Proximity object detection device and electronic device

Abstract

The device comprises a metal casing (110), a first conductor group (120) consisting of a plurality of conductors (120-m) arranged so that one end thereof is adjacent to a different position on a first side portion (111) of the metal casing and extends in a direction away from the first side portion, and a first power supply point group (130) consisting of a plurality of power supply points (130-m) that respectively contact the first side portion of the metal casing and one end of the conductor in the first conductor group.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The disclosed technology relates to proximity detection technology for detecting the approach of a detection target.

Background Art

[0002] Among proximity detection technologies, there are those that use radio waves to detect the approach of a detection target. Patent Document 1 discloses a "non-contact touch panel that detects an external touch object based on changes in an electric field or electromagnetic field" (paragraph 0013). The "non-contact touch panel" of Patent Document 1 includes a first transparent substrate, a plurality of micro sensor elements, a second transparent substrate, and a detection element. The plurality of micro sensor elements are planar (or thinned) micro sensor elements, and are arranged on the surface of the first transparent substrate in a matrix arrangement or an array arrangement. The second transparent substrate is bonded and stacked on the first transparent substrate with an optically transparent adhesive (OCA) and covers the plurality of micro sensor elements. Also, the detection element is electrically connected to the plurality of micro sensor elements so as to be able to receive detection signals output by the plurality of micro sensor elements. (paragraph 0014). Specifically, it includes transmission lines that connect between the plurality of micro sensor elements and electrically connect the micro sensor elements and the detection element. The transmission lines are wired to be connected to the detection element outside the substrate via each of the opposite sides of the substrate plane (substrate mounting surface). The transmission lines connecting between the plurality of micro sensor elements function as sensor antennas and output detection signals corresponding to changes in an electric field or a magnetic field to the detection element.

[0003] Here, although Patent Document 1 does not disclose any techniques for improving noise immunity, since proximity detection technology is expected to be used in combination with peripheral equipment, if we consider the case where noise immunity to low-frequency power supply noise emitted by peripheral equipment is taken into account, it is conceivable that the use of radio waves in a higher frequency band of MHz or higher, which has higher noise immunity than the kHz band, may be considered. Furthermore, in technological fields other than proximity object detection technology, there are technologies that use high frequencies above the MHz band, such as millimeter-wave radar using the GHz band, which improve radiation efficiency by resonating the sensor antenna with a length of λ / 4 or λ / 2. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2011-221977 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] However, in the structure described in Patent Document 1, if noise immunity to low-frequency power supply noise emitted by peripheral devices is considered as described above, a power supply line of one wavelength or longer would be provided to the microsensor element located in the center of the board mounting surface, resulting in significant power loss and making it impossible to improve radiation efficiency. In other words, the structure described in Patent Document 1 has the problem that it is difficult to further improve the detection sensitivity. This disclosure aims to solve the above-mentioned problems and improve the detection sensitivity of proximity object detection technology compared to conventional methods. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The proximity object detection device of this disclosure, Metal casing, A first group of conductors, each consisting of multiple conductors, is arranged such that one end is close to a first edge of the metal housing and extends away from the first edge. A first group of power supply points, which consists of a plurality of power supply points that are in contact with the first edge of the metal housing and one end of the conductor in the first group of conductors, It is equipped. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to this disclosure, the proximity object detection technology can achieve the effect of improving detection sensitivity compared to conventional methods. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of a proximity object detection device 100A according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows another example of the configuration of the proximity object detection device 100A' according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows an example of the configuration of an electronic device to which the proximity object detection device 100A according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure is applied. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the cross-section of line AA in Figure 3. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of the configuration of the proximity object detection device 100B according to Embodiment 2 of this disclosure. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of the configuration of an electronic device to which the proximity object detection device 100B according to Embodiment 2 of this disclosure is applied. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the cross-section of line BB in Figure 6. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows an example of the configuration of the proximity object detection device 100C according to Embodiment 3 of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the shape of the conductor 120C-m shown in Figure 8. [Figure 10]FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the shape of the conductor 140C-n shown in FIG. 8. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the proximity object detection device 100D according to Embodiment 4 of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the proximity object detection device 100E according to Embodiment 5 of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the proximity object detection device 100F according to Embodiment 6 of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining the shape of the conductor 120F-m or the conductor 140F-n shown in FIG. 13. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the proximity object detection device 100G according to Embodiment 7 of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a first diagram for explaining the operation of the proximity object detection device 100G according to Embodiment 7 of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a second diagram for explaining the operation of the proximity object detection device 100G according to Embodiment 7 of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a third diagram for explaining the operation of the proximity object detection device 100G according to Embodiment 7 of the present disclosure. MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, in order to explain the present disclosure in more detail, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0010] Embodiment 1. In Embodiment 1, the basic configuration of the present disclosure will be described.

[0011] An example of the configuration of the proximity object detection device 100A according to Embodiment 1 will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the proximity object detection device 100A according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure. The proximity detection device 100A detects when an object approaches and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the distance and position of the object. The proximity object detection device 100A comprises a metal housing 110, a first group of conductors 120, and a first group of power supply points 130.

[0012] The metal casing 110 is a metal casing. The metal casing 110 houses and exposes a portion of the components of the proximity object detection device 100A. The metal housing 110 may be, for example, a frame that surrounds the display surface of an electronic device, such as a display device, in a way that exposes it. The metal casing 110 may be, for example, a frame that surrounds the display surface of an electronic device such as an information terminal. The metal casing 110 may be, for example, a casing that encloses a display surface for operating an electronic device, such as an induction cooktop, in a way that exposes it. In its assembled state as the proximity object detection device 100A, the metal housing 110 is positioned so as to be in contact with each conductor 120-m (where m is any integer; in Figure 1, m=1, 2, 3) of the first conductor group 120 via each feed point 130-m of the first feed point group 130. In other words, the metal housing 110 is in close proximity to each conductor 120-m of the first conductor group 120. Hereinafter, the contact between the metal housing 110 and the conductors 120-m via the feed points 130-m may be referred to as "proximity". In the metal housing 110, the side where the conductors 120-m are in close proximity will be referred to as the "first side". The first side 111 is the side of the metal housing 110 facing the storage area side where a part of the configuration of the proximity object detection device 100A is exposed and housed. In this disclosure, the "side" in the side is not limited to a straight line, but may be a straight line or a curve. This metal housing 110 is configured to function as a ground conductor with respect to the conductor 120-m which functions as an antenna (monopole antenna) in this disclosure.

[0013] The first group of conductors 120 is composed of multiple conductors 120-m (where m is any integer). In Figure 1, the conductor 120-m in the first conductor group 120 consists of three conductors: conductor 120-1, conductor 120-2, and conductor 120-3. These three conductors can also be described as three sensors or three elements. The conductor 120-m, when viewed as a whole, has a rectangular shape with a long side and a short side. In the description, unless otherwise specified, the two opposing ends in the short direction are treated as ends.

[0014] One end of the conductor 120-m is close to the first edge 111 of the metal housing 110. Each of the conductors 120-m shown in Figure 1 has one end close to the lower edge (first edge 111) of the opening in the metal housing 110, and the other end opposite to that end is open.

[0015] The conductor 120-m is arranged to extend away from the first edge 111. The conductor 120-m shown in Figure 1 is arranged to extend in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the first edge 111 extends. Specifically, the conductor 120-m in the first conductor group 120 shown in Figure 1 is arranged to extend in the X-axis direction, which is perpendicular to the first edge 111, which is the lower edge of the opening in the metal housing 110.

[0016] Each of the multiple conductors 120-m is arranged at a predetermined interval. The predetermined interval is appropriately designed according to the performance required of the proximity detection device 100A. Specifically, the conductors 120-m in the first conductor group 120 shown in Figure 1 are arranged at a constant interval in the Y-axis direction, which is the length direction of the lower edge (first edge portion 111) of the opening in the metal housing 110, so that each is close to a different position on the first edge portion 111.

[0017] Thus, the first conductor group 120 is composed of a plurality of conductors 120-m, each having one end that is close to a different position on the first edge 111 of the metal housing 110, and extending in a direction away from the first edge 111.

