Electronic device

Abstract

The electronic device includes a sensor layer and a sensor driving unit, wherein the sensor layer includes a plurality of first electrodes, a plurality of second electrodes, a plurality of third electrodes overlapping the plurality of second electrodes, and a plurality of fourth electrodes overlapping the plurality of first electrodes, and the sensing area includes a first sensing unit spaced apart from a peripheral area of ​​the sensor layer and a second sensing unit in contact with the peripheral area, wherein the plurality of second electrodes include a second-1 electrode overlapping the first sensing unit and a second-2 electrode overlapping the second sensing unit, and the plurality of third electrodes include a third-1 electrode overlapping the second-1 electrode and a third-2 electrode overlapping the second-2 electrode, and the shape of the overlapping area of ​​the second-1 electrode and the third-1 electrode and the shape of the overlapping area of ​​the second-2 electrode and the third-2 electrode may be different from each other.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic device with improved sensing performance. Background Technology

[0002] Multimedia electronic devices such as televisions, mobile phones, tablet computers, laptops, navigation systems, and game consoles include display devices for displaying images. In addition to conventional input methods such as buttons, keyboards, and mice, these electronic devices may include a sensor layer (or input sensor) capable of providing a touch-based input method that allows users to easily and intuitively input information or commands. The sensor layer can sense the user's touch or pressure. Meanwhile, there is an increasing demand for the use of pens for fine touch input for users accustomed to inputting information using writing instruments or for specific applications (e.g., applications for sketching or drawing). The problem to be solved

[0003] The present invention has one objective of providing an electronic device with enhanced sensing capabilities. means of solving the problem

[0004] An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a sensor layer in which a sensing area and a peripheral area adjacent to the sensing area are defined, and a sensor driving unit for driving the sensor layer, wherein the sensor layer comprises a plurality of first electrodes spaced apart along a first direction, a plurality of second electrodes spaced apart along a second direction intersecting the first direction, a plurality of third electrodes overlapping the plurality of second electrodes, and a plurality of fourth electrodes overlapping the plurality of first electrodes, wherein the sensing area comprises a plurality of sensing units arranged along the first direction and the second direction, wherein the plurality of sensing units comprises a first sensing unit spaced apart from the peripheral area and a second sensing unit in contact with the peripheral area, wherein the plurality of second electrodes comprise a second-1 electrode overlapping with the first sensing unit and a second-2 electrode overlapping with the second sensing unit, and wherein the plurality of third electrodes comprise a third-1 electrode overlapping with the second-1 electrode and a third-2 electrode overlapping with the second-2 electrode, and wherein the second-1 electrode and the The shape of the overlapping region of the 3-1 electrode and the shape of the overlapping region of the 2-2 electrode and the 3-2 electrode may be different from each other.

[0005] The above 2-1 electrode may include x first divided electrodes spaced apart along the second direction, and the above 2-2 electrode may include y second divided electrodes spaced apart along the second direction.

[0006] The above x may be greater than the above y.

[0007] The above x and the above y are the same, and the pitch between the first divided electrodes may be greater than the pitch between the second divided electrodes.

[0008] The above 3-1 electrode may include x third divided electrodes that overlap in a one-to-one correspondence with the first divided electrodes, and the above 3-2 electrode may include y fourth divided electrodes that overlap in a one-to-one correspondence with the second divided electrodes.

[0009] The area of ​​each of the first divided electrodes and the area of ​​each of the second divided electrodes are equal to each other, and the area of ​​each of the third divided electrodes may be smaller than the area of ​​each of the fourth divided electrodes.

[0010] The area of ​​each of the first divided electrodes is smaller than the area of ​​each of the second divided electrodes, and the area of ​​each of the third divided electrodes and the area of ​​each of the fourth divided electrodes may be equal to each other.

[0011] The width of the second direction of the first sensing unit may be larger than the width of the second direction of the second sensing unit.

[0012] A first opening is defined in the above 2-1 electrode, and a second opening having a size smaller than the size of the first opening may be defined in the above 2-2 electrode.

[0013] The width of the second direction of the above 3-1 electrode may be smaller than the width of the second direction of the above 3-2 electrode.

[0014] The above-mentioned 2-1 electrode may have a mesh structure having a first line width, the above-mentioned 2-2 electrode may have a mesh structure having a second line width, the above-mentioned 3-1 electrode may have a mesh structure having a third line width, and the above-mentioned 3-2 electrode may have a mesh structure having a fourth line width.

[0015] The first line width and the second line width are the same, and the fourth line width may be larger than the third line width.

[0016] The third line width and the fourth line width are identical, and the second line width may be larger than the first line width.

[0017] The second line width is larger than the first line width, and the fourth line width may be larger than the third line width.

[0018] The sensor driving unit is configured to selectively operate in a first mode for sensing touch input and a second mode for sensing pen input, wherein the second mode includes a charging driving mode and a pen sensing driving mode, wherein in the charging driving mode, the sensor driving unit is configured to provide a first signal to at least one of the plurality of third electrodes and to provide a second signal to at least one other of the plurality of third electrodes, and in the pen sensing driving mode, the sensor driving unit may be configured to receive first reception signals from the plurality of first electrodes and receive second reception signals from the plurality of second electrodes.

[0019] An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a display layer for displaying an image, a sensor layer disposed on the display layer and having a sensing area and a surrounding area adjacent to the sensing area defined therein, and a processor for controlling the operation of the display layer and the sensor layer, wherein the sensor layer comprises a plurality of first electrodes spaced apart along a first direction, a plurality of second electrodes spaced apart along a second direction intersecting the first direction, a plurality of third electrodes overlapping the plurality of second electrodes, and a plurality of fourth electrodes overlapping the plurality of first electrodes, wherein the plurality of second electrodes include a second-1 electrode and a second-2 electrode spaced apart from the second-1 electrode in the second direction, and the plurality of third electrodes include a third-1 electrode overlapping the second-1 electrode and a third-2 electrode overlapping the second-2 electrode, wherein the third-1 electrode includes a plurality of first divided electrodes overlapping the second-1 electrode, and the third-2 electrode includes a plurality of second divided electrodes overlapping the second-2 electrode, and the plurality of first divided electrodes The area of ​​the region where each of the plurality of second divided electrodes and the second-1 electrode overlap may be less than or equal to the area where each of the second divided electrodes and the second-2 electrode overlap.

[0020] The number of the plurality of first divided electrodes may be greater than the number of the plurality of second divided electrodes.

[0021] The above-mentioned second-1 electrode has a mesh structure having a first line width, the above-mentioned second-2 electrode has a mesh structure having a second line width, the above-mentioned third-1 electrode has a mesh structure having a third line width, the above-mentioned third-2 electrode has a mesh structure having a fourth line width, the above-mentioned first line width and the above-mentioned second line width are the same, and the above-mentioned fourth line width is greater than the above-mentioned third line width, or the above-mentioned third line width and the above-mentioned fourth line width are the same, and the above-mentioned second line width is greater than the above-mentioned first line width, or the above-mentioned second line width is greater than the above-mentioned first line width, and the above-mentioned fourth line width may be greater than the above-mentioned third line width.

[0022] A first opening is defined in the above 2-1 electrode, and a second opening having a size smaller than the size of the first opening may be defined in the above 2-2 electrode.

[0023] The width of each of the first divided electrodes in the second direction may be smaller than the width of each of the second divided electrodes in the second direction. Effects of the invention

[0024] As described above, a plurality of sensing units in the sensor layer may include a first sensing unit and a second sensing unit having a shape different from that of the first sensing unit. The shape of parts of the first to fourth electrodes that overlap with the second sensing unit may be adjusted. For example, since the area of ​​the second sensing unit is smaller than the area of ​​the first sensing unit, the shape (or area) of parts of the first to fourth electrodes may be designed differently from the shape of parts of the first to fourth electrodes that overlap with the first sensing unit so that the capacitance of the capacitor formed between the first and fourth electrodes and the capacitance of the capacitor formed between the second and third electrodes, which are reduced by that amount, are increased. In this case, the signal detected due to the small size of the second sensing unit can be compensated for by the increase in capacitance resulting from the adjustment of the shape of parts of the first to fourth electrodes. Accordingly, the sensing performance in the sensor layer, particularly at the outer edge of the sensing area, can be further improved. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0025] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to one embodiment. FIG. 2a is a perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2b is a rear perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining the operation of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7a is a cross-sectional view of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7b is a cross-sectional view illustrating a partial configuration of a sensor layer according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a plan view of a sensor layer according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9a is a plan view illustrating a first conductive layer of a sensing unit according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9b is a plan view illustrating a second conductive layer of a sensing unit according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is an enlarged plan view of the AA' area shown in FIG. 9b. FIG. 11 is a plan view illustrating a sensing unit according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12a is a plan view illustrating two sensing units according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12b is a plan view illustrating two sensing units according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13a is an enlarged plan view of the BB' region shown in FIG. 12a. FIG. 13b is an enlarged plan view of the BB' region shown in FIG. 12a. FIG. 13c is an enlarged plan view of the BB' region shown in FIG. 12a. FIG. 13d is an enlarged plan view of the BB' region shown in FIG. 12a. FIG. 14a is an enlarged plan view of the BB' region shown in FIG. 12a. FIG. 14b is an enlarged plan view of the BB' region shown in FIG. 12a. FIG. 15a is a cross-sectional view of a sensor layer according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15b is a cross-sectional view of a sensor layer according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15c is a cross-sectional view of a sensor layer according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 16 is a plan view illustrating two sensing units according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing the operation of a sensor driving unit according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing the operation of a sensor driving unit according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 19 is a drawing for explaining a first mode according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 20 is a drawing for explaining a second mode according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 21a is a graph showing the waveform of a first signal according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 21b is a graph showing the waveform of a second signal according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 22a is a drawing for explaining a second mode according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 22b is a drawing for explaining a second mode based on one sensing unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0026] In this specification, where a component (or region, layer, part, etc.) is described as being "on," "connected," or "combined" with another component, it means that it may be directly placed / connected / combined with the other component, or that a third component may be placed between them.

[0027] Identical reference numerals denote identical components. Additionally, in the drawings, the thicknesses, proportions, and dimensions of components are exaggerated for the effective illustration of the technical content. "And / or" includes all one or more combinations that the associated components may define.

[0028] Terms such as "first," "second," etc., may be used to describe various components, but said components should not be limited by said terms. These terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component, part, region, layer, or part from another component, part, region, layer, or part. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, a first component, a first part, a first region, a first layer, or a first part may be named a second component, a second part, a second region, a second layer, or a second part, and similarly, a second component, a second part, a second region, a second layer, or a second part may be named a first component, a first part, a first region, a first layer, or a first part. A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0029] Additionally, terms such as "below," "lower side," "above," and "upper side" are used to describe the relationships between the components depicted in the drawings. These terms are relative concepts and are described based on the directions indicated in the drawings.

[0030] Terms such as "include" or "have" are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood as not precluding the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0031] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. Furthermore, terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and should not be interpreted in an overly ideal or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0032] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0033] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (1000) according to one embodiment.

[0034] Referring to FIG. 1, an electronic device (1000) according to one embodiment may include a display module (11), a processor (12), a memory (13), and a power module (14).

[0035] The display module (11) can display an image. The image may include a still image as well as a dynamic image. The processor (12) may include at least one of a central processing unit (CPU), an application processor (AP), a graphic processing unit (GPU), a communication processor (CP), an image signal processor (ISP), and a controller. The processor (12) may be configured to control the operation of the display module (11).

[0036] The memory (13) may store data information necessary for the operation of the processor (12) or the display module (11). When the processor (12) executes an application stored in the memory (13), an image data signal and / or an input control signal are transmitted to the display module (11), and the display module (11) can process the received signal and output image information through a display screen.

[0037] The power module (14) may include a power supply module, such as a power adapter or battery device, and a power conversion module that converts the power supplied by the power supply module to generate power required for the operation of the electronic device (1000).

[0038] FIG. 2a is a perspective view of an electronic device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2b is a rear perspective view of an electronic device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Referring to FIGS. 2a and 2b, the electronic device (1000) may be a device that is activated by an electrical signal. For example, the electronic device (1000) may display an image and sense inputs applied from the outside. The external input may be a user input. The user input may include various forms of external inputs such as a part of the user's body, a pen (PN), light, heat, or pressure.

[0040] The electronic device (1000) may include a first display panel (DP1) and a second display panel (DP2). The first display panel (DP1) and the second display panel (DP2) may be separate panels separated from each other. The first display panel (DP1) may be referred to as a main display panel, and the second display panel (DP2) may be referred to as an auxiliary display panel or an external display panel.

[0041] The first display panel (DP1) includes a first display section (DA1-F), and the second display panel (DP2) may include a second display section (DA2-F). The area of ​​the second display panel (DP2) may be smaller than the area of ​​the first display panel (DP1). Corresponding to the sizes of the first display panel (DP1) and the second display panel (DP2), the area of ​​the first display section (DA1-F) may be larger than the area of ​​the second display section (DA2-F).

