Input sensing device and display device including the same

Abstract

The input detection device includes a power line; driving lines; a first signal line comprising a plurality of sub-lines; a second signal line connected to the sub-lines; and sensor pixels connected to the power line, driving lines, and the first signal line. At least one sensor pixel among the sensor pixels includes a light sensor that transmits a photoelectrically converted charge from the power line to a first node in response to a driving signal provided through the driving line; a first transistor connected between the first sub-line and the first node among the sub-lines and including a gate electrode connected to the driving line; and a second transistor connected between the second sub-line and the first node among the sub-lines and including a gate electrode connected to the driving line.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to an input sensing device and a display device including the same. Background Technology

[0002] Recently, as display devices such as smartphones and tablet PCs are being utilized in various fields, biometric authentication methods using users' fingerprints are being widely used. To provide fingerprint sensing functionality, fingerprint sensors may be embedded in the display device or attached to the top and / or bottom of the display device. Such a display device with an integrated fingerprint sensor is called a Fingerprint on Display (FoD).

[0003] The FoD can be composed of, for example, a light-sensing sensor. The light-sensing FoD uses a light-emitting element provided within a pixel as a light source and may be equipped with a light sensor array. The light sensor array may be implemented, for example, as a CMOS image sensor (CIS). The problem to be solved

[0004] The detection capability of an input detection device (e.g., a fingerprint sensor) may be degraded by noise introduced from the outside.

[0005] One objective of the present invention is to provide an input sensing device having enhanced sensing sensitivity and a display device including the same. means of solving the problem

[0006] To achieve one objective of the present invention, an input sensing device according to embodiments of the present invention comprises: a power line; driving lines; a first signal line including a plurality of sub-lines; a second signal line connected to the sub-lines; and sensor pixels connected to the power line, the driving lines, and the first signal line. At least one sensor pixel among the sensor pixels comprises: a light sensor that transmits a photoelectrically converted charge from the power line to a first node in response to a driving signal provided through the driving line; a first transistor connected between the first sub-line among the sub-lines and the first node and including a gate electrode connected to the driving line; and a second transistor connected between the second sub-line among the sub-lines and the first node and including a gate electrode connected to the driving line.

[0007] According to one embodiment, the optical sensor may include a photodiode connected between the power line and the first node; and a transmission transistor connected between the photodiode and the first node and including a gate electrode connected to a corresponding driving line among the driving lines.

[0008] According to one embodiment, the sub-lines extend in a first direction and are arranged along the first direction, the second signal line is arranged parallel to the first signal line, and the driving lines extend in a second direction intersecting the first direction and are arranged along the first direction.

[0009] According to one embodiment, the second signal line may be connected to each of the first sub-line and the second sub-line.

[0010] According to one embodiment, the width of the second signal line may be larger than the width of the first signal line.

[0011] According to one embodiment, the input detection device may further include a first driving unit connected to the driving lines and sequentially supplying the driving signal to the driving lines; and a second driving unit connected to the second signal line.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the first sensor pixel most separated from the second driving unit among the sensor pixels includes the light sensor and the second transistor, but may not include the first transistor.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the sensor pixel closest to the second driving unit among the sensor pixels may include the light sensor and the first transistor, but may not include the second transistor.

[0014] To achieve one objective of the present invention, an input sensing device according to embodiments of the present invention comprises: a power line; driving lines; a first signal line including a first sub-line, a second sub-line, and a third sub-line; a second signal line connected to the first signal line; and sensor pixel groups connected to the power line, the driving lines, and the first signal line. At least one sensor pixel group among the sensor pixel groups comprises: a plurality of optical sensors, each of which transmits a photoelectrically converted charge from the power line to the second sub-line in response to a driving signal provided through a corresponding driving line among the driving lines; and a first transistor connected between the first sub-line and the second sub-line, and comprising a gate electrode connected to the first driving line among the driving lines.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the at least one sensor pixel group may further include a second transistor connected between the third sub-line and the second sub-line, and including a gate electrode connected to the second driving line among the driving lines.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the first to third sub-lines extend in a first direction and are arranged along the first direction, the second signal line is arranged parallel to the first signal line, and the driving lines extend in a second direction intersecting the first direction and are arranged along the first direction.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the optical sensors include a first optical sensor and a second optical sensor, and each of the first and second optical sensors may include a photodiode connected between the power line and the second sub-line; and a transmission transistor connected between the photodiode and the second sub-line and including a gate electrode connected to a corresponding driving line among the driving lines.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the second signal line is directly connected to each of the first sub-line and the third sub-line, and may not be directly connected to the second sub-line.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the optical sensors include a first optical sensor, a second optical sensor, and a third optical sensor, and each of the first to third optical sensors may include a photodiode connected between the power line and the second sub-line; and a transmission transistor including a gate electrode connected between the photodiode and the second sub-line and connected to a corresponding driving line among the driving lines.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the second driving line is identical to the first driving line, and the second driving line may be different from the driving line connected to the gate electrode of each of the first to third optical sensors.

[0021] According to one embodiment, while a first driving signal of a gate-on voltage level is applied to the first driving line, a second driving signal of a gate-on voltage level may be sequentially provided to the first to third optical sensors.

[0022] To achieve one objective of the present invention, a display device according to embodiments of the present invention comprises: a display panel including a plurality of pixels for displaying an image; and an input sensing panel disposed on one surface of the display panel for detecting light. The input sensing panel comprises: a power line; driving lines; a first signal line including a plurality of sub-lines; a second signal line connected to the sub-lines; and sensor pixels connected to the power line, the driving lines, and the first signal line. Among the sensor pixels, the first sensor pixel comprises: a photodiode including a first electrode connected to the power line; a transmission transistor including a first electrode connected to a second electrode of the photodiode and a gate electrode connected to a first driving line among the driving lines; and a first transistor including a first electrode connected to a first sub-line among the sub-lines, a second electrode connected to a second electrode of the transmission transistor, and a gate electrode connected to the first driving line. Among the sensor pixels, the second sensor pixel comprises: a photodiode including a first electrode connected to the power line; A transfer transistor comprising a first electrode connected to a second electrode of the photodiode and a gate electrode connected to a second driving line among the driving lines; and a second transistor comprising a first electrode connected to the second electrode of the transfer transistor, a second electrode connected to a third sub-line among the sub-lines, and a gate electrode connected to the second driving line.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the sub-lines extend in a first direction and are arranged along the first direction, the second signal line is arranged parallel to the first signal line, and the driving lines extend in a second direction intersecting the first direction and are arranged along the first direction.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the second electrode of the first transistor is connected to the second electrode of the second transistor through a second sub-line among the sub-lines, and the second sub-line may be located between the first sub-line and the third sub-line.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the second signal line is directly connected to each of the first sub-line and the third sub-line, and may not be directly connected to the second sub-line. Effects of the invention

[0026] An input sensing device and a display device including the same according to embodiments of the present invention may reduce or block noise and leakage current introduced through the first signal line by including first and second transistors connected between sub-lines (or, a first signal line) to which optical sensors are connected. Accordingly, the sensing sensitivity of the input sensing device and the display device including the same may be improved. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0027] FIG. 1a is a block diagram showing a display device according to embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 1b is a block diagram showing another example of the display device of FIG. 1a. FIG. 2a is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the display device of FIG. 1a. FIG. 2b is a cross-sectional view showing another example of the display device of FIG. 1a. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of an input detection device included in the display device of FIG. 1a. Figure 4 is a circuit diagram showing an example of the input detection device of Figure 3. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of a sensor pixel included in the input detection device of Figure 4. Figure 6 is a waveform diagram illustrating the operation of the sensor pixel of Figure 5. Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating the change in noise caused by the sensor pixels of Figure 5. Figure 8 is a circuit diagram showing another example of the input detection device of Figure 3. FIGS. 9A and FIGS. 9B are circuit diagrams showing an example of a sensor array included in the input detection device of FIG. 3. FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing another example of an input detection device included in the display device of FIG. 1a. FIG. 11 is a circuit diagram showing an example of a sensor array included in the input detection device of FIG. 10. Figure 12 is a waveform diagram illustrating the operation of the sensor array of Figure 11. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0028] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present invention. The present invention may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0029] To clearly explain the present invention, parts unrelated to the explanation have been omitted, and the same reference numerals are assigned to identical or similar components throughout the specification. Accordingly, the reference numerals described above may also be used in other drawings.

