positioned on the partition wall 1611 of the fixing bracket 1600 of the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 86. Figure 92(b) is a perspective view showing the connection between the fixing bracket 1600 and the second sealing member 2000b.

[0627] As shown in Figure 92, the second sealing member 2000b may be positioned on the partition wall 1611 such that the core body 1020 fills the outer perimeter of the through-hole 1610 of the partition wall 1611 through which the fixing bracket 1600 penetrates. Alternatively, the second sealing member 2000b may be positioned so as to be in close contact with the core body 1020 at the portion where the core body 1020 penetrates the through-hole 1610 of the partition wall 1611. This allows the second sealing member 2000b to prevent moisture from flowing into the second moisture inflow path P2'. On the other hand, the details of the fixing bracket 1600, partition wall 1611, and through-hole 1610 are the same as described above.

[0628] Stylus pen including first sealing member and second sealing member

[0629] Figure 93 is a drawing showing the stylus pens shown in Figures 85 and 86, respectively, with the addition of a first sealing member and a second sealing member.

[0630] As shown in Figure 93(a), the stylus pen 100 shown in Figure 85 may include a plurality of sealing members 200a, 200a', and 200b that can block a plurality of moisture inflow paths P1 and P2 passing through the core opening (not shown) of the housing 101. Specifically, the plurality of moisture inflow paths P1 and P2 may include a first moisture inflow path P1 and a second moisture inflow path P2. Furthermore, specifically, the plurality of sealing members 200a, 200a', and 200b may include a first sealing member 200a, 200a' that can block the first moisture inflow path P1 and a second sealing member 200b that can block the second moisture inflow path P2. In other words, the stylus pen 100 can block both the first moisture inflow path P1 and the second moisture inflow path P2 by the first sealing member 200a, 200a' and the second sealing member 200b.

[0631] As shown in Figure 93(b), the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 86 may include a plurality of sealing members 2000a, 2000a', and 2000b that can block a plurality of moisture inflow paths P1' and P2' that pass through the core opening of the housing 1010. Specifically, the plurality of moisture inflow paths P1' and P2' may include a first moisture inflow path P1' and a second moisture inflow path P2'. Furthermore, specifically, the plurality of sealing members 2000a, 2000a', and 2000b may include a first sealing member 2000a, 2000a' that can block the first moisture inflow path P1' and a second sealing member 2000b that can block the second moisture inflow path P2. In other words, the stylus pen 1000 can completely block the first moisture inflow path P1' and the second moisture inflow path P2' by using the first sealing members 2000a, 2000a' and the second sealing member 2000b.

[0632] Stylus pen including sealing material with contact area

[0633] Figure 94 is a drawing showing a modified example of the sealing member shown in Figures 91 and 92.

[0634] As described above, the second sealing member 200b shown in Figure 91 may be positioned on the partition wall 132 such that the core body 102 fills the outer perimeter of the through-hole 132h of the partition wall 132 through which the first fixing member 130 penetrates. Alternatively, the second sealing member 200b may be positioned so as to be in close contact with the core body 102 at the portion where the core body 102 penetrates the through-hole 132h of the partition wall 132. In this way, the second sealing member 200b can prevent moisture from flowing into the second moisture inflow path P2. On the other hand, the details of the first fixing member 130, partition wall 132, and through-hole 132h are the same as described above.

[0635] Furthermore, as described above, the second sealing member 2000b shown in Figure 92 may be positioned on the partition wall 1611 such that the core body 1020 fills the outer perimeter of the through-hole 1610 of the partition wall 1611 through which the fixing bracket 1600 penetrates. Alternatively, the second sealing member 2000b may be positioned so as to be in close contact with the core body 1020 at the portion where the core body 1020 penetrates the through-hole 1610 of the partition wall 1611. This allows the second sealing member 2000b to prevent moisture from flowing into the second moisture inflow path P2'. On the other hand, the details of the fixing bracket 1600, partition wall 1611, and through-hole 1610 are the same as described above.

[0636] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 94(a), the second sealing member 200b of the stylus pen 100 shown in Figure 85 may include a sealing member body 203 and an adhesion portion 201. Specifically, the sealing member body 203 may be positioned in the partition wall 132 so as to fill the outer perimeter of the through hole 132h of the partition wall 132. Specifically, the adhesion portion 201 may be cylindrical in shape having the height of the core body 102 in the longitudinal direction, and the second sealing member 200b may be positioned so as to be in close contact with the core body 102 at the adhesion portion 201. This allows the adhesion portion 201 to maintain a state of close contact with the core body 102 at least in part as the core body 102 moves in the longitudinal direction of the core body 102. In other words, when the core body 102 moves in the longitudinal direction of the core body 102, the second sealing member 200b can prevent moisture that has flowed in through the second moisture inflow path P2 from passing through the through hole 132h located in the partition wall 132 of the first fixing member 130 via the contact portion 201.