[0018] The conductor 120-m is constructed using a metal conductor or a transparent conductive material. The conductor 120-m is made of a transparent conductive material, for example, if the proximity detection device 100A is placed superimposed on the display surface of an electronic device, in order to configure it so that the display surface is visible from the outside. In this case, the transparent conductive material constituting the conductor 120-m could be, for example, an ITO film (indium tin oxide film), graphene, a metal mesh for fine wiring, or a thin metal film. Furthermore, the transparent conductive material constituting the conductor 120-m is not limited to the above example, and may be realized using a transparent conductive material other than those described above.

[0019] Here, since transparent conductive materials have a higher resistance value compared to solid copper or aluminum sheet metal, it is anticipated that the loss of the conductor 120-m, which serves as the sensor for the proximity object detection device 100A, will increase, and the sensitivity for detecting nearby objects will decrease. However, as mentioned above, in the proximity object detection device 100A, the metal housing 110 is used as a ground conductor, and the sensor, which is constructed using the conductor 120-m, is configured as a monopole antenna, thereby reducing losses. Furthermore, in the proximity object detection device 100A, the power supply line can be omitted, resulting in even lower losses. On the other hand, a dipole antenna system that does not utilize the metal housing 110 as a ground conductor would result in higher losses compared to the present disclosure. Furthermore, the patch antenna system has extremely high losses due to the long feed lines required. Thus, when the conductor 120-m is made of a transparent conductive material, the advantages of adopting the configuration of this disclosure become even greater.

[0020] The first group of feed points 130 consists of multiple feed points 130-m. The feed point 130-m corresponds one-to-one with each of the multiple conductors 120-m in the first conductor group 120. The power supply point 130-m is in contact with the first edge 111 of the metal housing 110 and one end of the conductor 120-m of the first conductor group 120, respectively. The power supply points 130-m are positioned at different locations on the first side 111 of the metal housing 110, with a constant interval between them in the Y-axis direction, which is the length direction of the lower side (first side 111) of the opening. Thus, the first group of power supply points 130 is composed of a plurality of power supply points 130-m that are in contact with the first edge portion 111 of the metal housing 110 and one end of the conductor 120-m of the first group of conductors 120. The power supply point 130-m is electrically connected to, for example, a detection unit (not shown) which will be described later. A current of alternating current frequency is supplied from a detection unit (not shown) to the metal housing 110 and the conductors 120-m in the first conductor group 120 via the power supply point 130-m. As a result, the metal housing 110 functions as a ground conductor, and the conductors 120-m each function as antennas (monopole antennas) that constitute sensors for detecting nearby objects.

[0021] Here, the proximity object detection device 100A may be configured to include, in addition to the configuration already described, a detection unit (not shown) and a control unit (not shown). A detection unit (not shown) is electrically connected to the power supply point 130-m and detects when an object to be detected approaches, as described above. The detection unit (not shown) receives an electrical signal that changes in response to a change in the state of the object to be detected, including either the object approaching, the object moving, or both, and detects when the object has approached or its position, and outputs it as a detection signal. A control unit (not shown) controls the proximity object detection device 100A. For example, the control unit starts or stops the proximity object detection device 100A. The control unit (not shown) also outputs the detection signal output by the detection unit (not shown) to the outside of the proximity object detection device 100A. Specifically, the control unit (not shown) transmits the signal to a peripheral device, which is an external device of the proximity object detection device 100A. A detection unit (not shown) and a control unit (not shown) are implemented, for example, from at least one of a processor and a processing circuit, and a memory that stores a program for executing the processing performed by the detection unit (not shown) and the control unit (not shown).

[0022] Although Figure 1 illustrates a frame shape for the metal housing 110 that contacts the conductor, it is not limited to a frame shape as long as the first edge portion 111 of the metal housing 110 is positioned close to the surface on which the conductor 120-m is located. Figure 2 shows another example of the configuration of the proximity object detection device 100A' according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure. The metal housing 110 of the proximity object detection device 100A' may have a shape that extends away from the first edge portion 111, which is located in close proximity to the surface on which the conductor 120-m is placed, toward the bottom surface, as shown in Figure 2, for example. This is also true for other embodiments besides Embodiment 1.

[0023] This section describes an example configuration when the proximity object detection device 100A is applied to electronic equipment. Figure 3 shows an example of the configuration of an electronic device 10A to which the proximity object detection device 100A according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure is applied. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the cross-section of line AA in Figure 3. Electronic devices 10A include, for example, display devices, information terminal devices, induction cookers, and so on. The electronic device 10A includes an operating unit. The operating unit receives commands for the electronic device 10A. The proximity object detection device 100A is used as a user interface in the control unit to receive operations for the electronic device 10A.

[0024] Figure 3 shows the display and operating sections of the electronic device 10A as seen from the outside (for example, from the user's perspective). The surface of the electronic device 10A shown in Figure 3 is referred to as the front or surface of the electronic device 10A. The electronic device 10A is equipped with a metal casing 10 (110). The metal housing 10 (110) shown in Figure 3 is a metal frame that encloses the display surface of the display unit of the electronic device 10A so as to expose it. The metal frame has an opening that matches the area of ​​the display surface. The metal frame, which is the metal housing 10(110) shown in Figure 3, has a rectangular opening.

[0025] The electronic device 10A is configured to include the components of the proximity object detection device 100A described above. If the electronic device 10A is a display device, the proximity detection device 100A is superimposed and assembled on the display surface of the display unit or the operating surface of the operating unit of the display device so as to enable touch operation by the user. If the electronic device 10A is an information terminal device, the proximity object detection device 100A is positioned and assembled on top of the display surface of the display unit or the operating surface of the operating unit of the information terminal device so as to enable touch operation by the user. If the electronic device 10A is an induction cooker, the proximity detection device 100A is positioned and assembled superimposed on the display surface of the display unit or the operating surface of the operating unit so as to enable user touch operation of the induction cooker. The electronic device 10A shown in Figure 4 is constructed by stacking a substrate on top of a liquid crystal layer within a metal housing 10 of the electronic device 10A. An air layer is provided between the substrate and the liquid crystal layer, and an air layer is also provided between the liquid crystal layer and the metal housing 10.

[0026] The electronic device 10A shown in Figure 3 comprises a metal housing 10, a first group of conductors 120, and a first group of power supply points 130. The metal casing 10 of the electronic device 10A shown in Figure 3 corresponds to the metal casing 110 of the proximity object detection device 100A described above.

[0027] The first group of conductors 120, like the first group of conductors 120 already described, is composed of multiple conductors 120-m (where m is any integer). One end of the conductor 120-m is close to the first edge 11 of the metal housing 10. Each of the conductors 120-m shown in Figure 3 has one end close to a different position on the lower edge (first edge 11) of the opening in the metal housing 10, and the other end opposite to that end is open.

[0028] Furthermore, the conductor 120-m is arranged to extend away from the first edge portion 11. Specifically, the conductor 120-m in the first conductor group 120 shown in Figure 3 is arranged to extend in the X-axis direction, which is perpendicular to the first edge portion 11, which is the lower edge of the opening in the metal housing 10.

[0029] Furthermore, each of the multiple conductors 120-m is arranged at a predetermined interval. Specifically, the conductors 120-m in the first conductor group 120 shown in Figure 3 are arranged at a constant interval in the Y-axis direction, which is the length direction of the lower edge (first edge portion 11) of the metal housing 10, so that each is close to a different position on the first edge portion 11.

[0030] Thus, the first conductor group 120 is composed of a plurality of conductors 120-m, each having one end that is close to a different position on the first edge 11 of the metal housing 10, and extending in a direction away from the first edge 11.

[0031] The conductor 120-m is constructed using a metal conductor or a transparent conductive material. The conductor 120-m is made of a transparent conductive material, for example, if the proximity detection device 100A is placed superimposed on the display surface of the electronic device 10A, so that the display surface can be seen from the outside. In this case, the transparent conductive material constituting the conductor 120-m could be, for example, an ITO film (indium tin oxide film), graphene, a metal mesh for fine wiring, or a thin metal film. Furthermore, the transparent conductive material constituting the conductor 120-m is not limited to the above example, and may be realized using a transparent conductive material other than those described above. Here, since transparent conductive materials have a higher resistance value compared to solid copper or aluminum sheet metal, it is anticipated that the loss of the conductor 120-m, which serves as the sensor for the proximity object detection function in the electronic device 10A, will increase, and the sensitivity for detecting nearby objects will decrease. However, as mentioned above, in the electronic device 10A, the loss can be reduced by utilizing the metal housing 10 as a ground conductor and using a monopole antenna system for the sensor configured with the conductor 120-m. Furthermore, in the case of electronic equipment 10A, the power supply line can be omitted, resulting in even lower losses. On the other hand, a dipole antenna system that does not utilize the metal housing 10 as a ground conductor would have higher losses compared to the present disclosure. Furthermore, the patch antenna system has extremely high losses due to the long feed lines required. Thus, when the conductor is made of a transparent conductive material, the advantages of adopting the configuration of this disclosure become even greater.