[0030] Furthermore, the size and thickness of each component shown in the drawings are depicted arbitrarily for convenience of explanation, and thus the present invention is not necessarily limited to what is illustrated. Thickness may be exaggerated in the drawings to clearly represent various layers and regions.

[0032] FIG. 1a is a block diagram showing a display device according to embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 1b is a block diagram showing another example of the display device of FIG. 1a. A display device is schematically illustrated in FIG. 1a and FIG. 1b.

[0033] Referring to FIGS. 1a and 1b, the display device (1000) may include a display panel (100) and a driving unit (200). For convenience, the display panel (100) and the driving unit (200) are shown separately in FIGS. 1a and 1b, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, all or part of the driving unit (200) may be integrally implemented on the display panel (100).

[0034] The display panel (100) may have flexibility in whole or in at least part.

[0035] A display panel (100) includes a display area (AA) and a non-display area (NA). Pixels (PXL, or a plurality of pixels) are provided in the display area (AA), and the display area (AA) may be named an active area. A pixel (PXL) may include at least one light-emitting element. A display device (1000) drives the pixel (PXL) in response to image data input from the outside to display an image in the display area (AA).

[0036] In one embodiment, the display area (AA) may include an input detection area (FSA). The input detection area (FSA) may be provided with at least some of the pixels (PXL) provided in the display area (AA).

[0037] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1a, at least a portion of the display area (AA) may be set as an input detection area (FSA).

[0038] Meanwhile, FIG. 1a illustrates an example in which only one input detection area (FSA) is set in the display area (AA), but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, a plurality of input detection areas (FSA) arranged regularly or irregularly may be set in the display area (AA).

[0039] Additionally, FIG. 1a illustrates an example in which the input detection area (FSA) is set in at least a part of the display area (AA), but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the display area (AA) and the input detection area (FSA) may overlap only in at least a part of the area.

[0040] In another example, as illustrated in FIG. 1b, the entire display area (AA) may be set as an input detection area (FSA). In this case, when input detection is performed, the input detection operation may be performed only in the part where the user's touch is substantially made. Hereinafter, input refers to a pattern or biometric information formed by the ridges of the user's skin, and may include, for example, the user's fingerprint and palm pattern.

[0041] The non-display area (NA) is placed around the display area (AA) and may be named the non-active area. For example, the non-display area (NA) may include a wiring area, a pad area, and various dummy areas.

[0042] In one embodiment, the display device (1000) may further include a sensor pixel (SPXL) (or a plurality of sensor pixels) provided in an input detection area (FSA). The sensor pixel (SPXL) may be configured as a sensor for detecting light. In one embodiment, when light emitted from a light source (or pixel (PXL)) provided in the display device (1000) is reflected by the user's body (e.g., finger, palm), the sensor pixel (SPXL) may detect the reflected light and output a corresponding electrical signal (e.g., voltage signal). The electrical signal is transmitted to a driving unit (200) (e.g., input detection unit (220)) and may be used for input detection. Hereinafter, the present invention is described with the example that the sensor pixel (SPXL) is used for input detection (e.g., fingerprint detection), but the sensor pixel (SPXL) may also be used for various functions, such as a touch sensor or a scanner.

[0043] When a sensor pixel (SPXL) is provided in the input sensing area (FSA) (or placed on the input sensing area (FSA)), the sensor pixel (SPXL) may overlap with pixel (PXL) or be placed around pixel (PXL). For example, some or all of the sensor pixels (SPXL) may overlap with pixel (PXL), or the sensor pixels (SPXL) may be placed between pixel (PXL) and an adjacent pixel (PXL). The sensor pixels (SPXL) and pixel (PXL) may have the same or different sizes. The relative size and arrangement between the sensor pixels (SPLX) and pixel (PXL) are not particularly limited.

[0044] When a sensor pixel (SPXL) is positioned adjacent to a pixel (PXL) or overlaps with at least a portion of the pixel (PXL), the sensor pixel (SPXL) may use a light-emitting element provided in the pixel (PXL) as a light source. In this case, the sensor pixel (SPXL) may form a light-sensing input detection sensor together with the light-emitting element provided in the pixel (PXL). In this way, when an input detection sensor-embedded display device (e.g., a fingerprint sensor-embedded display device) is configured by utilizing the pixel (PXL) as a light source without a separate external light source, the thickness of the light-sensing input detection sensor and the display device equipped with it can be reduced, and manufacturing costs can be lowered.

[0045] In the embodiments, the sensor pixel (SPXL) may be placed on the back side (e.g., back side) opposite to the side (e.g., front side) where the image is displayed, among the two sides of the display panel (100). However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0046] The driving unit (200) can drive the display panel (100). For example, the driving unit (200) can output a data signal (DS) corresponding to image data to the display panel (100). Additionally, the driving unit (200) can output a driving signal for a sensor pixel (SPXL) and receive an electrical signal (e.g., a detection signal (SS)) from the sensor pixel (SPXL). The driving unit (200) can detect user input (e.g., fingerprint, palm print) using the electrical signal.

[0047] In the embodiments, the driving unit (200) may include a panel driving unit (210) and an input detection unit (220). For convenience, in FIGS. 1a and 1b, the panel driving unit (210) and the input detection unit (220) are shown separately, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, at least a portion of the input detection unit (220) may be integrated with the panel driving unit (210) or may operate in conjunction with the panel driving unit (210).

[0048] The panel driving unit (210) can sequentially scan the pixels (PXL) of the display area (AA) and supply a data signal (DS) corresponding to the image data to the pixels (PXL). In this case, the display panel (100) can display an image corresponding to the image data.

[0049] In one embodiment, the panel driver (210) may supply a driving signal for fingerprint detection to a pixel (PXL). Here, the driving signal may be provided to the pixel (PXL) so that the pixel (PXL) emits light and operates as a light source for the sensor pixel (SPXL). In this embodiment, the driving signal for fingerprint detection may be provided to a pixel (PXL) provided in a specific area within the display panel (100) (e.g., a pixel (PXL) provided in an input detection area (FSA)).

[0050] In one embodiment, image data corresponding to the input detection area (FSA) may be provided or controlled by the input detection unit (220). For example, during an input detection operation, the input detection unit (220) may provide image data or a control signal (IPD) corresponding to the image to be displayed in the input detection area (FSA) to the panel driving unit (210).

[0051] Additionally, a driving signal for fingerprint detection can be provided to the sensor pixel (SPXL) by the input detection unit (220).

[0052] The input detection unit (220) transmits a driving signal (e.g., a driving voltage) to the sensor pixel (SPXL) to drive the sensor pixel (SPXL), and can detect user input based on an electrical signal received from the sensor pixel (SPXL). For example, the input detection unit (220) can detect a user's fingerprint or palm print based on a detection signal (SS) supplied from the sensor pixel (SPXL) (or a sensor array including the sensor pixel (SPXL)).

[0053] The input detection unit (220) and the sensor pixel (SPXL) (or sensor array) can constitute an input detection device.

[0055] FIG. 2a is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the display device of FIG. 1a. FIG. 2a shows a cross-section in the input sensing area (FSA) of the display device (1000) of FIG. 1a and FIG. 1b.

[0056] Referring to FIGS. 1a to 2a, the display device (1000) may include a display panel (100) and a sensor array (PS) (or input detection panel) disposed on one side of the display panel (100) in an input detection area (FSA). Additionally, the display device (1000) may include a substrate (SUB), a circuit element layer (BPL), a light-emitting element layer (LDL), a first protective layer (PTL1), a first adhesive layer (ADL1), and a window (WIN) sequentially disposed on one side (e.g., the top side) of the substrate (SUB). Additionally, the display device (1000) may include a second adhesive layer (ADL2) and a second protective layer (PTL2) sequentially disposed on the other side (e.g., the bottom side) of the substrate (SUB).

[0057] The substrate (SUB) may be a substantially transparent light-transmitting substrate serving as the base material of the display panel (100). The substrate (SUB) may be a rigid substrate including glass or reinforced glass, or a flexible substrate made of plastic. However, the material of the substrate (SUB) is not limited thereto, and the substrate (SUB) may be composed of various materials.