[0637] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 94(b), the second sealing member 2000b of the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 86 may include a sealing member body 2003 and an adhesion portion 2001. Specifically, the sealing member body 2003 may be positioned in the partition wall 1611 so as to fill the outer casing of the through-hole 1610 of the partition wall 1611. Specifically, the adhesion portion 2001 may be cylindrical in shape having the height of the core body 1020 in the longitudinal direction, and the second sealing member 2000b may be positioned so as to be in close contact with the core body 1020 at the adhesion portion 2001. This allows the adhesion portion 2001 to maintain a state of close contact with the core body 1020 at least in part as the core body 1020 moves in the longitudinal direction of the core body 1020. In other words, when the core body 1020 moves in the longitudinal direction of the core body 1020, the second sealing member 2000b can prevent moisture that has flowed in through the second moisture inflow path P2' from passing through the through hole 1610 located in the partition wall 1611 of the fixed bracket 1600 via the contact portion 2001.

[0638] Stylus pen including cushioning material

[0639] Referring to Figures 42, 87, and 89, the stylus pen 100 shown in Figure 85 may include a housing 101, a core 102, an inductor 120, a capacitor (not shown), a first fixing member 130, a buffer member 115, and first sealing members 200a, 200a'. The detailed contents of the housing 101, core 102, inductor 120, capacitor (not shown), first fixing member 130, and first sealing members 200a, 200a' are the same as described above.

[0640] Specifically, the stylus pen 100 shown in Figure 85 may further include a buffer member 115 which can be positioned between the inner surface of the housing 101 and the other end of the ferrite core 121. Here, the buffer member 115 may be positioned to cover at least a portion of the other end of the ferrite core 121. The buffer member 115 may also be positioned to be in close contact with the housing 101 and the other end of the ferrite core 121. This allows the buffer member 115 to block the path by which moisture can flow into the interior of the stylus pen 1000 through the core opening (not shown) of the housing 101.

[0641] On the other hand, as shown in Figures 37 to 40, the other end of the ferrite core 121 may have a tapered shape in which the diameter or width decreases towards the end. Also, the other end of the ferrite core 121 may include at least one curved surface portion 121c whose outer surface is curved inward. The cushioning member 115 may have an even smaller thickness than when the other end of the ferrite core 121 does not include the curved surface portion 121c, due to the curved surface portion 121c included in the other end of the ferrite core 121.

[0642] Referring to Figures 67, 88, and 90, the stylus pen 1000 may include a housing 1010, a core 1020, an inductor 1200, a capacitor (not shown), a fixing bracket 1600, a buffer member 1150, and first sealing members 2000a, 2000a'. The detailed contents of the housing 1010, core 1020, inductor 1200, capacitor, fixing bracket 1600, and first sealing members 2000a, 2000a' are the same as described above.

[0643] Specifically, the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 86 may include a buffer member 1150 that can be positioned between the inner surface of the housing 1010 and the other end of the ferrite core 1210. Here, the buffer member 1150 may be positioned to cover at least a portion of the other end of the ferrite core 1210. The buffer member 1150 may also be positioned to be in close contact with the housing 1010 and the other end of the ferrite core 1210. This allows the buffer member 1150 to block the path by which moisture can flow into the interior of the stylus pen 1000 through the core opening (not shown) of the housing 1010.

[0644] On the other hand, as shown in Figures 37 to 40, the other end of the ferrite core 1210 may have a tapered shape in which the diameter or width decreases towards the end. Also, the other end of the ferrite core 1210 may include at least one curved surface portion 121c whose outer surface is curved inward. Due to the curved surface portion 121c included in the other end of the ferrite core 121, the cushioning member 115 may have an even smaller thickness compared to the case where the other end of the ferrite core 121 does not include the curved surface portion 1210c.

[0645] Third sealing member

[0646] Figure 95 is a drawing showing yet another embodiment of the sealing member that blocks the first moisture inflow path in the stylus pen shown in Figure 86. Specifically, Figure 95(a) is a part of a perspective view of the stylus pen including the third sealing member. Figure 95(b) is a part of a cross-sectional view of Figure 95(a) taken along C-C'.

[0647] As shown in Figure 95, the stylus pen 1000 may include a third sealing member 2000c that can block the first moisture inflow path P1' shown in Figure 86, which passes through the core opening (not shown) of the housing 1010.

[0648] As shown in Figure 95(a), the third sealing member 2000c may be positioned to cover at least a portion of the outer surface of the ferrite core 1210. Specifically, the third sealing member 2000c can cover at least a portion of the outer surface of the ferrite core 1210 near the core opening. The third sealing member 2000c may, but is not limited to, be positioned opposite the coil portion 1230.

[0649] As shown in Figure 95(b), the third sealing member 2000c may be positioned so as to be in close contact with the inner wall of the housing 1010. This prevents moisture from flowing into the first moisture inflow path P1' shown in Figure 86.

[0650] Cushioning member and fourth sealing member

[0651] Figure 96 is a drawing showing one embodiment of a buffer member that blocks the first and second moisture inflow paths in the stylus pen shown in Figure 86. Specifically, Figure 96(a) is a part of a perspective view of the stylus pen including the buffer member. Figure 96(b) is a part of a cross-sectional view of Figure 96(a) taken along D-D'.

[0652] As shown in Figure 96, the stylus pen 1000 may include a cushioning member 1150. Specifically, the cushioning member 1150 may be positioned to cover at least a portion of the outer surfaces of the core 1020 and the ferrite core 1210 near the core opening (not shown). More specifically, the cushioning member 1150 may have a predetermined hole (not shown) formed therein. The cushioning member 1150 can accommodate the core 1020 and the ferrite core 1210 through the predetermined hole.

