Touch panel

Abstract

The present invention provides a touch panel capable of increasing detection precision. Or, provides a touch panel capable of increasing detection sensitivity. A touch panel comprising a first conductive layer, a second conductive layer, a plurality of display elements, and a scan line. The first conductive layer has a first portion which is a straight line portion parallel to a first direction in a part of the contour when viewed from a planar view. The second conductive layer has a second portion which is a straight line portion parallel to a first direction in a part of the contour when viewed from a planar view. The first portion and the second portion are provided facing each other. The display elements are provided at a position where the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer do not overlap. Additionally, the scan line has a portion extending in a second direction. Furthermore, the angle formed by the first direction and the second direction is 30° or greater and 60° or less.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] One embodiment of the present invention relates to an input device. One embodiment of the present invention relates to a display device. One embodiment of the present invention relates to an input / output device. In particular, one embodiment of the present invention relates to a touch panel.

[0002] Furthermore, one embodiment of the present invention is not limited to the technical field described above. Examples of the technical field to which one embodiment of the present invention belongs include semiconductor devices, display devices, light-emitting devices, capacitor devices, memory devices, electronic devices, lighting devices, input devices, input / output devices, methods for driving the same, or methods for manufacturing the same.

[0003] In addition, in this specification, the term "semiconductor device" refers to any device capable of functioning by utilizing semiconductor characteristics. Semiconductor devices such as transistors, as well as semiconductor circuits, computing devices, and memory devices, are forms of semiconductors. Imaging devices, display devices, liquid crystal display devices, light-emitting devices, input devices, input / output devices, electro-optical devices, power generation devices (including thin-film solar cells, organic thin-film solar cells, etc.), and electronic devices may have semiconductor devices. Background Technology

[0004] In recent years, display devices equipped with touch sensors as a means of location input have been commercialized. Display devices equipped with touch sensors are referred to as touch panels or touch screens (hereinafter also referred to simply as touch panels). For example, portable information terminals equipped with touch panels include smartphones and tablet terminals.

[0005] In addition, representative display devices include liquid crystal display devices, light-emitting devices equipped with light-emitting elements such as organic EL (Electro Luminescence) elements or light-emitting diodes (LEDs), and electronic paper that displays using an electrophoretic method.

[0006] For example, the basic configuration of an organic EL device is to sandwich a layer containing a luminescent organic compound between a pair of electrodes. By applying voltage to this device, light emission can be obtained from the luminescent organic compound. Since a display device using such an organic EL device does not require a backlight, which is necessary for liquid crystal displays, it is possible to realize a display device that is thin, lightweight, has high contrast, and low power consumption. For example, an example of a display device using an organic EL device is described in Patent Document 1.

[0007] In addition, the touch panel is provided with a pressure-sensitive sensor array or a capacitive sensor array to be superimposed, for example, on a display panel, and detects the contact location by touching the substrate of the sensor array with a fingertip or an input pen (also called a stylus).

[0008] Patent Document 2 discloses the configuration of a touch panel that provides a touch sensor on a display screen of an electroluminescence display device. Prior art literature

[0009] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2002-324673 Japanese Patent Publication No. 2000-172444 The problem to be solved

[0010] In order to acquire position information of a target object in contact with a touch sensor or touch panel more precisely, high sensitivity of the touch sensor is required.

[0011] One embodiment of the present invention has as its objective to provide an input device or an input / output device capable of increasing detection precision. Alternatively, it has as its objective to provide an input device or an input / output device capable of increasing detection sensitivity. Alternatively, it has as its objective to provide a novel input device or an input / output device.

[0012] Furthermore, the description of these problems does not interfere with the existence of other problems. Also, one embodiment of the present invention is not required to solve all of these problems. Additionally, problems other than these can be derived from the description in the specification, drawings, claims, etc. means of solving the problem

[0013] One embodiment of the present invention is a touch panel having a first conductive layer, a second conductive layer, a plurality of display elements, and a scan line. The first conductive layer has a first portion, which is a straight line portion parallel to a first direction, in a part of the contour when viewed in a planar view. The second conductive layer has a second portion, which is a straight line portion parallel to a first direction, in a part of the contour when viewed in a planar view. The first portion and the second portion are provided to face each other. The display elements are provided at a position that does not overlap with the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer. Additionally, the scan line has a portion that extends in a second direction. Furthermore, the angle formed by the first direction and the second direction is 30° or greater and 60° or less.