[0042] When the electronic device (1000) is in an unfolded state, the first display portion (DA1-F) may have a plane substantially parallel to the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2). The thickness direction of the electronic device (1000) may be parallel to the third direction (DR3) that intersects the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2). Accordingly, the front (or top) and back (or bottom) surfaces of the components constituting the electronic device (1000) may be defined with respect to the third direction (DR3).

[0043] The first display panel (DP1) or the first display unit (DA1-F) may include a folding area (FA) that is folded and unfolded, and a plurality of non-folding areas (NFA1, NFA2) spaced apart from the folding area (FA). The second display panel (DP2) may overlap with any one of the plurality of non-folding areas (NFA1, NFA2). For example, the second display panel (DP2) may overlap with the first non-folding area (NFA1).

[0044] The display direction of the first image (IM1a) displayed on the first display panel (DP1) and the display direction of the second image (IM2a) displayed on the second display panel (DP2) may be opposite directions. For example, the first image (IM1a) may be displayed in a third direction (DR3), and the second image (IM2a) may be displayed in a fourth direction (DR4), which is opposite to the third direction (DR3).

[0045] In one embodiment of the present invention, the folding region (FA) may be bent along a folding axis extending along a direction parallel to the long side of the electronic device (1000), for example, a direction parallel to the second direction (DR2). When the electronic device (1000) is in a folded state, the folding region (FA) has a predetermined curvature and radius of curvature. The first non-folding region (NFA1) and the second non-folding region (NFA2) face each other, and the electronic device (1000) may be inner-folded so that the first display portion (DA1-F) is not exposed to the outside.

[0046] In one embodiment of the present invention, the electronic device (1000) may be out-folded so that the first display portion (DA1-F) is exposed to the outside. In one embodiment of the present invention, the electronic device (1000) may be in-folded or out-folded in the unfolded state, but is not limited thereto.

[0047] FIG. 2a illustrates an example in which one folding region (FA) is defined (provided or included) in the electronic device (1000), but is not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device (1000) may have multiple folding axes and multiple corresponding folding regions defined therein, and the electronic device (1000) may be in-folded or out-folded in each of the multiple folding regions while unfolded.

[0048] According to one embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the first display panel (DP1) and the second display panel (DP2) can sense input by a pen (PN) even without including a digitizer. Therefore, since a digitizer for sensing the pen (PN) is omitted, an increase in thickness, weight, and reduced flexibility of the electronic device (1000) due to the addition of a digitizer may not occur. Accordingly, not only the first display panel (DP1) but also the second display panel (DP2) can be designed to sense the pen (PN).

[0049] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an electronic device (1000-1) according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an electronic device (1000-2) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 3 illustrates an example in which an electronic device (1000-1) is a bar-type mobile phone, and the electronic device (1000-1) may include a display panel (DP). FIG. 4 illustrates an example in which an electronic device (1000-2) is a laptop, and the electronic device (1000-2) may include a display panel (DP). FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the electronic device (1000-2), but the coordinate axes included in FIG. 4 are shown based on the display panel (DP) within the electronic device (1000-2).

[0051] In one embodiment of the present invention, a display panel (DP) can sense inputs applied from the outside. The external input may be a user input. The user input may include various forms of external inputs such as a part of the user's body, a pen (PN, see FIG. 2a), light, heat, or pressure.

[0052] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a display panel (DP) can sense input by a pen (PN) even without including a digitizer. Therefore, since a digitizer for sensing the pen (PN) is omitted, an increase in thickness and weight of the electronic device (1000-1 or 1000-2) due to the addition of a digitizer may not occur.

[0053] FIG. 2a illustrates an exemplary foldable type electronic device (1000) and FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary bar type electronic device (1000-1), but the present invention described below is not limited thereto. For example, the descriptions described below can be applied to various electronic devices such as a rollable type electronic device, a sliderable type electronic device, a stretchable type electronic device, etc.

[0054] FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display panel (DP) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 5, the display panel (DP) may include a display layer (100) and a sensor layer (200). An upper functional member may be further disposed on the sensor layer (200). For example, the upper functional member may include at least one of an anti-reflective layer, a window, and a protective film.

[0056] The display layer (100) may be a configuration that substantially generates an image. In the display layer (100), a display area (100A) and a non-display area (100NA) adjacent to the display area (100A) may be defined. The image may be displayed in the display area (100A).

[0057] The display layer (100) may be a light-emitting display layer, for example, the display layer (100) may be an organic light-emitting display layer, an inorganic light-emitting display layer, an organic-inorganic light-emitting display layer, a quantum dot display layer, a micro LED display layer, or a nano LED display layer. The display layer (100) may include a base layer (110), a circuit layer (120), a light-emitting element layer (130), and an encapsulation layer (140).

[0058] The base layer (110) may be a member that provides a base surface on which the circuit layer (120) is disposed. The base layer (110) may have a multilayer structure or a single layer structure. The base layer (110) may be a glass substrate, a metal substrate, a silicon substrate, or a polymer substrate, but is not specifically limited thereto.

[0059] A circuit layer (120) may be placed on a base layer (110). The circuit layer (120) may include an insulating layer, a semiconductor pattern, a conductive pattern, and a signal line, etc. An insulating layer, a semiconductor layer, and a conductive layer are formed on the base layer (110) by means of coating, deposition, etc., and an insulating layer, a semiconductor layer, and a conductive layer may be selectively patterned through a plurality of photolithography processes.

[0060] A light-emitting element layer (130) may be disposed on the circuit layer (120). The light-emitting element layer (130) may include a light-emitting element. For example, the light-emitting element layer (130) may include an organic light-emitting material, an inorganic light-emitting material, an organic-inorganic light-emitting material, a quantum dot, a quantum rod, a micro LED, or a nano LED.

[0061] The encapsulation layer (140) can be placed on the light-emitting element layer (130). The encapsulation layer (140) can protect the light-emitting element layer (130) from foreign substances such as moisture, oxygen, and dust particles.

[0062] A sensor layer (200) may be placed on a display layer (100). A sensing area (200A) and a surrounding area (200NA) adjacent to the sensing area (200A) may be defined in the sensor layer (200). The sensing area (200A) may overlap with the display area (100A), and the surrounding area (200NA) may overlap with the non-display area (100NA).

[0063] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the area of ​​the sensing area (200A) may be greater than the area of ​​the display area (100A). Although FIG. 5 illustrates an example where the area of ​​the sensing area (200A) and the area of ​​the display area (100A) are the same, it is not limited thereto. For example, a part of the sensing area (200A) may overlap with the non-display area (100NA), and the area of ​​the sensing area (200A) may be larger than the area of ​​the display area (100A). In this case, even if an input occurs adjacent to the boundary between the display area (100A) and the non-display area (100NA), the signal can be sufficiently recognized because the sensing area (200A) also overlaps with a part of the non-display area (100NA). Therefore, the coordinate accuracy for a touch input on the outer edge of the display area (100A) can be further improved.

[0064] The sensor layer (200) can sense an external input applied from the outside. The sensor layer (200) may be an integrated sensor formed continuously during the manufacturing process of the display layer (100), or the sensor layer (200) may be an external sensor attached to the display layer (100). The sensor layer (200) may be referred to as a sensor, an input sensing layer, an input sensing panel, or an electronic device for input coordinate sensing.

[0065] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the sensor layer (200) can sense both input by a passive type input means, such as a user's body, and input by an input device that generates a magnetic field of a predetermined resonant frequency. The input device may be referred to as a pen, an input pen, a magnetic pen, a stylus pen, or an electromagnetic resonance pen.

[0066] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining the operation of an electronic device (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Referring to FIG. 6, the electronic device (1000) may include a display layer (100), a sensor layer (200), a display driving unit (100C), a sensor driving unit (200C), a main driving unit (1000C), and a power circuit (1000P).

[0068] The sensor layer (200) can sense a first input (2000) or a second input (3000) applied from the outside. Each of the first input (2000) and the second input (3000) may be an input by an input means capable of providing a change in the capacitance of the sensor layer (200), or an input by an input means capable of causing an induced current in the sensor layer (200). For example, the first input (2000) may be an input by a passive type input means, such as the user's body. The second input (3000) may be an input by a pen (PN) or an input by an RFIC tag. For example, the pen (PN) may be a passive type pen or an active type pen.

[0069] In one embodiment of the present invention, the pen (PN) may be a device that generates a magnetic field of a predetermined resonant frequency. The pen (PN) may be configured to transmit an output signal based on an electromagnetic resonance method. The pen (PN) may be referred to as an input device, an input pen, a magnetic pen, a stylus pen, or an electromagnetic resonance pen.

[0070] A PN may include an RLC resonant circuit, and the RLC resonant circuit may include an inductor (L) and a capacitor (C). In one embodiment of the present invention, the RLC resonant circuit may be a variable resonant circuit that varies the resonant frequency. In this case, the inductor (L) may be a variable inductor and / or the capacitor (C) may be a variable capacitor, but is not particularly limited thereto.

[0071] The inductor (L) generates current by the magnetic field formed in the electronic device (1000), for example, the sensor layer (200). However, it is not specifically limited to this. For example, if the pen (PN) operates in an active type, the pen (PN) may generate current even without receiving a magnetic field from the outside. The generated current is transferred to the capacitor (C). The capacitor (C) charges the current input from the inductor (L) and discharges the charged current to the inductor (L). Subsequently, the inductor (L) can emit a magnetic field of resonant frequency. An induced current may flow in the sensor layer (200) by the magnetic field emitted by the pen (PN), and the induced current may be transferred to the sensor driving unit (200C) as a receiving signal (or sensing signal, signal).

[0072] The main driving unit (1000C) can control the overall operation of the electronic device (1000). For example, the main driving unit (1000C) can control the operation of the display driving unit (100C) and the sensor driving unit (200C). That is, the main driving unit (1000C) can control the operation of the display layer (100) and the sensor layer (200). The main driving unit (1000C) may include at least one microprocessor and may further include a graphics controller. The main driving unit (1000C) may be referred to as an application processor, a central processing unit, or a main processor. The main driving unit (1000C) may correspond to the processor (12) shown in FIG. 1.

[0073] The display driving unit (100C) can drive the display layer (100). The display driving unit (100C) can receive image data and control signals from the main driving unit (1000C). The control signals may include various signals. For example, the control signals may include an input vertical synchronization signal, an input horizontal synchronization signal, a main clock signal, and a data enable signal.

[0074] The sensor driving unit (200C) can drive the sensor layer (200). The sensor driving unit (200C) can receive a control signal from the main driving unit (1000C). The control signal may include a clock signal of the sensor driving unit (200C). Additionally, the control signal may further include a mode determination signal that determines the driving mode of the sensor driving unit (200C) and the sensor layer (200).

[0075] The sensor driver (200C) can be implemented as an integrated circuit (IC) and electrically connected to the sensor layer (200). For example, the sensor driver (200C) can be directly mounted in a specific area of ​​a display panel or mounted on a separate printed circuit board in a chip-on-film (COF) manner and electrically connected to the sensor layer (200).

[0076] The sensor driving unit (200C) and the sensor layer (200) may selectively operate in a first mode or a second mode. For example, the first mode may be a mode for sensing a touch input, for example, a first input (2000). The second mode may be a mode for sensing a pen (PN) input, for example, a second input (3000). The first mode may be referred to as a touch sensing mode, and the second mode may be referred to as a pen sensing mode.

[0077] The transition between the first mode and the second mode can be performed in various ways. For example, the sensor driver (200C) and the sensor layer (200) may be time-divided driven in the first mode and the second mode and sense the first input (2000) and the second input (3000). Alternatively, the transition between the first mode and the second mode may occur due to a user's selection or a specific user action (or input), or either the first mode or the second mode may be activated or deactivated, or switched from one to the other, due to the activation or deactivation of a specific application. Alternatively, while the sensor driver (200C) and the sensor layer (200) are operating alternately in the first mode and the second mode, if the first input (2000) is sensed, the first mode may be maintained, or if the second input (3000) is sensed, the second mode may be maintained.

[0078] The sensor driving unit (200C) can calculate input coordinate information based on a signal received from the sensor layer (200) and provide a coordinate signal having the coordinate information to the main driving unit (1000C). The main driving unit (1000C) executes an operation corresponding to user input based on the coordinate signal. For example, the main driving unit (1000C) can operate the display driving unit (100C) so that a new application image is displayed on the display layer (100).

[0079] The power circuit (1000P) may include a Power Management Integrated Circuit (PMIC). The power circuit (1000P) may generate a plurality of driving voltages to drive the display layer (100), the sensor layer (200), the display driver (100C), and the sensor driver (200C). For example, the plurality of driving voltages may include a gate high voltage, a gate low voltage, a first driving voltage, a second driving voltage, an initialization voltage, etc., but are not specifically limited to the above examples.

[0080] FIG. 7a is a cross-sectional view of a display panel (DP) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] Referring to FIG. 7a, at least one buffer layer (BFL) is formed on the upper surface of the base layer (110). The buffer layer (BFL) can improve the bonding strength between the base layer (110) and the semiconductor pattern. The buffer layer (BFL) may be formed in multiple layers. Alternatively, the display layer (100) may further include a barrier layer. The buffer layer (BFL) may include at least one of silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and silicon oxynitride. For example, the buffer layer (BFL) may include a structure in which a silicon oxide layer and a silicon nitride layer are alternately stacked.