[0058] A circuit element layer (BPL) is disposed on one side of a substrate (SUB) and may include at least one conductive layer. For example, the circuit element layer (BPL) may include a plurality of circuit elements constituting a pixel circuit of a pixel (PXL) and wirings for supplying various power sources and signals for driving the pixel (PXL). In this case, the circuit element layer (BPL) may include a plurality of conductive layers for constituting various circuit elements, such as at least one transistor and capacitor, and wirings connected thereto. Additionally, the circuit element layer (BPL) may include at least one insulating layer provided between the plurality of conductive layers.

[0059] A light-emitting element layer (LDL) may be disposed on one side of a circuit element layer (BPL). The light-emitting element layer (LDL) may include a light-emitting element (LD) (or a plurality of light-emitting elements) connected to circuit elements and / or wirings of the circuit element layer (BPL) through contact holes, etc. In one embodiment, at least one light-emitting element (LD) may be provided for a pixel (PXL) (or pixel area (PXA)). For example, the light-emitting element (LD) may be composed of an organic light-emitting element, or an inorganic light-emitting element such as a micro LED (light-emitting diode) or a quantum dot LED. Additionally, it may be a light-emitting element composed of a combination of organic and inorganic materials.

[0060] A pixel (PXL) may be configured to include circuit elements disposed in a circuit element layer (BPL) and at least one light-emitting element (LD) disposed in a light-emitting element layer (LDL) above the circuit element layer (BPL).

[0061] The first protective layer (PTL1) may be disposed on top of the light-emitting element layer (LDL) to cover the display area (AA). The first protective layer (PTL1) may include a sealing member such as a thin film encapsulation layer (TFE) or an encapsulation substrate, and may additionally include a protective film, etc., in addition to the sealing member.

[0062] The first adhesive layer (ADL1) is positioned between the first protective layer (PTL1) and the window (WIN) to bond the first protective layer (PTL1) and the window (WIN). The first adhesive layer (ADL1) may include a transparent adhesive such as OCA (optically clear adhesive) or OCR (optically clear resin), and may include various other adhesive materials.

[0063] A window (WIN) is a protective member disposed at the top of a module of a display device (1000) including a display panel (100), and may be a substantially transparent light-transmitting substrate. The window (WIN) may have a multilayer structure selected from a glass substrate, a plastic film, and a plastic substrate. The window (WIN) may include a rigid or flexible substrate, and the constituent material of the window (WIN) is not particularly limited.

[0064] The display device (1000) may further include a polarizing plate, an anti-reflective layer, and / or a touch sensor layer (touch electrode layer), etc. For example, the display device (1000) may further include a polarizing plate and / or a touch sensor layer disposed between a first protective layer (PTL1) and a window (WIN).

[0065] The second protective layer (PTL2) may be disposed on the other side of the substrate (SUB). The second protective layer (PTL2) may be bonded to the substrate (SUB) by the second adhesive layer (ADL2).

[0066] The second adhesive layer (ADL2) can firmly bond (or attach) the substrate (SUB) and the second protective layer (PTL2). The second adhesive layer (ADL2) may include a transparent adhesive such as OCA. The second adhesive layer (ADL2) may include a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) in which the adhesive material acts when pressure is applied to bond with the adhesive surface.

[0067] The second protective layer (PTL2) blocks the ingress of oxygen and / or moisture from the outside and can be provided in the form of a single layer or multiple layers. The second protective layer (PTL2) can be configured in the form of a film to further ensure the flexibility of the display panel (100). The second protective layer (PTL2) can be combined with the sensor array (PS) through another adhesive layer (not shown) including a transparent adhesive such as OCA.

[0068] A selective light blocking film may be further provided at the bottom of the second protective layer (PTL2). The selective light blocking film can block light of a specific frequency band (e.g., infrared) among the external light introduced into the display device (1000) to prevent the said light from being incident on the sensor pixel (SPXL) of the sensor array (PS). Although it has been described that a selective light blocking film is further provided at the bottom of the second protective layer (PTL2), the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0069] The sensor array (PS) is attached to another side (e.g., the back side) of the display panel (100) via an adhesive or the like so as to overlap with at least one area of ​​the display panel (100). For example, the sensor array (PS) may be positioned to overlap with the display panel (100) in an input detection area (FSA). The sensor array (PS) may include sensor pixels (SPXL) (or a plurality of sensor pixels) distributed at a predetermined resolution and / or spacing.

[0070] In one embodiment, although not illustrated, an optical system may be provided on the sensor array (PS) to collect light directed toward the sensor array (PS) and provide a light path. The width of the light-transmitting portion that guides light in the optical system may be determined by considering sensing precision and light conversion efficiency. The collection rate of light incident on the sensor array (PS) may be improved by the optical system. The optical system may be formed of optical fibers, silicon, etc.

[0071] The sensor pixels (SPXL) may have an appropriate number, size, and arrangement so that an identifiable fingerprint image can be generated from the electrical signal output from the sensor pixels (SPXL). The spacing between the sensor pixels (SPXL) and other sensor pixels may be set densely so that reflected light reflected from a detection target (e.g., fingerprint) can be incident on at least two adjacent sensor pixels (SPXL).

[0072] The sensor pixel (SPXL) can detect external light and output a corresponding electrical signal, for example, a voltage signal. The reflected light incident on the sensor pixel (SPXL) may have optical characteristics (e.g., frequency, wavelength, size, etc.) due to valleys and ridges formed on the user's body (e.g., fingers). Accordingly, the sensor pixel (SPXL) can output a detection signal (SS) corresponding to the optical characteristics of the reflected light.

[0073] The detection signal (SS) output from the sensor pixel (SPXL) is converted into image data by the input detection unit (220) and can be used for user identification (e.g., fingerprint authentication).

[0075] FIG. 2b is a cross-sectional view showing another example of the display device of FIG. 1a.

[0076] Referring to FIGS. 1a, 2a, and 2b, the display device (1000) may further include a light-blocking layer (PHL) containing a pinhole (PIH). The light-blocking layer (PHL) may be placed inside the display panel (100) or between the display panel (100) and a sensor pixel (SPXL), and may block a portion of the light incident on the sensor pixel (SPXL). For example, some of the light incident on the light-blocking layer (PHL) may be blocked, while the remaining portion may pass through the pinhole (PIH) and reach the sensor pixel (SPXL) located below the light-blocking layer (PHL).

[0077] A pinhole (PIH) may refer to an optical hole and may be a type of light-transmitting hole. For example, the pinhole (PIH) may be a light-transmitting hole having the smallest size (or area) among the light-transmitting holes formed by the layers of the display device (1000) overlapping each other on the path where reflected light passes through the display panel (100) in a diagonal or vertical direction and is incident on the sensor pixel (SPXL).

[0078] The pinhole (PIH) may have a predetermined width, for example, in the range of 5 μm to 20 μm. Accordingly, as it moves further away from the light-blocking layer (PHL) (i.e., towards the upper and lower directions of the light-blocking layer (PHL)), the width of the optical aperture area to be secured in each layer of the display device (1000) may gradually increase.

[0079] The width (or diameter) of the pinhole (PIH) can be set to approximately 10 times the wavelength of the reflected light, for example, approximately 4 μm or 5 μm or more, to prevent light diffraction. Additionally, the width of the pinhole (PIH) can be set to a size sufficient to prevent image blur and to detect the shape of the fingerprint more clearly. For example, the width of the pinhole (PIH) can be set to approximately 15 μm or less. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the width of the pinhole (PIH) may vary depending on the wavelength band of the reflected light and / or the thickness of each layer of the module, etc.

[0080] Only reflected light passing through the pinhole (PIH) can reach the sensor pixel (SPXL) of the sensor array (PS). Due to the very narrow width of the pinhole (PIH), the phase of the light reflected from the fingerprint and the phase of the image formed on the sensor array (PS) can have a 180-degree difference.

[0081] The sensor pixel (SPXL) can output a detection signal (SS), for example, a voltage signal, corresponding to the reflected light passing through the pinhole (PIH).

[0082] However, this is exemplary, and the configuration, arrangement, and driving method of the sensor array (PS) for detecting reflected light from a fingerprint are not limited to the sensor array (PS) shown in FIG. 2a or FIG. 2b.

[0084] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of an input detection device included in the display device of FIG. 1a. The input detection device (ISD) may be configured to include a sensor array (PS) and an input detection unit (220).

