Position detection device and display device

Abstract

The present invention reduces the thickness of a stack structure and improves ease of design while maintaining performance as a position detection device.　Provided is a position detection device 1 for detecting the position of a pen by using an electromagnetic induction action, the position detection device 1 including: a first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) in which a first electrode for generating an alternating magnetic field is provided; a display layer for controlling a display pixel along with blinking of the display pixel; and a second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) in which a plurality of second electrodes for detecting a pen alternating magnetic field generated by a pen, in which energy is accumulated due to the alternating magnetic field, are disposed on a side opposite the side where the first electrode layer is provided, with the display layer being located at center.

Description

Position detection device and display device

[0001] The present invention relates to a position detection device and a display device.

[0002] In recent years, electromagnetic induction position input devices have been used as input devices for tablet PCs (personal computers), etc. These position input devices are composed of a pen-shaped position indicator (pen-type position indicator) and a position detection device having an input surface on which pointing operations and input of characters, figures, etc. are performed using the pen-type position indicator.

[0003] 9 , in order to determine the coordinate of the position pointer in the X-axis direction within the active area AA, the position detection device includes: an X sensor coil group including X sensor coils X0, ..., X4 arranged in the X direction, a switch connected to the X sensor coil group, and an X-axis TX / RX circuit that generates an alternating magnetic field (a sending magnetic field, the same applies hereinafter) by passing a current through each of the X sensor coils arranged in the X axis during a sending period, and detects, as a current or voltage, an electromotive force generated in each of the X sensor coils by a pen signal (an alternating magnetic field generated by the circuit of the position pointer, the same applies hereinafter) that is continuously generated from the position pointer that has stored energy in the resonant circuit during the sending period.

[0004] Similarly, in order to determine the coordinate of the position indicator in the Y-axis direction, the position detection device includes: a Y sensor coil group including Y sensor coils Y0, ..., Y4 arranged in the Y direction; a switch connected to the Y sensor coil group; and a Y-axis TX / RX circuit which, during the send period, generates a send magnetic field by passing a current through each of the X sensor coil group arranged on the Y axis, and which, during the detection period after the send period, detects, by current or voltage, the electromotive force generated in each of the Y sensor coil group by the pen signal that is continuously generated from the position indicator that has stored energy in the resonant circuit during the send period.

[0005] The position detection device, for example, selects one sensor coil in a predetermined order from multiple sensor coils constituting the position detection sensor, sends a transmission signal from the selected sensor coil to the position indicator, and charges a capacitor in the position indicator. Meanwhile, the position detection device connects the sensor coil used for transmission to a receiving circuit to receive the signal transmitted from the resonant circuit of the position indicator. The position detection device detects the position of the position indicator on the position detection device by sequentially switching the sensor coils and transmitting and receiving such signals.

[0006] To explain in detail how the position detection of the position indicator in the position detection device works, first, (1) in order to detect where the position indicator is located on the indicated position detection sensor, a global scan is performed in which all sensor coils are switched sequentially to detect the indicated position of the position indicator, thereby identifying the approximate position on the position detection sensor, and (2) a sector scan is performed in which only a predetermined number of sensor coils in the vicinity of the identified approximate position are selected in sequence to send and receive signals, thereby accurately identifying the position indicated by the position indicator.

[0007] In the example of Figure 9, the coordinate of the position indicator in the Y-axis direction is derived by interpolation or the like from the distribution of level values ​​in one axis direction, such as the level value 34 obtained by the Y sensor coil Y0, the level value 118 obtained by the Y sensor coil Y1, ..., the level value 107 obtained by the Y sensor coil Y4, as shown by RXdata (upper row) in the figure.

[0008] Similarly, as shown by RXdata (lower row) in the figure, the coordinate in the X-axis direction of the position indicator is derived by interpolation or the like from the distribution of level values ​​in one axis direction, such as the level value 25 obtained by the X sensor coil X0, the level value 100 obtained by the X sensor coil X1, ..., the level value 99 obtained by the X sensor coil X4.

[0009] As described above, in the position detection device shown in FIG. 9, in determining the two-dimensional coordinate of the position indicator, the level values ​​for each of the two axes are acquired separately, and the coordinates for each dimension for each of the X and Y axes are determined using the respective distributions (RX data). These two values ​​are then combined and subjected to a certain amount of data processing before being output as two-dimensional coordinates.

[0010] 10 , a stack configuration in which the above-mentioned position detection device, a touch sensor for detecting a finger or the like by a capacitance (self-capacitance or mutual capacitance) method, and a display device are combined (or incorporated) is configured such that a display 300 (including a front panel layer 301 and a TFT back panel layer 302) is provided, and an EM sensor consisting of a TX sensor coil group 100 and an RX sensor coil group 200 is provided below the display 300 via an adhesive layer (Glue). Furthermore, a touch sensor is provided above the display 300, and a cover glass (including a cover film; the same applies hereinafter) with which a pen comes into contact is provided above the touch sensor (for example, see Patent Document 1).

[0011] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-157107

[0012] However, in the conventional position detection device described in Patent Document 1 mentioned above, the touch sensor, display 300, and EM sensor (including TX sensor coil group and RX sensor coil group) were each constructed on separate substrates (separate layers), which resulted in a problem in that the thickness of the stack structure in which these were joined by an adhesive layer was thick, which also impaired the design of the position detection device.

[0013] Therefore, the present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a position detection device and a display device including a position detection device that has a thin stack structure to improve design while maintaining performance as a position detection device.

[0014] Form 1: One or more embodiments of the present invention propose a position detection device that detects the position of a pen using electromagnetic induction, including a first electrode layer provided with a first electrode that generates an alternating magnetic field, a display layer that controls display pixels and the blinking of the display pixels, and a second electrode layer that is centered on the display layer, on the side opposite to the side on which the first electrode layer is provided, and that has a plurality of second electrodes arranged thereon that detect a pen alternating magnetic field generated by a pen that has stored energy through the alternating magnetic field.

[0015] Form 2: One or more embodiments of the present invention propose a position detection device that detects the position of a pen using electromagnetic induction, and includes a first electrode layer provided with a first electrode that generates an alternating magnetic field, and a second electrode layer provided with a plurality of second electrodes that detect the pen alternating magnetic field generated by a pen that has stored energy in the alternating magnetic field, and the second electrode layer is formed on one side of a substrate.

[0016] Form 3: One or more embodiments of the present invention propose a display device used in a position detection device that detects the position of a pen using electromagnetic induction, comprising a display front panel, a TFT back panel provided on the underside of the display front panel and equipped with TFTs that drive display pixel electrodes of the display, and a touch panel provided on the upper part of the display front panel, wherein at least one of a first electrode layer provided with a first electrode that generates an alternating magnetic field or a second electrode layer provided with a plurality of second electrodes that detect a pen alternating magnetic field generated by a pen that has stored energy due to the alternating magnetic field is provided on the TFT back panel or the touch panel.

[0017] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to achieve an effect of improving the design by making the stack structure thinner while maintaining the performance of the position detection device.

[0018] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing a coordinate derivation operation of the position detection device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram showing a coordinate derivation operation in a modified example of the position detection device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a stack configuration when the position detection device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, a touch sensor for detecting a finger or the like by a capacitance (self-capacitance or mutual capacitance) method, and a display layer are combined (or incorporated). FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a stack configuration when the position detection device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, a touch sensor for detecting a finger or the like by a capacitance (self-capacitance or mutual capacitance) method, and a display layer are combined (or incorporated). FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of a first sensor coil group in the position detection device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of a second sensor coil group in the position detection device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a stack configuration when the position detection device according to the second embodiment of the present invention, a touch sensor for detecting a finger or the like by a capacitance (self-capacitance or mutual capacitance) method, and a display layer are combined (or incorporated). FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a stack configuration when a position detection device according to a second embodiment of the present invention is combined with (or incorporated into) a touch sensor for detecting a finger or the like by a capacitance (self-capacitance or mutual capacitance) method and a display layer; FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a stack configuration when a position detection device according to a second embodiment of the present invention is combined with (or incorporated into) a touch sensor for detecting a finger or the like by a capacitance (self-capacitance or mutual capacitance) method and a display layer; FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a stack configuration when a position detection device according to a second embodiment of the present invention is combined with (or incorporated into) a touch sensor for detecting a finger or the like by a capacitance (self-capacitance or mutual capacitance) method and a display layer; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a stack configuration when a position detection device according to a second embodiment of the present invention is combined with (or incorporated into) a touch sensor for detecting a finger or the like by a capacitance (self-capacitance or mutual capacitance) method and a display layer;1 is a diagram showing an example of a stack configuration when a position detection device according to a second embodiment of the present invention is combined with (or incorporated into) a touch sensor for detecting a finger or the like by a capacitance (self-capacitance or mutual capacitance) method and a display layer; FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of a first sensor coil group in a position detection device according to a second embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of a first sensor coil group in a position detection device according to a second embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a stack configuration when a position detection device according to a third embodiment of the present invention is combined with (or incorporated into) a touch sensor for detecting a finger or the like by a capacitance (self-capacitance or mutual capacitance) method and a display layer; FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a stack configuration when a position detection device according to the third embodiment of the present invention is combined with (or incorporated into) a touch sensor for detecting a finger or the like by a capacitance (self-capacitance or mutual capacitance) method and a display layer; FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram showing a coordinate derivation operation of a position detection device according to a conventional example; FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a conventional stack configuration when a position detection device according to a conventional example is combined with (or incorporated into) a touch sensor for detecting a finger or the like by a capacitance (self-capacitance or mutual capacitance) method and a display layer;

[0019] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8B.

[0020] First Embodiment A position detection device 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5. FIG.