[0653] As shown in Figure 96(a), the buffer member 1150 may include a fourth sealing member 2000d. Specifically, the fourth sealing member 2000d may, but is not limited to, be formed in the form of a ring. The fourth sealing member 2000d may be coupled to one end of the buffer member 1150 on the core opening side.

[0654] More specifically, the fourth sealing member 2000d may be for blocking the first moisture inflow path P1' shown in Figure 86. As shown in Figure 96(b), the outer casing 2000d-1 of the fourth sealing member 2000d may be positioned to be in close contact with the inner wall of the housing 1010. This prevents moisture from flowing into the first moisture inflow path P1'.

[0655] On the other hand, the fourth sealing member 2000d may be for blocking the second moisture inflow path P2' shown in Figure 86. As shown in Figure 96(b), the inner casing 2000d'-2 of the fourth sealing member 2000d may be arranged to be in close contact with the core body 1020 and / or the ferrite core 1210. This prevents moisture from flowing into the second moisture inflow path P2'. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the present invention may include a fourth sealing member 2000d in which the inner casing 2000d'-2 is separated from the core body 1020 and / or the ferrite core 1210 by a predetermined distance.

[0656] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the fourth sealing member 2000d may be connected to one end of the buffer member 1150 as a separate configuration. Alternatively, the fourth sealing member 2000d may be connected to one end of the buffer member 1150 to form an integral part with the buffer member 1150. However, the invention is not limited thereto.

[0657] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the fourth sealing member 2000d may be formed at one end of the cushioning member 1150 through a predetermined process. For example, the fourth sealing member 2000d may be formed through at least one process selected from the group including taping and coating processes, but is not limited thereto.

[0658] Third sealing member, cushioning member, and fourth sealing member

[0659] Figure 97 is a drawing showing a stylus pen including the sealing member shown in Figure 95 and the cushioning member shown in Figure 96.

[0660] As shown in Figure 97, the stylus pen 1000 may include a third sealing member 2000c and a buffer member 1150. The buffer member 1150 may include a fourth sealing member 2000d. Specifically, the fourth sealing member 2000d and the buffer member 1150 may be positioned opposite each other and cover at least a portion of the outer surface of the core body 1020 or the ferrite core 1210 near the core body opening (not shown). In this way, the third sealing member 2000c and the fourth sealing member 2000d can work together to prevent moisture from flowing into the first moisture inflow path P1' and the second moisture inflow path P2'.

[0661] Third water inflow pathway

[0662] Figure 98 is a diagram showing the third moisture inflow path through the button portion of the stylus pen shown in Figure 67. Specifically, Figure 98(a) shows both a perspective view of the stylus pen and the third moisture inflow path. Figure 98(b) shows both a part of the perspective view with the housing removed from Figure 98(a) and the third moisture inflow path.

[0663] As shown in Figure 98, the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 67 may include a button bracket 1190. Specifically, the button bracket 1190 is positioned within the housing 1010 to connect with the substrate bracket 1900 and cover at least a portion of the substrate 2100. The button bracket 1190 also has a predetermined groove (not shown) formed therein for connecting with the button portion 1090, thereby accommodating the button portion 1090.

[0664] As shown in Figure 98(a), moisture may enter the interior of the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 67 via a third moisture inflow path P3'. Specifically, as shown in Figure 98(b), the third moisture inflow path P3' may include a path P3'-1 that passes through the separation space between the button portion 1090 and the housing 1010 and reaches the substrate 2100 through a hole (not shown) formed in the button bracket 1190. Alternatively, the third moisture inflow path P3' may include a path P3'-2 that passes through the separation space between the button portion 1090 and the housing 1010 and reaches the substrate 2100 along the outer surface of the button bracket 1190.

[0665] Fourth water inflow pathway

[0666] Figure 99 is a diagram showing the fourth moisture inflow path in the stylus pen shown in Figure 67, through the joint between the housing and the clicker housing. Specifically, Figure 99(a) shows both a perspective view of the stylus pen and the fourth moisture inflow path. Figure 99(b) shows both a part of the perspective view with the housing removed in Figure 99(a) and the fourth moisture inflow path.

[0667] As shown in Figure 99, the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 67 may include a clicker housing 2300, a clicker cover 2400, a clicker button 2500, and a clicker elastic member 2510.

[0668] Specifically, the clicker button 2500 is positioned to be inserted into a hole (not shown) formed at the end of the clicker housing 2300 opposite the pen tip. The clicker button 2500 may be used to perform a specific action of the stylus pen 1000. The clicker button 2500 may be pressed by an external force toward the core opening (not shown).

[0669] Specifically, one end of the clicker elastic member 2510 may be connected to the clicker button 2500. The other end of the clicker elastic member 2510 may be connected to the clicker housing 2300. When the clicker button 2500 is pressed in the direction of the core opening, the clicker elastic member 2510 is compressed and can store elastic energy. When the force pressing the clicker button 2500 is released, the elastic energy stored in the clicker elastic member 2510 causes the clicker button 2500 to move in the opposite direction from the core opening.