[0082] The semiconductor patterns (SC, AL, DR, SCL) may be placed on the buffer layer (BFL). The semiconductor patterns (SC, AL, DR, SCL) may include polysilicon. However, not limited thereto, the semiconductor patterns (SC, AL, DR, SCL) may include amorphous silicon, low-temperature polycrystalline silicon, or oxide semiconductors.

[0083] FIG. 7a illustrates only some of the semiconductor patterns (SC, AL, DR, SCL), and additional semiconductor patterns may be placed in other areas. The semiconductor patterns (SC, AL, DR, SCL) may be arranged according to specific rules across the pixels. The electrical properties of the semiconductor patterns (SC, AL, DR, SCL) may differ depending on whether they are doped. The semiconductor patterns (SC, AL, DR, SCL) may include a first region (SC, DR, SCL) with high conductivity and a second region (AL) with low conductivity. The first region (SC, DR, SCL) may be doped with an N-type dopant or a P-type dopant. A P-type transistor may include a doped region doped with a P-type dopant, and an N-type transistor may include a doped region doped with an N-type dopant. The second region (AL) may be a non-doped region or a region doped at a lower concentration compared to the first region (SC, DR, SCL).

[0084] The conductivity of the first region (SC, DR, SCL) is greater than the conductivity of the second region (AL) and can substantially function as an electrode or signal line. The second region (AL) can substantially correspond to the active region (AL) (or channel) of the transistor (100PC). In other words, a part (AL) of the semiconductor pattern (SC, AL, DR, SCL) may be the active region (AL) of the transistor (100PC), another part (SC, DR) may be the source region (SC) or drain region (DR) of the transistor (100PC), and yet another part (SCL) may be a connecting electrode or a connecting signal line (SCL).

[0085] Each pixel may have an equivalent circuit comprising a plurality of transistors, at least one capacitor, and at least one light-emitting element, and the equivalent circuit diagram of the pixel may be modified in various forms. In FIG. 7a, one transistor (100PC) and one light-emitting element (100PE) included in the pixel are illustrated as examples.

[0086] The source region (SC), active region (AL), and drain region (DR) of the transistor (100PC) can be formed from semiconductor patterns (SC, AL, DR, SCL). The source region (SC) and the drain region (DR) can extend in opposite directions from the active region (AL) in cross-section. FIG. 7a shows a portion of a connection signal line (SCL) formed from semiconductor patterns (SC, AL, DR, SCL). Although not separately illustrated, the connection signal line (SCL) can be connected to the drain region (DR) of the transistor (100PC) in a planar plane.

[0087] The first insulating layer (10) may be placed on the buffer layer (BFL). The first insulating layer (10) overlaps commonly across a plurality of pixels and may cover semiconductor patterns (SC, AL, DR, SCL). The first insulating layer (10) may be an inorganic layer and / or an organic layer and may have a single-layer or multi-layer structure. The first insulating layer (10) may include at least one of aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, zirconium oxide, and hafnium oxide. In this embodiment, the first insulating layer (10) may be a single-layer silicon oxide layer. The insulating layer of the circuit layer (120) described below, as well as the first insulating layer (10), may be an inorganic layer and / or an organic layer and may have a single-layer or multi-layer structure. The inorganic layer may include at least one of the materials described above, but is not limited thereto.

[0088] The gate (GT) of the transistor (100PC) is placed on the first insulating layer (10). The gate (GT) may be part of a metal pattern. The gate (GT) overlaps the active region (AL). In a process of doping or reducing semiconductor patterns (SC, AL, DR, SCL), the gate (GT) may function as a mask.

[0089] The second insulating layer (20) is disposed on the first insulating layer (10) and can cover the gate (GT). The second insulating layer (20) can overlap the pixels in common. The second insulating layer (20) may be an inorganic layer and / or an organic layer and may have a single layer or a multilayer structure. The second insulating layer (20) may include at least one of silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and silicon oxynitride. In this embodiment, the second insulating layer (20) may have a multilayer structure including a silicon oxide layer and a silicon nitride layer.

[0090] A third insulating layer (30) may be placed on top of the second insulating layer (20). The third insulating layer (30) may have a single layer or a multilayer structure. For example, the third insulating layer (30) may have a multilayer structure including a silicon oxide layer and a silicon nitride layer.

[0091] The first connecting electrode (CNE1) can be placed on the third insulating layer (30). The first connecting electrode (CNE1) can be connected to a connecting signal line (SCL) through a contact hole (CNT-1) penetrating the first, second, and third insulating layers (10, 20, 30).

[0092] The fourth insulating layer (40) may be placed on the third insulating layer (30). The fourth insulating layer (40) may be a single layer of silicon oxide. The fifth insulating layer (50) may be placed on the fourth insulating layer (40). The fifth insulating layer (50) may be an organic layer.

[0093] The second connecting electrode (CNE2) can be placed on the fifth insulating layer (50). The second connecting electrode (CNE2) can be connected to the first connecting electrode (CNE1) through a contact hole (CNT-2) that penetrates the fourth insulating layer (40) and the fifth insulating layer (50).

[0094] The sixth insulating layer (60) is placed on the fifth insulating layer (50) and can cover the second connecting electrode (CNE2). The sixth insulating layer (60) may be an organic layer.

[0095] A light-emitting element layer (130) may be disposed on a circuit layer (120). The light-emitting element layer (130) may include a light-emitting element (100PE). For example, the light-emitting element layer (130) may include an organic light-emitting material, an inorganic light-emitting material, an organic-inorganic light-emitting material, a quantum dot, a quantum rod, a micro LED, or a nano LED. In the following description, the light-emitting element (100PE) is described as an example of being an organic light-emitting element, but is not particularly limited thereto.

[0096] The light-emitting element (100PE) may include a first electrode (AE), a light-emitting layer (EL), and a second electrode (CE). The light-emitting element (100PE) may be placed in a display area (100A, see FIG. 5). The first electrode (AE) may be referred to as a pixel electrode, and the second electrode (CE) may be referred to as a common electrode.

[0097] The first electrode (AE) can be placed on the sixth insulating layer (60). The first electrode (AE) can be connected to the second connecting electrode (CNE2) through a contact hole (CNT-3) penetrating the sixth insulating layer (60).

[0098] The pixel defining film (70) is placed on the sixth insulating layer (60) and can cover a portion of the first electrode (AE). An opening (70-OP) is defined in the pixel defining film (70). The opening (70-OP) of the pixel defining film (70) exposes at least a portion of the first electrode (AE).

[0099] The display area (100A, see FIG. 5) may include a light-emitting area (PXA) and a non-light-emitting area (NPXA) adjacent to the light-emitting area (PXA). The non-light-emitting area (NPXA) may surround the light-emitting area (PXA). In this embodiment, the light-emitting area (PXA) is defined to correspond to a portion of the first electrode (AE) exposed by the opening (70-OP).

[0100] The light-emitting layer (EL) may be placed on the first electrode (AE). The light-emitting layer (EL) may be placed in an area corresponding to the opening (70-OP). In FIG. 7a, the light-emitting layer (EL) is shown as an example placed within the opening (70-OP), but is not particularly limited thereto. For example, the light-emitting layer (EL) may be extended to cover a portion of the side of the pixel defining film (70) defining the opening (70-OP) and a portion of the upper surface of the pixel defining film (70).

[0101] In one embodiment of the present invention, the light-emitting layer (EL) may be separately included in each of the pixels. When the light-emitting layer (EL) is formed separately within each of the pixels, each of the light-emitting layers (EL) may emit light of at least one color among blue, red, and green. However, it is not limited thereto, and the light-emitting layer (EL) may have a single shape and be commonly included in a plurality of pixels. In this case, the light-emitting layer (EL) may provide blue light or white light.

[0102] The second electrode (CE) can be placed on the light-emitting layer (EL). The second electrode (CE) has a single shape and can be commonly included in a plurality of pixels.

[0103] In one embodiment of the present invention, a hole control layer may be disposed between the first electrode (AE) and the light-emitting layer (EL). The hole control layer may be disposed in common in the light-emitting region (PXA) and the non-light-emitting region (NPXA). The hole control layer includes a hole transport layer and may further include a hole injection layer. An electronic control layer may be disposed between the light-emitting layer (EL) and the second electrode (CE). The electronic control layer includes an electron transport layer and may further include an electron injection layer. The hole control layer and the electronic control layer may be formed in common in a plurality of pixels using an open mask or inkjet process.

[0104] The encapsulation layer (140) may be placed on the light-emitting element layer (130). The encapsulation layer (140) may include sequentially stacked inorganic layers, organic layers, and inorganic layers, but the layers constituting the encapsulation layer (140) are not limited thereto. The inorganic layers may protect the light-emitting element layer (130) from moisture and oxygen, and the organic layers may protect the light-emitting element layer (130) from foreign substances such as dust particles. The inorganic layers may include silicon nitride layers, silicon oxynitride layers, silicon oxide layers, titanium oxide layers, or aluminum oxide layers. The organic layers may include acrylic-based organic layers, but are not limited thereto.

[0105] The sensor layer (200) may include a base layer (201), a first conductive layer (202), an intermediate insulating layer (203), a second conductive layer (204), and a cover insulating layer (205).

[0106] The base layer (201) may be an inorganic layer comprising at least one of silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, and silicon oxide. Alternatively, the base layer (201) may be an organic layer comprising epoxy resin, acrylic resin, or imide-based resin. The base layer (201) may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure stacked along a third direction (DR3). In one embodiment of the present invention, the sensor layer (200) may not include the base layer (201).

[0107] Each of the first conductive layer (202) and the second conductive layer (204) may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure stacked along the third direction (DR3).

[0108] Each of the first conductive layer (202) and the second conductive layer (204) of the single-layer structure may include a metal layer or a transparent conductive layer. The metal layer may include molybdenum, silver, titanium, copper, aluminum, or an alloy thereof. The transparent conductive layer may include a transparent conductive oxide such as indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), or indium zinc tin oxide (IZTO). Additionally, the transparent conductive layer may include a conductive polymer such as poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT), metal nanowires, graphene, etc.

[0109] Each of the first conductive layer (202) and the second conductive layer (204) of the multilayer structure may include metal layers. The metal layers may have a three-layer structure, for example, titanium / aluminum / titanium. The conductive layer of the multilayer structure may include at least one metal layer and at least one transparent conductive layer.

[0110] In one embodiment of the present invention, the thickness of the first conductive layer (202) may be greater than the thickness of the second conductive layer (204). When the thickness of the first conductive layer (202) is greater than the thickness of the second conductive layer (204), the resistance of the components (e.g., electrodes, patterns, or bridge patterns, etc.) included in the first conductive layer (202) may be reduced. Additionally, since the first conductive layer (202) is positioned below the second conductive layer (204), even if the thickness of the first conductive layer (202) is increased, the probability of the components included in the first conductive layer (202) being visible due to external light reflection may be lower than that of the second conductive layer (204).

[0111] At least one of the intermediate insulating layer (203) and the cover insulating layer (205) may include an inorganic film. The inorganic film may include at least one of aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, zirconium oxide, and hafnium oxide.

[0112] At least one of the intermediate insulating layer (203) and the cover insulating layer (205) may include an organic film. The organic film may include at least one of an acrylic resin, a methacrylic resin, a polyisoprene, a vinyl resin, an epoxy resin, a urethane resin, a cellulose resin, a siloxane resin, a polyimide resin, a polyamide resin, and a perylene resin.

[0113] Previously, the sensor layer (200) was described as including a first conductive layer (202) and a second conductive layer (204), that is, a total of two conductive layers, but is not specifically limited thereto. For example, the sensor layer (200) may include three or more conductive layers.

[0114] FIG. 7b is a cross-sectional view illustrating a partial configuration of a sensor layer (200, see FIG. 7a) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0115] Referring to FIGS. 7a and 7b, the second width (204wt) of the second mesh line (MS2) included in the second conductive layer (204) may be greater than or equal to the first width (202wt) of the first mesh line (MS1) included in the first conductive layer (202). When a user (USR) views the first mesh line (MS1) and the second mesh line (MS2) from the side, the first mesh line (MS1) has a smaller width than the second mesh line (MS2), so the probability of the first mesh line (MS1) being visible to the user (USR) may be reduced.

[0116] Each of the first mesh line (MS1) and the second mesh line (MS2) may include a first metal layer (M1) and a second metal layer (M2) disposed between the first metal layers (M1). For example, the first metal layers (M1) may include titanium (Ti), and the second metal layer (M2) may include aluminum (Al). However, this is merely an example and is not particularly limited thereto.

[0117] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first thickness (TK1) of the second metal layer (M2) of the first mesh line (MS1) and the second thickness (TK2) of the second metal layer (M2) of the second mesh line (MS2) may be substantially the same, but are not particularly limited thereto. For example, the first thickness (TK1) may be thicker than the second thickness (TK2). Or, the second thickness (TK2) may be thicker than the first thickness (TK1). In one embodiment of the present invention, each of the first thickness (TK1) and the second thickness (TK2) may be 1,000 Angstroms or more, for example, 6,000 Angstroms.