[0021] <Configuration of position detection device 1> As shown in FIG. 1, the position detection device 1 is configured by a first circuit 10, a switch 11, a first sensor coil group 100, a second sensor coil group 200, a second circuit 20, and peripheral circuits such as an amplifier.

[0022] The first sensor coil group 100 is made up of a plurality of conductors having a plurality of electrodes arranged in a first direction (X-axis direction) of the sensor. The first sensor coils constituting the first sensor coil group 100 are, for example, rectangular loop coils. The first sensor coils constituting the first sensor coil group 100 are, for example, arranged side by side at equal intervals.

[0023] The second sensor coil group 200 is made up of a plurality of conductors each having a plurality of electrodes arranged in a second direction (Y-axis direction) that intersects with the first direction (X-axis direction). The second sensor coils that make up the second sensor coil group 200 are, for example, rectangular loop coils. The second sensor coils that make up the second sensor coil group 200 are, for example, arranged side by side at equal intervals.

[0024] The first circuit 10 functions as an alternating magnetic field generating unit that transmits a signal to the first sensor coil group 100 via the switch 11 and causes the first sensor coil group 100 to generate an alternating magnetic field. That is, in the position detection device 1 according to this embodiment, the first sensor coils T0, T1, ..., T4 are connected to the first circuit 10 and used to generate an alternating magnetic field, but are not used to detect pen signals.

[0025] The second circuit 20 functions as a pen signal level acquisition unit that receives a pen signal, which is a response alternating magnetic field from the position indicator stored by the alternating magnetic field, using the multiple electrodes of the second sensor coil group 200 and acquires the level of the pen signal. Specifically, the second circuit 20 derives the coordinates of the pen at a cross point where, for example, multiple electrodes (first electrodes) arranged in a first direction (X-axis direction) of the sensor intersect with multiple electrodes (second electrodes) arranged in a second direction (Y-axis direction) intersecting the first direction (X-axis direction). In other words, the second sensor coils R0, R1, ..., R4 are connected to the second circuit 20 and used to detect the pen signal but are not used to generate the transmitted magnetic field. The second circuit 20 functions as an information derivation unit that derives information about the position of the position indicator using a two-dimensional distribution of the pen signal level at each intersection between the multiple conducting wires of the first sensor coil group 100 and the multiple electrodes of the second sensor coil group 200. Here, the information about the position of the pen (position indicator) includes either the inclination of the pen with respect to the normal to the sensor plane (the XY plane consisting of the X and Y axes) or the direction of the inclination of the pen with respect to the sensor plane.

[0026] The information derivation section of the second circuit 20 derives either the tilt of the pen with respect to the normal to the sensor plane or the direction of the tilt of the pen with respect to the sensor plane based on the asymmetry of the two-dimensional distribution.

[0027] The information derivation unit of the second circuit 20 acquires a first reference position, which is the position indicated by the pen tip, acquires a second reference position that is convex upward or convex downward, and derives the direction of inclination of the pen relative to the sensor plane based on the direction of the second reference position relative to the first reference position.

[0028] The information derivation section of the second circuit 20 derives the inclination of the pen with respect to the normal to the sensor plane based on the level intensity of the pen signal at the first reference position and the level intensity of the pen signal at the second reference position.

[0029] <Processing of Position Detection Device 1> The position detection device 1 selects one first sensor coil from the first sensor coil group 100 that generates an emission magnetic field by switching using the switch 11, and drives the selected first sensor coil by the first circuit 10 to emit the emission magnetic field. Fig. 1 shows a state in which the first sensor coil T1 is selected.

[0030] After a certain transmission period, i.e., after a period during which a predetermined amount of energy would be accumulated if a pen were present near the first sensor coil, the position detection device 1 obtains the pen signal levels at the positions of all second sensor coils. The position detection device 1 detects the pen signal level values ​​(33, 105, 118, 121, and 110 in the figure) in the area where the first sensor coil T1 crosses the second sensor coils R1, R2, ..., R4 (hereinafter referred to as the coil crosspoint area). The position detection device 1 obtains two-dimensional heat map data RXdata from the signal levels at each coil crosspoint by sequentially switching the selection of the first sensor coils.

[0031] After acquiring the two-dimensional heat map data RXdata, the position detection device 1 executes a coordinate processing process to obtain the pen coordinates, pen tilt (angle from the normal to the sensor surface), or pen orientation (tilt direction) based on the two-dimensional heat map data RXdata.

[0032] Stack Configuration 1 of Position Detection Device 1 The stack configuration 1 of the position detection device 1 shown in FIG. 3A includes a first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) provided with a first electrode that generates an alternating magnetic field, a display layer 301 that controls display pixels and the blinking of the display pixels, and a second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) provided with a plurality of second electrodes that detect a pen alternating magnetic field generated by a pen that stores energy in the alternating magnetic field, on the side opposite to the side on which the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is provided, with the display layer 301E at the center. In other words, the stack configuration 1 of the position detection device 1 shown in FIG. 3A is configured such that the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) are provided on separate layers. The second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on one side of the substrate on which it is mounted. The second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) has a plurality of transparent second electrodes arranged on a side closer to the pen than the display layer 301. The first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on one surface of the substrate on which it is mounted.

[0033] 3A, in stack configuration 1 of position detection device 1, a first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is provided on TFT back panel layer 302, and a second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is provided on a layer above display layer 301 where on-cell touch sensors (capacitive sensors) are provided, thereby forming display 300E. A cover glass is adhered to the top of display layer 301 with an adhesive or the like.

[0034] In this configuration, a layer integrating a capacitive touch sensor and a second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is provided above the display layer 301. Therefore, in order not to impair the visibility of the display 300E, the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is a transparent electrode made of a material (transparent conductor) that has both high electrical conductivity and visible light transmittance. A magnetic shielding plate may be provided below the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100).

[0035] <Stack Configuration 2 of Position Detection Device 1> As shown in FIG. 3B , in stack configuration 2 of the position detection device 1, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is not provided on the TFT back panel layer 302, but is provided below the display layer 301. A second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is provided together with the touch sensor on a layer above the display layer 301 where the on-cell touch sensor (capacitive sensor) is provided, and a cover glass is provided above the second electrode layer. In other words, in stack configuration 2 of the position detection device 1 shown in FIG. 3B , the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) are provided on separate layers. The second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on one side of the substrate on which the position detection device is mounted. The second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) has a plurality of transparent second electrodes arranged on a side closer to the pen than the display layer 301. The first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on one surface of the substrate on which it is mounted.

[0036] In this configuration, a layer integrating the capacitive touch sensor and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is provided above the display layer 301. Therefore, in order not to impair the visibility of the display 300F, the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is a transparent electrode made of a material (transparent conductor) that has both high electrical conductivity and visible light transmittance. A magnetic shielding plate may be provided below the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100).

[0037] <Configuration of First Electrode Layer (First Sensor Coil Group 100)> Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example configuration of the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100). The configuration of the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) in the same figure is particularly effective when the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) and the second electrode (second sensor coil group 200) are provided on separate layers, for example, when the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) and the second electrode (second sensor coil group 200) are provided on separate layers and are formed into a single layer, as shown in Figs. 3A, 3B, and 6A to 6F.

[0038] The first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on one surface of the substrate. As shown in Fig. 4, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is configured in a comb (SAW) shape, including first electrodes 120 to 135 that respectively constitute the first sensor coils T0, T1, ... T15, and a connecting conductor 130 as a second connecting portion that connects the first electrodes 120 to 135 to one another.

[0039] The position detection device 1 controls the switch 11 to, for example, bundle the first electrodes 125 and 126 and connect them to the first terminal of the first circuit 10, while bundling the first electrodes 128 and 129 and connecting them to the first _inv terminal of the first circuit 10. The first circuit 10 controls the first terminal and the first _inv terminal so that the current changes in the first terminal and the first _inv terminal are in opposite phases, thereby forming a stronger transmission magnetic field between the bundle of the first electrodes 125 and 126 and the bundle of the first electrodes 128 and 129 (near the first electrode 127) than when the electrodes are not bundled and compared to when the first _inv is at a fixed potential. The switch 11 and the first circuit 10 may be implemented on separate integrated circuits or may be integrated on the same integrated circuit.

[0040] <Configuration of the Second Electrode Layer (Second Sensor Coil Group 200)> Fig. 5 shows an example of the configuration of the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200). The second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) in the figure is a sensor to be used when the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed above the display (closer to the pen), and includes second sensor coils R0 to R8, and is characterized in that (1) it is substantially transparent within the active area AA, (2) it is formed on only one side of the film, (3) adjacent second coil sensors do not overlap each other but have a gap between them, and (4) it is wound with one turn (not multiple turns).

[0041] 5, the coil shape of the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed by, for example, a mesh electrode having a predetermined repeated local pattern. The mesh electrode is formed by two mesh portions (AA long side portions 202, 211, 212, 221, 222, 231, 232, 241, 242, ..., 271, 272, 281) having a predetermined gap therebetween, which are linearly arranged side by side.

[0042] As shown in Figure 5, outside the active area AA of the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200), the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is configured to include connecting conductors 203, 213, 223, 233, 243, ..., 273, 283 as first connecting portions that are not mesh structures and connect the mesh portion (e.g., 211) of the two mesh portions of the mesh electrode that is adjacent to the mesh portion (e.g., 211) on the lower side in the extension direction of the first electrode and the mesh portion (e.g., 212) on the upper side in the extension direction of the first electrode (AA long side portions 202, 211, 212, 221, 222, 231, 232, 241, 242, ..., 271, 272, 281) of the mesh electrode that is adjacent to the mesh portion (e.g., 212) on the lower side in the extension direction of the first electrode, with a predetermined gap therebetween.