[0670] Specifically, the clicker cover 2400 and the clicker housing 2300 are arranged inside the housing 1010 to surround the clicker button 2500 and the clicker elastic member 2510. The clicker housing 2300 may have a hole for accommodating the clicker button 2500. The clicker housing 2300 may also be coupled to the clicker cover 2400. The clicker cover 2400 may be connected to the clicker housing 2300 via a predetermined fastening part (not shown) and coupled to the end of the base plate bracket 1900. On the other hand, as described above, the clicker cover 2400 may have a predetermined groove (not shown) near the part that is coupled to the base plate bracket 1900.

[0671] As shown in Figure 99(a), moisture may enter the interior of the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 67 via a fourth moisture inflow path P4'. Specifically, as shown in Figure 99(b), the fourth moisture inflow path P4' is a path that passes through the joint between the housing 1010 and the clicker housing 2300 and reaches the substrate 2100 along the outer surfaces of the clicker housing 2300 and the clicker cover 2400.

[0672] Packing material

[0673] Figure 100 is a diagram showing a packing member that blocks the third moisture inflow path in the stylus pen shown in Figure 98.

[0674] As shown in Figure 100, the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 67 may include a packing member 1290. Specifically, the packing member 1290 may be coupled to the button bracket 1190 via a predetermined groove (not shown) formed in the button bracket 1190. The packing member 1290 may also separate a hole (not shown) formed in the button bracket 1190 to block the third moisture inflow path P3' shown in Figure 98. The packing member 1290 may be positioned to be in close contact with the button bracket 1190.

[0675] As shown in Figure 100, the packing member 1290 may have a projection 1291 formed on its edge. Specifically, the projection 1291 may be formed to be in close contact with the inner wall of the housing 1010.

[0676] This prevents moisture from entering through the separation space between the button portion 1090 and the housing 1010, via a third moisture inflow path P3' that reaches the substrate 2100 through a hole formed in the button bracket 1190 or along the outer surface of the button bracket 1190.

[0677] Fifth sealing member

[0678] Figure 101 is a drawing showing one embodiment of a sealing member that blocks the fourth moisture inflow path in the stylus pen shown in Figure 99. Specifically, Figure 101(a) shows a partial perspective view of the stylus pen with the housing removed, showing the sealing member. Figure 101(b) is a partial cross-sectional view of Figure 101(a) taken along E-E'.

[0679] As shown in Figure 101(a), the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 67 may include a fifth sealing member 2000e for blocking the fourth moisture inflow path P4' shown in Figure 99. Specifically, the fifth sealing member 2000e may be positioned in a groove (not shown) formed in the clicker cover 2400 near the area where the clicker cover 2400 is coupled to the substrate bracket 1900. The fifth sealing member 2000e can cover the outer surface of the clicker cover 2400 with the groove formed in the clicker cover 2400.

[0680] As shown in Figure 101(b), the fifth sealing member 2000e may be positioned to be in close contact with the inner wall of the housing 1010 shown in Figure 67. This prevents moisture from flowing into the fourth moisture inflow path P4'.

[0681] An embodiment of a stylus pen containing multiple sealing members

[0682] Figure 102 is a diagram showing multiple waterproofing mechanisms provided in the stylus pen shown in Figure 67.

[0683] As shown in Figure 102, the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 67 can be equipped with multiple waterproofing means. Specifically, the waterproofing means are for blocking pathways through which moisture can enter the interior of the stylus pen 1000.

[0684] For example, the pathway through which moisture flows in may be at least one pathway selected from the group including the first moisture inflow pathway P1', the second moisture inflow pathway P2', the third moisture inflow pathway P3', and the fourth moisture inflow pathway P4 described above. However, it is not limited to these pathways.

[0685] For example, the waterproofing means may be at least one configuration selected from the group including a buffer member 1150 containing the first sealing members 2000a, 2000a', the second sealing member 2000b, the third sealing member 2000c, and the fourth sealing member 2000d, a fifth sealing member 2000e, and a packing member 1290. However, it is not limited to this.

[0686] As shown in Figure 102, the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 67 may include a buffer member 1150 including a first sealing member 2000a', a third sealing member 2000c, and a fourth sealing member 2000d, a packing member 1290, and a fifth sealing member 2000e. This prevents moisture from entering the interior of the stylus pen 1000 through the first moisture inflow path P1', the second moisture inflow path P2', the third moisture inflow path P3', and the fourth moisture inflow path P4'.

[0687] As described above with reference to Figure 90, the first sealing member 2000a' may be positioned to cover at least a portion of the outer surface of the fixing bracket 1600. Alternatively, the first sealing member 2000a' may be positioned to be in close contact with the inner wall of the housing 1010. In this way, the first sealing member 2000a' can prevent moisture from flowing in through the first moisture inflow path P1'.

[0688] As described above with reference to Figure 95, the third sealing member 2000c may be positioned to cover at least a portion of the outer surface of the ferrite core 1210. Specifically, the third sealing member 2000c can cover at least a portion of the outer surface of the ferrite core 1210 near the core opening (not shown). Furthermore, the third sealing member 2000c is positioned opposite the coil portion 1230, but is not limited to this.

[0689] Furthermore, the third sealing member 2000c may be positioned so as to be in close contact with the inner wall of the housing 1010. This prevents moisture from flowing into the first moisture inflow path P1'.

[0690] As described above with reference to Figure 96, the stylus pen 1000 may include a cushioning member 1150. Specifically, the cushioning member 1150 may be positioned to cover at least a portion of the outer surfaces of the core 1020 and the ferrite core 1210 near the core opening.