[0032] The first feed point group 130 is composed of multiple feed points 130-m, similar to the first feed point group 130 described earlier. The feed point 130-m corresponds one-to-one with each of the multiple conductors 120-m in the first conductor group 120. The power supply point 130-m is in contact with the first edge 11 of the metal housing 10 and one end of the conductor 120-m of the first conductor group 120, respectively. The power supply points 130-m are positioned at different locations on the first side 11 of the metal housing 10, with a constant interval between them in the Y-axis direction, which is the length direction of the opening on the first side 11. Thus, the first group of power supply points 130 consists of a plurality of power supply points 130-m that are in contact with the first edge portion 11 of the metal housing 10 and one end of a conductor in the first group of conductors 120, respectively. The power supply point 130-m is electrically connected to, for example, a detection unit (not shown). Power is supplied from a detection unit (not shown) to the conductors 120-m in the first conductor group 120 via the feed point 130-m, so that each of the conductors 120-m functions as an antenna (monopole antenna) that constitutes a sensor for detecting nearby objects.

[0033] In other words, the electronic device 10A shown in Figure 3 comprises a display unit, a metal housing 10 that covers the display surface of the display unit so as to expose it, a first conductor group 120 consisting of a plurality of conductors 120-m arranged such that one end is close to a first edge 11 of the metal housing 10 and extends away from the first edge 11, and a first power supply point group 130 consisting of a plurality of power supply points 130-m that are in contact with one end of the first edge 11 of the metal housing 10 and one end of each of the conductors 120-m in the first conductor group 120.

[0034] Here, in addition to the configuration already described, the electronic device 10A is configured to include a detection unit (not shown) and a control unit (not shown) as components related to the proximity object detection function. A detection unit (not shown) is electrically connected to the power supply point 130-m and detects when an object to be detected approaches, as described above. The detection unit (not shown) receives an electrical signal that changes in response to a change in the state of the object to be detected, including either the object approaching, the object moving, or both, and detects when the object has approached or its position, and outputs the detection signal to an operation unit (not shown) of the electronic device 10A. A control unit (not shown) performs control related to proximity object detection. For example, the control unit (not shown) activates or deactivates the proximity object detection function. The control unit (not shown) also outputs the detection signal output by the detection unit (not shown) to an operation unit (not shown) of the electronic device 10A. A detection unit (not shown) and a control unit (not shown) are implemented, for example, from at least one of a processor and a processing circuit, and a memory that stores a program for executing the processing performed by the detection unit (not shown) and the control unit (not shown).

[0035] The operating principle and effects of the proximity object detection device 100A (or the proximity object detection function of the electronic device 10A) of this disclosure will be explained. When the proximity object detection device 100A starts operating, it supplies a high-frequency alternating current from the power supply point 130-m to the conductor 120-m and the metal housing 110. As a result, the metal housing 110 functions as a ground conductor, the conductor 120-m functions as a monopole antenna, and the proximity object detection device 100A operates as a monopole antenna type sensor. The detection unit (not shown) of the proximity object detection device 100A calculates the position of the object to be detected in the one-dimensional direction (Y-axis direction) from the difference in impedance between multiple conductors 120-m when the object to be detected approaches conductors 120-m arranged in the one-dimensional direction (Y-axis direction).

[0036] Thus, the proximity detection device 100A is configured to be a monopole antenna type sensor that omits the power supply line while utilizing the metal housing 110 as a ground conductor. This allows the proximity object detection device 100A to reduce conductor losses. By reducing losses, the proximity object detection device 100A can improve its detection sensitivity because the amount of change in the impedance and reflection coefficient of the conductor as seen from the feed point 130-m increases when a detected object approaches the conductor 120-m in the first conductor group 120. On the other hand, if a dipole antenna, another typical antenna system, is adopted, the metal housing 110 is not utilized, resulting in high loss for the conductor 120-m in the first conductor group 120, and a decrease in the detection sensitivity of nearby objects. Furthermore, when a patch antenna system is adopted, the element positioned near the center of the opening in the metal housing 110 requires a long feed line extending from the metal frame, which leads to high power loss and a decrease in the sensitivity for detecting nearby objects.

[0037] The proximity object detection device of this disclosure is configured as follows: "Metal casing and A first group of conductors, each consisting of multiple conductors, is arranged such that one end of each conductor is close to different positions on the first edge of the metal housing and extends away from the first edge. A first group of power supply points, which consists of a plurality of power supply points that are in contact with the first edge of the metal housing and one end of the conductor in the first group of conductors, A proximity object detection device equipped with [the following features]. As a result, this disclosure has the effect of providing a proximity object detection device that can improve the detection sensitivity to nearby objects compared to conventional devices.

[0038] The electronic device described herein is configured as follows: "Display unit and, A metal housing that covers the display surface of the display unit so as to expose it, A first group of conductors, each consisting of multiple conductors arranged so that one end is close to a different position on the first edge of the metal housing and extends away from the first edge, A first group of power supply points, which consists of a plurality of power supply points that are in contact with the first edge of the metal housing and one end of each conductor in the first group of conductors, Equipped with electronic devices. As a result, this disclosure has the effect of providing electronic equipment that can improve detection sensitivity to nearby objects compared to conventional methods.

[0039] The proximity object detection device of this disclosure is further configured as follows: "The conductor is made of a transparent conductive material." A proximity object detection device characterized by the following features. This disclosure provides the effect of providing a proximity object detection device that can detect objects in close proximity on a display surface without obstructing the display on the display surface. Furthermore, by applying the above configuration to the electronic device described in this disclosure, the same effects as described above can be achieved.

[0040] Embodiment 2. Embodiment 2 describes a configuration capable of detecting position, such as XY coordinates, in a two-dimensional plane. In describing Embodiment 2, some information that is the same as what has already been described in Embodiment 1 may be omitted as appropriate.

[0041] An example configuration of the proximity object detection device 100B according to Embodiment 2 will be described. Figure 5 shows an example of the configuration of the proximity object detection device 100B according to Embodiment 2 of this disclosure. The proximity detection device 100B detects when an object approaches and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the distance and position of the object. The proximity object detection device 100B comprises a metal housing 110, a first conductor group 120, a first power supply point group 130, a second conductor group 140, and a second power supply point group 150.

[0042] The metal casing 110 is configured in the same manner as the metal casing 110 described earlier. Furthermore, when assembled as the proximity object detection device 100A, the metal housing 110 is positioned so as to be in contact with each conductor 140-n of the second conductor group 140 (where n is an arbitrary integer, and in Figure 5, n=1, 2, 3) via each power supply point 150-n of the second power supply point group 150. In other words, the metal housing 110 is in close proximity to each conductor 140-n of the second conductor group 140. Hereinafter, the contact between the metal housing 110 and the conductors 140-n via the power supply point 150-n may be expressed as "proximity". In the metal housing 110, the side where the conductors 140-n are in close proximity will be referred to as the "second side". The second side 112 is the side of the metal housing 110 facing the storage area side where a part of the configuration of the proximity object detection device 100B is exposed and stored. In this disclosure, the "side" in the side is not limited to a straight line, but may be a straight line or a curve. The metal housing 110 functions as a ground conductor with respect to the conductor 120-m, which functions as an antenna (monopole antenna) in this disclosure. The metal housing 110 also functions as a ground conductor with respect to the conductor 140-n, which functions as an antenna (monopole antenna) in this disclosure.

[0043] The first conductor group 120 is configured in the same way as the first conductor group 120 already described, and a detailed explanation is omitted here. In other words, the first conductor group 120 is composed of a plurality of conductors 120-m arranged such that one end is close to the first edge 111 of the metal housing 110 and extends away from the first edge 111. The conductor 120-m is constructed using a metal conductor or a transparent conductive material, similar to the conductor 120-m described earlier.

[0044] The first feed point group 130 is configured in the same way as the first feed point group 130 already described, and a detailed explanation is omitted here. In other words, the first group of power supply points 130 is composed of a plurality of power supply points 130-m that are in contact with the first edge portion 111 of the metal housing 110 and one end of the conductor 120-m of the first group of conductors 120.