[0043] As shown in Figure 5, outside the active area AA of the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200), there is a connecting portion (e.g., 201, 282) that is not a mesh structure and extends in the same direction as the second electrode, and is connected to a connecting conductor (e.g., 203, 283) as a first connecting portion that connects to the mesh portion (e.g., 202) above the extension direction of the first electrode or the mesh portion (e.g., AA long side portion 281) below the extension direction of the first electrode, out of the two mesh portions (AA long side portions 202, 281) of the mesh electrode at the end of the active area AA.

[0044] 5, the second sensor coil R0 located at the outermost edge is composed of an AA outer long side portion 201 which is an opaque metal conductor that does not have a mesh structure and is located outside the active area AA, an AA long side portion (mesh portion 202) which is a substantially transparent conductor (typically a mesh conductor) located inside the active area AA, and a connecting conductor 203 which is an opaque metal conductor that does not have a mesh structure and is located outside the active area AA. Similarly, the other second sensor coil R8 located at the outermost edge is composed of an AA outer long side portion 282 which is an opaque metal conductor that does not have a mesh structure and is located outside the active area AA, an AA long side portion 281 which is a substantially transparent conductor (typically a mesh conductor) located inside the active area AA, and a connecting conductor 283 as a first connecting portion which is an opaque metal conductor that does not have a mesh structure and is located outside the active area AA.

[0045] The second sensor coil R1 located inside the outermost edge is composed of an AA long side portion 211 and an AA long side portion 212, which are substantially transparent conductors (typically mesh conductors) located inside the active area AA, and a connecting conductor 203, which is an opaque metal conductor that does not have a mesh structure and is located outside the active area AA, connecting the two. Similarly, the second sensor coils R2 to R7, which are also located inside the outermost edge, are each composed of two AA long side portions (221, 222, etc.), which are substantially transparent conductors (typically mesh conductors) located inside the active area AA, and a connecting conductor (223, etc.), which is an opaque metal conductor that does not have a mesh structure and is located outside the active area AA, connecting the two. One end of each second sensor coil in the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is connected to the second circuit 20 via a switch 21, and the other end of each second sensor coil is connected to a reference potential such as GND. In addition, when a differential amplifier circuit is provided in the second circuit 20, one end and the other end of each second sensor coil in the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) may be connected to the input terminals of the differential amplifier circuit.

[0046] In addition, the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) has a dummy pattern formed by repeating a pattern having the same visibility as the mesh pattern of the mesh portion (AA long side portions 202, 211, 212, 221, 222, 231, 232, 241, 242, ..., 271, 272, 281) in a portion other than the portion forming the coil shape on one side of the substrate.

[0047] <Actions and Effects> The position detection device 1 according to this embodiment includes a first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) provided with first electrodes that generate an alternating magnetic field, a display layer 301 that controls display pixels and the blinking of the display pixels, and a second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) provided with a plurality of second electrodes that detect a pen alternating magnetic field generated by a pen that has accumulated energy through the alternating magnetic field, on the side opposite to the side on which the first electrode layer is provided, with the display layer 301 at the center. In other words, the position detection device 1 according to this embodiment is configured such that the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) are provided on separate layers. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 3A , a second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) that operates with a smaller current than the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is provided on a layer above the display layer 301 on which the on-cell touch sensor (capacitive sensor) is provided, and the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is provided on a layer below the display layer 301. This makes it possible to make the stack structure thinner and improve the design while maintaining performance as a position detection device without impairing the visibility of the display 300E in practice.

[0048] 3B , the position detection device 1 according to this embodiment is configured such that the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is not provided on the TFT back panel layer 302 but on the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) below the display layer 301, and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is provided together with the touch sensor on a layer above the display layer 301 on which the on-cell touch sensor (capacitive sensor) is provided, with a cover glass provided above the second electrode layer. In other words, the position detection device 1 according to this embodiment is configured such that the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) are provided on separate layers. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 3B , a second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) that operates with a smaller current than the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is provided above the display front panel layer 301 on which the on-cell touch sensor (capacitive sensor) is provided, and the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is provided below the display layer 301. This makes it possible to make the stack structure thinner and improve the design while maintaining the performance as a position detection device without impairing the visibility of the display 300F in practice.

[0049] In the position detection device 1 according to this embodiment, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on one surface of the substrate. That is, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed in a single layer. This contributes to making the stack structure thinner and improving the design.

[0050] The position detection device 1 according to this embodiment is configured in a comb (SAW) shape, including first electrodes 120 to 135 that respectively constitute the first sensor coils T0, T1, to T15, and a connection conductor 130 as a second connection portion that mutually connects the first electrodes 120 to 135. That is, in the position detection device 1 according to this embodiment, by controlling the switch 11, for example, the first electrodes 125 and 126 are connected together as a bundle to the first terminal of the first circuit 10, and the first electrodes 128 and 129 are connected together as a bundle to the first _inv terminal of the first circuit 10. Furthermore, by controlling the first terminal and the first _inv terminal so that the amount of change in current is in opposite phase to each other, the first circuit 10 can form a stronger transmission magnetic field between the bundle of first electrodes 125 and 126 and the bundle of first electrodes 128 and 129 (near the first electrode 127) than when the first electrodes are not bundled and compared to when the first _inv is at a fixed potential. In other words, by bundling a plurality of first electrodes, a transmission magnetic field of desired strength can be formed even if the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed using first electrodes that originally have a narrow line width and a large impedance.

[0051] In the position detection device 1 according to this embodiment, the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on one surface of the substrate on which it is mounted. In other words, the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed in a single layer. This contributes to making the stack structure thinner and improving the design.

[0052] In the position detection device 1 according to this embodiment, a plurality of transparent second electrodes are disposed on the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) on the side closer to the pen than the display layer 301. This allows the stack structure to be made thinner and improves design while maintaining the performance of the position detection device without impairing the visibility of the displays 300E and 300F.

[0053] In the position detection device 1 according to this embodiment, the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) has a single turn wound (not multiple turns) with a gap between adjacent second coil sensors that do not overlap each other. This allows the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) to be formed in a single layer, which contributes to a thinner stack structure and improved design.

[0054] In the position detection device 1 according to this embodiment, the coil shape of the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed by a mesh electrode having a predetermined repeated local pattern. This allows the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) to have improved transparency, and therefore allows the stack structure to be made thinner and the design to be improved while maintaining the performance of the position detection device without impairing the visibility of the displays 300E and 300F.

[0055] In the position detection device 1 according to this embodiment, the mesh electrode of the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed by linearly arranging two mesh portions (AA long side portions 202, 211, 212, 221, 222, 231, 232, 241, 242, ..., 271, 272, 281) with a predetermined gap between them. In other words, in the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200), adjacent second coil sensors do not overlap each other, leaving a gap between them, and each second coil sensor is wound with one turn (not multiple turns). This allows the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) to be formed in a single layer. This contributes to a thinner stack structure and improved design.

[0056] In the position detection device 1 of this embodiment, outside the active area AA of the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200), connection conductors 203, 213, 223, 233, 243, ..., 273, 283 are included as first connection portions that are not mesh structures and that connect the mesh portion (e.g., AA long side portion 211) below in the extension direction of the first electrode to the mesh portion (e.g., 212) above in the extension direction of the first electrode among the mesh portions (AA long side portions 202, 211, 212, 221, 222, 231, 232, 241, 242, ..., 271, 272, 281) of the mesh electrode that is adjacent to the mesh portion (e.g., AA long side portion 211) below in the extension direction of the first electrode at a predetermined interval. That is, of the two mesh portions of the mesh electrode, the mesh portion (e.g., AA long side portion 211) on the lower side in the extension direction of the first electrode and the mesh portion (e.g., 212) adjacent thereto at a predetermined distance on the upper side in the extension direction of the first electrode are connected by connecting conductors 203, 213, 223, 233, 243, ..., 273, and 283 as first connecting portions, thereby forming a one-turn rectangular loop coil. Furthermore, the connecting conductors 203, 213, 223, 233, 243, ..., 273, and 283 as first connecting portions are provided outside the active area AA and therefore do not form a mesh structure. Therefore, the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) can be made thinner and have an improved design while maintaining performance as a position detection device and without compromising the visibility of the display, while reducing costs.

[0057] In the position detection device 1 of this embodiment, outside the active area AA of the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200), the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is configured to include a connecting portion (e.g., 201, 282) that is not a mesh structure and extends in the same direction as the second electrode of the mesh portion (AA long side portion 202, 271, 272, 281), and is connected to a connecting conductor (e.g., 201, 283) that serves as a first connecting portion that connects to the mesh portion (e.g., 202) above the extension direction of the first electrode or the mesh portion (e.g., AA long side portion 281) below the extension direction of the first electrode, out of the two mesh portions (AA long side portions 202, 281) of the mesh electrode at the end of the active area AA. In other words, the two mesh portions (AA long side portions 202, 281) of the mesh electrode at the end of the active area AA form a one-turn rectangular loop coil by means of a connecting conductor (e.g., 203, 283) as a first connecting portion that connects to the mesh portion (e.g., 202) above the extension direction of the first electrode or the mesh portion (e.g., AA long side portion 281) below the extension direction of the first electrode, and a connecting portion (e.g., 201, 282) that is not a mesh structure and extends in the same direction as the second electrode of the mesh portion (AA long side portions 202, 211, 212, 221, 222, 231, 232, 241, 242, ..., 271, 272, 281) of the mesh electrode. Furthermore, the connecting portions (e.g., 201, 282) are provided outside the active area AA and do not form a mesh structure, so the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) can maintain its performance as a position detection device while reducing costs and without impairing the visibility of the display, thereby making it possible to slim down the stack structure and improve design.