[0118] FIG. 8 is a plan view of a sensor layer (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 8, the sensor layer (200) may have a sensing area (200A) and a surrounding area (200NA) adjacent to the sensing area (200A).

[0120] The sensor layer (200) may include a plurality of first electrodes (210), a plurality of second electrodes (220), a plurality of third electrodes (230), and a plurality of fourth electrodes (240) disposed in a sensing area (200A).

[0121] Each of the first electrodes (210) may intersect with the second electrodes (220). Each of the first electrodes (210) may extend along the second direction (DR2), and the first electrodes (210) may be arranged spaced apart in the first direction (DR1). Each of the second electrodes (220) may extend along the first direction (DR1), and the second electrodes (220) may be arranged spaced apart in the second direction (DR2).

[0122] The sensing area (200A) of the sensor layer (200) may include a plurality of sensing units (SU) arranged along a first direction (DR1) and a second direction (DR2). Each of the sensing units (SU) may be an area where a corresponding first electrode (210) and a corresponding second electrode (220) intersect.

[0123] In FIG. 8, six first electrodes (210) and twelve second electrodes (220) are illustrated as examples, and seventy-two sensing units (SU) are illustrated as examples, but the number of first electrodes (210) and the number of second electrodes (220) are not limited thereto.

[0124] Each of the third electrodes (230) extends along the first direction (DR1), and the third electrodes (230) may be spaced apart in the second direction (DR2). One third electrode (230) may overlap at least partially with one second electrode (220). According to one embodiment of the present invention, the capacitance (or coupling capacitance) between one second electrode (220) and one third electrode (230) can be controlled by adjusting the overlap area between one second electrode (220) and one third electrode (230).

[0125] In one embodiment of the present invention, at least some of the third electrodes (230) may be connected in parallel with each other. For example, FIG. 8 illustrates an example in which two third electrodes (230) are connected in parallel to form a first electrode group (230pc), and six first electrode groups (230pc) may be arranged along a first direction (DR1). However, the number of third electrodes (230) constituting the first electrode group (230pc) is not limited thereto. For example, a first electrode group (230pc) may include only one third electrode (230) or may include three or more third electrodes (230).

[0126] As the number of third electrodes (230) included in the first electrode group (230pc) and connected in parallel increases, the resistance of the first electrode group (230pc) decreases, thereby improving power efficiency and sensing sensitivity. Conversely, as the number of third electrodes (230) included in the first electrode group (230pc) decreases, the loop coil pattern formed using the first electrode group (230pc) can be implemented in a more diverse form.

[0127] Fourth electrodes (240) are arranged along a first direction (DR1) and can be extended along a second direction (DR2). One fourth electrode (240) can overlap at least partially with one first electrode (210). According to one embodiment of the present invention, the capacitance (or coupling capacitance) between one first electrode (210) and one fourth electrode (240) can be controlled by adjusting the overlap area between one first electrode (210) and one fourth electrode (240).

[0128] In one embodiment of the present invention, at least some of the fourth electrodes (240) may be electrically connected to each other to form a second electrode group (240pc). For example, FIG. 8 illustrates an example in which three fourth electrodes (240) are connected to the same trace line, for example, an auxiliary trace line (240t), to form a second electrode group (240pc). Accordingly, FIG. 8 illustrates two second electrode groups (240pc) arranged along the second direction (DR2). However, the number of fourth electrodes (240) constituting a second electrode group (240pc) is not limited thereto. For example, the number of fourth electrodes (240) constituting a second electrode group (240pc) may be six, in which case the sensor layer (200) may include only one second electrode group (240pc).

[0129] The sensor layer (200) may further include a plurality of first trace lines (210t) and a plurality of second trace lines (220t) disposed in a peripheral region (200NA). The first trace lines (210t) may be electrically connected in a one-to-one correspondence to each of the first electrodes (210). The second trace lines (220t) may be electrically connected in a one-to-one correspondence to each of the second electrodes (220).

[0130] The sensor layer (200) may further include a first loop trace line (230rt1), auxiliary trace lines (240t), and second loop trace lines (230rt2) disposed in a peripheral area (200NA). The first loop trace line (230rt1) may be referred to as a loop trace line, the second loop trace lines (230rt2) as third trace lines, and the auxiliary trace lines (240t) as fourth trace lines.

[0131] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first loop trace line (230rt1) may be electrically connected to the third electrodes (230). That is, the first loop trace line (230rt1) may be electrically connected to all of the third electrodes (230). The third electrodes (230) may be referred to as charging electrodes.

[0132] The first loop trace line (230rt1) may include a first line portion (231t) that extends along a second direction (DR2) and is electrically connected to third electrodes (230), a second line portion (232t) that extends along a first direction (DR1) from a first end of the first line portion (231t), and a third line portion (233t) that extends along a first direction (DR1) from a second end of the first line portion (231t).

[0133] Each of the second line portion (232t) and the third line portion (233t) can extend in the same direction as the extension direction of the third electrodes (230), for example, in the first direction (DR1). Each of the second line portion (232t) and the third line portion (233t) can serve as the first electrode group (230pc), and the same effect as having the third electrodes (230) placed in the surrounding area (200NA) can be achieved. For example, either of the second line portion (232t) and the third line portion (233t) and either of the third electrodes (230) can form a coil. Thus, a pen located in an area adjacent to the surrounding area (200NA) can also be sufficiently charged by a loop including the second line portion (232t) or the third line portion (233t).

[0134] In one embodiment of the present invention, the position of each of the second line portion (232t) and the third line portion (233t) and the width of the first direction (DR1) can be adjusted to control the resistance of the second line portion (232t) and the resistance of the third line portion (233t). In this case, the pen can be sufficiently charged through a current path that includes the second line portion (232t) or the third line portion (233t). As a result, the pen charging performance of the electronic device (1000, see FIG. 2a) can be improved. That is, as the charging rate of the pen is improved, the signal-to-noise ratio of the signal provided from the pen can be increased. Thus, the linearity and accuracy of the pen input can be improved.

[0135] The second loop trace lines (230rt2) can be connected to the first electrode groups (230pc) in a one-to-one correspondence. That is, the number of the second loop trace lines (230rt2) can correspond to the number of the first electrode groups (230pc). In FIG. 8, six second loop trace lines (230rt2) and six first electrode groups (230pc) are illustrated as examples.

[0136] Auxiliary trace lines (240t) may be spaced apart with the sensing area (200A) in between. Auxiliary trace lines (240t) may be electrically connected in a one-to-one correspondence with the second electrode groups (240pc). FIG. 8 illustrates an example in which two second electrode groups (240pc) are arranged. An auxiliary trace line (240t) connected to one second electrode group (240pc) and an auxiliary trace line (240t) connected to another second electrode group (240pc) may be spaced apart with the sensing area (200A) in between. However, this is not particularly limited. Auxiliary trace lines (240t) may also be referred to as trace lines.

[0137] The sensor layer (200) may further include a plurality of pads (PDs) electrically connected in a one-to-one correspondence with the first trace lines (210t), the second trace lines (220t), the first loop trace line (230rt1) and its end, the second loop trace lines (230rt2), and the auxiliary trace lines (240t). The pads (PDs) may be arranged spaced apart in a second direction (DR2). Although FIG. 8 illustrates the pads (PDs) arranged in a single row as an example, they are not particularly limited thereto. For example, the pads (PDs) may be arranged in multiple rows.

[0138] FIG. 9a is a plan view illustrating a first conductive layer (SU202) of a sensing unit (SU, see FIG. 8) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9b is a plan view illustrating a second conductive layer (SU204) of a sensing unit (SU, see FIG. 8) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is an enlarged plan view of the AA' region shown in FIG. 9b.

[0139] In FIGS. 9a and 9b, the shape of the mesh structure is not shown, and the boundaries of each component are briefly depicted as lines. That is, the lines shown in FIGS. 9a and 9b can be understood as corresponding to the lines from which the mesh structure shown in FIG. 10 has been removed, and in FIG. 10, the lines (CLa, CLb) are depicted as dashed lines.

[0140] The shape and mesh structure of the sensing unit (SU) shown in FIGS. 9a, 9b, and 10 are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited thereto. The shape and mesh structure of the sensing unit (SU) can be varied in many ways.

[0141] Referring to FIGS. 9a and 9b, the first electrode (210) may include a plurality of first divided electrodes (210-dp) spaced apart in a first direction (DR1). Each of the first divided electrodes (210-dp) extends in a second direction (DR2), and the first divided electrodes (210-dp) may be spaced apart in the first direction (DR1). The first divided electrodes (210-dp) may be included in a second conductive layer (SU204). Three first divided electrodes (210-dp) included in one first electrode (210) may be connected to one first trace line (210t, see FIG. 8).

[0142] The second electrode (220) may include a plurality of first patterns (221) and a plurality of first bridge patterns (222) electrically connected to the first patterns (221). The first patterns (221) arranged spaced apart in a first direction (DR1) may be electrically connected by the first bridge patterns (222). The first patterns (221) may be included in the second conductive layer (SU204), and the first bridge patterns (222) may be included in the first conductive layer (SU202).

[0143] Two first patterns (221) adjacent to each other in the first direction (DR1) on a single second electrode (220) can be electrically connected to each other by six first bridge patterns (222). An increase in the number of first bridge patterns (222) arranged in the second direction (DR2) intersecting the first direction (DR1), which is the extension direction of the second electrode (220), may correspond to an increase in the number of signal paths. Thus, as the number of signal paths increases, the resistance of the second electrode (220) may be reduced. As a result, the sensing sensitivity of the sensor layer (200) may be improved.

[0144] The third electrode (230) may include a plurality of second divided electrodes (230-dp) spaced apart in the second direction (DR2). Each of the second divided electrodes (230-dp) may extend along the first direction (DR1). The second divided electrodes (230-dp) may be spaced apart in the second direction (DR2). When viewed from the third direction (DR3), the second divided electrodes (230-dp) may overlap at least partially with the first patterns (221).

[0145] Referring to FIG. 8 and FIG. 9a together, one second loop trace line (230rt2) is electrically connected to one first electrode group (230pc). One first electrode group (230pc) may include two third electrodes (230). In this case, one second loop trace line (230rt2) may be electrically connected to six second split electrodes (230-dp). In this case, the degree to which the number of pads within the sensor layer (200) increases may be reduced.

[0146] The fourth electrode (240) may include a plurality of third split electrodes (240-dp) spaced apart in a first direction (DR1). Each of the third split electrodes (240-dp) may extend along a second direction (DR2). Each of the third split electrodes (240-dp) may include a plurality of second patterns (241) and a plurality of second bridge patterns (242) electrically connected to the second patterns (241). The second patterns (241) and the second bridge patterns (242) may be electrically connected to each other through contact holes defined in the first insulating layer (203, see FIG. 7a). Two adjacent second patterns (241) may be spaced apart with one second split electrode (230-dp) and two first bridge patterns (222) in between.

[0147] In FIG. 9a and 9b, an example is illustrated in which one sensing unit (SU) includes three first divided electrodes (210-dp), three second divided electrodes (230-dp), and three third divided electrodes (240-dp), but is not particularly limited thereto. For example, the number of first divided electrodes (210-dp), the number of second divided electrodes (230-dp), and the number of third divided electrodes (240-dp) included in one sensing unit (SU) may each be one, two, or four or more.

[0148] In one embodiment of the present invention, a first capacitor may be defined between the first electrode (210) and the fourth electrode (240), and a second capacitor may be defined between the second electrode (220) and the third electrode (230). The first capacitance of the first capacitor and the second capacitance of the second capacitor may be controlled by the overlapping area between the first electrode (210) and the fourth electrode (240) and the overlapping area between the second electrode (220) and the third electrode (230).

[0149] As the first and second capacitances increase, the amount of induced current transmitted from the fourth electrode (240) to the first electrode (210) can increase, and the amount of induced current transmitted from the third electrode (230) to the second electrode (220) can increase. Therefore, as the first and second capacitances increase, the pen detection performance of the sensor layer (200) can be improved. In addition, the first and second capacitances can act as a load during touch sensing. Therefore, as the first and second capacitances decrease, the touch detection performance can be improved.

[0150] In one embodiment of the present invention, the overlapping area of ​​the first electrode (210) and the fourth electrode (240) and the overlapping area of ​​the second electrode (220) and the third electrode (230) can be easily adjusted. Accordingly, a sensor layer (200) having appropriate capacitances considering touch sensitivity and pen detection sensitivity can be provided. As a result, an electronic device (1000, see FIG. 2a) with improved pen sensitivity and touch sensitivity can be provided.

[0151] In one embodiment of the present invention, the area occupied by the components included in the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) in the second conductive layer (SU204) within a sensing unit (SU) may be larger than the area occupied by the components included in the third electrode (230) and the fourth electrode (240). The change in capacitance caused by the first input (2000, see FIG. 4) may be greater as the distance decreases. Accordingly, the components for detecting the first input (2000, see FIG. 4) may be placed over a larger area in a layer relatively adjacent to the surface of the electronic device (1000, see FIG. 1a). As a result, touch performance may be improved.