[0014] In addition, in the above, the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer each have a grid shape that intersects in a first direction and a direction orthogonal to the first direction, and it is preferable that the opening of the grid and the display element are arranged to overlap each other.

[0015] In addition, in the above, it is preferable that the display element has a polygonal shape having two sides parallel to the first direction when viewed in a plane.

[0016] In addition, in the above, the first substrate and the second substrate are provided, and the first conductive layer, the second conductive layer, the display element, and the scan line are preferably located between the first substrate and the second substrate. In addition, the display element and the scan line are provided on the first substrate, and the first conductive layer, the second conductive layer, and the light-shielding layer are provided on the second substrate, and the light-shielding layer is preferably located between the first conductive layer and the second substrate, and between the second conductive layer and the second substrate.

[0017] In addition, in the above, it is preferable that the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer are formed on the same plane.

[0018] In addition, in the above, it is preferable that the distance between the first part and the second part is 1 μm or more and 10 mm or less.

[0019] In addition, another embodiment of the present invention is a touch panel module having the touch panel and an FPC.

[0020] In addition, another embodiment of the present invention is an electronic device having at least one of the touch panel, or touch panel module, an antenna, a button, a battery, a speaker, a microphone, or a lens. Effects of the invention

[0021] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an input device or an input / output device capable of increasing detection precision may be provided. Alternatively, an input device or an input / output device capable of increasing detection sensitivity may be provided. Alternatively, a novel input device or an input / output device may be provided.

[0022] Furthermore, the description of these effects does not interfere with the existence of other effects. Also, one embodiment of the present invention does not necessarily have to possess all of these effects. Additionally, effects other than these can be derived from the description in the specification, drawings, claims, etc. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0023] FIG. 1 is an example of the configuration of a touch panel according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is an example of the configuration of an input device according to an embodiment. FIG. 3 is an example of the configuration of an input device according to an embodiment. FIG. 4 is an example of the configuration of an input device according to an embodiment. FIG. 5 is an example of the configuration of an input device according to an embodiment. FIG. 6 is an example of the configuration of an input device according to an embodiment. FIG. 7 is an example of the configuration of an input device according to an embodiment. FIG. 8 is an example of the configuration of an input device according to an embodiment. FIG. 9 is an example of the configuration of an input device according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 is an example of the configuration of a touch panel according to an embodiment. FIG. 11 is an example of the configuration of a touch panel according to an embodiment. FIG. 12 is an example of the configuration of a touch panel according to an embodiment. FIG. 13 is an example of the configuration of a touch panel according to an embodiment. FIG. 14 is an example of the configuration of a touch panel according to an embodiment. FIG. 15 is an example of the configuration of a touch panel according to an embodiment. FIG. 16 is an example of the configuration of a touch panel according to an embodiment. FIG. 17 is an example of the configuration of a touch panel according to an embodiment. FIG. 18 is an example of the configuration of a touch panel according to an embodiment. FIG. 19 is an example of the configuration of a touch panel according to an embodiment. FIG. 20 is an example of the configuration of a touch panel according to an embodiment. FIG. 21 is an example of the configuration of a touch panel according to an embodiment. FIG. 22 is an example of the configuration of a touch panel according to an embodiment. FIG. 23 is an example of the configuration of a touch panel according to an embodiment. FIG. 24 is an example of the configuration of a touch panel according to an embodiment. FIG. 25 is an example of the configuration of a touch panel according to an embodiment. FIG. 26 is an example of the configuration of a touch panel according to an embodiment. FIG. 27 is an example of the configuration of a touch panel according to an embodiment. FIG. 28 is a block diagram and timing chart of a touch sensor according to an embodiment. FIG. 29 is a circuit diagram of a touch sensor according to an embodiment. FIG. 30 is a drawing illustrating a pixel having a touch sensor according to an embodiment. FIG. 31 is a drawing illustrating the operation of a touch sensor and a pixel according to an embodiment. FIG. 32 is a drawing illustrating an example of an electronic device and a lighting device according to an embodiment. FIG. 33 is a drawing illustrating an example of an electronic device according to an embodiment. FIG. 34 is a drawing illustrating an example of an electronic device according to an embodiment. FIG. 35 is a drawing illustrating an example of an electronic device according to an embodiment. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0024] Embodiments are described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the description below, and those skilled in the art will readily understand that the form and details thereof can be varied without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the present invention is not to be interpreted as being limited to the description of the embodiments presented below.