[0058] In the position detection device 1 according to this embodiment, the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) has a dummy pattern formed on one surface of the substrate, except for the portion forming the coil shape, in which a pattern having the same visibility as the mesh pattern of the mesh portion (AA long side portions 202, 211, 212, 221, 222, 231, 232, 241, 242, ..., 271, 272, 281) is repeated. In other words, the entire second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) has a pattern having the same visibility as the mesh pattern of the mesh portion (AA long side portions 202, 211, 212, 221, 222, 231, 232, 241, 242, ..., 271, 272, 281). Therefore, by suppressing interference fringes (moiré), which can be a problem in a geometric configuration in which multiple loop coils are arranged, the visibility of the display can be improved.

[0059] 6A to 7B, a position detection device 2 according to this embodiment will be described. Note that the basic configuration of the position detection device 2 and the configuration of the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0060] <Stack Configuration 1 of Position Detection Device 2> Figure 6A shows a stack configuration including a flexible display that can be folded around a folding axis indicated by a dashed line in the figure in a direction in which the upper surfaces of the cover films approach each other (valley fold direction). As shown in Figure 6A, in stack configuration 1 of position detection device 2, the display layer 301 is a so-called on-cell touch sensor (capacitive sensor), and a touch sensor is provided on a layer above the display front panel layer 301, as well as a second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200). In other words, stack configuration 1 of position detection device 2 shown in Figure 6A is configured such that the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) are provided on separate layers. The second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on one side of the substrate on which it is mounted. The second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed by arranging a plurality of transparent second electrodes on a side closer to the pen than the display layer 301. The first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on one side of the lower surface of the support plate 400, facing the pen, on which it is mounted. Furthermore, connector terminals on the FPC side are crimped to the pad group of the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) formed on one side of the lower surface of the support plate 400, facing the pen, and a controller is connected via the FPC.

[0061] Here, the display layer 301 is provided with a support plate 400 for protecting the flexible display from impact. Such a support plate is referred to as a "plate" in, for example, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2023-0071229 A1 (FIG. 7). As shown in the U.S. Patent Application Publication, the support plate 400 may be a separate member, for example, by providing a "groove" as described in the patent document near the bending axis, or it may be a single member that is partially or entirely continuous. Furthermore, the support plate 400 is referred to as a "supporter" in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2021-0208709 A1. For the support plate 400, those described in these documents may be used as appropriate.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 6A , a first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is provided directly on one surface of the lower surface of the support plate 400. Preferably, the support plate 400 is made of a low-conductivity material that does not affect electromagnetic induction and is a rigid substrate such as a glass epoxy substrate (e.g., FR4). The first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is provided by printing a conductive material such as copper, silver, or copper on one surface (the upper surface in FIG. 6A ) of the support plate 400. Connector terminals on an FPC are crimped to the pad group of the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100), and a controller is connected via the FPC. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 6A , a magnetic shield plate may be provided below the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100).

[0063] <Stack Configuration 2 of Position Detection Device 2> Figure 6B shows a stack configuration including a flexible display. As in Figure 6A, the display layer 301 is a so-called on-cell touch sensor (capacitive sensor). The touch sensor is provided on a layer above the display layer 301, and a second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is also provided. That is, the stack configuration 2 of the position detection device 2 shown in Figure 6B is configured such that the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) are provided on separate layers. The second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on one side of the mounting substrate. The second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed by arranging multiple second electrodes as transparent electrodes on a side closer to the pen than the display layer 301. The first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on one side of the lower surface of the support plates 400-1 and 400-2 mounted thereon, facing the pen.

[0064] Here, the support plate 400 is provided on the underside of the display 300G, separated into a first support plate 400-1 and a second support plate 400-2. Although the first support plate 400-1 and the second support plate 400-2 are separated, a structure or a separate member may be provided between them to provide durability against bending while making them easier to bend, as described as a "groove" in the aforementioned U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2023-0071229A1.

[0065] 6B, a first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-1) is provided directly on the upper surface of a first support plate 400-1, and a first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-2) is provided directly on the upper surface of a second support plate 400-2. Preferably, the support plate 400 is a rigid substrate having rigidity such as a glass epoxy substrate (FR4, etc.), and the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-1) and the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-2) are provided by printing a conductive material such as copper, silver, or copper on one surface of the support plate 400 (the upper surface in FIG. 6B). Furthermore, on the undersides of the first support plate 400-1 and the second support plate 400-2, pad groups or some of the first sensor coil wiring are printed and mounted, and connected via vias to the first electrode layers (first sensor coil groups 100-1 and 100-2) formed on the upper surfaces of the first support plate 400-1 and the second support plate 400-2, and are crimped to connector terminals that connect to the flexible substrate. Note that, as shown in Fig. 6B, a magnetic shield plate may be provided below the first support plate 400-1 and the second support plate 400-2 on which the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-1) or the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-2) is mounted.

[0066] <Stack Configuration 3 of Position Detection Device 2> In the configuration of FIG. 6C , unlike FIG. 6B , the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-1) or the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-2) is provided directly on one surface of the lower surface of the separated first support plate 400-1 and second support plate 400-2. In other words, the stack configuration 3 of the position detection device 2 shown in FIG. 6C is configured such that the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) are provided on separate layers. The second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on one surface of the mounting substrate. The second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed by arranging multiple second electrodes using transparent electrodes on a side closer to the pen than the display layer 301. Connector terminals on the FPC side are crimped to the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-1) and the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-2), and the controller is connected via the FPC. Note that, as shown in Fig. 6C, a magnetic shield plate may be provided below the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-1) and the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-2).

[0067] <Stack Configuration 4 of Position Detection Device 2> Figure 6D shows a stack configuration in which a first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is provided on the touch sensor on the upper side of the display layer 301, and a second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is provided by printing on one surface of the lower surface of the support plate 400. In other words, stack configuration 4 of the position detection device 2 shown in Figure 6D is configured such that the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) are provided on separate layers. The first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) has a plurality of transparent first electrodes arranged on a side closer to the pen than the display layer 301. A connector terminal on the FPC side is crimped to the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200), and a controller is connected via the FPC. As shown in FIG. 6D, a magnetic shield plate may be provided below the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200).

[0068] <Stack Configuration 5 of Position Detection Device 2> Figure 6E shows a stack configuration in which a first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is provided on the touch sensor above the display layer 301, a second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is provided by printing on one surface of the upper surface of the support plate 400, a pad group 140 (described later) or some of the second sensor coil wiring is provided on the lower surface of the support plate 400, and an FPC is extended from the lower surface. In other words, the stack configuration 5 of the position detection device 2 shown in Figure 6E is configured such that the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) are provided on separate layers. The first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) has a plurality of first electrodes arranged as transparent electrodes on a side closer to the pen than the display layer 301. Furthermore, a group of pads or a portion of the second sensor coil wiring connected via vias to the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) formed on the upper surface of the support plate 400 is printed on the lower surface of the support plate 400 and is crimped to connector terminals that connect to the flexible substrate. Note that, as shown in Fig. 6E, a magnetic shield plate may be provided below the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200).

[0069] <Stack Configuration 6 of Position Detection Device 2> FIG. 6F shows a stack configuration in which the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) or the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is integrated into the TFT back panel layer 302 below the display layer 301, and the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) or the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is mounted on the support plate 400 by direct printing. That is, as shown in FIG. 6F , the stack configuration 6 of the position detection device 2 is configured such that the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) are provided on separate layers. Furthermore, connector terminals on an FPC are crimped to the pad group of the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) formed on one side of the lower surface of the support plate 400 facing the pen, and a controller is connected via the FPC. As shown in FIG. 6F, a magnetic shield plate may be provided below the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) or the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200).

[0070] <Configuration of First Electrode Layer (First Sensor Coil Group 100)> Figures 7A and 7B are diagrams showing configuration examples of the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100). The configuration of the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) shown in Figures 7A and 7B is particularly effective when using a flexible display that can be bent, as in the configuration examples of Figures 6A to 6F.

[0071] 7A, for example, in Fig. 6A or 6F, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on the lower or upper surface side of the support plate 400 relative to the pen. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 6A or 6F, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is mounted by printing on one surface of the support plate 400.

[0072] 7B , for example, in FIG. 6B or 6C , the support plate 400 is separated, and the first electrode layer is formed on the upper or lower surface of the separated support plates 400-1 and 400-2 relative to the pen. Specifically, in the configuration of FIG. 7B , the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) includes a first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-1) mounted by printing on the support plate 400-1 of FIG. 6B or 6C , and a second first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-2) mounted by printing on the support plate 400-2. Note that a bending portion 400-3, which is a flexible member or structure, may be provided between the support plates 400-1 and 400-2, and a bending waist connection conductor 131 may be provided in that portion, which is made of a material and structure that is less likely to break when bent compared to the connection conductor 130 serving as the other first connection portion.

[0073] The first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) includes first electrodes 120 to 135 that respectively constitute the first sensor coils T0, T1, ... T15, and a connecting conductor 130 that connects the first electrodes 120 to 135 to each other, and is configured in a comb (SAW) shape.

[0074] As shown in Fig. 7A, the first electrodes 120 to 135 are connected to a pad group 140. As shown in Fig. 7B, the first electrodes 120 to 127 are connected to a first pad group 140-1, and the first electrodes 128 to 135 are connected to a second pad group 140-2. The pad group 140 of the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) has connector terminals of an FPC (not shown) crimped onto it, and pins of a controller corresponding to each terminal are connected via the FPC, and the pad group 140 is driven as a first sensor coil by the controller.

[0075] <Actions and Effects> As described above, the position detection device 2 according to this embodiment includes a first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) provided with a first electrode that generates an alternating magnetic field, and a second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) provided with a plurality of second electrodes that detect a pen alternating magnetic field generated by a pen that has stored energy in the alternating magnetic field, and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on one surface of the substrate. In other words, the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed in a single layer. This contributes to reducing the thickness of the stack structure and improving design.