[0045] The second group of conductors 140 is composed of multiple conductors 140-n (where n is any integer). In the second conductor group 140, the conductor 140-n in Figure 5 consists of three conductors 140-n (n=1,2,3), specifically conductor 140-1, conductor 140-2, and conductor 140-3. These three conductors can also be described as three sensors or three elements. The conductor 140-n, when viewed as a whole, has a rectangular shape with a long side and a short side. In the description, unless otherwise specified, the two opposing ends in the short direction are treated as ends.

[0046] One end of the conductor 140-n is in contact with the second side 112 of the metal housing 110. Each of the conductors 140-n shown in Figure 5 has one end that is close to a different position on the right side of the opening (second side 112) of the metal housing 110, while the other end opposite to that end is open.

[0047] The conductor 140-n is arranged to extend away from the second side portion 112. In Figure 5, the conductor 140-n is arranged to extend in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the second side portion 112 extends. Specifically, in the second group of conductors 140 shown in Figure 5, the conductor 140-n is arranged to extend in the direction of the Y-axis, which is perpendicular to the second side portion 112, which is the right-hand side of the opening in the metal housing 110.

[0048] Each of the multiple conductors 140-n is arranged at a predetermined interval. The predetermined interval is appropriately designed according to the performance required of the proximity object detection device 100B. Specifically, the conductors 140-n in the first conductor group 120 shown in Figure 5 are arranged at a constant interval in the direction of the X-axis, which is the length direction of the right side (second side 112) of the opening in the metal housing 110, so that each connects to a different position on the second side 112.

[0049] Thus, the second conductor group 140 is composed of a plurality of conductors 140-n, each having one end (one of the two ends) positioned close to a different location on the second side 112 of the metal housing 110, and extending in a direction away from the second side 112.

[0050] The conductor 140-n is constructed using a metal conductor or a transparent conductive material. The conductor 140-n is made of a transparent conductive material, for example, if the proximity detection device 100B is placed superimposed on the display surface of an electronic device, in order to configure it so that the display surface is visible from the outside. In this case, the transparent conductive material constituting the conductor 140-n is, for example, an ITO film (indium tin oxide film), graphene, a metal mesh for fine wiring, or a thin metal film. Furthermore, the transparent conductive material constituting the conductor 140-n is not limited to the above example, and may be realized using a transparent conductive material other than those described above. When the conductor 140-n is made of a transparent conductive material, the advantages of adopting the configuration of this disclosure become even greater, similar to the advantages already described in other embodiments.

[0051] The second group of feed points 150 consists of multiple feed points 150-n. The power supply point 150-n corresponds one-to-one with each of the multiple conductors 140-n in the second conductor group 140. The power supply point 150-n is in contact with the second edge 112 of the metal housing 110 and one end of the conductor 140-n in the second conductor group 140, respectively. The power supply points 150-n are positioned at different locations on the second side 112 of the metal housing 110, with a constant interval between them in the X-axis direction, which is the length direction of the right side (second side 112) of the opening. Thus, the second group of power supply points 150 is composed of a plurality of power supply points 150-n that are in contact with the second edge portion 112 of the metal housing 110 and the first end of each of the conductors 140-n in the second group of conductors 140.

[0052] The power supply point 150-n is electrically connected to, for example, a detection unit (not shown) which will be described later. AC frequency is supplied from a detection unit (not shown) via a power supply point 150-n to the metal housing 110 and the conductors 140-n in the second conductor group 140. As a result, the metal housing 110 functions as a ground conductor, and the conductors 140-n each function as antennas (monopole antennas) that constitute sensors for detecting nearby objects. Furthermore, an AC frequency current is supplied from a detection unit (not shown) via a power supply point 150-n to the metal housing 110 and the conductors 140-n in the second conductor group 140. As a result, the metal housing 110 functions as a ground conductor, and the conductors 140-n in the second conductor group 140 each function as antennas (monopole antennas) that constitute sensors for detecting nearby objects.

[0053] In the proximity object detection device 100B, there is a portion where the conductor 120-m of the first conductor group 120 and the conductor 140-n of the second conductor group 140 intersect without contact (a portion where they intersect in a three-dimensional manner). This portion is referred to as the "intersection" in this disclosure. In Figure 5, the conductor 120-m of the first conductor group 120 and the conductor 140-n of the second conductor group 140 are arranged to be perpendicular at the intersection 160. In Figure 5, the intersection 160 refers to only one location where the conductor 120-1 and the conductor 140-1 intersect, but each of the portions where the conductors 120-1, 120-2, 120-3, 140-1, 140-2, and 140-3 intersect with each other corresponds to the intersection 160. In other words, the proximity object detection device 100B has an intersection 160 where the conductor 120-m of the first conductor group 120 and the conductor 140-n of the second conductor group 140 intersect without contact.

[0054] Here, the proximity object detection device 100B may be configured to include a detection unit (not shown) and a control unit (not shown), in addition to the configuration already described, as in other embodiments. The detection unit (not shown) and control unit (not shown) are the same as the detection unit (not shown) and control unit (not shown) already described, and a detailed explanation is omitted here.

[0055] An example of a configuration when the proximity object detection device 100B is applied to electronic equipment will be described. Figure 6 shows an example of the configuration of an electronic device 10B to which the proximity object detection device 100B according to Embodiment 2 of this disclosure is applied. Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the cross-section of line BB in Figure 6. Electronic devices 10B include, for example, display devices, information terminal devices, induction cookers, and so on. The electronic device 10B includes an operating unit. The operating unit receives commands for the electronic device 10B. The proximity object detection device 100B is used as a user interface in the control unit to receive operations for the electronic device 10B.

[0056] Figure 6 shows the display and operating sections of the electronic device 10B as seen from the outside (for example, from the user's perspective). The surface of the electronic device 10B shown in Figure 6 is referred to as the front or surface of the electronic device 10B. Electronic device 10B, like electronic device 10A described earlier, is equipped with a metal housing 10(110).

[0057] Electronic device 10B is configured to include the same components as the proximity object detection device 100B described above, similar to electronic device 10A already described. In the electronic device 10B, there is a portion where the conductor 120-m of the first conductor group 120 and the conductor 140-n of the second conductor group 140 intersect without contact (a portion where they intersect in three dimensions). This portion is referred to as the "intersection" in this disclosure. In Figure 6, the conductor 120-m of the first conductor group 120 and the conductor 140-n of the second conductor group 140 are arranged to be perpendicular at the intersection 160. In Figure 6, the intersection 160 refers to only one location where the conductor 120-1 and the conductor 140-1 intersect, but each of the portions where the conductors 120-1, 120-2, 120-3, 140-1, 140-2, and 140-3 intersect with each other corresponds to the intersection 160. In other words, the electronic device 10B has an intersection 160 where the conductor 120-m of the first conductor group 120 and the conductor 140-n of the second conductor group 140 intersect without contact.

[0058] The electronic device 10B shown in Figure 6 is constructed by stacking a first substrate 11a on which a conductor 120-m is formed and a second substrate 11b on which a conductor 140-n is formed, on top of a liquid crystal layer 12 in the metal housing 10 of the electronic device 10B. The second substrate 11b is positioned above the layer of the first substrate 11a, and the first substrate 11a is positioned below the layer of the second substrate 11b. An air layer 14 is provided between the first substrate 11a and the liquid crystal layer 12, and an air layer 15 is provided between the liquid crystal layer 12 and the metal housing 10. Thus, the conductor 120-m of the first conductor group 120 and the conductor 140-n of the second conductor group 140 are arranged in different layers and intersect without contact.

[0059] Conductors 120-m and 140-n are constructed using metal conductors or transparent conductive materials, similar to conductors 120-m and 140-n already described. When conductors 120-m and 140-n are made of transparent conductive material, the advantages of adopting the configuration of this disclosure become even greater, similar to the advantages already described in other embodiments.