[0085] Referring to FIG. 1a and FIG. 3, the sensor array (PS) (or input sensing panel) may include sensor pixels (SPXL). In one embodiment, the sensor pixels (SPXL) may be arranged in a two-dimensional array, but are not limited thereto. The sensor pixels (SPXL) may include photoelectric elements that photoelectrically convert incident light into an electric charge according to the amount of light.

[0086] The input detection unit (220) may include a horizontal driving unit (221) (or, first driving unit, scan driving circuit), a vertical driving unit (222) (or, second driving unit, readout circuit), and a control unit (223).

[0087] A horizontal driving unit (221) can be connected to a sensor pixel (SPXL) through driving lines (H1 to Hn, where n is an integer greater than or equal to 2). The horizontal driving unit (221) is composed of a shift register or an address decoder, and can sequentially apply a driving signal (or driving signals) to the driving lines (H1 to Hn). Here, the driving signal may be a signal for selectively driving a sensor pixel (SPXL). For example, the horizontal driving unit (221) can apply a driving signal on a row-by-row basis.

[0088] The sensor pixel (SPXL) selected and driven by the horizontal driving unit (221) detects light using an internal photoelectric element and outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the detected light (i.e., a detection signal (SS)), for example, a voltage signal. The electrical signal may be an analog signal.

[0089] The vertical drive unit (222) is connected to output lines (V1 to Vm, where m is an integer greater than or equal to 2) and can be connected to a sensor pixel (SPXL) through the output lines (V1 to Vm). The vertical drive unit (222) can perform processing on a signal output from the sensor pixel (SPXL).

[0090] For example, the vertical drive unit (222) can perform Correlated Double Sampling (CDS) processing to remove noise from the electrical signal provided from the sensor pixel (SPXL). Additionally, the vertical drive unit (222) can convert the electrical signal in analog form into a signal in digital form. In one embodiment, an analog-to-digital converter is provided for each sensor pixel row and can process the electrical signals (or analog signals) provided from the sensor pixel row in parallel.

[0091] The control unit (223) can control the horizontal drive unit (221) and the vertical drive unit (222).

[0092] For example, the control unit (223) may provide a first driving voltage (e.g., gate off voltage), a second driving voltage (e.g., gate on voltage), a common voltage, a clock signal, and a control signal (e.g., a start pulse) to the horizontal driving unit (221). In this case, the horizontal driving unit (221) may generate a driving signal to selectively drive a sensor pixel (SPXL) based on the signals provided from the control unit (223).

[0093] For example, the control unit (223) may provide a clock signal and a control signal to the vertical drive unit (222). In this case, the vertical drive unit (222) may periodically sample the detection signal (SS) provided from the sensor pixel (SPXL) based on the clock signal and the control signal, and convert the sampled signal into a digital signal.

[0094] In one embodiment, the control unit (223) can generate image data corresponding to a detection signal (SS) received from the vertical drive unit (222) and perform processing of the generated image data. Additionally, the control unit (223) can detect an input (e.g., fingerprint, palm print) from the processed image data and authenticate or transmit the detected input externally.

[0095] However, this is for illustrative purposes only, and the generation and input detection of image data may not be performed by the control unit (223) but may be performed by an external host processor, etc.

[0096] Meanwhile, in FIG. 3, the horizontal driving unit (221), the vertical driving unit (222), and the control unit (223) are shown as being configured independently, but are not limited thereto. For example, the vertical driving unit (222) and the control unit (223) may be implemented as a single integrated circuit, and the horizontal driving unit (221) may be formed on the sensor array (PS) through the same process as the sensor pixel (SPXL).

[0098] FIG. 4 is a circuit diagram showing an example of an input detection device of FIG. 3. FIG. 4 briefly illustrates an input detection device centered on sensor pixels (SPXL) included in the i-1th to i+1th sensor pixel rows (where i is a positive integer less than n) and j-1th to j+1th sensor pixel columns (where j is a positive integer less than m), and vertical driving units (222) (or integration circuits) connected thereto. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a sensor pixel included in the input detection device of FIG. 4. FIG. 5 illustrates a sensor pixel (SPXL) included in the i-th sensor pixel row and the j-th sensor pixel column.

[0099] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 5, the input sensing device (ISD) (or sensor array (PS)) may include driving lines (Hi-1, Hi, Hi+1), output lines (Vj-1, Vj, Vj+1) (or second signal lines), signal lines (RXj-1, RXj, RXj+1) (or first signal lines), power line (PL1), and sensor pixels (SPXL) connected thereto.

[0100] The driving lines (Hi-1, Hi, Hi+1) extend to the second direction (DR2) and can be arranged along the first direction (DR1) that intersects the second direction (DR2).

[0101] The output lines (Vj-1, Vj, Vj+1) extend in the first direction (DR1) and can be arranged along the second direction (DR2).

[0102] The signal lines (RXj-1, RXj, RXj+1) extend in a first direction (DR1) and can be arranged along a second direction (DR2). The signal lines (RXj-1, RXj, RXj+1) extend parallel to the output lines (Vj-1, Vj, Vj+1), and the signal lines (RXj-1, RXj, RXj+1) and the output lines (Vj-1, Vj, Vj+1) can be arranged alternately along the second direction (DR2).

[0103] In the embodiments, each of the signal lines (RXj-1, RXj, RXj+1) may include a plurality of sub-lines. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the j-th signal line (RXj) may include a first sub-line (RX_S1) and a second sub-line (RX_S2). The first sub-line (RX_S1) and the second sub-line (RX_S2) extend in a first direction (DR1) and may be arranged along the first direction (DR1).

[0104] The power lines (PL1) are arranged in a matrix form, and a common voltage (VCOM) (e.g., ground voltage) can be applied to the power lines (PL1).

[0105] The sensor pixels (SPXL) can be electrically connected to the driving lines (Hi-1, Hi, Hi+1), output lines (Vj-1, Vj, Vj+1) (or, second signal lines), signal lines (RXj-1, RXj, RXj+1) (or, first signal lines), and power line (PL1).

[0106] Since the sensor pixels (SPXL) are substantially identical to one another, we will describe the sensor pixels (SPXL) included in the i-th sensor pixel row and the j-th sensor pixel column by encompassing the sensor pixels (SPXL).

[0107] Referring to FIG. 5, the sensor pixel (SPXL) may include a light sensor (PSC), a first transistor (T1), and a second transistor (T2).

[0108] The optical sensor (PSC) is connected to a power line (PL1), an i-th driving line (Hi), and a first node (N1), and can transmit a photoelectrically converted charge (or, a detection signal (SS, see FIG. 1a)) to the first node (N1) in response to a driving signal provided through the i-th driving line (Hi).

[0109] In one embodiment, the optical sensor (PSC) may include a photodiode (PD) and a transfer transistor (T_TX).

[0110] A photodiode (PD) is electrically connected between a power line (PL1) and a first node (N1) and can generate an electric charge (or current) based on incident light. That is, the photodiode (PD) can perform the function of photoelectric conversion. For example, the anode electrode of the photodiode (PD) can be connected to the power line (PL1), and the cathode electrode of the photodiode (PD) can be electrically connected to the first node (N1).

[0111] The transfer transistor (T_TX) may include a first electrode (or, first transistor electrode) connected to the cathode electrode of the photodiode (PD), a second electrode (or, second transistor electrode) electrically connected to the first node (N1), and a gate electrode connected to the i-th driving line (Hi).

[0112] That is, the transfer transistor (T_TX) is electrically connected between the cathode electrode of the photodiode (PD) and the first node (N1), and is turned on in response to a driving signal provided through the i-th driving line (Hi) (e.g., a driving signal of a gate-on voltage level that turns on the transistor), and can transfer the photoelectrically converted charge from the photodiode (PD) to the first node (N1).

[0113] In FIG. 5, the optical sensor (PSC) is shown to include a photodiode (PD) and a transfer transistor (T_TX), but the optical sensor (PSC) is not limited thereto. For example, the optical sensor (PSC) may further include a transistor for initializing the photodiode (PD), a capacitor for temporarily storing the charge of the photodiode (PD), and a transistor for transmitting a preset signal (e.g., current) to a first node (N1) in response to the charge of the photodiode (PD) (instead of the charge of the photodiode (PD)).

[0114] The first transistor (T1) may include a first electrode connected to the first sub-line (RX_S1), a second electrode connected to the first node (N1), and a gate electrode connected to the i-th driving line (Hi). That is, the first transistor (T1) is connected between the first sub-line (RX_S1) and the first node (N1), and is turned on in response to a driving signal provided through the i-th driving line (Hi) (e.g., a driving signal of the gate-on voltage level), and can electrically connect the first node (N1) and the first sub-line (RX_S1).