[0152] Referring to FIGS. 9a, 9b, and 10, each of the first to fourth electrodes (210, 220, 230, 240) may have a mesh structure. The mesh structure may be a structure in which a plurality of openings (200OP) are defined. In FIG. 10, each of the plurality of openings (200OP) is illustrated as having a circular shape with a predetermined curvature, but is not particularly limited thereto. For example, each of the openings (200OP) may be modified into various shapes such as square, polygonal, diamond-shaped, or irregular.

[0153] FIG. 10 illustrates a portion of a first pattern (221), a second bridge pattern (242), and a first electrode (210) disposed on a second conductive layer (SU204). The first pattern (221), the second bridge pattern (242), and the first electrode (210) may be electrically insulated from each other. For example, the first pattern (221), the second bridge pattern (242), and the first electrode (210) may be electrically insulated from each other by a first line (CLa) and a second line (CLb). A portion of the conductive layer and another portion may be spaced apart from each other with the first line (CLa) and the second line (CLb) in between. The second line (CLb) may extend along the first intersection direction (CDR1) which intersects the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2), and the first line (CLb) may extend along the second intersection direction (CDR2) which intersects the first intersection direction (CDR1).

[0154] The line width (MWT) of the mesh structure may correspond to the width between the openings (200OP) defined in the mesh structure. For example, the line width (MWT) may correspond to the minimum width of the conductive layer placed between the two closest openings (200OP).

[0155] FIG. 11 is a plan view illustrating a sensing unit (SUa) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0156] Referring to FIG. 11, a portion of the first electrode (210a), a portion of the second electrode (220a), a portion of the third electrode (230a), and a portion of the fourth electrode (240a) are shown superimposed on a single sensing unit (SUa).

[0157] The first electrode (210a) may include a plurality of first divided electrodes (210-dpa) spaced apart in a first direction (DR1), the second electrode (220a) may include a plurality of second divided electrodes (220-dpa) spaced apart in a second direction (DR2), the third electrode (230a) may include a plurality of third divided electrodes (230-dpa) spaced apart in a second direction (DR2), and the fourth electrode (240a) may include a plurality of fourth divided electrodes (240-dpa) spaced apart in a first direction (DR1).

[0158] Each of the second split electrodes (220-dpa) may include first patterns (221a) and first bridge patterns (222a). Each of the fourth split electrodes (240-dpa) may include second patterns (241a) and second bridge patterns (242a).

[0159] The first split electrodes (210-dpa), the first patterns (221a), and the second bridge patterns (242a) are included in the second conductive layer (204, see FIG. 7a), and the third split electrodes (230-dpa), the second patterns (241a), and the first bridge patterns (222a) may be included in the first conductive layer (202, see FIG. 7a). The first bridge pattern (222a) may insulately intersect with the second bridge pattern (242a) and the first split electrode (210-dpa).

[0160] FIG. 12a is a plan view illustrating two sensing units according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0161] Referring to FIG. 8 and FIG. 12a, the sensing units (SU) may include a first sensing unit (SUa) and a second sensing unit (SUa-1). The first sensing unit (SUa) is spaced apart from the surrounding area (200NA), and the second sensing unit (SUa-1) may be in contact with the surrounding area (200NA). That is, the second sensing unit (SUa-1) may be closer to the surrounding area (200NA) than the first sensing unit (SUa).

[0162] The first electrodes (210) may include a first electrode (210a1) that overlaps with the first sensing unit (SUa) and the second sensing unit (SUa-1), and the second electrodes (220) may include a second-1 electrode (220a) that overlaps with the first sensing unit (SUa) and a second-2 electrode (220a1) that overlaps with the second sensing unit (SUa-1). The third electrodes (230) may include a third-1 electrode (230a) that overlaps with the first sensing unit (SUa) and a third-2 electrode (230a1) that overlaps with the second sensing unit (SUa-1), and the fourth electrodes (240) may include a fourth electrode (240a1) that overlaps with the first sensing unit (SUa) and the second sensing unit (SUa-1).

[0163] In one embodiment of the present invention, the shape of the second sensing unit (SUa-1) may differ from the shape of the first sensing unit (SUa). For example, the width of the second direction (DR2) of the second sensing unit (SUa-1) may be smaller than the width of the second direction (DR2) of the first sensing unit (SUa). The second sensing unit (SUa-1) may have various shapes different from the first sensing unit (SUa) and is not limited to a specific shape. For example, if the boundary between the sensing area (200A) and the surrounding area (200NA) has curvature, the second sensing unit (SUa-1) may have a shape in which the shape of some electrodes is removed and the second sensing unit (SUa-1) is in contact with the boundary having said curvature.

[0164] In one embodiment of the present invention, the second-1 electrode (220a) may include x first divided electrodes (220-dpa) spaced apart along the second direction (DR2), and the second-2 electrode (220a1) may include y second divided electrodes (220-dpa1) spaced apart along the second direction (DR2). The x and the y may be integers greater than or equal to 1. In one embodiment, x may be greater than y. In FIG. 12a, x is 3 and y is 2 as an example.

[0165] According to one embodiment of the present invention, in order to improve pen detection performance, the shape of parts of the first to fourth electrodes (210a1, 220a1, 230a1, 240a1) that overlap with the second sensing unit (SUa-1) can be adjusted. For example, since the area of ​​the second sensing unit (SUa-1) is smaller than the area of ​​the first sensing unit (SUa), the shape (or area) of parts of the first to fourth electrodes (210a1, 220a1, 230a1, 240a1) can be designed differently from the first sensing unit (SUa) so that the capacitance of the capacitor formed between the first electrode (210a1) and the fourth electrode (240a1) and the capacitance of the capacitor formed between the second electrode (220a1) and the third electrode (230a1) are increased by that amount. In this case, the size of the second sensing unit (SUa-1) is small, so the detected signal can be compensated for by an increase in capacitance due to shape adjustment of parts of the first to fourth electrodes (210a1, 220a1, 230a1, 240a1). Accordingly, the sensing performance at the outer edge of the sensor layer (200), particularly the sensing region (200A), can be improved.

[0166] In one embodiment of the present invention, the 3-1 electrode (230a) may include x third divided electrodes (230-dpa) spaced apart along the second direction (DR2) and overlapped in a one-to-one correspondence with the first divided electrodes (220-dpa), and the 3-2 electrode (230a1) may include y fourth divided electrodes (230-dpa1) spaced apart along the second direction (DR2) and overlapped in a one-to-one correspondence with the second divided electrodes (220-dpa1).

[0167] In one embodiment of the present invention, the shape of the first overlapping region where one first split electrode (220-dpa) and one third split electrode (230-dpa) overlap may be different from the shape of the second overlapping region where one second split electrode (220-dpa1) and one fourth split electrode (230-dpa1) overlap. For example, the area of ​​the second overlapping region may be larger than the area of ​​the first overlapping region to increase the reduced capacitance of the second sensing unit (SUa-1) having a reduced size. Accordingly, the shape of the overlapping region of the second-1 electrode (220a) and the third-1 electrode (230a) and the shape of the overlapping region of the second-2 electrode (220a1) and the third-2 electrode (230a1) may be different from each other.

[0168] Additionally, in one embodiment of the present invention, the first electrode (210a1) may include fifth divided electrodes (210-dpa1) arranged spaced apart along the first direction (DR1), and the fourth electrode (240a1) may include sixth divided electrodes (240-dpa1) arranged spaced apart along the first direction (DR1). The shape of the portion of the fifth divided electrodes (210-dpa1) or the sixth divided electrodes (240-dpa1) that overlaps with the first sensing unit (SUa) may be different from the shape of the portion that overlaps with the second sensing unit (SUa1). For example, the area of ​​the fifth divided electrodes (210-dpa1) or the sixth divided electrodes (240-dpa1) may be changed to increase the reduced capacitance of the second sensing unit (SUa-1) having a reduced size.

[0169] FIG. 12b is a plan view illustrating two sensing units according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0170] Referring to FIG. 8 and FIG. 12b, the sensing units (SU) may include a first sensing unit (SUa) and a second sensing unit (SUa-2). The first sensing unit (SUa) is spaced apart from the surrounding area (200NA), and the second sensing unit (SUa-2) may overlap with the module area (SA). The module area (SA) may be an area that overlaps with an electronic module, such as a sensor, for example, a camera module. A portion of the sensing area (200A) that overlaps with the module area (SA) may have a higher transmittance than another portion of the sensing area (200A) that does not overlap with the module area (SA). Accordingly, the density of the mesh structure of the portion of the electrodes that overlaps with the module area (SA) may be lower than the density of the mesh structure of the portion of the electrodes that do not overlap with the module area (SA). Additionally, unlike what is shown in FIG. 12B, a portion of the electrodes in the portion that overlaps with the module area (SA) may be omitted.

[0171] The first electrodes (210) may include a first electrode (210a2) that overlaps with the first sensing unit (SUa) and the second sensing unit (SUa-2), and the second electrodes (220) may include a second-1 electrode (220a) that overlaps with the first sensing unit (SUa) and a second-2 electrode (220a2) that overlaps with the second sensing unit (SUa-2). The third electrodes (230) may include a third-1 electrode (230a) that overlaps with the first sensing unit (SUa) and a third-2 electrode (230a2) that overlaps with the second sensing unit (SUa-2), and the fourth electrodes (240) may include a fourth electrode (240a2) that overlaps with the first sensing unit (SUa) and the second sensing unit (SUa-2).

[0172] In one embodiment of the present invention, the 2-1 electrode (220a) may include x first divided electrodes (220-dpa) spaced apart along the second direction (DR2), and the 2-2 electrode (220a2) may include y second divided electrodes (220-dpa2) spaced apart along the second direction (DR2). The 3-1 electrode (230a) may include x third divided electrodes (230-dpa) spaced apart along the second direction (DR2) and overlapped in a one-to-one correspondence with the first divided electrodes (220-dpa), and the 3-2 electrode (230a2) may include y fourth divided electrodes (230-dpa2) spaced apart along the second direction (DR2) and overlapped in a one-to-one correspondence with the second divided electrodes (220-dpa2). The x and y may be integers greater than or equal to 1. In one embodiment, x may be greater than or equal to y, and in FIG. 12b, x is 3 and y is 3 as an example.

[0173] Additionally, in one embodiment of the present invention, the first electrode (210a2) may include fifth divided electrodes (210-dpa2) spaced apart along the first direction (DR1), and the fourth electrode (240a2) may include sixth divided electrodes (240-dpa2) spaced apart along the first direction (DR1).

[0174] According to one embodiment of the present invention, in order to increase the capacitance of the second sensing unit (SUa-2) that is reduced as it overlaps with the module region (SA), the area of ​​the overlapping region formed by one second split electrode (220-dpa2) and one fourth split electrode (230-dpa2) may be designed to be larger than the area of ​​the overlapping region formed by one first split electrode (220-dpa) and one third split electrode (230-dpa). Accordingly, the signal reduced as the second sensing unit (SUa-2) overlaps with the module region (SA) can be compensated by the increase in the capacitance. Thus, the sensing performance of the sensor layer (200) can be improved.

[0175] FIG. 13a is an enlarged plan view of the BB' region shown in FIG. 12a.

[0176] Referring to FIG. 12a and FIG. 13a, the first divided electrode (220-dpa) of the second-1 electrode (220a) and the third divided electrode (230-dpa) of the third-1 electrode (230a) overlapping with the first sensing unit (SUa), the second divided electrode (220-dpa1) of the second-2 electrode (220a1) overlapping with the second sensing unit (SUa1) and the fourth divided electrode (230-dpa1) of the third-2 electrode (230a2), the fifth divided electrode (210-dpa1) of the first electrode (210a1) overlapping with the first sensing unit (SUa) and the second sensing unit (SUa1), and the sixth divided electrode (240-dpa1) of the fourth electrode (240a1) are exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 13a.

[0177] In one embodiment of the present invention, a first opening (220op) is defined in the second-1 electrode (220a), and a second opening (220op1) having a size smaller than that of the first opening (220op) may be defined in the second-2 electrode (220a1).

[0178] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first split electrode (220-dpa) may include a first-1 sensing pattern (221a) and a first-1 bridge pattern (222a), and the second split electrode (220-dpa1) may include a first-2 sensing pattern (221a1) and a first-2 bridge pattern (222a1). For example, the first opening (220op) may be defined in the first-1 sensing pattern (221a), and the second opening (220op1) may be defined in the first-2 sensing pattern (221a1). In this case, the area of ​​the first split electrode (220-dpa) where the first opening (220op) of a relatively large size is defined may be smaller than the area of ​​the second split electrode (220-dpa1) where the second opening (220op2) of a relatively small size is defined.

[0179] In one embodiment of the present invention, the third divided electrodes (230-dpa) and the fourth divided electrodes (230-dpa1) may have the same shape as each other. Accordingly, the area of ​​each of the third divided electrodes (230-dpa) and the area of ​​each of the fourth divided electrodes (230-dpa1) may be the same as each other.