[0025] Furthermore, in the configuration of the invention described below, the same reference numerals are commonly used across different drawings for identical parts or parts having the same function, thereby omitting repetitive descriptions. Additionally, when referring to parts having the same function, the hatch pattern is made identical, and no special reference numerals are assigned.

[0026] Additionally, in each drawing described in this specification, the size, layer thickness, or area of ​​each component may be exaggerated for clarity. Therefore, it is not necessarily limited to that scale.

[0027] In addition, ordinal numbers such as 'first' and 'second' in this specification are assigned to avoid confusion of components and are not numerically limited.

[0028] A transistor is a type of semiconductor device capable of realizing amplification of current or voltage, or switching operations that control conduction or non-conduction. The transistors described herein include Insulated Gate Field Effect Transistors (IGFETs) and Thin Film Transistors (TFTs).

[0029] (Embodiment 1)

[0030] In this embodiment, an example of the configuration of an input device (touch sensor) of one form of the present invention and an example of the configuration of an input / output device (touch panel) having an input device of one form of the present invention and a display device (display panel) will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0031] Below, a case in which a capacitive touch sensor is applied as a touch sensor of one form of the present invention is described.

[0032] In addition, as described in this specification and others, the touch panel has the function of displaying (outputting) an image on a display surface and the function of a touch sensor that detects contact or proximity of a detection object, such as a finger or stylus, to the display surface. Accordingly, the touch panel is a form of an input / output device.

[0033] Additionally, in this specification, a touch panel substrate provided with a connector such as, for example, an FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit) or a TCP (Tape Carrier Package), or an IC (Integrated Circuit) mounted on the substrate by the COG (Chip On Glass) method may be referred to as a touch panel module or simply a touch panel.

[0034] A capacitive touch sensor applicable to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a pair of conductive layers. Capacitance is formed between the pair of conductive layers. Detection can be performed by utilizing the change in the magnitude of the capacitance between the pair of conductive layers when a subject to be detected comes into contact with or approaches the pair of conductive layers.

[0035] Capacitive methods include surface capacitance and projected capacitance. Projected capacitance methods include magnetic capacitance and mutual capacitance. Using the mutual capacitance method is desirable because it enables simultaneous multi-point detection.

[0036] A pair of conductive layers has a straight section in part of the contour when viewed from a planar view. Additionally, the two conductive layers are arranged facing each other so that their respective straight sections are parallel. By this configuration, the magnitude of the capacitance formed between the two conductive layers can be increased. Furthermore, in the portion where the two conductive layers face each other in parallel, the electric field lines generated when a potential difference is applied between the two conductive layers are uniformly distributed in density, thereby suppressing differences in detection sensitivity depending on the location. Therefore, a touch sensor with high detection precision can be realized.

[0037] A touch panel of one embodiment of the present invention has a touch sensor and a display panel (display device) that displays an image. The touch sensor is provided superimposed on the display surface side of the display panel.

[0038] In addition, it is desirable to provide a pair of conductive layers constituting the display element of the display panel and the touch sensor so that they do not overlap. This prevents the brightness of the image displayed by the touch panel from degrading, thereby enabling the realization of a touch panel with high visibility. Furthermore, power consumption can be reduced.

[0039] It is preferable that the direction of the straight portion of the pair of conductive layers be inclined at approximately 45° with respect to the horizontal or vertical direction of the display image displayed by the display panel. For example, it is preferable that the angle formed by the extension direction of the scan line (also called the gate line) of the display panel and the direction of the straight portion of the conductive layer be 40° or more and 50° or less.

[0040] In addition, it is desirable for a pair of conductive layers to have a grid shape (also referred to as a mesh shape) as this can improve the conductivity of the conductive layers. Furthermore, when a pair of conductive layers have a grid shape, it is desirable for the grid to have a portion extending in a direction parallel to the straight portion and a portion intersecting the direction parallel to the straight portion.

[0041] In addition, when a pair of conductive layers have a grid shape, it is desirable to arrange them so that the openings of the grid and the display element overlap when viewed from a plane. At this time, it is desirable that the outline of the display element when viewed from a plane is a polygon with sides parallel to the extension direction of the grid, as this can increase the aperture ratio. Alternatively, it is desirable that the outline of the display element when viewed from a plane is a polygon with two sides parallel to the extension direction of the straight portion of the conductive layer, or a closed curve having a straight portion in part.