[0115] The second transistor (T2) may include a first electrode connected to the first node (N1), a second electrode connected to the second sub-line (RX_S2), and a gate electrode connected to the i-th driving line (Hi). That is, the second transistor (T2) is connected between the second sub-line (RX_S2) and the first node (N1), and is turned on in response to a driving signal provided through the i-th driving line (Hi) (e.g., a driving signal of the gate-on voltage level), and can electrically connect the first node (N1) and the second sub-line (RX_S2).

[0116] The j-th output line (Vj) can be connected to the first sub-line (RX_S1) and the second sub-line (RX_S2), respectively. In this case, the first electrode of the first transistor (T1) is electrically connected to the j-th output line (Vj) through the first sub-line (RX_S1), and the second electrode of the second transistor (T2) is electrically connected to the j-th output line (Vj) through the second sub-line (RX_S2), and the first transistor (T1) and the second transistor (T2) can form a current path between the first node (N1) and the j-th output line (Vj) in response to a driving signal provided through the i-th driving line (Hi).

[0117] When a driving signal is not applied to the i-th driving line (Hi) (or when a driving signal of a gate-off voltage level that turns on the transistor is applied to the i-th driving line (Hi), the first transistor (T1) and the second transistor (T2) remain in a turned-off state, and the optical sensor (PSC) can be electrically isolated from the j-th signal line (RXj) (i.e., the first sub-line (RX_S1) and the second sub-line (RX_S2)). Additionally, the first sub-line (RX_S1) and the second sub-line (RX_S2) become electrically isolated from each other, and the possibility of noise being introduced through the j-th signal line (RXj) and the magnitude of the noise can be reduced.

[0118] In addition, the first transistor (T1) and the second transistor (T2) block leakage current flowing through the transmission transistor (T_TX) and can block noise caused by leakage current of an unselected sensor pixel (SPX).

[0119] That is, the first transistor (T1) and the second transistor (T2) can form a noise prevention circuit for each sensor pixel (SPXL).

[0120] In the embodiments, the load (or resistance value) of the j-th output line (Vj) may be smaller than the load of the j-th signal line (RXj). For example, the first line width (W1) of the j-th output line (Vj) may be larger than the second line width (W2) of the j-th signal line (RXj) (e.g., the second sub-line (RX_S2)). Noise is blocked through the j-th signal line (RXj) having a relatively large load, and the charge (i.e., the noise-reduced detection signal) can be supplied directly to the vertical drive unit (222) through the j-th output line (Vj) having a relatively small load.

[0121] Although the transistors (T_TX, T1, T2) in FIG. 5 are shown as being P-type transistors, at least some of the transistors (T_TX, T1, T2) may be configured as N-type, and accordingly, the circuit structure of the sensor pixel (SPXL) may be varied.

[0122] Referring again to FIG. 4, the vertical drive unit (222) may include integration circuits. The integration circuits are each connected to output lines (Vj-1, Vj, Vj+1) through input terminals (OTj-1, OTj, OTj+1) and can each generate output signals (VOUTj-1, VOUTj, VOUTj+1). Since the integration circuits are substantially identical to each other, the integration circuit connected to the j-th output line (Vj) will be described as encompassing the integration circuits.

[0123] The integrating circuit (or, vertical driving unit (222)) may include an amplifier (AMP), a capacitor (CF), and a switch (SW). A first input terminal of the amplifier (AMP) (e.g., a positive (+) input terminal) is connected to a j-th output line (Vj) through a j-th input terminal (OTj), and a reference voltage (VREF) may be applied to a second input terminal of the amplifier (AMP) (e.g., a negative (-) input terminal).

[0124] A capacitor (CF) is connected between the first input terminal and the output terminal of an amplifier (AMP), and a switch (SW) can be connected in parallel to the capacitor (CF).

[0125] When the switch (SW) is turned off, the capacitor (CF) integrates the charge (i.e., the detection signal) provided to the first input terminal of the amplifier (AMP), and the amplifier (AMP) can output the integrated detection signal, i.e., the j-th output signal (VOUTj), through the output terminal.

[0126] When the switch (SW) is turned on, the capacitor (CF) can be initialized.

[0127] As described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, the sensor pixel (SPXL) includes first and second transistors (T1, T2) connected between sub-lines (RX_S1, RX_S2) of the signal line (RXj), and the first and second transistors (T1, T2) can be used to reduce or block noise entering through the signal line (RXj) and noise (or leakage current) entering from the optical sensor (PSC). Accordingly, the sensing sensitivity of the input sensing device (ISD) can be improved.

[0129] Figure 6 is a waveform diagram illustrating the operation of the sensor pixel of Figure 5.

[0130] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 6, the i-th driving signal (SCANi) is provided to the i-th driving line (Hi), and the output signal (Vout) may correspond to the j-th output line (Vj). That is, the output signal (Vout) may be the j-th output signal (VOUTj) output through an integration circuit connected to the j-th output line (Vj).

[0131] At the first time point (t1), the i-th driving signal (SCANi) can be changed from a logic high level (or, gate off voltage level) to a logic low level (or, gate on voltage level).

[0132] In this case, the transfer transistor (T_TX), the first transistor (T1), and the second transistor (T2) of the sensor pixel (SPXL) are turned on, and the charge (or current) generated in the photodiode (PD) can be transferred to the j-th output line (Vj) through the transfer transistor (T_TX), the first node (N1), the first transistor (T1), the second transistor (T2), and the j-th signal line (RXj) (or the first sub-line (RX_S1) and the second sub-line (RX_S2)).

[0133] The integration circuit described with reference to FIG. 4 integrates the charge provided through the j-th output line (Vj), and accordingly, the voltage level of the output signal (Vout) gradually rises and can saturate at a specific voltage level.

[0134] When reflected light corresponding to a valley is incident on the sensor pixel (SPXL), the output signal (Vout) changes along the first curve (WF1) and may have a first voltage level (Vvalley). In contrast, when reflected light corresponding to a ridge is incident on the sensor pixel (SPXL), the output signal (Vout) changes along the second curve (WF2) and may have a second voltage level (Vridge). The second voltage level (Vridge) may be lower than the first voltage level (Vvalley).

[0135] Meanwhile, if noise is introduced into the input detection device (ISD) (or sensor array (PS)), the output signal (Vout) corresponding to the ridge changes along a third curve (WF3) different from the second curve (WF2) and may have a third voltage level (Vnoise). In this case, the signal-to-noise ratio decreases (e.g., the value of "(Vvalley - Vridge) / Vnoise" decreases), and the ridge may not be properly detected.

[0136] Accordingly, the sensor pixel (SPXL) reduces noise through the first and second transistors (T1, T2) connected between the sub-lines (RX_S1, RX_S2) of the signal line (RXj-1), and the sensing sensitivity (or signal-to-noise ratio) of the input sensing device (ISD) can be improved.

[0138] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating the change in noise caused by the sensor pixels of Figure 5.

[0139] Referring to FIGS. 4, 5, and 7, when the sensor pixel (SPXL) does not include the first and second transistors (T1, T2), the load of the j-th signal line (RXj) can be expressed as 100%. For example, the level of noise introduced through the j-th signal line (RXj) having a load of 100% can be about 8.5 mV.

[0140] SPXL is electrically blocked by at least one of the first and second transistors (T1, T2) in the first direction (DR1) of the j-th signal line (RXj), and accordingly, the level of noise (NOISE) introduced through the j-th signal line (RXj) can be reduced.

[0141] As described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, when each sensor pixel (SPXL) includes first and second transistors (T1, T2) and (Vj), the load of the j-th signal line (RXj) (and the j-th output line (RXj) connected thereto) is reduced to about 50% or less, and in this case, the level of noise introduced through the j-th signal line (RXj) can be reduced. For example, the level of noise can be reduced to about 5 mV or less.

[0143] Figure 8 is a circuit diagram showing another example of the input detection device of Figure 3.

[0144] Referring to FIGS. 3, 4, 5 and 8, the input sensing device (ISD_1) (or sensor array (PS_1)) of FIG. 8 is different from the input sensing device (ISD) (or sensor array (PS)) of FIG. 4 in that at least one sensor pixel (SPXL) includes only one of the first and second transistors (T1, T2).