[0076] The stack configuration 1 of the position detection device 2 according to this embodiment is a stack configuration including a bendable flexible display. The display layer 301 is a so-called on-cell touch sensor (capacitive sensor). The touch sensor is provided on a layer above the display layer 301, and a second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is also provided. That is, the stack configuration 1 of the position detection device 2 is configured such that the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) are provided on separate layers. The second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on one surface of the substrate on which the position detection device 2 is mounted, and a plurality of second electrodes are arranged as transparent electrodes on a side closer to the pen than the display layer 301. The first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is also formed on one surface of the lower surface of the support plate 400 on which the position detection device 2 is mounted, the surface facing the pen. Therefore, the stack structure can be made thinner and the design can be improved without impairing the visibility of the display 300G and while maintaining the performance as a position detection device. Furthermore, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on one side of the lower surface of the support plate 400 that faces the pen, and a connector terminal on the FPC is crimped to the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100), and the controller is connected via the FPC. In other words, the upper surface of the support plate 400 that faces the pen remains flat, so that even if the display 300G is attached to the top of the support plate 400 with an adhesive or the like, the flatness or tilt of the display 300G is not affected.

[0077] The stack configuration 2 of the position detection device 2 according to this embodiment is a stack configuration including a bendable flexible display, in which the display layer 301 is a so-called on-cell touch sensor (capacitive sensor), and the touch sensor is provided on a layer above the display front panel layer 301, and a second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is also provided. Meanwhile, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-1) or the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-2) is provided directly on one surface of the upper surface of the separated first support plate 400-1 and second support plate 400-2. In other words, the stack configuration 2 of the position detection device 2 is configured such that the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) are provided on separate layers. The second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on one surface of the substrate on which it is mounted, and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) has a plurality of transparent second electrodes arranged on a side closer to the pen than the display layer 301. The first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on one side of the lower surface of the support plates 400-1 and 400-2 on which it is mounted, facing the pen. On the lower surfaces of the first support plate 400-1 and the second support plate 400-2, pad groups 140 or some of the first sensor coil wiring are printed and mounted, and are connected via vias to the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-1, first sensor coil group 100-2) formed on the upper surfaces of the first support plate 400-1 and the second support plate 400-2, and are crimped to connector terminals that connect to the flexible substrate. Therefore, the stack structure can be made thinner and the design can be improved without impairing the visibility of the display 300G and while maintaining the performance as a position detection device.In addition, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on one side of the upper surface of the first support plate 400-1 and second support plate 400-2 relative to the pen on which it is mounted, and on the lower surfaces of the first support plate 400-1 and second support plate 400-2, a group of pads or some of the first sensor coil wiring connected via vias to the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-1, first sensor coil group 100-2) formed on the upper surface side of the first support plate 400-1 and second support plate 400-2 are printed and crimped to connector terminals that connect to the flexible substrate. Therefore, the upper surfaces of the first support plate 400-1 and the second support plate 400-2 are structured to maintain flatness as much as possible, and even if the display 300G is adhered to the top of the first support plate 400-1 and the second support plate 400-2 with adhesive or the like, the structure is unlikely to affect the flatness or tilt of the display 300G.

[0078] The stack configuration 3 of the position detection device 2 according to this embodiment is a stack configuration including a bendable flexible display. In this stack configuration including a bendable flexible display, the display layer 301 is a so-called on-cell touch sensor (capacitive sensor). The touch sensor is provided on a layer above the display layer 301, and a second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is also provided. Meanwhile, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-1) or the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-2) is provided directly on one surface of the lower surface of the separated first support plate 400-1 and second support plate 400-2. In other words, the stack configuration 3 of the position detection device 2 is configured such that the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) are provided on separate layers. The second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on one side of the substrate on which it is mounted, and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) has a plurality of transparent second electrodes arranged on a side closer to the pen than the display 30. Furthermore, connector terminals on the FPC side are crimped to the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-1) and the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-2), and a controller is connected via the FPC. Therefore, the stack structure can be made thinner and the design can be improved without impairing the visibility of the display 300J, while maintaining the performance as a position detection device. In addition, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-1, first sensor coil group 100-2) is formed on one side of the underside of the pen of the first support plate 400-1 and the second support plate 400-2 to be mounted, and the connector terminals on the FPC side are crimped onto the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-1, first sensor coil group 100-2), and the controller is connected via the FPC.In other words, the upper surfaces of the first support plate 400-1 and the second support plate 400-2 remain flat against the pen, so even if the display 300J is attached to the top of the first support plate 400-1 and the second support plate 400-2 with adhesive or the like, the flatness or tilt of the display 300J is not affected.

[0079] The stack configuration 4 of the position detection device 2 according to this embodiment is a stack configuration including a foldable flexible display. The stack configuration 4 includes a first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) provided on the touch sensor on the upper side of the display layer 301, and a second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) provided by printing on one surface of the lower surface of the support plate 400. In other words, the stack configuration 4 of the position detection device 2 is configured such that the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) are provided on separate, separate layers. Furthermore, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) has a plurality of transparent first electrodes arranged on a side closer to the pen than the display layer 301. Therefore, the stack structure can be made thinner and the design can be improved without impairing the visibility of the display 300J, while maintaining the performance of the position detection device. The second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on one side of the lower surface of the support plate 400 that faces the pen, and a connector terminal on the FPC side is crimped to the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200), and the controller is connected via the FPC. In other words, the upper surface of the support plate 400 that faces the pen remains flat, so that even if the display 300J is adhered to the top of the support plate 400 with an adhesive or the like, the flatness or tilt of the display 300J is not affected.

[0080] The stack configuration 5 of the position detection device 2 according to this embodiment is a stack configuration including a foldable flexible display, in which a first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is provided on the touch sensor on the upper side of the display layer 301, a second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is provided by printing on one surface of the upper side of the support plate 400, a pad group 140 (described later) or some second sensor coil wiring is provided on the lower side of the support plate 400, and an FPC is taken out from the lower side. In other words, the stack configuration 5 of the position detection device 2 is configured such that the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) are provided on separate layers. Furthermore, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) has a plurality of first electrodes formed of transparent electrodes arranged on a side closer to the pen than the display layer 301. Therefore, the stack structure can be made thinner and the design can be improved without impairing the visibility of the display 300J and while maintaining its performance as a position detection device. Furthermore, the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on one side of the upper surface of the support plate 400, facing the pen. On the lower surface of the support plate 400, a pad group 140 or a portion of the second sensor coil wiring is printed and mounted, connected vias to the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) formed on the upper surface of the support plate 400, and is crimped to a connector terminal that connects to a flexible substrate. Therefore, the upper surface of the support plate 400 is structured to maintain flatness as much as possible, and even if the display 300J is attached to the upper surface of the support plate 400 with an adhesive or the like, the flatness or tilt of the display 300J is not likely to be affected.

[0081] The stack configuration 6 of the position detection device 2 according to this embodiment is a stack configuration including a bendable flexible display, in which the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) or the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is integrated into the TFT back panel layer 302 of the display 300L, and the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) or the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is mounted on the support plate 400 by direct printing. In other words, the stack configuration 6 of the position detection device 2 is configured such that the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) are provided on separate layers. This allows the stack structure to be made thinner and the design to be improved while maintaining the performance of the position detection device without impairing the visibility of the display 300L. The first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on one side of the lower surface of the support plate 400 that faces the pen, and a connector terminal on the FPC side is crimped to the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100), and the controller is connected via the FPC. In other words, the upper surface of the support plate 400 that faces the pen remains flat, so even if the display 300L is adhered to the top of the support plate 400 with an adhesive or the like, the flatness or tilt of the display 300L is not affected.

[0082] The first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) of the position detection device 2 according to this embodiment is formed on the upper or lower surface side of the support plate 400 with respect to the pen. Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6D to 6F , the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is mounted by printing on one surface of the support plate 400. The first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) of the position detection device 2 according to this embodiment is configured in a comb (SAW) shape, including first electrodes 120 to 135 that respectively constitute the first sensor coils T0, T1, ... T15, and a connecting conductor 130 as a second connecting portion that connects the first electrodes 120 to 135 to each other. That is, in the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) of the position detection device 2 according to this embodiment, by controlling the switch 11, for example, the first electrodes 125 and 126 are bundled and connected to the first terminal of the first circuit 10, while the first electrodes 128 and 129 are bundled and connected to the first _inv terminal of the first circuit 10. Furthermore, by controlling the first terminal and the first _inv terminal so that the amounts of change in current are in opposite phases, the first circuit 10 can form a stronger transmitted magnetic field between the bundle of the first electrodes 125 and 126 and the bundle of the first electrodes 128 and 129 (near the first electrode 127) than when the electrodes are not bundled and than when the first _inv is set to a fixed potential. In other words, by bundling multiple first electrodes, it is possible to form an emitted magnetic field of the desired strength even if the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed using first electrodes with a narrow line width and high impedance.

[0083] The first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) of the position detection device 2 according to this embodiment is formed on the upper or lower surface side of the separated support plates 400-1 and 400-2 relative to the pen when the support plate 400 is separated. Specifically, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) has the configuration shown in Fig. 7B and includes a first first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-1) mounted by printing on the support plate 400-1 of Figs. 6B and 6C, and a second first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-2) mounted by printing on the support plate 400-2. Furthermore, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) of the position detection device 2 according to this embodiment is configured in a comb (SAW) shape, and includes first electrodes 120 to 135 that respectively constitute the first sensor coils T0, T1, ... T15, and a connecting conductor 130 as a second connecting portion that mutually connects the first electrodes 120 to 135. That is, in the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) of the position detection device 2 according to this embodiment, by controlling the switch 11, for example, the first electrodes 125 and 126 are connected together as a bundle to the first terminal of the first circuit 10, and the first electrodes 128 and 129 are connected together as a bundle to the first _inv terminal of the first circuit 10. Furthermore, by controlling the first terminal and the first _inv terminal so that the amount of change in current is in opposite phase to each other, the first circuit 10 can form a stronger transmission magnetic field between the bundle of first electrodes 125 and 126 and the bundle of first electrodes 128 and 129 (near the first electrode 127) than when the first electrodes are not bundled and compared to when first _inv is at a fixed potential. In other words, by bundling a plurality of first electrodes, a transmission magnetic field of desired strength can be formed even if the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed using first electrodes with a narrow line width and high impedance.