[0042] More specifically, for example, it can be configured as follows.

[0043] [Composition Example]

[0044] Hereinafter, an example of the configuration of a touch panel as an example of an input / output device of one form of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0045] [Example of Touch Panel Configuration]

[0046] FIG. 1 (A) is a perspective schematic view of a touch panel (100) of one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 (B) is an expanded perspective schematic view of FIG. 1 (A). In addition, for clarity, only representative components are shown. Also, in FIG. 1 (B), some components (substrate (30), substrate (72), etc.) are outlined only with dashed lines.

[0047] The touch panel (100) has an input device (10) and a display panel (70), and these are provided superimposed.

[0048] The input device (10) has a substrate (30). The substrate (30) is provided with an electrode (31), an electrode (32), a plurality of wires (41), and a plurality of wires (42). Additionally, an FPC (50) is attached to the substrate (30) and electrically connected to each of the plurality of wires (41) and the plurality of wires (42). Furthermore, an example is shown here in which an IC (51) is provided on the FPC (50).

[0049] For example, a capacitive touch sensor can be used as the input device (10). Below, the case in which a projected capacitive touch sensor is used will be described.

[0050] In addition, various sensors capable of detecting proximity or contact of a test object, such as a finger or stylus, can be applied to the input device (10), not limited to this.

[0051] In addition, a more specific configuration of the input device (10) will be described later.

[0052] The display panel (70) has a substrate (71) and a substrate (72) provided facing each other. Additionally, a display unit (81), a driving circuit (82), wiring (83), etc. are provided on the substrate (71). Additionally, an FPC (73) electrically connected to the wiring (83) is provided on the substrate (71). Furthermore, an example is shown here in which an IC (74) is provided on the FPC (73).

[0053] The display unit (81) is an area where an image is displayed and has a plurality of pixels. Figure 1 (B) shows an enlarged schematic diagram of a part of the display unit (81). The pixel has at least one display element (60). Additionally, it is preferable for the pixel to have a transistor and a display element (60). As the display element (60), a light-emitting element such as an organic EL element or a liquid crystal element can be used as a representative example.

[0054] The driving circuit (82) may be a circuit that drives the pixels of the display unit (81), such as a scan line driving circuit or a signal line driving circuit. Here, the case in which a scan line driving circuit is applied as the driving circuit (82) is described.

[0055] The wiring (83) has the function of transmitting signals or power to the display unit (81) or the driving circuit (82). This signal or power is input to the wiring (83) from the outside through the FPC (73) or from the IC (74).

[0056] The display unit (81) has a plurality of scan lines (also called gate lines) (87) that are electrically connected to the driving circuit (82). The scan lines (87) are wires that are electrically connected to the gate of a single transistor of a pixel. The driving circuit (82) can sequentially supply a signal to each scan line (87) to select a plurality of pixels that are electrically connected to a single scan line (87).

[0057] Here, in (B) of FIG. 1, the direction of extension of the scan line (87) is indicated by an arrow as the direction (80). In the configuration shown in (B) of FIG. 1, the case is illustrated where the direction (80) is parallel to the side (contour) of the side provided by the driving circuit (82) of the display unit (81). In addition, there may be cases where the direction (80) is not orthogonal to the contour of the display unit (81), such as when the contour of the display unit (81) is not rectangular or square. Furthermore, the scan line (87) does not necessarily have to be a straight line shape; it may be partially curved or bent depending on the pixel configuration. In this case, the direction of the straight line connecting two points on the scan line (87) corresponds to the direction (80). Alternatively, when the scan line (87) is cut at a part that overlaps with the display unit (81), the direction of the straight line connecting two points on this part corresponds to the direction (80). Also, the direction (80) can be rephrased as a direction parallel to the arrangement direction of the pixel (or subpixel) electrically connected to a single scan line (87).

[0058] Figures 1 (A) and (B) illustrate an example in which an IC (74) is provided on an FPC (73) by means of a COF (Chip On Film) method. The IC (74) may be an IC that functions, for example, as a scan line driving circuit or a signal line driving circuit. In addition, if the display panel (70) is equipped with a circuit that functions as a scan line driving circuit and a signal line driving circuit, or if a circuit that functions as a scan line driving circuit or a signal line driving circuit is provided externally and a signal to drive the display panel (70) is input through the FPC (73), the configuration may be such that the IC (74) is not provided. Furthermore, the IC (74) may be directly mounted on the substrate (71) by means of a COG (Chip On Glass) method.