[0145] As shown in FIG. 8, the first sensor pixel (SPXL1) connected to the j signal line (Vj) and furthest from the vertical drive unit (222) includes the second transistor (T2) described with reference to FIG. 5 and may not include the first transistor (T1).

[0146] Additionally, the nth sensor pixel (SPXLn) connected to the jth signal line (Vj) and closest to the vertical drive unit (222) may include the first transistor (T1) described with reference to FIG. 5 and may not include the second transistor (T2).

[0147] Any sensor pixel connected to the j-th signal line (Vj) and located between the first sensor pixel (SPXL1) and the n-th sensor pixel (SPXLn) may include both the first and second transistors (T1, T2), as described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0148] As described with reference to FIG. 8, the input sensing device (ISD_1) may include at least one sensor pixel (e.g., a first sensor pixel (SPXL1) and / or an nth sensor pixel (SPXLn)) having a pixel structure different from the sensor pixel (SPXL) described with reference to FIG. 4 and FIG. 5.

[0150] FIGS. 9A and 9B are circuit diagrams showing an example of a sensor array included in the input sensing device of FIG. 3. FIGS. 9A and 9B show sensor pixels (SPXLi-1, SPXLi, SPXLi+1) included in the i-1st to i+1th sensor pixel rows and the jth sensor pixel column.

[0151] Referring to FIGS. 3, 4, 9a, and 9b, the sensor array (PS_2) of FIGS. 9a and 9b is different from the sensor array (PS) shown in FIGS. 4 in that the sensor pixels (SPXLi-1, SPXLi, SPXLi+1) include a first transistor (T1) or a second transistor (T2).

[0152] The sensor array (PS_2) includes a k-th sensor pixel group (G_SPXLk) (where k is a positive integer less than n), and the k-th sensor pixel group (G_SPXLk) may include sensor pixels (SPXLi-1, SPXLi) and a pair of first and second transistors (T1, T2) included therein.

[0153] As shown in FIG. 9a, the k-th sensor pixel group (G_SPXLk) may include the i-1th sensor pixel (SPXLi-1) and the i-th sensor pixel (SPXLi), i.e., two sensor pixels.

[0154] The i-1 sensor pixel (SPXLi-1) (or odd-numbered sensor pixels) includes the i-1 light sensor (PSCi-1) and the first transistor (T1), and may not include the second transistor (T2).

[0155] The i-1 light sensor (PSCi-1) can be connected to the power line (PL1), the i-1 driving line (Hi-1), and the second sub-line (RX_S2). Since the i-1 light sensor (PSCi-1) is substantially identical to the light sensor (PSC) described with reference to FIG. 5, except that it is connected to the second sub-line (RX_S2) instead of the first node (N1), redundant descriptions will not be repeated. The first sub-line (RX_S1), the second sub-line (RX_S2), the third sub-line (RX_S3), and the fourth sub-line (RX_S4) can be included in the j signal line (RXj).

[0156] The first transistor (T1) of the i-1 sensor pixel (SPXLi-1) may include a first electrode connected to a first sub-line (RX_S1), a second electrode connected to a second sub-line (RX_S2) (or the second electrode of the transmission transistor (T_TX) of the i-1 optical sensor (PSCi-1), and a gate electrode connected to an i-1 driving line (Hi-1).

[0157] The i-th sensor pixel (SPXLi) (or, even-numbered sensor pixels) includes the i-th light sensor (PSCi) and the second transistor (T2), and may not include the first transistor (T1).

[0158] The i-th optical sensor (PSCi) may be connected to the power line (PL1), the i-th driver line (Hi), and the second sub-line (RX_S2). The i-th optical sensor (PSCi) may be substantially identical to the i-1 optical sensor (PSCi-1). That is, the i-th optical sensor (PSCi) (or the i-th sensor pixel (SPXLi)) and the i-1 optical sensor (PSCi-1) (or the i-1 sensor pixel (SPXLi-1)) are directly connected via the second sub-line (RX_S2), and a separate transistor may not be placed between the i-th optical sensor (PSCi) and the i-1 optical sensor (PSCi-1) to connect or disconnect them.

[0159] The second transistor (T2) of the i-th sensor pixel (SPXLi) may include a second electrode connected to a first electrode connected to a second sub-line (RX_S2) (or a second electrode of a transmission transistor (T_TX) of the i-th optical sensor (PSCi)), and a gate electrode connected to a i-th driving line (Hi).

[0160] Meanwhile, the j-th output line (Vj) is connected to the first sub-line (RX_S1) and the third sub-line (RX_S3), and may not be directly connected to the second sub-line (RX_S2) and the fourth sub-line (RX_S4).

[0161] That is, the first transistor (T1) and the second transistor (T2), which perform a noise prevention function for the j-th signal line (RXj), may be provided for each sensor pixel group (e.g., a sensor pixel group including two sensor pixels) instead of being provided for each sensor pixel (SPX) described with reference to FIG. 5.

[0162] In this case, the number of transistors provided in the sensor array (PS_2) (or input detection device) may be reduced.

[0163] The i+1 sensor pixel (SPXLi+1) is included in a sensor pixel group different from the k-th sensor pixel group (G_SPXLk) and, similar to the i-1 sensor pixel (SPXLi-1), may include a first transistor (T1) connected between the i+1 light sensor (PSCi+1), the third sub-line (RX_S3), and the fourth sub-line (RX_S4).

[0164] As described with reference to FIG. 9a, a sensor pixel group (or each of the sensor pixel groups) including a plurality of sensor pixels may include a pair of first and second transistors (T1, T2). Accordingly, the number of first and second transistors (T1, T2) provided in the sensor array (PS_2) may be reduced, manufacturing costs may be reduced, or the integration density of the sensor pixels may be relatively improved.

[0165] Meanwhile, in FIG. 9a, the i-1 sensor pixel (SPXLi-1) (or i-1 optical sensor (PSCi-1)) and the i sensor pixel (SPXLi) (or i optical sensor (PSCi)) within the k-th sensor pixel group (G_SPXLk) are shown to be electrically connected through the second sub-line (RX_S2), but the configuration of the k-th sensor pixel group (G_SPXLk) is not limited to this. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 9b, the j-th signal line (RXj) may include only the first sub-line (RX_S1) and the third sub-line (RX_S3) (i.e., odd-numbered sub-lines) and not include the second sub-line (RX_S2) and the fourth sub-line (RX_S4) (i.e., even-numbered sub-lines, or sub-lines not directly connected to the j-th output line (Vj)), and the i-1-th sensor pixel (SPXLi-1) and the i-th sensor pixel (SPXLi) within the k-th sensor pixel group (G_SPXLk) may not be directly connected.

[0167] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing another example of an input detection device included in the display device of FIG. 1a. The input detection device (ISD_2) may be configured to include a sensor array (PS_3) and an input detection unit (220).

[0168] Referring to FIG. 1a, FIG. 3 and FIG. 10, the input detection device (ISD_2) of FIG. 10 differs from the input detection device (ISD) of FIG. 3 in that it includes a sensor array (PS_3), a horizontal drive unit (221_1), and group drive lines (GH1 to GHp, where p is a positive integer smaller than n). Except for the sensor array (PS_3), the horizontal drive unit (221_1), and the group drive lines (GH1 to GHp), the input detection device (ISD_2) of FIG. 10 is substantially identical or similar to the input detection device (ISD) of FIG. 3, so redundant descriptions will not be repeated.

[0169] The sensor array (PS_3) includes a sensor pixel group (G_SPXL_1) (or sensor pixel groups), and the sensor pixel group (G_SPXL_1) may include a plurality of sensor pixels (SPXL1_1 to SPXLq_1, wherein q is an integer of 2 or more).

[0170] The specific configuration of the sensor pixels (SPXL1_1 to SPXLq_1) within the sensor pixel group (G_SPXL_1) will be described later with reference to FIG. 11.

[0171] A horizontal driving unit (221_1) can be connected to a sensor pixel group (G_SPXL_1) via group driving lines (GH1 to GHp) (or second driving lines). The horizontal driving unit (221_1) is composed of a shift register or an address decoder, and can sequentially apply a group driving signal (or group driving signals, or a first driving signal) to the group driving lines (GH1 to GHp). Here, the group driving signal may be a signal for selectively driving the sensor pixel group (G_SPXL_1). Sensor pixels (SPXL1_1 to SPXLq_1) included in the sensor pixel group (G_SPXL_1) can receive the same group driving signal.