[0084] The position detection device 3 according to this embodiment separates the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) and the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100), and further comprises a comb-shaped first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) or second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) that can be mounted by printing or the like on a single surface (one side) of the support plates 400, 400-1, 400-2 to protect the flexible display, eliminating the need for multiple layers on one surface. Therefore, compared to forming the support plates 400, 400-1, 400-2 and the EMR sensor coil group having a first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) and a second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) arranged in multiple layers on separate substrates and bonding them together, it is possible to achieve a thinner structure and reduce the manufacturing process.

[0085] Third Embodiment A position detection device 3 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 8A and 8B.

[0086] 8A illustrates a stacked configuration in which the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) are formed on separate layers in the position detection device 2 according to the second embodiment, whereas the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on the upper surface of the support plate 400 and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on the lower surface of the support plate 400. In addition, a connector terminal on the FPC side is crimped onto the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200), and a controller is connected via the FPC.

[0087] 8B illustrates a stack configuration in which, while the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) are provided on separate layers in the position detection device 2 according to the second embodiment, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on the lower surface of the support plate 400 and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on the upper surface of the support plate 400. In addition, a connector terminal on the FPC side is crimped onto the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 200), and a controller is connected via the FPC.

[0088] <Actions and Effects> As described above, the position detection device 3 according to this embodiment has a stack configuration in which the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on the upper surface of the support plate 400, and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on the lower surface of the support plate 400. Furthermore, a connector terminal on the FPC side is crimped to the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200), and a controller is connected via the FPC. In other words, even with the stack configuration described above, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) consisting of one layer and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) consisting of one layer are disposed on only one surface of the support plate 400, thereby enabling a thinner device compared to a case in which multiple layers are provided for each sensor coil group. Furthermore, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on one side of the upper surface of the support plate 400, facing the pen on which it is mounted, and on the lower surface of the support plate 400, a pad group 140 or some of the first sensor coil wiring, which is connected via vias to the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) formed on the upper surface side of the support plate 400, is printed and mounted, and is crimped to a connector terminal that connects to a flexible substrate. Therefore, the upper surface of the support plate 400 is structured to maintain flatness as much as possible, and is structured so that even if the display 300M is adhered to the top of the support plate 400 with an adhesive or the like, it is unlikely to affect the flatness or tilt of the display 300M.

[0089] The position detection device 3 according to this embodiment has a stacked configuration in which a first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on the lower surface of the support plate 400, and a second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on the upper surface of the support plate 400. Furthermore, a connector terminal on the FPC side is crimped to the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100), and a controller is connected via the FPC. In other words, even with the stacked configuration described above, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) and the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) each consisting of one layer are disposed on only one surface of the support plate 400, thereby enabling a thinner device compared to a case in which multiple layers are provided for each sensor coil group. Furthermore, the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on one side of the upper surface of the support plate 400, facing the pen on which it is mounted, and on the lower surface of the support plate 400, a pad group 140 or some of the second sensor coil wiring, which is connected via vias to the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) formed on the upper surface side of the support plate 400, is printed and mounted, and is crimped to a connector terminal that connects to a flexible substrate. Therefore, the upper surface of the support plate 400 is structured to maintain flatness as much as possible, and is structured so that even if the display 300N is adhered to the top of the support plate 400 with an adhesive or the like, it is unlikely to affect the flatness or tilt of the display 300N.

[0090] Fourth Embodiment A display device 4 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 6A to 6F.

[0091] <Configuration of Display Device 4> The display device 4 according to this embodiment is a display device 4 used in the position detection device 2 that detects the position of a pen using electromagnetic induction, and includes, for example, a display layer 301, a TFT back panel 302 that is provided on the lower surface of the display layer 301 and that is equipped with TFTs that drive display pixel electrodes of the display layer 301, and a touch panel TS that is provided on the upper surface of the display layer 301, and at least one of a first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) that is provided with a first electrode that generates an alternating magnetic field or a second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) that is provided with a plurality of second electrodes that detect a pen alternating magnetic field generated by a pen that has accumulated energy by the alternating magnetic field is provided on the TFT back panel 302 or the touch panel TS. 6A to 6F , the display device 4 according to this embodiment also includes a support plate that is provided below the display layer 301 with respect to the pen and on which either a first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) or a second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed. Note that the stack configuration of the display device 4 and the components denoted with the same reference numerals are the same as those in the second and third embodiments, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0092] 6A shows that the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on the underside of the support plate 400, facing the pen. Connector terminals on the FPC side are crimped to the pad group 140 of the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100), which is formed on one side of the underside of the support plate 400 facing the pen, and the controller is connected via the FPC. Also shown is that the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is provided integrally with the touch panel TS.

[0093] 6B shows that the support plate 400 is separated into two support plates 400-1 and 400-2, with the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) formed on the upper surfaces of the separated support plates 400-1 and 400-2 relative to the pen, and the pad groups or some of the first sensor coil wiring formed on the lower surfaces of the separated support plates 400-1 and 400-2. It also shows that the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is integrated into the touch panel TS. It also shows that the pad groups are connected to the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) formed on the upper surfaces of the separated support plates 400-1 and 400-2 via vias on the lower surfaces of the separated support plates 400-1 and 400-2, and are crimped to connector terminals that connect to a flexible substrate.

[0094] 6C shows that the support plate 400 is separated into two support plates 400-1 and 400-2, that the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on the underside of the separated support plates 400-1 and 400-2 relative to the pen, and that connector terminals on the FPC side are crimped to the pad group 140 of the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) to connect to the controller via the FPC. Also shown is that the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is provided integrally with the touch panel TS.

[0095] 6D shows that the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on the underside of the support plate 400, facing the pen. It also shows that the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is integrated into the touch panel TS. It also shows that the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is connected to a controller via the FPC by crimping connector terminals on the FPC.

[0096] 6E shows that the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on the upper surface of the support plate 400 relative to the pen, and that the pad group 140 or some of the second sensor coil wiring is formed on the lower surface of the support plate 400. It also shows that the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is integrated into the touch panel TS. It also shows that the pad group 140 is connected to the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) formed on the upper surface of the support plate 400 via vias on the lower surface of the support plate 400, and is crimped to a connector terminal that connects to a flexible substrate.

[0097] For example, Figure 6F shows that the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on the underside of the support plate 400 relative to the pen, and that the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is integrated into the TFT back panel 302.

[0098] <Actions and Effects> The display device 4 according to this embodiment is a display device 4 used in a position detection device 2 that detects the position of a pen using electromagnetic induction, and includes, for example, a display layer 301, a TFT back panel 302 provided on the lower surface of the display layer 301 and equipped with TFTs that drive display pixel electrodes of the display layer 301, and a touch panel TS provided on the upper part of the display 30. At least one of a first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) provided with a first electrode that generates an alternating magnetic field or a second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) provided with a plurality of second electrodes that detect a pen alternating magnetic field generated by a pen that has stored energy in the alternating magnetic field is provided on the TFT back panel 302 or the touch panel TS. In other words, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) or the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on at least one surface of a support plate 400 provided below the pen and farther from the display 30. Therefore, the stack structure can be made thinner and the design can be improved without impairing the visibility of the displays 300G, 300J, and 300L, while maintaining the performance as a position detection device.

[0099] In the display device 4 according to this embodiment, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on the underside of the support plate 400, facing the pen. Furthermore, connector terminals on the FPC are crimped to the pad group 140 of the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100), which is formed on one side of the underside of the support plate 400 facing the pen, and a controller is connected via the FPC. The second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is integrated into the touch panel TS. In other words, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) generates an alternating magnetic field, and therefore a large current flows through it. Therefore, the line width of the wiring pattern forming the first electrode is widened to reduce impedance. If the wiring pattern is formed on a layer above the display layer 301, this may impair the visibility of the display 300G. In the display device 5 according to this embodiment, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on the underside of the support plate 400, facing the pen. This allows the stack structure to be thin and the design to be improved while maintaining performance as a position detection device without impairing the visibility of the display device 4. Furthermore, the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed integrally with the touch panel TS, allowing the stack structure to be thin and the design to be improved while maintaining performance as a position detection device. Furthermore, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on the support plate 400, which is essential for the foldable display device 5, so that the above-described effects can also be achieved in the foldable display device 5. Furthermore, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on one side of the underside of the support plate 400, facing the pen, and a controller is connected to the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) via the FPC by crimping a connector terminal on the FPC.In other words, the upper surface of the support plate 400 remains flat against the pen, so even if the display 300G is attached to the top of the support plate 400 with adhesive or the like, the flatness or tilt of the display 300G is not affected.