[0180] In one embodiment of the present invention, a third opening (210op) and a fourth opening (210op1) having a smaller size than the third opening (210op) may be defined in the fifth divided electrode (210-dpa1) of the first electrode (210a1). The third opening (210op) may be defined in an area overlapping with the first sensing unit (SUa), and the fourth opening (210op1) may be defined in an area overlapping with the second sensing unit (SUa1).

[0181] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first width (OPW1) of the second direction (DR2) of the first opening (220op) is larger than the second width (OPW2) of the second direction (DR2) of the second opening (220op1). Additionally, the third width (OPW3) of the first direction (DR1) of the third opening (210op) is larger than the fourth width (OPW4) of the first direction (DR1) of the fourth opening (210op1).

[0182] FIG. 13b is an enlarged plan view of the BB' region shown in FIG. 12a.

[0183] Referring to FIG. 12a and FIG. 13b, the first divided electrode (220-dpa) of the second-1 electrode (220a) and the third divided electrode (230-dpa) of the third-1 electrode (230a) overlapping with the first sensing unit (SUa), the second divided electrode (220-dpa1a) of the second-2 electrode (220a1) overlapping with the second sensing unit (SUa1) and the fourth divided electrode (230-dpa1) of the third-2 electrode (230a2), the fifth divided electrode (210-dpa1a) of the first electrode (210a1) overlapping with the first sensing unit (SUa) and the second sensing unit (SUa1), and the sixth divided electrode (240-dpa1) of the fourth electrode (240a1) are exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 13b.

[0184] In one embodiment of the present invention, a first opening (220op) may be defined in the second-1 electrode (220a), and a second opening (220op1a) having a size smaller than that of the first opening (220op) may be defined in the second-2 electrode (220a1). The first split electrode (220-dpa) may include a first-1 sensing pattern (221a) and a first-1 bridge pattern (222a), and the second split electrode (220-dpa1a) may include a first-2 sensing pattern (221a1a) and a first-2 bridge pattern (222a1). For example, the first opening (220op) may be defined in the first-1 sensing pattern (221a), and the second opening (220op1a) may be defined in the first-2 sensing pattern (221a1a).

[0185] In one embodiment of the present invention, a third opening (210op) and a fourth opening (210op1a) having a smaller size than the third opening (210op) may be defined in the fifth divided electrode (210-dpa1a) of the first electrode (210a1). The third opening (210op) may be defined in an area overlapping with the first sensing unit (SUa), and the fourth opening (210op1a) may be defined in an area overlapping with the second sensing unit (SUa1).

[0186] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first opening (220op) has a first width (OPW1) in the second direction (DR2), and the second opening (220op1a) may include a portion having a second width (OPW2) smaller than the first width (OPW1) and a portion having a third width (OPW2a) substantially the same as the first width (OPW1).

[0187] In FIG. 13a, if the second width (OPW2) in the second direction (DR2) of the entire second opening (220op1) is designed to be smaller than the first width (OPW1), according to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13b, the second opening (220op1a) may have a protruding shape in part. For example, the third width (OPW2a) of the part having the protruding shape of the second opening (220op1a) may be designed to be substantially the same as the first width (OPW1), and the second width (OPW2) of the remaining part may be designed to be smaller than the first width (OPW1).

[0188] FIG. 13c is an enlarged plan view of the BB' region shown in FIG. 12a.

[0189] Referring to FIG. 12a and FIG. 13c, the first divided electrode (220-dpa) of the second-1 electrode (220a) and the third divided electrode (230-dpa) of the third-1 electrode (230a) overlapping with the first sensing unit (SUa), the second divided electrode (220-dpa1b) of the second-2 electrode (220a1) overlapping with the second sensing unit (SUa1) and the fourth divided electrode (230-dpa1) of the third-2 electrode (230a2), the fifth divided electrode (210-dpa1b) of the first electrode (210a1) overlapping with the first sensing unit (SUa) and the second sensing unit (SUa1), and the sixth divided electrode (240-dpa1) of the fourth electrode (240a1) are exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 13c.

[0190] In one embodiment of the present invention, a first opening (220op) may be defined in the second-1 electrode (220a), and a second opening (220op1b) having a size smaller than that of the first opening (220op) may be defined in the second-2 electrode (220a1). The first split electrode (220-dpa) may include a first-1 sensing pattern (221a) and a first-1 bridge pattern (222a), and the second split electrode (220-dpa1a) may include a first-2 sensing pattern (221a1b) and a first-2 bridge pattern (222a1). For example, the first opening (220op) may be defined in the first-1 sensing pattern (221a), and the second opening (220op1b) may be defined in the first-2 sensing pattern (221a1b).

[0191] In one embodiment of the present invention, a third opening (210op) and a fourth opening (210op1b) having a smaller size than the third opening (210op) may be defined in the fifth divided electrode (210-dpa1b) of the first electrode (210a1). The third opening (210op) may be defined in an area overlapping with the first sensing unit (SUa), and the fourth opening (210op1b) may be defined in an area overlapping with the second sensing unit (SUa1).

[0192] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first opening (220op) has a first width (OPW1) in the second direction (DR2), and the second opening (220op1b) may include a portion having a second width (OPW2) smaller than the first width (OPW1) and a portion having a third width (OPW2a) substantially the same as the first width (OPW1).

[0193] According to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13c, the second opening (220op1b) may have an arrow shape. For example, the third width (OPW2a), which is the maximum width of the portion having the arrow shape of the second opening (220op1b), may be designed to be substantially the same as the first width (OPW1), and the second width (OPW2) of the remaining portion may be designed to be smaller than the first width (OPW1).

[0194] FIG. 13d is an enlarged plan view of the BB' region shown in FIG. 12a.

[0195] Referring to FIG. 12a and FIG. 13d, the first divided electrode (220-dpa) of the second-1 electrode (220a) and the third divided electrode (230-dpa) of the third-1 electrode (230a) overlapping with the first sensing unit (SUa), the second divided electrode (220-dpa1c) of the second-2 electrode (220a1) overlapping with the second sensing unit (SUa1) and the fourth divided electrode (230-dpa1) of the third-2 electrode (230a2), the fifth divided electrode (210-dpa1c) of the first electrode (210a1) overlapping with the first sensing unit (SUa) and the second sensing unit (SUa1), and the sixth divided electrode (240-dpa1) of the fourth electrode (240a1) are exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 13d.

[0196] In one embodiment of the present invention, a first opening (220op) may be defined in the second-1 electrode (220a), and a second opening (220op1c) having a size smaller than that of the first opening (220op) may be defined in the second-2 electrode (220a1). The first split electrode (220-dpa) may include a first-1 sensing pattern (221a) and a first-1 bridge pattern (222a), and the second split electrode (220-dpa1c) may include a first-2 sensing pattern (221a1c) and a first-2 bridge pattern (222a1). For example, the first opening (220op) may be defined in the first-1 sensing pattern (221a), and the second opening (220op1c) may be defined in the first-2 sensing pattern (221a1c).

[0197] In one embodiment of the present invention, a third opening (210op) and a fourth opening (210op1c) having a smaller size than the third opening (210op) may be defined in the fifth divided electrode (210-dpa1c) of the first electrode (210a1). The third opening (210op) may be defined in an area overlapping with the first sensing unit (SUa), and the fourth opening (210op1c) may be defined in an area overlapping with the second sensing unit (SUa1).

[0198] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first opening (220op) has a first width (OPW1) in the second direction (DR2), and the second opening (220op1a) may include a portion having a second width (OPW2) smaller than the first width (OPW1) and a portion having a third width (OPW2a) substantially the same as the first width (OPW1).

[0199] According to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13d, the second opening (220op1c) may have a protruding projection shape in part, and the end of the second opening (220op1c) may have an arrow shape. For example, the third width (OPW2a), which is the maximum width of the portion having the arrow shape of the second opening (220op1c), and the third width (OPW2a), which is the portion having the projection shape, may be designed to be substantially the same as the first width (OPW1), and the second width (OPW2), which is the remaining portion, may be designed to be smaller than the first width (OPW1).

[0200] According to the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 13a to 13d, in order to improve pen detection performance, the shape of parts of the first electrodes (210a1) and the second-second electrodes (220a1) overlapping with the second sensing unit (SUa-1) can be adjusted. Accordingly, the capacitance of the capacitor formed between the first electrode (210a1) and the fourth electrode (240a1) in the second sensing unit (SUa-1), and the capacitance of the capacitor formed between the second-second electrode (220a1) and the third-second electrode (230a1) can be increased. That is, the signal reduced due to the small size of the second sensing unit (SUa-1) can be compensated by the increase in the capacitance. Accordingly, the sensing performance of the sensor layer (200) can be improved.

[0201] FIG. 14a is an enlarged plan view of the BB' region shown in FIG. 12a.

[0202] Referring to FIG. 12a and FIG. 14a, the first divided electrode (220-dpa) of the second-1 electrode (220a) and the third divided electrode (230-dpa) of the third-1 electrode (230a) overlapping with the first sensing unit (SUa), the second divided electrode (220-dpa1d) of the second-2 electrode (220a1) overlapping with the second sensing unit (SUa1) and the fourth divided electrode (230-dpa1a) of the third-2 electrode (230a2), the fifth divided electrode (210-dpa1d) of the first electrode (210a1) overlapping with the first sensing unit (SUa) and the second sensing unit (SUa1), and the sixth divided electrode (240-dpa1a) of the fourth electrode (240a1) are exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 14a.

[0203] In one embodiment of the present invention, a first opening (220op) may be defined in the second-1 electrode (220a), and a second opening (220op) of the same size as the first opening (220op) may be defined in the second-2 electrode (220a1). The first split electrode (220-dpa) may include a first-1 sensing pattern (221a) and a first-1 bridge pattern (222a), and the second split electrode (220-dpa1d) may include a first-2 sensing pattern (221a1d) and a first-2 bridge pattern (222a1). For example, the first opening (220op) may be defined in the first-1 sensing pattern (221a), and the second opening (220op) may be defined in the first-2 sensing pattern (221a1d).

[0204] In one embodiment of the present invention, the shape of the first-1 sensing pattern (221a) and the shape of the first-2 sensing pattern (221a1d) may be substantially the same. The area of ​​each of the first divided electrodes (220-dpa) and the area of ​​each of the second divided electrodes (220-dpa1d) may be the same as each other. Additionally, third openings (210op) may be defined in the fifth divided electrode (210-dpa1d) of the first electrode (210a1). Some of the third openings (210op) may be defined in an area overlapping with the first sensing unit (SUa), and other parts of the third openings (210op) may be defined in an area overlapping with the second sensing unit (SUa1).

[0205] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the area of ​​each of the third divided electrodes (230-dpa) may be smaller than the area of ​​each of the fourth divided electrodes (230-dpa1a). For example, the first width (PWT1) of the second direction (DR2) of the third divided electrode (230-dpa) may be smaller than the second width (PWT2) of the second direction (DR2) of the fourth divided electrode (230-dpa1a). Additionally, the third width (PWT3) of the portion overlapping with the first sensing unit (SUa) of the sixth divided electrode (240-dpa1) may be smaller than the fourth width (PWT4) of the portion overlapping with the second sensing unit (SUa1).

[0206] FIG. 14b is an enlarged plan view of the BB' region shown in FIG. 12a.

[0207] Referring to FIG. 12a and FIG. 14b, the first divided electrode (220-dpa) of the second-1 electrode (220a) and the third divided electrode (230-dpa) of the third-1 electrode (230a) overlapping with the first sensing unit (SUa), the second divided electrode (220-dpa1d) of the second-2 electrode (220a1) overlapping with the second sensing unit (SUa1) and the fourth divided electrode (230-dpa1b) of the third-2 electrode (230a2), the fifth divided electrode (210-dpa1d) of the first electrode (210a1) overlapping with the first sensing unit (SUa) and the second sensing unit (SUa1), and the sixth divided electrode (240-dpa1b) of the fourth electrode (240a1) overlapping with the first sensing unit (SUa) and the second sensing unit (SUa1) are exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 14a.

[0208] In FIG. 14a, if the second width (PWT2) in the second direction (DR2) of the entire fourth divided electrode (230-dpa1a) is designed to be larger than the first width (PWT1), according to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 14b, the fourth divided electrode (230-dpa1b) may have a protruding shape in part. For example, the second width (PWT2a) of the part having the protruding shape of the fourth divided electrode (230-dpa1b) may be larger than the first width (PWT1), and the remaining part may be designed to have a shape similar to the third divided electrode (230-dpa).

[0209] According to the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 14a to 14d, in order to improve pen detection performance, the shape of parts of the third-second electrodes (230a1) and the fourth electrodes (240a1) that overlap with the second sensing unit (SUa-1) can be adjusted. Accordingly, the capacitance of the capacitor formed between the first electrode (210a1) and the fourth electrode (240a1) in the second sensing unit (SUa-1) and the capacitance of the capacitor formed between the second-second electrode (220a1) and the third-second electrode (230a1) can be increased. That is, the size of the second sensing unit (SUa-1) is small, so the detected signal can be compensated by the increase in capacitance. Accordingly, the sensing performance of the sensor layer (200) can be improved.