[0059] [Example of Input Device Configuration]

[0060] Figure 2 (A) shows a schematic top view of an input device (10). The input device (10) has a plurality of electrodes (31), a plurality of electrodes (32), a plurality of wires (41), and a plurality of wires (42) on a substrate (30). Additionally, the substrate (30) is provided with an FPC (50) that is electrically connected to each of the plurality of wires (41) and the plurality of wires (42). Figure 2 (A) also shows an example in which an IC (51) is mounted on the FPC (50). In addition, to make it easier to distinguish, the outline of the electrode (32) is shown as a solid line and the outline of the electrode (31) is shown as a dashed line.

[0061] In FIG. 2 (A), the electrode (31) is positioned to extend in a horizontal direction. Additionally, the electrode (32) is positioned to extend in a direction intersecting the electrode (31). As shown in FIG. 2 (A), it is preferable that the electrode (31) and the electrode (32) be provided in orthogonal directions.

[0062] A plurality of wires (41) are each electrically connected to one electrode (31). Additionally, a plurality of wires (42) are each electrically connected to one electrode (32).

[0063] The IC (51) has a circuit for driving the input device (10). The IC (51) has a circuit that implements a driving method such as mutual capacitance or magnetic capacitance, for example.

[0064] An enlarged view of region P in Figure 2 (A) is shown in Figure 2 (B). Electrodes (31) and (32) intersect each other at the intersection (90) with a portion of them overlapping. At the intersection (90), an insulator is placed between the electrodes (31) and (32) so that they do not electrically short-circuit.

[0065] In Fig. 2 (B), the electrode (32) is shown having a shape that is locally rotated 90° from the electrode (31).

[0066] The outline of the electrode (31) and the electrode (32) when viewed from a plane has a shape in which a plurality of diamond-shaped patterns are connected in a horizontal or vertical direction to form a single unit. At this time, as shown in (B) of FIG. 2, if one diamond-shaped pattern is square, it is preferable that the pitch of the diamond-shaped pattern arranged in the horizontal direction of the electrode (31) and the pitch of the electrode (32) arranged in the vertical direction of the electrode can be spaced at equal intervals. This allows detection points in the detection area of ​​the input device (10) to be arranged in a matrix at equal intervals, thereby increasing detection precision.

[0067] The electrode (31) has a straight section (21) in part of its contour. Also, the electrode (32) has a straight section (22) in part of its contour. The electrode (31) and the electrode (32) are arranged so that the straight section (21) and the straight section (22) face each other in parallel. By this configuration, the distance between the electrode (31) and the electrode (32) is kept constant, and the length of the two electrodes facing each other can be increased. Therefore, the size of the capacitance formed between the two electrodes can be increased. Furthermore, since the electric field lines generated when a potential difference is applied between the two electrodes in the part where the two electrodes face each other have a uniform density, differences in detection sensitivity depending on the location can be suppressed. Therefore, a touch sensor with high detection precision can be realized.

[0068] In addition, as shown in FIG. 3, the substrate (30) may be configured to have only one of the electrode (31) or the electrode (32) placed on it. At this time, it is preferable to configure the other electrode to be provided to the display panel (70). For example, the common electrode of a liquid crystal element may be used as the electrode (31) or the electrode (32). Although FIG. 3 shows a configuration in which the electrode (31) is placed on the substrate (30), it may also be configured in which the electrode (32) is placed on the substrate (30).

[0069] In FIG. 2 (B), a direction (80) is shown as the extension direction of the scan line (87) shown in FIG. 1 (B). When the straight section (21) and the straight section (22) are parallel, the angle formed by the direction (80) and the straight section (21) and the angle formed by the direction (80) and the straight section (22) are equal. Here, the angle formed by the direction (80) and the straight section (21) or the straight section (22) is denoted as angle θ. Angle θ is preferably 30° or more and 60° or less, preferably 40° or more and 50° or less, more preferably 42° or more and 48° or less, and typically 45°.