[0691] Furthermore, the buffer member 1150 may include a fourth sealing member 2000d. Specifically, the fourth sealing member 2000d may be formed in the form of a ring, but is not limited thereto. The fourth sealing member 2000d may be coupled to one end of the buffer member 1150 on the core opening side.

[0692] More specifically, the fourth sealing member 2000d may be for blocking the first moisture inflow path P1'. As shown in Figure 96(b), the outer casing 2000d-1 of the fourth sealing member 2000d may be positioned to be in close contact with the inner wall of the housing 1010. This prevents moisture from flowing into the first moisture inflow path P1'.

[0693] Furthermore, the fourth sealing member 2000d may be for blocking the second moisture inflow path P2'. As shown in Figure 96(b), the inner casing 2000d'-2 of the fourth sealing member 2000d may be arranged to be in close contact with the core body 1020 and / or the ferrite core 1210. This prevents moisture from flowing into the second moisture inflow path P2'.

[0694] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the fourth sealing member 2000d may be connected to one end of the buffer member 1150 as a separate configuration. Alternatively, the fourth sealing member 2000d may be connected to one end of the buffer member 1150 to form an integral part with the buffer member 1150. However, the invention is not limited thereto.

[0695] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the fourth sealing member 2000d may be formed at one end of the cushioning member 1150 through a predetermined process. For example, the fourth sealing member 2000d may be formed through at least one process selected from the group including taping and coating. However, it is not limited thereto.

[0696] As described above with reference to Figure 100, the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 67 may include a packing member 1290. Specifically, the packing member 1290 may be coupled to the button bracket 1190 via a predetermined groove (not shown) formed in the button bracket 1190. The packing member 1290 can also block a hole (not shown) formed in the button bracket 1190 to block a third moisture inflow path P3'. The packing member 1290 may be positioned to be in close contact with the button bracket 1190.

[0697] Furthermore, the packing member 1290 may have a projection 1291 formed on its edge. Specifically, the projection 1291 may be formed to be in close contact with the inner wall of the housing 1010.

[0698] This prevents moisture from entering through the separation space between the button portion 1090 and the housing 1010, via a third moisture inflow path P3' that reaches the substrate 2100 through a hole formed in the button bracket 1190 or along the outer surface of the button bracket 1190.

[0699] As described above with reference to Figure 101, the stylus pen 1000 shown in Figure 67 may include a fifth sealing member 2000e for blocking the fourth moisture inflow path P4'. Specifically, the fifth sealing member 2000e may be positioned in a groove (not shown) formed in the clicker cover 2400 near the area where the clicker cover 2400 is coupled to the substrate bracket 1900. The fifth sealing member 2000e can cover the outer surface of the clicker cover 2400 with the groove formed in the clicker cover 2400.

[0700] Furthermore, the fifth sealing member 2000e may be positioned so as to be in close contact with the inner wall of the housing 1010. This prevents moisture from flowing into the fourth moisture inflow path P4'.

[0701] In the foregoing, the features, structures, and effects described in the embodiments are included in one embodiment of the present invention and are not necessarily limited to just one embodiment. Furthermore, the features, structures, and effects exemplified in each embodiment can be combined or modified and implemented in other embodiments by a person with ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiment belongs. Therefore, the content related to such combinations and modifications should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the present invention.

[0702] Furthermore, although the above description has focused on embodiments, these are merely illustrative examples and do not limit the present invention. Anyone with ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention belongs will understand that various modifications and applications not exemplified above are possible, as long as they do not deviate from the essential characteristics of these embodiments. For example, each component specifically shown in the embodiments can be modified and implemented. Such differences in modifications and applications should be interpreted as falling within the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. An input system comprising an electronic device including a sensor unit and a controller for controlling the sensor unit, and a stylus pen capable of interacting with the electronic device, The aforementioned sensor unit is A number of first patterns are formed extending in a first direction, with each end electrically connected to the controller, A number of second patterns are formed to extend in a second direction different from the first direction so as to intersect with the number of first patterns, and at least one end of both ends is electrically connected to the controller, It includes a number of third patterns that extend in the second direction, one adjacent to each of the number of second patterns, and one end of each pattern electrically connected to the others, The aforementioned stylus pen is A core body is positioned inside the housing and configured to move along the longitudinal direction of the housing by an external force acting on one end, An inductor portion including a ferrite core fixedly positioned inside the housing and having a through hole through which the core body passes, and a coil wound around the outer surface of the ferrite core, A movable part that covers at least a portion of the other end of the core body inside the housing and is configured to be linked with the core body and synchronized with the movement of the core body, The housing includes a magnetic material that is coupled to the other end of the core and moves in conjunction with the core, The inductance of the inductor is configured to be variable by the distance between the magnetic material and the ferrite core, which is increased by the external force acting on one end of the core body. The controller is configured to apply touch drive signals in the numerous first patterns and to receive touch sensing signals in the numerous second patterns. The controller is configured to apply a stylus pen drive signal in at least one of the numerous first to third patterns, The controller is configured to receive a stylus pen sensing signal from at least one of the numerous first to third patterns. Input system.

2. The input system according to claim 1, wherein the other ends of the numerous third patterns of the sensor unit are electrically floating or electrically connected to the controller.