[0210] FIG. 15a is a cross-sectional view of a sensor layer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0211] Referring to FIG. 12a and FIG. 15a, the first divided electrode (220-dpa) of the second-1 electrode (220a) placed in the first sensing unit (SUa) may have a mesh structure having a first line width (MWT1), and the second divided electrode (220-dpax) of the second-2 electrode (220a1) placed in the second sensing unit (SUa-3) may have a mesh structure having a second line width (MWT2). Additionally, the third divided electrode (230-dpa) of the third-1 electrode (230a) placed in the first sensing unit (SUa) may have a mesh structure having a third line width (MWT3), and the fourth divided electrode (230-dpax) of the third-2 electrode (230a1) placed in the second sensing unit (SUa-3) may have a mesh structure having a fourth line width (MWT4).

[0212] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first line width (MWT1) and the second line width (MWT2) are the same as each other, and the fourth line width (MWT4) may be larger than the third line width (MWT3). The larger the line width of the mesh structure, the smaller the size of the opening (200OP, see FIG. 10) defined in the mesh structure may be.

[0213] FIG. 15b is a cross-sectional view of a sensor layer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0214] Referring to FIG. 12a and FIG. 15b, the first divided electrode (220-dpa) of the second-1 electrode (220a) placed in the first sensing unit (SUa) may have a mesh structure having a first line width (MWT1), and the second divided electrode (220-dpay) of the second-2 electrode (220a1) placed in the second sensing unit (SUa-4) may have a mesh structure having a second line width (MWT2a). Additionally, the third divided electrode (230-dpa) of the third-1 electrode (230a) placed in the first sensing unit (SUa) may have a mesh structure having a third line width (MWT3), and the fourth divided electrode (230-dpay) of the third-2 electrode (230a1) placed in the second sensing unit (SUa-4) may have a mesh structure having a fourth line width (MWT4a).

[0215] In one embodiment of the present invention, the third line width (MWT3) and the fourth line width (MWT4a) are identical to each other, and the second line width (MWT2a) may be larger than the first line width (MWT1).

[0216] FIG. 15c is a cross-sectional view of a sensor layer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0217] Referring to FIG. 12a and FIG. 15c, the first divided electrode (220-dpa) of the second-1 electrode (220a) placed in the first sensing unit (SUa) may have a mesh structure having a first line width (MWT1), and the second divided electrode (220-dpaz) of the second-2 electrode (220a1) placed in the second sensing unit (SUa-5) may have a mesh structure having a second line width (MWT2b). Additionally, the third divided electrode (230-dpa) of the third-1 electrode (230a) placed in the first sensing unit (SUa) may have a mesh structure having a third line width (MWT3), and the fourth divided electrode (230-dpaz) of the third-2 electrode (230a1) placed in the second sensing unit (SUa-5) may have a mesh structure having a fourth line width (MWT4b).

[0218] In one embodiment of the present invention, the second line width (MWT2b) may be larger than the first line width (MWT1), and the fourth line width (MWT4b) may be larger than the third line width (MWT3).

[0219] According to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 15a, 15b, and 15c, the line width of a mesh structure of any one of the first to fourth electrodes included in a second sensing unit (SUa-3, SUa-4, or SUa-5) having a smaller area than that of the first sensing unit (SUa) can be expanded. As the line width is expanded, the capacitance of the capacitor formed between the first electrode (210a1) and the fourth electrode (240a1) in the second sensing unit (SUa-3, SUa-4, or SUa-5) and the capacitance of the capacitor formed between the second-second electrode (220a1) and the third-second electrode (230a1) can be increased. That is, the size of the second sensing unit (SUa-3, SUa-4, or SUa-5) is small, so the detected signal can be compensated by the increase in capacitance. Accordingly, the sensing performance of the sensor layer (200) can be improved.

[0220] FIG. 16 is a plan view illustrating two sensing units according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0221] Referring to FIGS. 8 and FIGS. 16, the sensing units (SU) may include a first sensing unit (SUa) and a second sensing unit (SUa-6). The first sensing unit (SUa) is spaced apart from the surrounding area (200NA), and the second sensing unit (SUa-6) may be in contact with the surrounding area (200NA). That is, the second sensing unit (SUa-6) may be closer to the surrounding area (200NA) than the first sensing unit (SUa).

[0222] The first electrodes (210) may include a first electrode (210a3) that overlaps with the first sensing unit (SUa) and the second sensing unit (SUa-6), and the second electrodes (220) may include a second-1 electrode (220a) that overlaps with the first sensing unit (SUa) and a second-2 electrode (220a3) that overlaps with the second sensing unit (SUa-6). The third electrodes (230) may include a third-1 electrode (230a) that overlaps with the first sensing unit (SUa) and a third-2 electrode (230a3) that overlaps with the second sensing unit (SUa-6), and the fourth electrodes (240) may include a fourth electrode (240a3) that overlaps with the first sensing unit (SUa) and the second sensing unit (SUa-6).

[0223] In one embodiment of the present invention, the 2-1 electrode (220a) may include x first divided electrodes (220-dpa) spaced apart along the second direction (DR2), and the 2-2 electrode (220a3) may include y second divided electrodes (220-dpa3) spaced apart along the second direction (DR2). The 3-1 electrode (230a) may include x third divided electrodes (230-dpa) spaced apart along the second direction (DR2) and overlapped in a one-to-one correspondence with the first divided electrodes (220-dpa), and the 3-2 electrode (230a3) may include y fourth divided electrodes (230-dpa3) spaced apart along the second direction (DR2) and overlapped in a one-to-one correspondence with the second divided electrodes (220-dpa3). The x and y may be integers greater than or equal to 1. In one embodiment, x may be greater than or equal to y, and in FIG. 16, x is 3 and y is 3 as an example.

[0224] Additionally, in one embodiment of the present invention, the first electrode (210a2) may include fifth divided electrodes (210-dpa2) spaced apart along the first direction (DR1), and the fourth electrode (240a2) may include sixth divided electrodes (240-dpa2) spaced apart along the first direction (DR1).

[0225] In one embodiment of the present invention, the pitch (PT) between the first divided electrodes (220-dpa) may be larger than the pitch (PTa) between the second divided electrodes (220-dpa3). That is, even if the width of the second direction (DR2) of the second sensing unit (SUa-1) is reduced, the pitch (PTa) between the second divided electrodes (220-dpa3) is designed to be smaller than the pitch (PT) between the first divided electrodes (220-dpa), so that the signal may not be reduced even if the size of the second sensing unit (SUa-1) is reduced.

[0226] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing the operation of a sensor driving unit (200C, see FIG. 6) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0227] Referring to FIGS. 6 and FIGS. 17, the sensor driving unit (200C) may be configured to be selectively driven in any one of a first operating mode (DMD1), a second operating mode (DMD2), and a third operating mode (DMD3).

[0228] The first operation mode (DMD1) may be referred to as a touch and pen standby mode, the second operation mode (DMD2) as a touch activation and pen standby mode, and the third operation mode (DMD3) as a pen activation mode. The first operation mode (DMD1) may be a mode that waits for a first input (2000) and a second input (3000). The second operation mode (DMD2) may be a mode that senses the first input (2000) and waits for the second input (3000). The third operation mode (DMD3) may be a mode that senses the second input (3000).

[0229] In one embodiment of the present invention, the sensor driving unit (200C) may first be driven in a first operating mode (DMD1). When a first input (2000) is sensed in the first operating mode (DMD1), the sensor driving unit (200C) may be switched (or changed) to a second operating mode (DMD2). Alternatively, when a second input (3000) is sensed in the first operating mode (DMD1), the sensor driving unit (200C) may be switched (or changed) to a third operating mode (DMD3).

[0230] In one embodiment of the present invention, when the second input (3000) is sensed in the second operation mode (DMD2), the sensor driving unit (200C) may be switched to the third operation mode (DMD3). When the first input (2000) is released (or not detected) in the second operation mode (DMD2), the sensor driving unit (200C) may be switched to the first operation mode (DMD1). When the second input (3000) is released (or not detected) in the third operation mode (DMD3), the sensor driving unit (200C) may be switched to the first operation mode (DMD1).

[0231] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing the operation of a sensor driving unit (200C, see FIG. 6) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0232] Referring to FIGS. 6, 17, and 18, the operation in the first to third operation modes (DMD1, DMD2, DMD3) is illustrated exemplarily in order of time (t).

[0233] In the first operation mode (DMD1), the sensor driver (200C) can be repeatedly driven in the second mode (MD2-d) and the first mode (MD1-d). During the second mode (MD2-d), the sensor layer (200) can be driven to scan to detect the second input (3000). During the first mode (MD1-d), the sensor layer (200) can be driven to scan to detect the first input (2000). FIG. 18 illustrates, by way of example, that the sensor driver (200C) operates in the first mode (MD1-d) consecutively after the second mode (MD2-d), but the order is not limited thereto.

[0234] In the second operation mode (DMD2), the sensor driver (200C) can be repeatedly driven in the second mode (MD2-d) and the first mode (MD1). During the second mode (MD2-d), the sensor layer (200) can be driven to scan to detect the second input (3000). During the first mode (MD1), the sensor layer (200) can be driven to scan to detect the coordinates based on the first input (2000).

[0235] In the third operation mode (DMD3), the sensor driver (200C) may be driven in the second mode (MD2). During the second mode (MD2), the sensor layer (200) may be driven to scan to detect coordinates based on the second input (3000). In the third operation mode (DMD3), the sensor driver (200C) may not operate in the first mode (MD1-d or MD1) until the second input (3000) is released (or not detected).

[0236] Referring together with FIG. 8, in the first mode (MD1-d) and the first mode (MD1), the third electrodes (230) and the fourth electrodes (240) may all be grounded or have a positive voltage applied to them. Alternatively, in the first mode (MD1-d) and the first mode (MD1), the third electrodes (230) and the fourth electrodes (240) may all be floating (or electrically floating). Alternatively, in the first mode (MD1-d) and the first mode (MD1), a signal in phase with the transmission signal provided to the first electrodes (210) may be applied to the third electrodes (230) and the fourth electrodes (240). In this case, the introduction of touch noise through the third electrodes (230) and the fourth electrodes (240) may be prevented.

[0237] In the second mode (MD2-d) and the second mode (MD2), one end of each of the third electrodes (230) and the fourth electrodes (240) can be floated. Also, in the second mode (MD2-d) and the second mode (MD2), the other end of each of the third electrodes (230) and the fourth electrodes (240) can be grounded or floated. Thus, the compensation of the sensing signal can be maximized by the coupling between the first electrodes (210) and the third electrodes (230) and the coupling between the second electrodes (220) and the fourth electrodes (240).

[0238] FIG. 19 is a drawing for explaining a first mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0239] Referring to FIGS. 6, 18, and 19, the first mode (MD1-d) of the first operation mode (DMD1) and the first mode (MD1) of the second operation mode (DMD2) may include a mutual capacitance detection mode. FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating the mutual capacitance detection mode in the first mode (MD1-d) of the first operation mode (DMD1) and the first mode (MD1) of the second operation mode (DMD2).

[0240] In the mutual capacitance detection mode, the sensor driver (200C) sequentially provides a transmission signal (TX) to the first electrodes (210) and can detect the coordinates for the first input (2000) using the received signal (RX) detected through the second electrodes (220). For example, the sensor driver (200C) may be configured to calculate the input coordinates by sensing a change in mutual capacitance between the first electrodes (210) and the second electrodes (220).

[0241] FIG. 19 exemplarily illustrates a transmission signal (TX) being provided to one first electrode (210) and a reception signal (RX) being output from the second electrodes (220). The sensor driving unit (200C) can detect the input coordinates for the first input (2000) by sensing the change in capacitance between each of the first electrode (210) and the second electrodes (220). In one embodiment of the present invention, a transmission signal (TX) may be provided sequentially to one second electrode (220) and a reception signal (RX) may be output from the first electrodes (210).

[0242] In another embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the first mode (MD1-d) of the first operation mode (DMD1) and the first mode (MD1) of the second operation mode (DMD2) may further include a magnetic capacitance detection mode. The sensor driving unit (200C) may be configured to output driving signals to the first electrodes (210) and the second electrodes (220) in the magnetic capacitance detection mode, and to calculate input coordinates by sensing the change in capacitance of each of the first electrodes (210) and the second electrodes (220).

[0243] FIG. 20 is a drawing for explaining a second mode, particularly a charging driving mode, according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 21a is a graph showing the waveform of a first signal according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 21b is a graph showing the waveform of a second signal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0244] Referring to FIG. 20, FIG. 21a and FIG. 21b, the second mode (MD2) may include a charging drive mode. The charging drive mode may include a searching charging drive mode and a tracking charging drive mode.