[0070] In addition, the gap between the electrode (31) and the electrode (32) is set to D. The smaller the gap D, the higher the capacitance between the two electrodes can be, thereby improving detection sensitivity. As for the size of the gap D, for example, it is preferable to be greater than 0 and 10 mm or less, preferably 1 μm or more and 5 mm or less, more preferably 3 μm or more and 1 mm or less, and even more preferably 5 μm or more and 500 μm or less. Alternatively, it is preferable to make it an integer multiple of the pixel of the display unit (81), the pitch when the subpixels are arranged, or the pitch when the display element (60) is arranged.

[0071] Figure 2 (B) illustrates an example in which the electrode (31) and the electrode (32) each have a grid shape. It is preferable to set the grid spacing of the electrode (31) and the electrode (32) such that an integer multiple of the spacing D between the electrode (31) and the electrode (32) is equal to the spacing D between the electrode (31) and the electrode (32). Additionally, as shown in Figure 2 (B), when the grid of the electrode (31) and the electrode (32) is an orthogonal grid, it is preferable to ensure that the direction of one of the two straight sections forming the grid is parallel to the straight section (21) or the straight section (22). At this time, the shape of the opening of the electrode (31) and the electrode (32) is a square shape tilted by an angle θ with respect to the direction (80).

[0072] In addition, Figure 2 (B) illustrates a case where the shape of the opening of the grid is square, but it is not limited to this and can be made in various shapes such as circular, elliptical, or rounded polygonal.

[0073] It is preferable that the electrodes (31) and (32) be processed to be thin enough so that they are not visible to the user. As shown in (B) of FIG. 2, by processing the electrodes (31) and (32) into a grid shape (mesh shape), high conductivity and high visibility of the display device can be obtained. It is preferable to make the width of the thinnest parts of the electrodes (31) and (32) 30 nm or more and 100 μm or less, preferably 50 nm or more and 50 μm or less, and more preferably 50 nm or more and 20 μm or less. In particular, a conductive film having a pattern width of 10 μm or less is preferred because it is very difficult for the user to see it.

[0074] Additionally, conductive nanowires may be used for the electrode (31) and the electrode (32). By dispersing them at an appropriate density so that adjacent nanowires come into contact with each other, a two-dimensional network is formed, which can function as a highly transparent conductive film. For example, nanowires with an average diameter of 1 nm or more and 100 nm or less, preferably 5 nm or more and 50 nm or less, and more preferably 5 nm or more and 25 nm or less, may be used. As nanowires, metal nanowires such as Ag nanowires, Cu nanowires, and Al nanowires, or carbon nanotubes may be used. For example, in the case of Ag nanowires, a light transmittance of 89% or more and a sheet resistance of 40 Ω / □ or more and 100 Ω / □ or less can be realized.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 4 (A), the electrode (32) may be composed of a plurality of electrodes (33) and a bridge electrode (34). Here, to make it easier to see the relative positions or shapes of the electrodes (33) and the bridge electrode (34), only the bridge electrode (34) is shown as a dashed line in FIG. 4 (B), and only the bridge electrode (34) is shown as a solid line in FIG. 4 (C). In addition, the vertical relationship between the bridge electrode (34), the electrode (31), and the electrode (33) is not particularly limited, and either one may be positioned on the substrate (30) side.

[0076] The island-shaped electrodes (33) are arranged side by side in the vertical direction, and two adjacent electrodes (33) are electrically connected by a bridge electrode (34). By this configuration, the electrodes (33) and the electrode (31) can be formed simultaneously by processing the same conductive film. Therefore, deviations in the thickness or line width of these films can be suppressed, and deviations in the resistance value of each electrode depending on the location can be suppressed. In addition, by this configuration, the electrodes (33) and the electrode (31) can be placed on the same plane. Therefore, since there is no misalignment in the height direction between the electrode (31) and the electrode (33), the distribution of electric field lines between them can be made uniform, thereby improving the detection sensitivity of the input device (10).

[0077] In addition, although the electrode (32) is configured to have a bridge electrode (34) here, the electrode (31) may also have such a configuration. In this case, if the effect of contact resistance becomes significant by providing a bridge electrode (34), it is preferable to apply a configuration in which the bridge electrode (34) is placed on the shorter side between the electrode (31) and the electrode (32) so that the number of bridge electrodes (34) on one electrode can be reduced.

[0078] Figure 5 (A) shows an enlarged view of area Q in Figure 2 (A). Area Q is an area that includes the corner portion of the detection area of ​​the input device (10).