3. The input system according to claim 1, wherein at least two of the other ends of the numerous third patterns of the sensor unit are connected in parallel to each other and electrically connected to the controller.

4. Each of the numerous first patterns of the sensor unit is A first-first pattern in which one end of both ends is electrically connected to the controller, The input system according to claim 1, further comprising a first-second pattern positioned adjacent to the first-first pattern, the other end of which is electrically connected to the controller.

5. Each of the numerous second patterns of the sensor unit is A second-first pattern in which one end of both ends is electrically connected to the controller, The input system according to claim 1, further comprising: a second-second pattern positioned adjacent to the second-first pattern, with one end of which is electrically connected to the controller.

6. The electronic device further includes a display panel on which the sensor unit is arranged, The display panel includes an active area on which the numerous first patterns, the numerous second patterns, and the numerous third patterns are arranged, and a dead space located on one side of the active area. The sensor unit further includes at least one uplink channel located in the dead space, The input system according to claim 1, wherein the uplink channel includes an uplink trace formed to extend in the first direction and a connecting trace that connects the uplink trace to the controller.

7. The controller is configured to control the sensor unit and operate in one of a number of modes. The aforementioned numerous modes are The controller controls at least some of the numerous first patterns to allow current to flow in the first direction, and controls some of the other first patterns to allow current to flow in the opposite direction to the first direction, including an uplink mode. The input system according to claim 1.

8. The aforementioned controller, A first circuit section is connected to one end of the aforementioned number of first patterns and includes a drive circuit that outputs a pen drive signal, an inverse drive circuit that outputs an inverse pen drive signal, and a ground circuit. A second circuit section is connected to the other end of the aforementioned number of first patterns and includes a drive circuit that outputs the pen drive signal, an inverse drive circuit that outputs the inverse pen drive signal, and a receiving circuit that receives the stylus pen signal. A third circuit section is connected to one end of the aforementioned number of third patterns and includes a receiving circuit for receiving the stylus pen signal, A control unit configured to control the first to third circuit sections, The input system according to claim 1.

9. The ferrite core has a first cross-sectional shape in a first vertical direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, and a second cross-sectional shape in a second vertical direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and the first vertical direction. The first cross-sectional shape differs from the second cross-sectional shape. The ferrite core includes a curved portion located at one end of the ferrite core, The input system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the curved portion includes at least two curved surfaces that are curved in the direction toward the through hole, from one side surface of one end of the ferrite core to a portion adjacent to the through hole of the ferrite core.

10. In the first cross-sectional shape, the thickness of the ferrite core in the first vertical direction is smaller than the thickness of the ferrite core in the second direction in the second cross-sectional shape. The curved portion is configured such that, at the other end of the ferrite core, it changes from an aspherical shape to a spherical shape as it moves towards the one end. Displaced on a portion of the outer surface of the ferrite core, and including a planar portion formed between both ends of the ferrite core along the longitudinal direction, The input system according to claim 9, wherein at one end of the ferrite core, the planar portion is configured such that the width of the planar portion gradually narrows as it moves toward the end of the ferrite core.

11. A fixed portion is fixedly positioned inside the housing, coupled to the other end of the ferrite core, and configured to provide a space inside from which the movable portion can move. A protective member is disposed inside the movable part, surrounds the other end of the core body together with the magnetic material, and compresses the core body between the core body and the movable part, An elastic member fixedly positioned within the space of the aforementioned fixed portion, An elastic body made of a conductive material is disposed between the movable part and the elastic member within the space of the fixed part. An input system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, including the input system according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

12. The elastic body has a hollow space inside, At least a portion of the movable part and at least a portion of the elastic member are disposed together in the hollow space of the elastic body. The input system according to claim 11, wherein at least a portion of the moving part is configured to compress at least a portion of the elastic member by the external force.

13. The housing includes a fixed portion which is fixedly positioned inside the housing, coupled to the other end of the ferrite core, and configured to provide a space inside which the movable portion can move, The fixed portion includes a pair of electrode patterns arranged on its outer surface so as to face each other. The moving part includes an electrode pattern that contacts or separates from the pair of electrode patterns in accordance with the movement of the core body. The input system according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

14. An elastic member fixedly positioned within the space of the aforementioned fixed portion, An elastic body made of a conductive material is disposed between the movable part and the elastic member within the space of the fixed part, A substrate bracket is fixedly positioned inside the housing and coupled to the other end of the fixed portion, The circuit board includes the inductor section and the capacitor section that forms a resonant circuit, and is mounted on the circuit board bracket. One end of the elastic body is electrically connected to the electrode pattern of the moving part. The other end of the elastic body is connected to the first terminal of the substrate, The input system according to claim 13, wherein the pair of electrode patterns of the fixed portion are electrically connected to the second and third terminals of the substrate, respectively.

15. The inductor section and the capacitor section that forms the resonant circuit are further included, The capacitor section includes at least one capacitor and an auxiliary capacitor connected in parallel to one end of the capacitor. The first terminal is connected in series with the auxiliary capacitor, The input system according to claim 14, wherein the second and third terminals are connected in parallel to the other end of the capacitor.

16. The pair of electrode patterns of the fixed part are plated in grooves formed on the outer surface of the fixed part. The input system according to claim 13, wherein the electrode pattern of the moving part is plated in grooves formed on the outer surface of the moving part.