[0245] The search charging driving mode may be a driving mode prior to sensing the position of the pen. Accordingly, the first signal (SG1) or the second signal (SG2) may be provided sequentially to all channels included in the sensor layer (200). That is, the entire area of ​​the sensor layer (200) may be scanned sequentially in the search charging driving mode. When the pen (PN) is sensed in the search charging driving mode, the sensor layer (200) may be driven for tracking charging. For example, in the tracking charging driving mode, the sensor driving unit (200C) may sequentially output the first signal (SG1) and the second signal (SG2) to an area that overlaps with the point where the pen (PN) is sensed, rather than the entire sensor layer (200).

[0246] In the charging driving mode, the sensor driving unit (200C) may apply a first signal (SG1) to one of the third pads (PD3) and the fifth pads (PD5), and apply a second signal (SG2) to the other pad. The second signal (SG2) may be an inverse signal of the first signal (SG1). For example, the first signal (SG1) may be a sinusoidal signal.

[0247] Since the first signal (SG1) and the second signal (SG2) are applied to at least two pads, the current (RFS) may have a current path flowing from one pad to another. Additionally, since the first signal (SG1) and the second signal (SG2) are sinusoidal signals in an out-of-phase relationship with each other, the direction of the current (RFS) may change periodically. In another embodiment of the present invention, the first signal (SG1) and the second signal (SG2) may be square wave signals in an out-of-phase relationship with each other.

[0248] When the first signal (SG1) and the second signal (SG2) have an inverse relationship, the noise caused by the first signal (SG1) in the display layer (100, see FIG. 4) can be canceled out by the noise caused by the second signal (SG2). Therefore, flicker may not occur in the display layer (100), and the display quality of the display layer (100) may be improved.

[0249] In another embodiment of the present invention, the first signal (SG1) may be a sinusoidal signal. However, it is not limited thereto, and the first signal (SG1) may be a square wave signal. Also, the second signal (SG2) may have a predetermined constant voltage. For example, the second signal (SG2) may be a ground voltage. That is, the pad to which the second signal (SG2) is applied can be considered grounded. Even in this case, current (RFS) may flow from one pad to another pad. Furthermore, even if the other pad is grounded, the direction of the current (RFS) may change periodically because the first signal (SG1) is a sinusoidal signal or a square wave signal.

[0250] Referring to FIG. 20, it is illustrated that a second signal (SG2) is provided to a pad connected to a first loop trace line (230rt1), and a first signal (SG1) is provided to a pad connected to a third electrode (230). A current (RFS) can flow through a current path defined by the second loop trace line (230rt2), the third electrode (230), and a portion of the first loop trace line (230rt1). The current path may have a coil shape. Thus, in the charging driving mode of the second mode, the resonant circuit of the pen (PN) can be charged by the current path.

[0251] According to the present invention, a current path of a loop coil pattern can be implemented by the components included in the sensor layer (200). Accordingly, an electronic device (1000, see FIG. 2a) can charge a pen (PN) using the sensor layer (200). Therefore, since a component having a coil for charging the pen (PN) does not need to be separately added, an increase in thickness, an increase in weight, and a decrease in flexibility of the electronic device (1000) may not occur.

[0252] In a charging drive mode, the first electrodes (210), the second electrodes (220), and the fourth electrodes (240) may be grounded, have a constant voltage applied, or be electrically floating. In particular, the first electrodes (210), the second electrodes (220), and the fourth electrodes (240) may be floating. In this case, current (RFS) may not flow through the first electrodes (210), the second electrodes (220), and the fourth electrodes (240).

[0253] FIG. 22a is a drawing for explaining a second mode according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 22b is a drawing for explaining a second mode based on one sensing unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0254] Referring to FIGS. 22a and 22b, the second mode may include a charging driving mode and a pen sensing driving mode. FIGS. 22a and 22b are drawings for illustrating a pen sensing driving mode.

[0255] Referring to FIG. 22a, in pen sensing driving mode, first reception signals (PRX1) are output from the first electrodes (210), and second reception signals (PRX2) can be output from the second electrodes (220). FIG. 22b shows a sensing unit (SU) through which first to fourth induced currents (Ia, Ib, Ic, Id) generated by the pen (PN) flow.

[0256] Referring to FIG. 22a and FIG. 22b, in one embodiment of the present invention, the routing directions of one electrode and another electrode of the sensor layer (200) that overlap each other may be different from each other. For example, the routing direction of the first electrode (210x) and the routing direction of the fourth electrode (240x) may be different from each other. Also, the routing direction of the second electrode (220x) and the routing direction of the third electrode (230x) may be different. For example, in FIG. 22b, the first trace line (210t) may be connected at the right end of the first electrode (210x), and the auxiliary trace line (240t) may be connected at the left end of the fourth electrode (240x). The second trace line (220t) may be connected at the lower end of the second electrode (220x), and the first loop trace line (230rt1) may be connected at the upper end of the third electrode (230x).

[0257] The RLC resonant circuit of the pen (PN) can emit a magnetic field of resonant frequency while discharging the charged charge. Due to the magnetic field provided by the pen (PN), a first induced current (Ia) can be generated at the first electrode (210x), and a second induced current (Ib) can be generated at the second electrode (220x). Additionally, a third induced current (Ic) can be generated at the third electrode (230x), and a fourth induced current (Id) can be generated at the fourth electrode (240x).

[0258] A first coupling capacitor (Ccp1) may be formed between the fourth electrode (240x) and the first electrode (210x), and a second coupling capacitor (Ccp2) may be formed between the third electrode (230x) and the second electrode (220x). The fourth induced current (Id) may be transmitted to the first electrode (210x) through the first coupling capacitor (Ccp1), and the third induced current (Ic) may be transmitted to the second electrode (220x) through the second coupling capacitor (Ccp2).

[0259] The sensor driving unit (200C) can receive a first receiving signal (PRX1a) based on a first induced current (Ia) and a fourth induced current (Id) from a first electrode (210x), and receive a second receiving signal (PRX2a) based on a second induced current (Ib) and a third induced current (Ic) from a second electrode (220x). The sensor driving unit (200C) can detect the input coordinates of the pen (PN) based on the first receiving signal (PRX1a) and the second receiving signal (PRX2a).

[0260] The sensor driving unit (200C) can receive a first reception signal (PRX1a) from the first electrode (210x) and a second reception signal (PRX2a) from the second electrode (220x). At this time, one end of the third electrode (230x) and the fourth electrode (240x) can both be floating. Accordingly, the compensation of the sensing signal can be maximized by the coupling between the first electrode (210x) and the fourth electrode (240x) and the coupling between the second electrode (220x) and the third electrode (2430x).

[0261] Additionally, the other ends of the third electrode (230x) and the fourth electrode (240x) may be grounded or floating. Thus, the third induced current (Ic) and the fourth induced current (Id) can be sufficiently transmitted to the first electrode (210x) and the second electrode (220x) by coupling between the first electrode (210x) and the fourth electrode (240x) and coupling between the second electrode (220x) and the third electrode (230x).

[0262] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art or those with ordinary knowledge in the relevant technical field will understand that various modifications and changes can be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and technical scope of the invention as described in the claims set forth below.

[0263] Therefore, the technical scope of the present invention should not be limited to the contents described in the detailed description of the specification, but should be determined by the claims. Explanation of the symbols

[0264] 1000: Electronic device 100: Indicator layer 200: Sensor layer 210: First electrodes 220: Second electrodes 230: Third electrodes 240: Fourth electrodes

Claims

Claim 1 A sensor layer defined with a sensing area and a surrounding area adjacent to the sensing area; and a sensor driving unit for driving the sensor layer, wherein the sensor layer comprises: a plurality of first electrodes spaced apart and arranged along a first direction; a plurality of second electrodes spaced apart and arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction; and a plurality of third electrodes overlapping the plurality of second electrodes. The electronic device comprises a plurality of fourth electrodes that overlap with the plurality of first electrodes, wherein the sensing area comprises a plurality of sensing units arranged along the first direction and the second direction, wherein the plurality of sensing units include a first sensing unit spaced apart from the surrounding area and a second sensing unit in contact with the surrounding area, wherein the plurality of second electrodes include a second-1 electrode that overlaps with the first sensing unit and a second-2 electrode that overlaps with the second sensing unit, and wherein the plurality of third electrodes include a third-1 electrode that overlaps with the second-1 electrode and a third-2 electrode that overlaps with the second-2 electrode, and wherein the shape of the overlapping area of ​​the second-1 electrode and the third-1 electrode and the shape of the overlapping area of ​​the second-2 electrode and the third-2 electrode are different from each other. Claim 2 An electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the 2-1 electrode comprises x first divided electrodes spaced apart along the second direction, and the 2-2 electrode comprises y second divided electrodes spaced apart along the second direction. Claim 3 In claim 2, the above x is an electronic device larger than the above y. Claim 4 An electronic device according to claim 2, wherein x and y are identical, and the pitch between the first divided electrodes is greater than the pitch between the second divided electrodes. Claim 5 An electronic device according to claim 2, wherein the 3-1 electrode comprises x third divided electrodes that overlap in a one-to-one correspondence with the first divided electrodes, and the 3-2 electrode comprises y fourth divided electrodes that overlap in a one-to-one correspondence with the second divided electrodes. Claim 6 An electronic device according to claim 5, wherein the area of ​​each of the first divided electrodes and the area of ​​each of the second divided electrodes are equal to each other, and the area of ​​each of the third divided electrodes is smaller than the area of ​​each of the fourth divided electrodes. Claim 7 An electronic device according to claim 5, wherein the area of ​​each of the first divided electrodes is smaller than the area of ​​each of the second divided electrodes, and the area of ​​each of the third divided electrodes and the area of ​​each of the fourth divided electrodes are equal to each other. Claim 8 An electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the width of the second direction of the first sensing unit is greater than the width of the second direction of the second sensing unit. Claim 9 An electronic device according to claim 1, wherein a first opening is defined in the 2-1 electrode and a second opening having a size smaller than the size of the first opening is defined in the 2-2 electrode. Claim 10 An electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the width of the second direction of the third-1 electrode is smaller than the width of the second direction of the third-2 electrode. Claim 11 An electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the 2-1 electrode has a mesh structure having a first line width, the 2-2 electrode has a mesh structure having a second line width, the 3-1 electrode has a mesh structure having a third line width, and the 3-2 electrode has a mesh structure having a fourth line width. Claim 12 An electronic device according to claim 11, wherein the first line width and the second line width are identical, and the fourth line width is larger than the third line width. Claim 13 An electronic device according to claim 11, wherein the third line width and the fourth line width are identical, and the second line width is larger than the first line width. Claim 14 An electronic device according to claim 11, wherein the second line width is larger than the first line width and the fourth line width is larger than the third line width. Claim 15 An electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the sensor driving unit is configured to selectively operate in a first mode for sensing touch input and a second mode for sensing pen input, wherein the second mode includes a charging driving mode and a pen sensing driving mode, wherein in the charging driving mode, the sensor driving unit is configured to provide a first signal to at least one of the plurality of third electrodes and to provide a second signal to at least one other of the plurality of third electrodes, and wherein in the pen sensing driving mode, the sensor driving unit is configured to receive first receiving signals from the plurality of first electrodes and to receive second receiving signals from the plurality of second electrodes. Claim 16 A display layer for displaying an image; a sensor layer disposed on the display layer, wherein a sensing area and a surrounding area adjacent to the sensing area are defined; and a processor for controlling the operation of the display layer and the sensor layer, wherein the sensor layer comprises: a plurality of first electrodes spaced apart and arranged along a first direction; a plurality of second electrodes spaced apart and arranged along a second direction intersecting the first direction; and a plurality of third electrodes overlapping the plurality of second electrodes. An electronic device comprising a plurality of fourth electrodes overlapping with the plurality of first electrodes, wherein the plurality of second electrodes include a second-1 electrode and a second-2 electrode spaced apart from the second-1 electrode in the second direction, and the plurality of third electrodes include a third-1 electrode overlapping with the second-1 electrode and a third-2 electrode overlapping with the second-2 electrode, wherein the third-1 electrode includes a plurality of first divided electrodes overlapping with the second-1 electrode, and the third-2 electrode includes a plurality of second divided electrodes overlapping with the second-2 electrode, and the area of ​​the region where each of the plurality of first divided electrodes and the second-1 electrode overlap is less than or equal to the area of ​​the region where each of the plurality of second divided electrodes and the second-2 electrode overlap. Claim 17 An electronic device according to claim 16, wherein the number of the plurality of first divided electrodes is greater than the number of the plurality of second divided electrodes. Claim 18 An electronic device according to claim 16, wherein the 2-1 electrode has a mesh structure having a first line width, the 2-2 electrode has a mesh structure having a second line width, the 3-1 electrode has a mesh structure having a third line width, the 3-2 electrode has a mesh structure having a fourth line width, the first line width and the second line width are the same, the fourth line width is greater than the third line width, or the third line width and the fourth line width are the same, the second line width is greater than the first line width, or the second line width is greater than the first line width, and the fourth line width is greater than the third line width. Claim 19 An electronic device according to claim 16, wherein a first opening is defined in the 2-1 electrode and a second opening having a size smaller than the size of the first opening is defined in the 2-2 electrode. Claim 20 In claim 16, the width of each of the first divided electrodes in the second direction is smaller than the width of each of the second divided electrodes in the second direction.

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