[0060] The operating principle and effects of the proximity object detection device 100B (or the proximity object detection function of the electronic device 10B) of this disclosure will be explained. When the proximity object detection device 100B starts operating, it supplies a high-frequency alternating current from the power supply point 130-m to the conductor 120-m and the metal housing 10. As a result, the metal housing 10 functions as a ground conductor, the conductor 120-m functions as a monopole antenna, and the proximity object detection device 100B operates as a monopole antenna type sensor. Furthermore, when the proximity object detection device 100B starts operating, it supplies a high-frequency alternating current from the power supply point 150-n to the conductor 140-n and the metal housing 10. As a result, the metal housing 10 functions as a ground conductor, the conductor 140-n functions as a monopole antenna, and the proximity detection device 100B operates as a monopole antenna type sensor. The detection unit (not shown) of the proximity object detection device 100B calculates the position of the object in two dimensions (XY plane) using the difference in impedance between multiple conductors 120-m when the object to be detected approaches a conductor 120-m aligned in the Y-axis direction, and the difference in impedance between multiple conductors 140-n when the object to be detected approaches a conductor 140-n aligned in the X-axis direction.

[0061] Thus, the proximity object detection device 100B is configured to be a monopole antenna type sensor that utilizes the metal housing 100 as a ground conductor and omits the power supply line. This allows the proximity object detection device 100B to reduce the loss of the conductor. By reducing losses, the proximity object detection device 100B can improve detection sensitivity because the amount of change in the impedance and reflection coefficient of the conductor as seen from the power supply point increases when a detected object approaches conductor 120-m in the first conductor group 120. Furthermore, the proximity object detection device 100B can improve detection sensitivity because the amount of change in the impedance and reflection coefficient of the conductor as seen from the power supply point increases when a detected object approaches conductor 140-n in the second conductor group 140. Furthermore, by using the first group of conductors 120 arranged as sensors in the Y-axis direction and the second group of conductors 140 arranged as sensors in the X-axis direction, it becomes possible to calculate the position of nearby objects in a two-dimensional plane.

[0062] The proximity object detection device of this disclosure is further configured as follows: "A second group of conductors, each consisting of multiple conductors, is arranged such that one end of each of the two ends is close to a different position on the second side of the metal housing and extends away from the second side," A second group of power supply points, comprising a plurality of power supply points that are in contact with the second edge of the metal housing and the first end of each conductor in the second group of conductors, Equipped with, The conductors of the first group of conductors and the conductors of the second group of conductors have an intersection where they intersect without contact. A proximity object detection device characterized by the following: This disclosure provides a proximity object detection device that can precisely detect the position of an object to be detected within a two-dimensional plane. Furthermore, by applying the above configuration to the electronic device described in this disclosure, the same effects as described above can be achieved.

[0063] Embodiment 3. Embodiment 3 describes a configuration in which the shape of the conductor is modified to improve detection sensitivity. In describing Embodiment 3, some information that has already been described in Embodiments 1 and 2 may be omitted as appropriate.

[0064] An example of the configuration of the proximity object detection device 100C according to Embodiment 3 of this disclosure will be described. Figure 8 shows an example of the configuration of the proximity object detection device 100C according to Embodiment 3 of the present disclosure. The proximity object detection device 100C comprises a metal housing 110, a first conductor group 120C, a first power supply point group 130, a second conductor group 140C, and a second power supply point group 150.

[0065] The proximity object detection device 100C differs from the proximity object detection device 100B, which has already been described, in that the shape of the conductors (conductor 120C, conductor 140C) in the first conductor group 120C and the second conductor group 140C is different. While the shape of the conductors (conductor 120B, conductor 140B) in the proximity object detection device 100B was rectangular, the shape of the conductors (conductor 120C, conductor 140C) in the proximity object detection device 100C is a combination of a first shape part and a second shape part, each having a different shape. Regarding the descriptions of the metal housing 110, the first conductor group 120C, the first power supply point group 130, the second conductor group 140C, and the second power supply point group 150, we will omit the parts that are the same as those already explained.

[0066] Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the shape of the conductor 120C-m shown in Figure 8. Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the shape of the conductor 140C-n shown in Figure 8. The conductor 120C-m has a shape in which first shaped sections 121 and second shaped sections 122 are alternately connected. The first shaped section 121 has a width wider than the second shaped section 122 and a larger area than the second shaped section 122. The second shaped section 122 has a width narrower than the first shaped section 121 and a smaller area than the first shaped section 121. In the conductor 120C-m shown in Figure 9, four first shaped sections 121 and four second shaped sections 122 are alternately connected, and the sides of the rectangular shape of the first shaped section 121 are connected to the sides of the rectangular shape of the second shaped section 122. The conductor 140C-n has a shape in which first shaped sections 141 and second shaped sections 142 are alternately connected. The first shaped section 141 has a width wider than the second shaped section 142 and a larger area than the second shaped section 142. The second shaped section 142 has a width narrower than the first shaped section 141 and a smaller area than the first shaped section 141. In the conductor 140C-n shown in Figure 10, three first shaped sections 141 and three second shaped sections 142 are alternately connected, and the sides of the rectangular shape of the first shaped section 141 are connected to the sides of the rectangular shape of the second shaped section 142.

[0067] Thus, each of the conductors (conductor 120C-m, conductor 140C-n) constituting the first conductor group 120C and the second conductor group 140C has a shape in which a first shaped portion 141 and a second shaped portion 142 having a width narrower than the width of the first shaped portion 141 are alternately connected. Similar to Embodiment 2 described above, the proximity object detection device 100C has an intersection 160C where the conductor 120-m of the first conductor group 120C and the conductor 140C-n of the second conductor group 140C intersect without contact. As is clear from Figures 8, 9, and 10, at the intersection 160C, the second shaped portion 122 of conductor 120-m of the first conductor group 120C and the second shaped portion 142 of conductor 140C-n of the second conductor group 140C are arranged to intersect without contact.

[0068] The operating principle and effects of the proximity object detection device 100C will be explained. At the intersection 160C where conductor 120-m and conductor 140-n intersect, high-frequency current supplied to one may leak to the other due to electromagnetic coupling, potentially reducing detection sensitivity. In the proximity object detection device 100C, at the intersection 160C, the second shape portion of conductor-m of the first conductor group 120C and the second shape portion 142 of conductor 140C-n of the second conductor group 140C are arranged to intersect without contact. As a result, the intersection 160C is narrower than the non-intersecting portion, which suppresses a decrease in electromagnetic coupling and detection sensitivity.

[0069] The proximity object detection device of this disclosure is further configured as follows: Each conductor constituting the first group of conductors and the second group of conductors has a shape in which a first shaped portion and a second shaped portion having a width narrower than the width of the first shaped portion are alternately connected. At the intersection, the second shaped portion of the conductor of the first group of conductors and the second shaped portion of the conductor of the second group of conductors are arranged to intersect without contact. A proximity object detection device characterized by the following features. This disclosure provides a proximity object detection device that can suppress electromagnetic coupling at intersections and further improve detection sensitivity. Furthermore, by applying the above configuration to the electronic device described in this disclosure, the same effects as described above can be achieved.

[0070] Embodiment 4. Embodiment 4 describes a configuration in which detection sensitivity is improved by matching the impedance between the conductor and the power supply point. In describing Embodiment 4, we may omit as appropriate any information that has already been described in Embodiments 1, 2, and 3.

[0071] An example of the configuration of the proximity object detection device 100D according to Embodiment 4 of this disclosure will be described. Figure 11 shows an example of the configuration of the proximity object detection device 100D according to Embodiment 4 of this disclosure. The proximity object detection device 100D comprises a metal housing 110, a first conductor group 120D, a first power supply point group 130, a second conductor group 140D, a second power supply point group 150, and a matching circuit 170. The proximity object detection device 100D has a different configuration from the proximity object detection device 100B or the proximity object detection device 100C described earlier, in that it includes a matching circuit 170. Figure 11 shows a configuration in which a matching circuit 170 is added to the configuration of the proximity object detection device 100C.

[0072] The metal housing 110, the first conductor group 120D, the first power supply point group 130, the second conductor group 140D, and the second power supply point group 150 are the same as the metal housing 110, the first conductor groups 120, 120C, the first power supply point group 130, the second conductor groups 140, 140C, and the second power supply point group 150 that have already been described, so a detailed explanation of their configurations will be omitted here.