[0100] In the display device 4 according to this embodiment, the support plate 400 is separated, and the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on the upper surface side of the separated support plates 400-1 and 400-2 relative to the pen. In other words, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) generates an alternating magnetic field, and therefore a large current flows through it. Therefore, the line width of the wiring pattern forming the first electrode is widened to reduce impedance. If the wiring pattern is formed on a layer above the display 300G, the visibility of the display 300G may be impaired. In the display device 5 according to this embodiment, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on the lower surface side of the support plates 400-1 and 400-2 relative to the pen. This allows the stack structure to be made thinner, improving the design, while maintaining the performance of the position detection device without impairing the visibility of the display 300G. Furthermore, because the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed integrally with the touch panel TS, the stack structure can be made thinner, improving design while maintaining performance as a position detection device. Furthermore, because the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on the support plates 400-1 and 400-2, which are essential for the foldable display device 5, the above-described effects can also be achieved in the foldable display device 5. Furthermore, on the undersides of the first support plate 400-1 and the second support plate 400-2, pad groups 140 or a portion of the first sensor coil wiring are printed and mounted, and are connected via vias to the first electrode layers (first sensor coil group 100-1, first sensor coil group 100-2) formed on the upper surfaces of the first support plate 400-1 and the second support plate 400-2, and are crimped to connector terminals that connect to the flexible substrate. Therefore, the upper surfaces of the first support plate 400-1 and the second support plate 400-2 are structured to maintain flatness as much as possible, and even if the display 300G is adhered to the top of the first support plate 400-1 and the second support plate 400-2 with adhesive or the like, the structure is unlikely to affect the flatness or tilt of the display 300G.

[0101] In the display device 4 according to this embodiment, the support plate 400 is separated, and the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on the underside of the separated support plates 400-1 and 400-2 relative to the pen. That is, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) generates an alternating magnetic field, and therefore a large current flows through it. Therefore, the line width of the wiring pattern forming the first electrode is widened to reduce impedance. If the wiring pattern is formed on a layer above the display 30, the visibility of the display 300J may be impaired. In the display device 5 according to this embodiment, the support plates 400-1 and 400-2 are separated, and the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on the underside of the separated support plates 400-1 and 400-2 relative to the pen. This allows the stack structure to be made thinner, improving the design, while maintaining the performance of the position detection device without impairing the visibility of the display 300J. Furthermore, because the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed integrally with the touch panel TS, the stack structure can be made thinner, improving design while maintaining performance as a position detection device. Furthermore, because the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on the support plates 400-1 and 400-2, which are essential for the foldable display device 5, the above-described effects can also be achieved in the foldable display device 5. Furthermore, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-1, first sensor coil group 100-2) is formed on one side of the lower surface of the first support plate 400-1 and second support plate 400-2, facing the pen, and a controller is connected to the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100-1, first sensor coil group 100-2) via the FPC by crimping connector terminals on the FPC.In other words, the upper surfaces of the first support plate 400-1 and the second support plate 400-2 remain flat against the pen, so even if the display 30 is attached to the top of the first support plate 400-1 and the second support plate 400-2 with adhesive or the like, the flatness or tilt of the display 300J is not affected.

[0102] In the display device 4 according to this embodiment, the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on the underside of the support plate 400 facing the pen, and the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is integrated into the touch panel TS and is composed of multiple transparent electrodes. This allows the stack structure to be thinned and the design to be improved while maintaining the performance of the position detection device without impairing the visibility of the display 300J. Furthermore, since the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on the support plate 400, which is essential for the foldable display device 5, the above-described effects can also be achieved in the foldable display device 5. Furthermore, the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on one side of the underside of the support plate 400 facing the pen, and a connector terminal on the FPC is crimped to the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200), connecting the controller via the FPC. In other words, the upper surface of the support plate 400 remains flat against the pen, so even if the display 300J is attached to the top of the support plate 400 with adhesive or the like, the flatness or tilt of the display 300J is not affected.

[0103] In the display device 4 according to this embodiment, the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on the upper surface of the support plate 400 relative to the pen, the pad group 140 or a portion of the second sensor coil wiring is formed on the lower surface of the support plate 400, and the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is integrated into the touch panel TS and is composed of multiple transparent electrodes. Therefore, the stack structure can be made thinner and the design can be improved without impairing the visibility of the display 300J, while maintaining performance as a position detection device. Furthermore, because the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on the support plate 400, which is essential for the foldable display device 5, the above-described effects can also be achieved in the foldable display device 5. Furthermore, the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed on one side of the upper surface of the support plate 400, facing the pen on which it is mounted, and on the lower surface of the support plate 400, pad groups 140 or some of the second sensor coil wiring, which are connected via vias to the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) formed on the upper surface side of the support plate 400, are printed and mounted, and are crimped to connector terminals that connect to the flexible substrate. Therefore, the upper surface of the support plate 400 is structured to maintain flatness as much as possible, and is structured so that even if the display 300J is adhered to the top of the support plate 400 with an adhesive or the like, it is unlikely to affect the flatness or tilt of the display 300J.

[0104] In the display device 4 according to this embodiment, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) and the pad group 140, or a portion of the first sensor coil wiring, are formed on the underside of the support plate 400 relative to the pen. In other words, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) generates an alternating magnetic field, and therefore a large current flows through it. Therefore, the line width of the wiring pattern forming the first electrode is widened to reduce impedance. If the wiring pattern is formed on a layer above the display 30, the visibility of the display 300L may be impaired. In the display device 5 according to this embodiment, the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on the underside of the support plate 400 relative to the pen. This allows the stack structure to be thinned and the design to be improved while maintaining the performance as a position detection device without impairing the visibility of the display 300L. Furthermore, the second electrode layer (second sensor coil group 200) is formed integrally with the touch panel TS. This allows the stack structure to be thinned and the design to be improved while maintaining the performance as a position detection device. Furthermore, since the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on the support plate 400, which is essential for the foldable display device 5, the above-described effects can also be achieved in the foldable display device 5. The first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100) is formed on one side of the lower surface of the support plate 400 that faces the pen to be mounted, and a connector terminal on the FPC side is crimped to the first electrode layer (first sensor coil group 100), and the controller is connected via the FPC. In other words, since the upper surface of the support plate 400 that faces the pen remains flat, even if the display 300L is adhered to the top of the support plate 400 with an adhesive or the like, the flatness or tilt of the display 300L is not affected.

[0105] <Modification 1> In the above-described embodiment, for ease of understanding, the first electrodes have been described as electrodes for transmitting a magnetic field and the second electrodes as electrodes for detecting pen signals, with their functions uniquely defined. However, the first electrodes may operate as first electrodes during a transmission period for transmitting a magnetic field in a time-division manner, and then operate as second electrodes for detecting pen signals along an axis (e.g., the Y-axis) different from the arrangement axis (e.g., the X-axis) of the second electrodes for detecting pen signals during a detection period. Furthermore, the first electrodes in the above-described embodiment may be interpreted as first electrodes arranged in a first direction, and the second electrodes may be interpreted as second electrodes arranged in a second direction.

[0106] 6A to 6F, 8A, and 8B illustrate the case where the pad group, a portion of the second sensor coil wiring, or the flexible substrate connecting the second sensor coil wiring and the connector terminals is drawn out from the underside of the support plate 400, 400-1, or 400-2. However, the pad group, a portion of the second sensor coil wiring, or the flexible substrate connecting the second sensor coil wiring and the connector terminals may be drawn out from the upper side of the support plate 400, 400-1, or 400-2. In this case, it is preferable to provide a notch at the end of the support plate 400, 400-1, or 400-2 in the drawing direction of the flexible substrate, change the drawing direction of the flexible substrate to the underside of the support plate 400, 400-1, or 400-2 via the notch, and then pressure-bond the flexible substrate to the underside of the support plate 400, 400-1, or 400-2. With the above configuration, it is possible to achieve a structure that maintains the flatness of the upper surfaces of support plates 400, 400-1, and 400-2 as much as possible, and even if displays 300G, 300J, 300L, 300M, and 300N are attached to the top of support plate 400 with an adhesive or the like, this is unlikely to affect the flatness or tilt of displays 300G, 300J, 300L, 300M, and 300N. Furthermore, by changing the direction in which the flexible substrate is pulled out via the cutout portions and crimping the substrate onto the surfaces of support plates 400, 400-1, and 400-2, it is possible to prevent interference between the bent portions of the flexible substrate and support plates 400, 400-1, and 400-2, and prevent damage to the flexible substrate due to vibration or impact.

[0107] <Variation 3> In the above embodiments, the configuration of a position detection device or a display device has been described, but a sensor used together with a position detection device that has display pixels and a display layer that controls the blinking of the display pixels and detects the position of a pen using electromagnetic induction may also be used, and the sensor may include a first electrode layer on which a first electrode that generates an alternating magnetic field is provided, and a second electrode layer on which a plurality of second electrodes that detect a pen alternating magnetic field generated by a pen that has stored energy in the alternating magnetic field are arranged, on the side opposite to the side on which the first electrode layer is provided, with the display layer as the center. By having the sensor in the above-described form, it is possible to thin the stack structure and improve the design while maintaining the performance as a position detection device.

[0108] <Additional Items> [Additional Item 1] A position detection device that detects the position of a pen using electromagnetic induction, comprising: a first electrode layer provided with a first electrode that generates an alternating magnetic field; a display layer that controls display pixels and the blinking of the display pixels; and a second electrode layer that is provided with a plurality of second electrodes that detect a pen alternating magnetic field generated by a pen that has accumulated energy through the alternating magnetic field, on the opposite side of the display layer to the side on which the first electrode layer is provided, wherein the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer are formed in a comb shape, and the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer form independent layers. [Supplementary Item 2] A position detection device that detects the position of a pen using electromagnetic induction, comprising: a first electrode layer provided with a first electrode that generates an alternating magnetic field; and a second electrode layer provided with a plurality of second electrodes that detect a pen alternating magnetic field generated by a pen that has accumulated energy through the alternating magnetic field, wherein the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer are formed in a comb shape, and the second electrode layer is formed on one side of a substrate as a layer independent of the first electrode layer. [Supplementary Item 3] A display device used in a position detection device that detects the position of a pen using electromagnetic induction, comprising: a display front panel; a TFT back panel provided on the underside of the display front panel and mounted with TFTs that drive display pixel electrodes of the display; and a touch panel provided on the upper part of the display front panel, wherein at least one of a first electrode layer provided with a first electrode that generates an alternating magnetic field or a second electrode layer provided with a plurality of second electrodes that detect a pen alternating magnetic field generated by a pen that has stored energy in the alternating magnetic field is provided on the TFT back panel or the touch panel, the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer are formed in a comb shape, and the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer form independent layers.