[0172] Additionally, the horizontal driving unit (221_1) can be connected to each of the sensor pixels (SPXL1_1 to SPXLq_1) through driving lines (H1 to Hn) (or first driving lines). The horizontal driving unit (221) can sequentially apply a driving signal (or driving signals, or a second driving signal) to the driving lines (H1 to Hn).

[0173] Each of the sensor pixels (SPXL1_1 to SPXLq_1) selected by the group driving signal and driving signal provided from the horizontal driving unit (221) detects light using an internal photoelectric element and outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the detected light.

[0175] FIG. 11 is a circuit diagram showing an example of a sensor array included in the input sensing device of FIG. 10. FIG. 11 shows sensor pixels (SPXLi-1_1, SPXLi_1, SPXLi+1_1) included in the k-th sensor pixel group (G_SPXLk_1, where k is a positive integer) and included in the i-1th to i+1th sensor pixel rows and the j-th sensor pixel column.

[0176] Referring to FIG. 11, the k-th sensor pixel group (G_SPXLk_1) may include the i-1th sensor pixel (SPXLi-1_1), the i-th sensor pixel (SPXLi_1), and the i+1th sensor pixel (SPXLi+1_1). That is, the k-th sensor pixel group (G_SPXLk_1) may include three sensor pixels (SPXLi-1_1, SPXLi_1, SPXLi+1_1) (i.e., q is 3). However, this is exemplary, and the number of sensor pixels included in the k-th sensor pixel group (G_SPXLk_1) is not limited thereto; for example, the number of sensor pixels included in the k-th sensor pixel group (G_SPXLk_1) may be two or four or more.

[0177] The i-1 sensor pixel (SPXLi-1_1) may include the i-1 light sensor (PSCi-1) and the first transistor (T1).

[0178] The i-1 optical sensor (PSCi-1) is connected to the power line (PL1), the i-1 driving line (Hi-1), and the second sub-line (RX_S2_1), and can be driven in response to a driving signal provided through the i-1 driving line (Hi-1). Since the i-1 optical sensor (PSCi-1) is substantially the same as the i-1 optical sensor (PSCi-1) described with reference to FIG. 9a, redundant descriptions will not be repeated. The first sub-line (RX_S1_1), the second sub-line (RX_S2_1), and the third sub-line (RX_S3_1) may be included in the j signal line (RXj).

[0179] The first transistor (T1) of the i-1 sensor pixel (SPXLi-1_1) may include a first electrode connected to a first sub-line (RX_S1_1), a second electrode connected to a second sub-line (RX_S2_1) (or the second electrode of the transmission transistor (T_TX) of the i-1 optical sensor (PSCi-1)), and a gate electrode connected to a k-th group driving line (GHk).

[0180] The i-th sensor pixel (SPXLi_1) includes the i-th light sensor (PSCi) and may not include the first and second transistors (T1, T2).

[0181] The i-th optical sensor (PSCi) is connected to the power line (PL1), the i-th driving line (Hi), and the second sub-line (RX_S2_1), and can be driven in response to a driving signal provided through the i-th driving line (Hi). The i-th optical sensor (PSCi) may be substantially identical to the i-1 optical sensor (PSCi-1).

[0182] The i+1 sensor pixel (SPXLi+1_1) may include the i+1 light sensor (PSCi+1) and the second transistor (T2).

[0183] The i+1 optical sensor (PSCi+1) is connected to the power line (PL1), the i+1 driving line (Hi+1), and the second sub-line (RX_S2_1), and can be driven in response to a driving signal provided through the i+1 driving line (Hi+1). The i+1 optical sensor (PSCi-1) may be substantially the same or similar as the i optical sensor (PSCi) described with reference to FIG. 9a.

[0184] In this case, the i-1 light sensor (PSCi-1) (or, the i-1 sensor pixel (SPXLi-1_1)), the i light sensor (PSCi) (or, the i sensor pixel (SPXLi_1)), and the i+1 light sensor (PSCi+1) (or, the i+1 sensor pixel (SPXLi+1_1)) are directly connected to each other through the second sub-line (RX_S2_1), and a separate transistor for connecting or disconnecting them between the i-1 light sensor (PSCi-1), the i light sensor (PSCi), and the i+1 light sensor (PSCi+1) may not be placed.

[0185] The second transistor (T2) of the i+1 sensor pixel (SPXLi+1_1) may include a first electrode connected to a second sub-line (RX_S2_1) (or the second electrode of the transmission transistor (T_TX) of the i+1 optical sensor (PSCi+1)), a second electrode connected to a third sub-line (RX_S3_1), and a gate electrode connected to a k-th group driving line (GHk).

[0186] Meanwhile, the j-th output line (Vj) is connected to the first sub-line (RX_S1_1) and the third sub-line (RX_S3_1), and may not be directly connected to the second sub-line (RX_S2_1).

[0187] That is, the first transistor (T1) and the second transistor (T2), which perform a noise prevention function for the j signal line (RXj), may be provided for each sensor pixel group (e.g., a sensor pixel group including three sensor pixels).

[0188] Fig. 12 may be referenced to describe the operation of the k-th sensor pixel group (G_SPXLk_1) and each of the i-1th sensor pixel (SPXLi-1_1), i-th sensor pixel (SPXLi_1), and i+1th sensor pixel (SPXLi+1_1) included therein.

[0189] Figure 12 is a waveform diagram illustrating the operation of the sensor array of Figure 11.

[0190] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, a group driving signal (GSCAN) (or a first driving signal) may be provided to a k-th group driving line (GHk) (or a first driving line), an i-1 driving signal (SCANi-1) (or a second driving signal) may be provided to an i-1 driving line (Hi-1), an i-th driving signal (SCANi) may be provided to an i-th driving line (Hi), and an i+1 driving signal (SCANi+1) may be provided to an i+1 driving line (Hi+1).

[0191] In the first section (P1), the second section (P2), and the third section (P3), the group driving signal (GSCAN) may have a logic low level (or, gate-on voltage level). In the sections excluding the first to third sections (P1 to P3), the group driving signal (GSCAN) may have a logic high level (or, gate-off voltage level).

[0192] When a logic high level group driving signal (GSCAN) is provided to the k-th group driving line (GHk) (or when the group driving signal (GSCAN) is not provided to the k-th group driving line (GHk)), the first transistor (T1) and the second transistor (T2) in the k-th sensor pixel group (G_SPXLk_1) remain in a turned-off state, and the i-1 sensor pixel (SPXLi-1_1), the i-1 sensor pixel (SPXLi_1), and the i+1 sensor pixel (SPXLi+1_1) (and the second sub-line (RX_S2_1)) can be electrically isolated from the first sub-line (RX_S1_1) and the third sub-line (RX_S3_1) (and the j-th output line (Vj)). In addition, the first sub-line (RX_S1_1), the second sub-line (RX_S2_1), and the third sub-line (RX_S3_1) are electrically isolated from each other, and the possibility of noise being introduced through the j-th signal line (RXj) and the magnitude of the noise can be reduced.

[0193] When a logic low level group drive signal (GSCAN) is provided to the k-th group drive line (GHk), the first transistor (T1) and the second transistor (T2) in the k-th sensor pixel group (G_SPXLk_1) are turned on, and the i-1 sensor pixel (SPXLi-1_1), the i-1 sensor pixel (SPXLi_1), and the i+1 sensor pixel (SPXLi+1_1) can be electrically connected to the j-th output line (Vj) through the second sub-line (RX_S2_1). In this case, other sensor pixel groups (and their corresponding sub-lines), excluding the k-th sensor pixel group (G_SPXLk_1), can remain electrically isolated from the j-th output line (Vj).

[0194] In the first section (P1), the i-1 driving signal (SCANi-1) has a logic low level, and as described with reference to FIG. 6, the photoelectrically converted charge (or detection signal) from the i-1 sensor pixel (SPXLi-1_1) (or the i-1 optical sensor (PSCi-1)) can be transmitted to the j output line (Vj) through the second sub-line (RX_S2_1), the first and second transistors (T1, T2), and the first and third sub-lines (RX_S1_1, RX_S3_1).