[0073] The proximity object detection device 100D further includes a matching circuit 170. The matching circuit 170 matches the impedance of the conductor 120D-m with the impedance of the feed point 130-m. Furthermore, the matching circuit 170 matches the impedance of the conductor 140D-n with the impedance of the feed point 150-n. Each matching circuit 171-m (m=1,2,3,...,(m is any integer)) is placed between the conductor 120D-m and the feed point 130-m, with one end electrically connected to the conductor 120D-m and the other end electrically connected to the feed point 130-m. Each matching circuit 172-n (n=1,2,3,...,(n is any integer)) is placed between the conductor 140D-n and the power supply point 150-n, with one end electrically connected to the conductor 140D-n and the other end electrically connected to the power supply point 150-n. In the proximity object detection device 100D shown in Figure 11, matching circuit 171-1 is located between conductor 120D-1 in the first conductor group 120D and feed point 130-1 in the first feed point group 130, matching circuit 171-2 is located between conductor 120D-2 in the first conductor group 120D and feed point 130-2 in the first feed point group 130, and matching circuit 171-3 is located between conductor 120D-3 in the first conductor group 120D and feed point 130-3 in the first feed point group 130. Matching circuit 172-1 is positioned between conductor 140D-1 in the second conductor group 140D and feed point 150-1 in the second feed point group 150, matching circuit 172-2 is positioned between conductor 140D-2 in the second conductor group 140D and feed point 150-2 in the second feed point group 150, and matching circuit 172-3 is positioned between conductor 140D-3 in the second conductor group 140D and feed point 150-3 in the second feed point group 150. The matching circuit 170 is set to parameters that match the impedance of the feed points and the impedance of the conductor at the frequencies of the high-frequency current supplied from the feed points 130-m and 150-n. The matching circuit 170 can use chip components for lumped elements such as inductors and capacitors. The matching circuit 170 may also be a matching circuit using distributed constant elements.

[0074] This document explains the operating principle and effects of the proximity object detection device 100D. The proximity object detection device 100D achieves impedance matching between the conductor 120D-m in the first conductor group 120D and the feed point 130-m in the first feed point group 130, and impedance matching between the conductor 140D-n in the second conductor group 140D and the feed point 150-n in the second feed point group 150, through the matching circuit 170, thereby maximizing the current supplied to the conductor 120D-m in the first conductor group 120D and the conductor 140D-n in the second conductor group 140D. Consequently, the electromagnetic field strength on the drive sensor increases, improving the sensitivity of detecting nearby objects. The proximity object detection device 100D calculates the position of the detected object from the change in the impedance and reflection coefficient of the conductor acting as a sensor as viewed from the power supply point, using a detection unit (not shown). Thus, in Embodiment 4, by matching the conductor 120D-m in the first conductor group 120D and the conductor 140D-n in the second conductor group 140D and driving them in a resonant state, the current supplied to the conductor as a sensor can be maximized, and the detection sensitivity of the drive sensor can be improved.

[0075] The proximity object detection device of this disclosure is further configured as follows: "A matching circuit that matches the impedance of the conductor with the impedance of the power supply point, Furthermore, A proximity object detection device characterized by the following features. This disclosure provides a proximity object detection device that can operate each conductor in a resonant state using a matching circuit, thereby further improving detection sensitivity. Furthermore, by applying the above configuration to the electronic device described in this disclosure, the same effects as described above can be achieved.

[0076] Embodiment 5. Embodiment 5 describes a configuration in which detection sensitivity is improved by changing the conductor that is driven and the conductor that is not driven as constituting the antenna of the sensor. In describing Embodiment 5, we may omit as appropriate any information that is similar to what has already been described in Embodiments 1, 2, 3, and 4.

[0077] An example of the configuration of the proximity object detection device 100E according to Embodiment 5 of this disclosure will be described. Figure 12 shows an example of the configuration of the proximity object detection device 100E according to Embodiment 5 of the present disclosure. The proximity object detection device 100E comprises a metal housing 110, a first conductor group 120E, a first power supply point group 130, a second conductor group 140E, a second power supply point group 150, a matching circuit 170, and a switch unit 180. The proximity object detection device 100E according to Embodiment 5 has a different configuration from the proximity object detection device 100B, proximity object detection device 100C, or proximity object detection device 100D described earlier, in that it is equipped with a switch unit 180. Figure 11 shows a configuration in which a switch unit 180 is added to the configuration of the proximity object detection device 100D.

[0078] The metal housing 110, the first conductor group 120E, the first power supply point group 130, the second conductor group 140E, and the second power supply point group 150 are the same as the metal housing 110, the first conductor groups 120, 120C, 120D, the first power supply point group 130, the second conductor groups 140, 140C, 140D, and the second power supply point group 150, which have already been described, so a detailed explanation of their configurations will be omitted here.

[0079] The proximity object detection device 100E further includes a switch unit 180. The switch unit 180 changes the conductivity between the conductor and the power supply point. Of the switch section 180, each switch section 181-m (m=1,2,3,...,(m is any integer)) is positioned between the conductor 120E-m and the power supply point 130-m, with one end electrically connected to the conductor 120E-m and the other end electrically connected to the power supply point 130-m. Of the switch section 180, each switch section 182-n (n=1,2,3,...,(n is any integer)) is positioned between the conductor 140E-n and the power supply point 150-n, with one end electrically connected to the conductor 140E-n and the other end electrically connected to the power supply point 150-n. The switch unit 180 only needs to be capable of switching between a conductive state and a non-conductive state. The switch section 180 can be configured, for example, as an SPST (Single Pole Single Throw) or an SPDT (Single Pole Double Throw). In the switch section 180, the switch section 180 corresponding to the power supply point that supplies high-frequency current and the conductor that acts as a drive sensor is kept in a conductive state, while the switch section 180 corresponding to the power supply point that does not supply high-frequency current and the non-drive sensor is kept in a non-conductive state.

[0080] In the proximity object detection device 100E shown in Figure 12, the switch unit 181-1 is positioned between the conductor 120E-1 in the first conductor group 120E and the power supply point 130-1 in the first power supply point group 130 via the matching circuit 171-1. The switch unit 181-2 is positioned between the conductor 120E-2 in the first conductor group 120E and the feed point 130-2 in the first feed point group 130 via the matching circuit 171-2. The switch unit 181-3 is positioned between the conductor 120E-3 in the first conductor group 120E and the feed point 130-3 in the first feed point group 130 via the matching circuit 171-3. The switch unit 182-1 is positioned between the conductor 140E-1 in the second conductor group 140E and the feed point 150-1 in the second feed point group 150 via the matching circuit 172-1. The switch unit 182-2 is positioned between the conductor 140E-2 in the second conductor group 140E and the feed point 150-2 in the second feed point group 150 via the matching circuit 172-2. The switch unit 182-3 is positioned between the conductor 140E-3 in the second conductor group 140E and the feed point 150-3 in the second feed point group 150 via the matching circuit 172-3.

[0081] If the proximity detection device 100E is equipped with a switch unit 180, a control unit (not shown) controls the switch unit. A control unit (not shown) sequentially connects only one of the multiple switch units 180. Specifically, the control unit (not shown) connects one switch unit in the following order: switch unit 181-1, switch unit 181-2, switch unit 181-3, switch unit 182-1, switch unit 182-2, switch unit 182-3, while deconnecting the other five switch units. Furthermore, the control unit (not shown) may, for example, randomly activate one of the multiple switch units 180 in sequence. Furthermore, the control unit (not shown) may, for example, sequentially activate two or more of the multiple switch units 180.

[0082] The operating principle and effects of the proximity object detection device 100E will be explained. If there is no switch unit 180 and the conductor 120E-m in the first conductor group 120E and the conductor 140E-n in the second conductor group 140E are in a conductive state without the supply of high-frequency current from the power supply points 130-m and 150-n, then due to electromagnetic coupling between the sensors (between conductors 120-m and 140-n), current leaks from the power supply point of the driven sensor to the power supply point of the non-driven sensor, and power consumption occurs at the load resistance of the power supply point of the non-driven sensor. As a result, the electromagnetic field strength and detection sensitivity near the drive sensor decrease. However, by making the switch section 180 corresponding to the non-driven sensor non-conductive, the power that leaks to the power supply point and is consumed can be suppressed, thereby improving the electromagnetic field strength and detection sensitivity near the driven sensor. In this embodiment 5, a switch unit 180 is provided between each of the conductors 120E-m in the first conductor group 120E and 140E-n in the second conductor group 140E and the power supply point. By keeping the switch unit 180 corresponding to the drive sensor in a conductive state and the switch unit 180 corresponding to the non-drive sensor in a non-conductive state, coupling between power supply points can be suppressed, and the detection sensitivity of the drive sensor can be improved.