[0109] <Effects of the Supplementary Item> The first electrode layer and the second electrode layer described in the Supplementary Item are formed in a comb shape. In the comb-shaped electrode layer, adjacent coil sensors do not overlap each other, leaving a gap between them, and are wound in one turn. Therefore, because the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer are formed in a comb shape, the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer can be formed by printing on one side of the substrate. Therefore, the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer can be formed as independent layers.

[0110] The position detection devices 1 to 3 and the display device 4 of the present invention can be realized by recording the processing of the first circuit 10 etc. on a recording medium readable by a computer system, and reading and executing the program recorded on this recording medium into the first circuit 10 etc. The computer system here includes hardware such as an OS and peripheral devices.

[0111] Furthermore, if the WWW (World Wide Web) system is used, the "computer system" also includes the homepage providing environment (or display environment). The above program may be transmitted from a computer system storing the program in a storage device or the like to another computer system via a transmission medium or by transmission waves in the transmission medium. Here, the "transmission medium" that transmits the program refers to a medium that has the function of transmitting information, such as a network (communication network) such as the Internet or a communication line (communication line) such as a telephone line.

[0112] The program may also be a program for implementing some of the functions described above, or may be a so-called differential file (differential program) that can implement the functions described above in combination with a program already stored in the computer system.

[0113] The above describes an embodiment of the present invention in detail with reference to the drawings, but the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and includes designs within the scope of the gist of the present invention.

[0114] 1; Position detector 2; Position detector 3; Position detector 4; Display device 10; First circuit 11; Switch 12; Switch 20; Second circuit 100; First electrode layer (first sensor coil group) 100-1; First electrode layer 100-2; Second electrode layer 120; First electrode 121; First electrode 125; First electrode 126; First electrode 127; First electrode 128; First electrode 129; First electrode 130; Connecting conductor 135; First electrode 140; Pad group 140-1; First pad group 140-2; Second pad group 200; Second electrode layer (second sensor coil group) 201; AA outer long side portion 202; AA long side portion 203; Connecting conductor 211; AA long side portion 212; AA long side portion 281; AA long side portion 282; AA outer long side portion 283; connecting conductor 300; display 300B; display 300C; display 300D; display 300E; display 300F; display 300G; display 300J; display 300K; display 300L; display AA; active area

Claims

1. A position detection device that detects the position of a pen using electromagnetic induction, comprising: a first electrode layer having a first electrode that generates an alternating magnetic field; a display layer that controls display pixels and the blinking of the display pixels; and a second electrode layer having a plurality of second electrodes arranged on the opposite side of the display layer to the side on which the first electrode layer is arranged, the second electrode layer having a plurality of second electrodes that detect a pen alternating magnetic field generated by a pen that has accumulated energy through the alternating magnetic field.

2. A position detection device as described in claim 1, wherein the first electrode layer has a plurality of first electrodes arranged in a first direction, and the second electrode layer has a plurality of second electrodes arranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

3. A position detection device according to claim 2, further comprising an integrated circuit for deriving the coordinates of the pen at a cross point where said first electrode and said second electrode intersect.

4. A position detection device according to claim 1, wherein the second electrode layer is formed on one surface of the substrate.

5. A position detection device according to claim 4, wherein said second electrodes are provided in a plurality of transparent electrodes on said second electrode layer, on a side closer to said pen than said display layer.

6. A position detection device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the second electrode layer is formed in a coil shape that does not overlap with each other.

7. A position detection device according to claim 6, wherein said coil shape is formed by a mesh electrode having a predetermined repeated local pattern.

8. A position detection device according to claim 7, wherein said mesh electrode is formed by arranging two mesh portions, each having a predetermined gap therebetween, in a straight line.

9. A position detection device as described in claim 8, including a first connection portion that is not of a mesh structure and that connects, outside the active area, a mesh portion of the two mesh portions of the mesh electrode that is below the extension direction of the first electrode and a mesh portion of the two mesh portions of the mesh electrode that is adjacent to the mesh electrode at a predetermined distance and is above the extension direction of the first electrode.

10. A position detection device as described in claim 9, further comprising a connecting portion outside the active area that is connected to the first connection portion that connects to the mesh portion above the extension direction of the first electrode or the mesh portion below the extension direction of the first electrode, and that extends in the same direction as the second electrode.

11. A position detection device as described in claim 7, wherein the second electrode layer, in addition to the portion forming the coil shape on one side of the substrate, is provided with a dummy pattern consisting of a repeated pattern having similar visibility to the mesh pattern of the mesh portion.

12. The position detection device according to claim 1, wherein the first electrode layer is formed on one surface of the substrate.

13. A position detection device according to claim 12, wherein the first electrodes are made of a plurality of transparent electrodes and are disposed on the first electrode layer on a side closer to the pen than the display layer.

14. The position detection device according to claim 13, wherein the first electrode layer is formed in a comb shape.

15. A position detection device according to claim 14, further comprising a second connection portion that connects one end of the first electrodes of said first electrode layer.

16. A position detection device according to claim 5, further comprising a support plate, said first electrode layer being provided on one surface side of said support plate serving as said substrate.

17. A position detection device that detects the position of a pen using electromagnetic induction, comprising: a first electrode layer provided with a first electrode that generates an alternating magnetic field; and a second electrode layer provided with a plurality of second electrodes that detect a pen alternating magnetic field generated by a pen that has stored energy in the alternating magnetic field, the second electrode layer being formed on one side of a substrate.

18. A position detection device according to claim 17, wherein the second electrodes are provided in a plurality of transparent electrodes on the second electrode layer, the second electrodes being disposed on a side closer to the pen than the display layer.

19. The position detection device according to claim 17, wherein the second electrode layer is formed in a coil shape that does not overlap with each other.

20. A position detection device as claimed in claim 19, wherein said coil configuration is formed by a mesh electrode having a repeating predetermined local pattern.

21. A position detection device according to claim 20, wherein said mesh electrode is formed by arranging two mesh portions, each having a predetermined gap therebetween, in a straight line.

22. A position detection device as described in claim 21, including a connecting portion that is not a mesh structure, outside the active area, that connects one of the two mesh portions of the mesh electrode that is below the extension direction of the first electrode to one of the two mesh portions of the mesh electrode that is adjacent to the mesh electrode at a predetermined distance and is above the extension direction of the first electrode.

23. A position detection device as described in claim 22, further comprising a connecting portion on the outside of the active area that is connected to the connection portion that connects to the mesh portion above the extension direction of the first electrode or the mesh portion below the extension direction of the first electrode, and that does not have a mesh structure and extends in the same direction as the second electrode.

24. A position detection device as described in claim 23, wherein the second electrode layer has a dummy pattern on one side of the substrate, in addition to the portion that forms the coil shape, which is a repeated pattern having similar visibility to the mesh pattern of the mesh portion.

25. A display device used in a position detection device that detects the position of a pen using electromagnetic induction, comprising: a display front panel; a TFT back panel provided on the underside of the display front panel and equipped with TFTs that drive display pixel electrodes of the display; and a touch panel provided on the upper part of the display front panel, wherein at least one of a first electrode layer provided with a first electrode that generates an alternating magnetic field, or a second electrode layer provided with a plurality of second electrodes that detect a pen alternating magnetic field generated by a pen that has stored energy due to the alternating magnetic field, is provided on the TFT back panel or the touch panel.

26. The display device of claim 25, further comprising: a support plate disposed below said display front panel relative to said pen, said support plate having either said first electrode layer or said second electrode layer formed thereon.

27. The display device according to claim 26, wherein the first electrode layer is formed on a lower surface side of the support plate relative to the pen, and the second electrode layer is integrated into the touch panel.

28. The display device according to claim 26, wherein the second electrode layer is formed on a lower surface side of the support plate relative to the pen, and the first electrode layer is integrated into the touch panel.

29. A display device as described in claim 26, wherein the first electrode layer is integrated into the touch panel, the second electrode layer is formed on the upper surface side of the support plate relative to the pen, and a group of pads or a portion of the second sensor coil wiring is formed on the lower surface side of the support plate.

30. A display device as described in claim 29, wherein the pad group is connected to the underside of the support plate through vias and the second electrode layer formed on the upper side of the support plate, and is crimped to a connector terminal that connects to a flexible substrate.

31. The display device of claim 26, wherein the first electrode layer is formed on a lower surface side of the support plate relative to the pen, and the second electrode layer is integrated into the TFT back panel.

32. A display device as described in claim 26, wherein the support plate is separated, the first electrode layer is formed on an upper surface side of the separated support plate relative to the pen, a group of pads or a portion of the first sensor coil wiring is formed on a lower surface side of the separated support plate, and the second electrode layer is integrated into the touch panel.

33. A display device as described in claim 32, wherein the pad group is connected to the underside of the support plate through vias and the first electrode layer formed on the upper surface of the separated support plate, and is crimped to a connector terminal that connects to a flexible substrate.

34. The display device of claim 26, wherein the support plate is separate, the first electrode layer is formed on a lower surface side of the separate support plate relative to the pen, and the second electrode layer is integrated into the touch panel.

35. A sensor having display pixels and a display layer that controls the blinking of the display pixels, and used with a position detection device that detects the position of a pen using electromagnetic induction, comprising: a first electrode layer having a first electrode that generates an alternating magnetic field; and a second electrode layer having a plurality of second electrodes arranged on the side opposite to the side on which the first electrode layer is arranged, with the display layer as the center, for detecting a pen alternating magnetic field generated by a pen that has accumulated energy through the alternating magnetic field.