17. The inductor section and the capacitor section that forms the resonant circuit are further included, In accordance with the movement of the moving part, which is synchronized with the movement of the core body, the resonant frequency of the resonant circuit changes. The input system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, at the point in time when the hover state and the contact state of the stylus pen are distinguished, the capacitance of the capacitor portion changes more dominantly relative to the inductance of the inductor portion.

18. An input system comprising an electronic device including a sensor unit and a controller for controlling the sensor unit, and a stylus pen capable of interacting with the electronic device, The aforementioned sensor unit is A number of first patterns are formed extending in a first direction, with each end electrically connected to the controller, A number of second patterns are formed to extend in a second direction different from the first direction so as to intersect with the number of first patterns, and at least one end of both ends is electrically connected to the controller, It includes a number of third patterns that extend in the second direction, one adjacent to each of the number of second patterns, and one end of each pattern electrically connected to the others, The aforementioned stylus pen is Housing and A core body having one end positioned outside the housing and the other end positioned inside the housing, configured to move along its longitudinal direction by an external force acting on the one end, An inductor portion including a ferrite core having a through hole through which the core body passes, and a coil wound on the outer surface of the ferrite core, disposed inside the housing, A capacitor section is electrically connected to the inductor section to form a resonant circuit, The housing includes at least one sealing member configured to block multiple moisture inflow paths passing through the core opening of the housing, The controller is configured to apply touch drive signals in the numerous first patterns and to receive touch sensing signals in the numerous second patterns. The controller is configured to apply a stylus pen drive signal in at least one of the numerous first to third patterns, The controller is configured to receive a stylus pen sensing signal from at least one of the numerous first to third patterns. Input system.

19. The aforementioned multiple water inflow paths are A first moisture inflow path is a path through which moisture flows into the stylus pen through the core opening of the housing and through the space between the housing and the inductor part, A second moisture inflow path is a path through which moisture flows into the stylus pen through the core opening of the housing and through the through hole of the ferrite core. The input system according to claim 18, including the following:

20. The aforementioned plurality of sealing members are A first sealing member configured to block the first moisture inflow path, A second sealing member configured to block the second moisture inflow path and The input system according to claim 19, including the following:

21. The input system according to claim 20, wherein the first sealing member is arranged to cover at least a portion of the outer surface of the ferrite core and is in close contact with the inner wall of the housing.

22. The present invention further includes a fixing bracket fixedly positioned inside the housing and coupled to one end of the ferrite core, The input system according to claim 20, wherein the first sealing member is arranged to cover at least a portion of the outer surface of the fixing bracket and is positioned in close contact with the inner wall of the housing.

23. The present invention further includes a fixing bracket fixedly positioned inside the housing and coupled to one end of the ferrite core, The fixing bracket includes a partition wall that contacts the ferrite core, The input system according to claim 20, wherein the second sealing member is positioned in the partition wall such that the core body fills the outer casing of the through-hole in the partition wall through which the partition wall penetrates, and the core body is positioned in close contact with the core body in the portion that penetrates the through-hole in the partition wall.

24. An input system comprising an electronic device including a sensor unit and a controller for controlling the sensor unit, and a stylus pen capable of interacting with the electronic device, The aforementioned sensor unit is A number of first patterns are formed extending in a first direction, with each end electrically connected to the controller, A number of second patterns are formed to extend in a second direction different from the first direction so as to intersect with the number of first patterns, and at least one end of both ends is electrically connected to the controller, It includes a number of third patterns that extend in the second direction, one adjacent to each of the number of second patterns, and one end of each pattern electrically connected to the others, The aforementioned stylus pen is Housing and A core body having one end positioned outside the housing and the other end positioned inside the housing, configured to move along its longitudinal direction by an external force acting on the one end, An inductor portion including a ferrite core having a through hole through which the core body passes, and a coil wound on the outer surface of the ferrite core, disposed inside the housing, A capacitor section is electrically connected to the inductor section to form a resonant circuit, The sealing member is configured to block the path by which moisture flows into the stylus pen through the through-hole of the ferrite core, passing through the core opening of the housing, The controller is configured to apply touch drive signals in the numerous first patterns and to receive touch sensing signals in the numerous second patterns. The controller is configured to apply a stylus pen drive signal in at least one of the numerous first to third patterns, The controller is an input system configured to receive a stylus pen sensing signal from at least one of the numerous first to third patterns.

25. The present invention further includes a fixing bracket fixedly positioned inside the housing and coupled to one end of the ferrite core, The fixing bracket includes a partition wall that contacts the ferrite core, The input system according to claim 24, wherein the sealing member is positioned in the partition wall such that the core body fills the outer casing of the through-hole in the partition wall that penetrates the partition wall, and the core body is positioned to be in close contact with the core body in the portion that penetrates the through-hole in the partition wall.

26. The input system according to claim 25, wherein the sealing member includes a cylindrical contact portion having a height in the longitudinal direction of the core body, and is arranged to be in close contact with the core body at the contact portion.

27. The input system according to claim 26, wherein the contact portion maintains a state of being in close contact with the core body at least in part when the core body moves in the longitudinal direction.