[0083] The proximity object detection device of this disclosure is further configured as follows: "A switch unit that changes the conductivity between the conductor and the power supply point, Furthermore, A proximity object detection device characterized by the following features. This disclosure provides a proximity object detection device that can further improve detection sensitivity by allowing the operation of a conductor that is driven as a sensor and a conductor that is not driven as a sensor to be varied. Furthermore, by applying the above configuration to the electronic device described in this disclosure, the same effects as described above can be achieved.

[0084] Embodiment 6. Embodiment 6 describes a configuration in which detection sensitivity is improved by devising the shape of the conductor. In describing Embodiment 6, we may omit as appropriate any information that is similar to what has already been described in Embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5.

[0085] An example of the configuration of the proximity object detection device 100F according to Embodiment 6 of this disclosure will be described. Figure 13 shows an example of the configuration of the proximity object detection device 100F according to Embodiment 6 of the present disclosure. The proximity object detection device 100F comprises a metal housing 110, a first conductor group 120F, a first power supply point group 130, a second conductor group 140F, a second power supply point group 150, a matching circuit 170, and a switch unit 180. The proximity object detection device 100F according to Embodiment 6 differs from the configurations of the proximity object detection device 100B, proximity object detection device 100C, proximity object detection device 100D, or proximity object detection device 100E described earlier in that the shapes of the conductors (conductor 120F, conductor 140F) in the first conductor group 120F and the second conductor group 140F are different. The shape of the conductors (conductor 120F, conductor 140F) in the proximity object detection device 100F is a combination of a first shaped part and a second shaped part having different shapes, and is a shape in which the corners of the rectangular shape in the first shaped part are connected to the second shaped part.

[0086] Regarding the descriptions of the metal housing 110, the first conductor group 120F, the first power supply point group 130, the second conductor group 140F, the second power supply point group 150, the matching circuit 170, and the switch section 180, we will omit the parts that are the same as those already explained.

[0087] Figure 14 is a diagram illustrating the shape of the conductor 120F-m or conductor 140F-n shown in Figure 13. The conductor 120F-m has a shape in which first shaped sections 126 and second shaped sections 127 are alternately connected. The first shaped section 126 has a width wider than the second shaped section 127 and a larger area than the second shaped section 127. The second shaped section 127 has a width narrower than the first shaped section 126 and a smaller area than the first shaped section 126. The conductor 120F-m shown in Figure 14 has a shape in which four first shaped sections 126 and four second shaped sections 127 are alternately connected, and the corners of the quadrilateral shape of the first shaped section 126 are connected to the sides of the quadrilateral shape of the second shaped section 127. The first shaped section 126 is preferably rhombic, for example, but does not have to be strictly rhombic. The conductor 140F-n has a shape in which first shaped sections 146 and second shaped sections 147 are alternately connected. The first shaped section 146 has a width wider than the second shaped section 147 and a larger area than the second shaped section 147. The second shaped section 147 has a width narrower than the first shaped section 146 and a smaller area than the first shaped section 146. The conductor 140F-n shown in Figure 14 has four first shaped sections 146 and four second shaped sections 147 alternately connected, and the corners of the quadrilateral shape of the first shaped section 146 are connected to the sides of the quadrilateral shape of the second shaped section 147. The first shaped section 146 is preferably rhombic, for example, but does not have to be strictly rhombic.

[0088] Thus, each of the conductors 120F-m and 140F-n constituting the first conductor group 120F and the second conductor group 140F has a shape in which first shaped parts 126 and 146 and second shaped parts 127 and 147, which have a width narrower than the width of the first shaped parts, are alternately connected. The first shaped parts 126 and 146 are rhombic in shape, and the corners of these rhombic shapes are connected to the second shaped parts 127 and 147. The proximity object detection device 100F, as in the embodiment already described, has an intersection 160F where the conductor 120F-m of the first conductor group 120F and the conductor 140F-n of the second conductor group 140F intersect without contact. As is clear from Figures 13 and 14, at the intersection 160F, the second shaped portion 127 of conductor 120F-m of the first conductor group 120F and the second shaped portion 147 of conductor 140F-n of the second conductor group 140F are arranged to intersect without contact.

[0089] This document explains the principle, operation, and effects of the proximity object detection device 100F. In the proximity object detection device 100F, by making the shape of the non-intersecting portion, which is the part where the conductor 120F-m of the first conductor group 120F and the conductor 140F-n of the second conductor group 140F do not intersect, a rhombus shape can be efficiently arranged on the upper surface of the liquid crystal. Since the detection sensitivity of nearby objects is highest directly above the conductor 120F-m of the first conductor group 120F and the conductor 140F-n of the second conductor group 140F, the highly sensitive detection range can be expanded by efficiently arranging the sensor pattern. Thus, in the proximity object detection device 100F of Embodiment 6, by making the shape of the non-intersecting portion, which is the part where the conductor 120F-m of the first conductor group 120F and the conductor 140F-n of the second conductor group 140F do not intersect, a rhombus, the sensor pattern can be efficiently tiled in a plane, and the highly sensitive detection range in the plane can be expanded.

[0090] The proximity object detection device of this disclosure is further configured as follows: Each conductor constituting the first group of conductors and the second group of conductors has a shape in which a first shaped portion and a second shaped portion having a width narrower than the width of the first shaped portion are alternately connected. The first shaped portion is rhombic in shape, and the corners of the rhombic shape are connected to the second shaped portion. At the intersection, the second shaped portion of the conductor of the first group of conductors and the second shaped portion of the conductor of the second group of conductors are arranged to intersect without contact. A proximity object detection device characterized by the following features. This disclosure provides a proximity object detection device that allows for efficient arrangement of conductors and further improves detection sensitivity. Furthermore, by applying the above configuration to the electronic device described in this disclosure, the same effects as described above can be achieved.

[0091] Embodiment 7. Embodiment 7 describes a configuration in which the length of the conductor that functions as an antenna constituting the sensor is modified. In describing Embodiment 7, we may omit as appropriate any content that is similar to what has already been described in Embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6.

[0092] An example configuration of the proximity object detection device 100G according to Embodiment 7 of this disclosure will be described. Figure 15 shows an example of the configuration of the proximity object detection device 100G according to Embodiment 7 of this disclosure. The proximity object detection device 100G comprises a metal housing 110, a first conductor group 120G, a first power supply point group 130, a second conductor group 140G, a second power supply point group 150, a matching circuit 170, and a switch unit 180. The proximity object detection device 100G according to Embodiment 7 differs from the configurations of the proximity object detection devices 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E, or 100F already described in that it defines the range of lengths of the conductors in the first conductor group 120G and the second conductor group 140G.

[0093] Regarding the descriptions of the metal housing 110, the first conductor group 120G, the first power supply point group 130, the second conductor group 140G, the second power supply point group 150, the matching circuit 170, and the switch section 180, we will omit the parts that are the same as those already explained.

[0094] In the proximity object detection device 100G, using frequencies from 10 MHz (fl) to 1000 MHz (fh) increases the amount of change in the reflection coefficient. In other words, the detection sensitivity can be increased. If we normalize the sensor length of the evaluation model, which is approximately 50 mm, using the wavelengths of fl and fh, the sensor length L at which high sensitivity is obtained will be in the range of 0.002λ ≤ L ≤ 0.2λ. In other words, in the proximity object detection device 100G, the lengths of each conductor 120G-m and 140G-n in the first conductor group 120G and the second conductor group 140G are lengths corresponding to a wavelength ratio with respect to the frequency of the current supplied from the power supply point that is in the range of 0.002 or more and 0.2 or less. The length of a conductor is the distance from the power supply point to which it is connected to the open end.