[0195] Similarly, in the second section (P2), the i-th driving signal (SCANi) has a logic low level, and the photoelectrically converted charge from the i-th sensor pixel (SPXLi_1) (or, the i-th optical sensor (PSCi)) can be transmitted to the j-th output line (Vj) through the second sub-line (RX_S2_1), the first and second transistors (T1, T2), and the first and third sub-lines (RX_S1_1, RX_S3_1).

[0196] In the third section (P3), the i+1 driving signal (SCANi+1) has a logic low level, and the photoelectrically converted charge from the i+1 sensor pixel (SPXLi+1_1) (or, the i+1 light sensor (PSCi+1)) can be transferred to the j output line (Vj).

[0197] As described with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12, a sensor pixel group comprising a plurality of sensor pixels may include a pair of first and second transistors (T1, T2). Accordingly, the number of first and second transistors (T1, T2) provided in the sensor array (PS_3) may be reduced, manufacturing costs may be reduced, or the integration density of the sensor pixels may be relatively improved.

[0198] Meanwhile, if the k-th sensor pixel group (G_SPXLk_1) includes two sensor pixels, the i-th sensor pixel (SPXLi_1) within the k-th sensor pixel group (G_SPXLk_1) may be omitted. That is, the k-th sensor pixel group (G_SPXLk_1) may include only two sensor pixels corresponding to the i-1-th sensor pixel (SPXLi-1_1) and the i+1-th sensor pixel (SPXLi+1_1).

[0199] In contrast, if the k-th sensor pixel group (G_SPXLk_1) includes four or more sensor pixels, the i-th sensor pixel (SPXLi_1) may be provided in multiple numbers within the k-th sensor pixel group (G_SPXLk_1). That is, the k-th sensor pixel group (G_SPXLk_1) may include two or more sensor pixels that are substantially identical to the i-th sensor pixel (SPXLi_1) between the i-1-th sensor pixel (SPXLi-1_1) and the i+1-th sensor pixel (SPXLi+1_1).

[0201] The drawings and detailed description of the invention referenced so far are merely exemplary of the invention and are used only for the purpose of explaining the invention, not to limit the meaning or the scope of the invention as defined in the claims. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalent alternative embodiments are possible therefrom. Accordingly, the true technical scope of protection of the invention should be determined by the technical spirit of the appended claims. Explanation of the symbols

[0202] 1000: Display device 100: Display panel 200: Drive unit 210: Panel drive unit 220: Input detection unit 221: Horizontal driving unit 222: Vertical drive unit 223: Control unit GH: Group driver line G_SPXL: Sensor pixel group H: Driving line ISD: Input detection device PL1: Power line PS: Sensor array PSC: Optical sensor RX: Signal line RX_S: Subline SPXL: Sensor Pixel V: Output line

Claims

Claim 1 An input sensing device comprising: a power line; driving lines; a first signal line including a plurality of sub-lines; a second signal line connected to the sub-lines; and sensor pixels connected to the power line, the driving lines, and the first signal line, wherein at least one of the sensor pixels is a light sensor that transmits a photoelectrically converted charge from the power line to a first node in response to a driving signal provided through the driving line; a first transistor connected between the first sub-line and the first node among the sub-lines and including a gate electrode connected to the driving line; and a second transistor connected between the second sub-line and the first node among the sub-lines and including a gate electrode connected to the driving line. Claim 2 The input sensing device according to claim 1, wherein the optical sensor comprises: a photodiode connected between the power line and the first node; and a transmission transistor connected between the photodiode and the first node and including a gate electrode connected to a corresponding driving line among the driving lines. Claim 3 An input sensing device according to claim 1, wherein the sub-lines extend in a first direction and are arranged along the first direction, the second signal line is arranged parallel to the first signal line, and the driving lines extend in a second direction intersecting the first direction and are arranged along the first direction. Claim 4 In claim 3, the second signal line is connected to each of the first sub-line and the second sub-line, an input detection device. Claim 5 In claim 3, the input detection device wherein the width of the second signal line is greater than the width of the first signal line. Claim 6 An input sensing device according to claim 1, further comprising: a first driving unit connected to the driving lines and sequentially supplying the driving signal to the driving lines; and a second driving unit connected to the second signal line. Claim 7 In claim 6, the first sensor pixel among the sensor pixels that is furthest apart from the second driving unit comprises the light sensor and the second transistor, but does not comprise the first transistor, in an input sensing device. Claim 8 In claim 6, the sensor pixel closest to the second driving unit among the sensor pixels comprises the optical sensor and the first transistor, but does not comprise the second transistor, an input sensing device. Claim 9 An input sensing device comprising: a power line; driving lines; a first signal line including a first sub-line, a second sub-line, and a third sub-line; a second signal line connected to the first signal line; and sensor pixel groups connected to the power line, the driving lines, and the first signal line, wherein at least one sensor pixel group among the sensor pixel groups comprises a plurality of optical sensors, each of which transmits a photoelectrically converted charge from the power line to the second sub-line in response to a driving signal provided through a corresponding driving line among the driving lines; and a first transistor connected between the first sub-line and the second sub-line, and comprising a gate electrode connected to the first driving line among the driving lines. Claim 10 In claim 9, the input sensing device further comprises a second transistor having a gate electrode connected to the second driving line among the driving lines, wherein the at least one sensor pixel group is connected between the third sub-line and the second sub-line. Claim 11 An input sensing device according to claim 10, wherein the first to third sub-lines extend in a first direction and are arranged along the first direction, the second signal line is arranged parallel to the first signal line, and the driving lines extend in a second direction intersecting the first direction and are arranged along the first direction. Claim 12 An input sensing device according to claim 10, wherein the optical sensors include a first optical sensor and a second optical sensor, and each of the first and second optical sensors includes a photodiode connected between the power line and the second sub-line; and a transmission transistor connected between the photodiode and the second sub-line and including a gate electrode connected to a corresponding driving line among the driving lines. Claim 13 An input detection device according to claim 12, wherein the second signal line is directly connected to each of the first sub-line and the third sub-line, and is not directly connected to the second sub-line. Claim 14 An input sensing device according to claim 10, wherein the optical sensors include a first optical sensor, a second optical sensor, and a third optical sensor, and each of the first to third optical sensors includes a photodiode connected between the power line and the second sub-line; and a transmission transistor connected between the photodiode and the second sub-line and including a gate electrode connected to a corresponding driving line among the driving lines. Claim 15 An input sensing device according to claim 14, wherein the second driving line is identical to the first driving line, and the second driving line is different from the driving line connected to the gate electrode of each of the first to third optical sensors. Claim 16 An input sensing device according to claim 15, wherein while a first driving signal of a gate-on voltage level is applied to the first driving line, a second driving signal of a gate-on voltage level is sequentially provided to the first to third optical sensors. Claim 17 A display panel comprising a plurality of pixels for displaying an image; and an input detection panel disposed on one side of the display panel for detecting light, wherein the input detection panel comprises: a power line; driving lines; a first signal line comprising a plurality of sub-lines; a second signal line connected to the sub-lines; and sensor pixels connected to the power line, the driving lines, and the first signal line, wherein the first sensor pixel among the sensor pixels comprises: a photodiode comprising a first electrode connected to the power line; a transmission transistor comprising a first electrode connected to a second electrode of the photodiode and a gate electrode connected to a first driving line among the driving lines; and a first transistor comprising a first electrode connected to a first sub-line among the sub-lines, a second electrode connected to a second electrode of the transmission transistor, and a gate electrode connected to the first driving line, wherein the second sensor pixel among the sensor pixels comprises: a photodiode comprising a first electrode connected to the power line; a transmission transistor comprising a first electrode connected to a second electrode of the photodiode and a gate electrode connected to a second driving line among the driving lines; A display device comprising a second transistor including a first electrode connected to a second electrode of the transmission transistor, a second electrode connected to a third sub-line among the sub-lines, and a gate electrode connected to the second driving line. Claim 18 A display device according to claim 17, wherein the sub-lines extend in a first direction and are arranged along the first direction, the second signal line is arranged parallel to the first signal line, and the driving lines extend in a second direction intersecting the first direction and are arranged along the first direction. Claim 19 A display device according to claim 17, wherein the second electrode of the first transistor is connected to the second electrode of the second transistor through the second sub-line among the sub-lines, and the second sub-line is located between the first sub-line and the third sub-line. Claim 20 A display device according to claim 19, wherein the second signal line is directly connected to each of the first sub-line and the third sub-line, and is not directly connected to the second sub-line.

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