28. An input system comprising an electronic device including a sensor unit and a controller for controlling the sensor unit, and a stylus pen capable of interacting with the electronic device, The aforementioned sensor unit is A number of first patterns are formed extending in a first direction, with each end electrically connected to the controller, A number of second patterns are formed to extend in a second direction different from the first direction so as to intersect with the number of first patterns, and at least one end of both ends is electrically connected to the controller, It includes a number of third patterns that extend in the second direction, one adjacent to each of the number of second patterns, and one end of each pattern electrically connected to the others, The aforementioned stylus pen is Housing and A core body having one end positioned outside the housing and the other end positioned inside the housing, configured to move along its longitudinal direction by an external force acting on the one end, An inductor portion including a ferrite core having a through hole through which the core body passes, and a coil wound on the outer surface of the ferrite core, disposed inside the housing, A capacitor section is electrically connected to the inductor section to form a resonant circuit, A buffer member is disposed between the inner surface of the housing and the other end of the ferrite core, and is positioned to cover at least a portion of the other end of the ferrite core. The sealing member includes a sealing member that can block the path by which moisture flows into the stylus pen through the core opening of the housing and through the space between the housing and the inductor portion, The controller is configured to apply touch drive signals in the numerous first patterns and to receive touch sensing signals in the numerous second patterns. The controller is configured to apply a stylus pen drive signal in at least one of the numerous first to third patterns, The controller is an input system configured to receive a stylus pen sensing signal from at least one of the numerous first to third patterns.

29. The input system according to claim 28, wherein the buffer member is arranged to be in close contact with the housing and the other end of the ferrite core.

30. The input system according to claim 29, wherein the other end of the ferrite core has a tapered shape in which the diameter or width decreases towards the end portion, and may include at least one curved surface portion whose outer surface is curved inward.

31. The input system according to claim 30, wherein the buffer member may have an even smaller thickness than when the other end of the ferrite core does not include the curved portion.

32. The input system according to claim 31, wherein the sealing member is arranged to cover the outer surface of the ferrite core and is in close contact with the inner wall of the housing.

33. The present invention further includes a fixing bracket fixedly positioned inside the housing and coupled to one end of the ferrite core, The input system according to claim 31, wherein the sealing member is arranged to cover the fixing bracket and is positioned in close contact with the inner wall of the housing.

34. An input system comprising an electronic device including a sensor unit and a controller for controlling the sensor unit, and a stylus pen capable of interacting with the electronic device, The aforementioned sensor unit is A number of first patterns are formed extending in a first direction, with each end electrically connected to the controller, A number of second patterns are formed to extend in a second direction different from the first direction so as to intersect with the number of first patterns, and at least one end of both ends is electrically connected to the controller, It includes a number of third patterns that extend in the second direction, one adjacent to each of the number of second patterns, and one end of each pattern electrically connected to the others, The aforementioned stylus pen is Housing and A core body having one end positioned outside the housing and the other end positioned inside the housing, configured to move along its longitudinal direction by an external force acting on the one end, An inductor portion including a ferrite core having a through hole through which the core body passes, and a coil wound on the outer surface of the ferrite core, disposed inside the housing, A capacitor section is electrically connected to the inductor section to form a resonant circuit, A buffer member is disposed between the housing and the other end of the ferrite core, positioned to cover at least a portion of the other end of the ferrite core, and includes a fourth sealing member at one end. The sealing member is positioned such that its outer casing is in close contact with the inner wall of the housing. The controller is configured to apply touch drive signals in the numerous first patterns and to receive touch sensing signals in the numerous second patterns. The controller is configured to apply a stylus pen drive signal in at least one of the numerous first to third patterns, The controller is an input system configured to receive a stylus pen sensing signal from at least one of the numerous first to third patterns.

35. The input system according to claim 34, wherein the fourth sealing member is taped to or coated on one surface of the cushioning member.

36. The input system according to claim 34, wherein the fourth sealing member is arranged such that its inner casing is in close contact with the core body or the ferrite core.

37. The input system according to claim 34, wherein the fourth sealing member has an inner casing that is separated from the core body or the ferrite core by a predetermined distance.

38. The input system according to claim 34, further comprising a third sealing member that covers at least a portion of the outer surface of the ferrite core and is arranged to be in close contact with the housing.

39. The input system according to claim 38, wherein the third sealing member is arranged to be in contact with the coil.

40. A fixing bracket is fixedly positioned inside the housing and coupled to one end of the ferrite core, A first sealing member is positioned to cover at least a portion of the outer surface of the fixing bracket and to be in close contact with the housing. The input system according to claim 34, further comprising:

41. A button portion is positioned on the outer surface of the housing, A button bracket fixed and positioned inside the housing and connected to the button portion, A packing member is coupled to the button bracket and positioned to be in close contact with the button bracket. The input system according to claim 34, further comprising:

42. A circuit board bracket fixed and positioned inside the housing, covering the capacitor section, A clicker button configured to move along its longitudinal direction by an external force acting on one end, A clicker housing, one end of which is connected to the housing and which is positioned inside the housing to surround the clicker button, A clicker cover connects the substrate bracket and the clicker housing inside the housing, A fifth sealing member is positioned to surround a predetermined groove formed in the clicker cover near the portion where the clicker cover and the substrate bracket are joined, The input system according to claim 34, wherein the fifth sealing member is arranged to be in close contact with the housing.

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