[0095] Next, the operating principle and effects of the proximity object detection device 100G will be explained. Figure 16 is a first diagram illustrating the operation of the proximity object detection device 100G according to Embodiment 7 of this disclosure. Figure 17 is a second diagram illustrating the operation of the proximity object detection device 100G according to Embodiment 7 of this disclosure. Figure 18 is a third diagram illustrating the operation of the proximity object detection device 100G according to Embodiment 7 of this disclosure. For example, as shown in Figure 16, the first conductor group 120G has 2 conductors 120G-m (m=1,2), and the second conductor group 140G has 2 conductors 140G-n (m=1,2). The opening of the metal casing 110 is 50 mm square. In the first conductor group 120G, conductor 120G-m is placed in the lower layer, and in the second conductor group 140G, conductor 140G-n is placed in the upper layer, creating a two-layer configuration, which is then arranged orthogonally. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 17, a liquid crystal layer is provided inside the metal housing 110, and a sensor is positioned on top of the liquid crystal layer 12. When the conductor 120G-m from the first conductor group 120G and the conductor 140G-n from the second conductor group 140G are arranged on top of the liquid crystal layer 12, if opaque materials are used for conductors 120G-m and 140G-n, the display of the liquid crystal will be hindered. Therefore, it was assumed that conductors 120G-m and 140G-n are composed of transparent conductive materials. Accordingly, the sheet resistance values ​​of conductors 120G-m and 140G-n were assumed to be 4Ω / sq. The detection target 1000 is brought close to a position at a distance Z away from conductor 140G-n in the second conductor group 140G on the outermost surface, and the reflection coefficient of conductor 120G-m in the first conductor group 120G as seen from the feed point 130-1 is calculated. A matching circuit (not shown) consisting of lumped element elements with a certain loss was provided at the power supply point 130-1 that drives the device. The matching circuit (not shown) matched the reflection coefficient when there was no object to be detected 1000. Three of the four power supply points (130-2, 150-1, 150-2) are left open. This is essentially equivalent to loading the switch unit 180 and leaving the switch unit 180 in a non-conductive state. Figure 18 shows the calculation results. The calculation results shown in Figure 18 plot a total of seven points by changing the resonant frequency matched at the feed point 130-1. The more positive each plot is, the greater the change from the baseline (-30dB), indicating higher detection sensitivity. Figure 18 shows the change in the reflection coefficient (ΔS11) when driven at each resonant frequency, with the reflection coefficient when there is no object to be detected (a state in which object 1000 is not detected) set as the reference (ΔS11 = 0 dB). These results show that by resonating between 10MHz and 1000MHz, the change amount (ΔS11) becomes greater than or equal to a constant value α, resulting in high detection sensitivity, while at frequencies below 10MHz and above 1000MHz, the detection sensitivity decreases. When the sensor length of the calculation model, approximately 50 mm, is normalized using the free-space wavelengths of 10 MHz and 1000 MHz, the sensor length L at which high sensitivity is obtained falls within the range of 0.002λ ≤ L ≤ 0.2λ. Thus, the proximity object detection device 100G according to Embodiment 7 improves the detection sensitivity of proximity objects by setting the sensor length (length of conductor 120G-m and length of conductor 140G-n) such that the wavelength ratio of the frequency of the high-frequency current supplied from the power supply point is in the range of 0.002 or more and 0.2 or less.

[0096] The proximity object detection device of this disclosure is further configured as follows: "The length of the conductor is such that the wavelength ratio of the conductor to the frequency of the current supplied from the power supply point is in the range of 0.002 or more and 0.2 or less." A proximity object detection device characterized by the following features. This disclosure has the effect of providing a proximity object detection device that can further improve detection sensitivity more efficiently. Furthermore, by applying the above configuration to the electronic device described in this disclosure, the same effects as described above can be achieved.

[0097] Here, one end (and the other end) of the conductor 120G-m in the first conductor group 120G and the conductor 140G-n in the second conductor group 140G are described as open-circuited. However, for impedance matching, one end may be connected to the metal housing 110, or connected to the metal housing 110 via an impedance element.

[0098] To measure the reflection coefficient and impedance of conductor 120G-m in the first conductor group 120G and conductor 140G-n in the second conductor group 140G, which act as sensors, a signal generator, a directional coupler, and a quadrature detection circuit can be used.

[0099] In the embodiments described above, the conductor 120G-m in the first conductor group 120G and the conductor 140G-n in the second conductor group 140G are driven one by one. However, a driving method that appropriately designs the resolution and detection sensitivity of nearby objects may be adopted, such as by exciting adjacent elements together. Furthermore, in order to switch and drive a large number of sensors at high speed and detect nearby objects across the entire horizontal plane, multiple quadrature detectors that serve as the receiving system may be provided.

[0100] It should be noted that within the scope of this disclosure, any combination of embodiments, any modification of any component of each embodiment, or any omission of any component of each embodiment is permitted. For example, the disclosures summarized at the end of each embodiment may be combined as appropriate. [Industrial applicability]

[0101] The proximity object detection device described herein is suitable for use in proximity object detection technology such as touch panels in electronic devices, as it can improve detection sensitivity compared to conventional devices in proximity object detection technology. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0102] 10A,10B Electronic equipment, 11 Substrate, 11a First substrate, 11b Second substrate, 12 Liquid crystal layer, 13 Metal housing, 14,15 Air layer, 100A,100B,100C,100D,100E,100F,100G Proximity object detection device, 110,110' Metal housing, 111,111' First edge, 112 Second edge, 120 First conductor group, 120-m,120C-m,120D-m,120E-m,120F-m,120G-m (m=1,2,3,···,(m is any integer)) Conductor, 121 First shape part, 122 Second shape part, 126 First shape part, 127 Second shape part, 130 First group of feed points, 130-m (m=1,2,3,...,(m is any integer)) Feed point, 140 Second group of conductors, 140-n,140C-n,140D-n,140E-n,140F-n,140G-n (n=1,2,3,...,(n is any integer)) Conductor, 141 First shape section, 142 Second shape section, 146 First shape section, 147 Second shape section, 150 Second group of feed points, 150-n (n=1,2,3,...,(n is any integer)) Feed point, 160,160C,160F Crossover section: 170, 171-m (m=1,2,3,...,(m is any integer)), 172-n (n=1,2,3,...,(n is any integer)) Matching circuit: 180, 181-m (m=1,2,3,...,(m is any integer)), 182-n (n=1,2,3,...,(n is any integer)) Switch section: 1000 Detection target.

Claims

1. A metal housing; a first conductor group including a plurality of conductors arranged such that one end of each conductor is adjacent to a different position of a first side of the metal housing and extends in a direction away from the first side; a first power feed point group including a plurality of power feed points each contacting the first side portion of the metal housing and one end portion of a conductor in the first conductor group; A proximity object detection device comprising:

2. a second conductor group including a plurality of conductors arranged such that one end of each of the two ends is adjacent to a different position of a second side portion of the metal housing and extends in a direction away from the second side portion; a second power feed point group including a plurality of power feed points contacting the second side portion of the metal housing and a first end portion of each of the conductors in the second conductor group; Equipped with the conductors of the first conductor group and the conductors of the second conductor group have intersections at which they intersect without contacting each other; 2. The proximity object detection device according to claim 1.

3. each of the conductors constituting the first conductor group and the second conductor group has a shape in which first shaped portions and second shaped portions having a width narrower than a width of the first shaped portions are alternately connected; At the intersection, the second shaped portion of the conductor of the first conductor group and the second shaped portion of the conductor of the second conductor group are arranged to intersect without contacting each other.

3. The proximity object detection device according to claim 2.

4. each of the conductors constituting the first conductor group and the second conductor group has a shape in which first shaped portions and second shaped portions having a width narrower than a width of the first shaped portions are alternately connected; The first shaped portion is rhombus-shaped, and a corner of the rhombus is connected to the second shaped portion, At the intersection, the second shaped portion of the conductor of the first conductor group and the second shaped portion of the conductor of the second conductor group are arranged to intersect without contacting each other.

3. The proximity object detection device according to claim 2.

5. a matching circuit that matches the impedance of the conductor with the impedance of the feed point; Further equipped with 5. The proximity object detection device according to claim 1, wherein the proximity object detection device detects an object that is approaching the sensor.

6. a switch section that changes a conduction state between the conductor and the power supply point; Further equipped with 5. The proximity object detection device according to claim 1, wherein the proximity object detection device detects an object that is approaching the sensor.

7. The length of the conductor is such that the wavelength ratio of the frequency of the current supplied from the power supply point is in the range of 0.002 to 0.

2.

5. The proximity object detection device according to claim 1, wherein the proximity object detection device detects an object that is approaching the sensor.

8. The conductor is made of a transparent conductive material.

5. The proximity object detection device according to claim 1, wherein the proximity object detection device detects an object that is approaching the sensor.

9. A display unit; a metal housing that covers the display unit so as to expose a display surface of the display unit; a first conductor group including a plurality of conductors arranged such that one end of each conductor is adjacent to a different position of a first side portion of the metal housing and extends in a direction away from the first side portion; a first power feed point group including a plurality of power feed points contacting the first side portion of the metal housing and one end portion of each of the conductors in the first conductor group; Equipped with electronic equipment.

Images