[0079] As shown in (A) of FIG. 5, at the corner portion of the detection area, it is preferable that the electrode (31) and the electrode (32) have a shape that appears to be cut in a direction parallel or perpendicular to the direction (80). Additionally, it is preferable that the outlines of the electrode (31) and the electrode (32) have a straight line portion that is parallel or perpendicular to the direction (80). By making such a configuration, the touch panel (100) combining the input device (10) and the display panel (70) can be made slim bezel-less.

[0080] In FIG. 5 (B), an example is illustrated in which the gap D is widened compared to FIG. 5 (A). When the gap between the electrode (31) and the electrode (32) is widened in this way, it is desirable to apply a grid shape to the intersection (90) as well. FIG. 5 (B) illustrates a case in which the electrode (32) has a grid-shaped bridge electrode (34). In addition, as illustrated in FIG. 2 (B), if the bridge electrode (34) is not applied, the electrode (31) and the electrode (32) can be configured to have a grid shape at the intersection (90).

[0081] Although the above description shows a case where the electrode (31) and the electrode (32) have a grid shape, they are not limited to this and may have opposing straight sections, and may have various other shapes.

[0082] In addition, as shown in FIG. 6 (A) and (B), the electrode (31) and electrode (32) may be configured such that an electrically insulated dummy electrode (35) is placed between the electrode (31) and electrode (32). By configuring it this way, the area where the electrode (31) or electrode (32) is not present can be suppressed from being visible.

[0083] FIG. 7 (A) illustrates a case where the inside of the diamond-shaped electrode pattern of the electrode (31) and electrode (33) shown in FIG. 4 (A) is carved out to leave only the outline. FIG. 7 (B) illustrates a case where only the straight portion of one side of the grid is left as the electrode (31) and electrode (33). FIG. 7 (C) illustrates a case where the inside of the electrode (31) and electrode (33) has a zigzag pattern. In this case, it is preferable that the straight portion of the zigzag pattern be formed to be parallel to the straight portion of the outline of the electrode (31) or electrode (33). Additionally, as shown in FIG. 7 (C), it is preferable that the zigzag pattern be arranged along the extension direction of the electrode (31) or electrode (32) so that the electrical resistance in this direction can be reduced.

[0084] In addition, while examples of configurations in which the electrode (32) has a bridge electrode (34) are shown in (A), (B), and (C) of FIG. 7, as shown in (B) of FIG. 2, the configuration may be made without applying a bridge electrode (34).

[0085] In FIG. 2 (A), etc., an example is shown in which a plurality of diamond shapes are connected in one direction as the upper surface shape of the electrode (31) and electrode (32). However, the shape of the electrode (31) and electrode (32) is not limited to this and can be various upper surface shapes, such as a strip shape (rectangular shape), a strip shape with a curve, or a zigzag shape. In addition, although the electrode (31) and electrode (32) are shown as being arranged orthogonally, they do not necessarily need to be arranged orthogonally, and the angle formed by the two electrodes may be less than 90°.

[0086] In FIG. 8 (A), an example is illustrated using electrodes (36) and (37) having a zigzag shape on their upper surfaces. Additionally, for clarity, in FIG. 8 (A), electrode (36) is shown as a dashed line and electrode (37) as a solid line. At this time, as illustrated in FIG. 8 (A), it is preferable to arrange the center positions of each straight section relatively offset rather than overlapping them. This allows the electrode (36) and electrode (37) to bring the opposing sections in parallel closer together, which is desirable because it increases the capacitance between the electrodes and improves detection sensitivity. Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 8 (B), if the upper surface shape of electrode (36) and electrode (37) is made such that a part of the zigzag straight section protrudes, the length of the opposing section can be increased even if the center positions of the straight sections are overlapped, thereby increasing the capacitance between the electrodes.

[0087] An enlarged view of the area enclosed by the dotted line in Fig. 8 (A) is shown in Fig. 9 (A), and an enlarged view of the area enclosed by the dotted line in Fig. 8 (B) is shown in Fig. 9 (D). Additionally, each drawing shows an electrode (36), an electrode (37), and an intersection (38) where they intersect. Here, as shown in Fig. 9 (B) and (E), the straight portions of the electrodes (36) and electrodes (37) in Fig. 9 (A) and (D) may have a meandering shape to have corner portions, and as shown in Fig. 9 (C) and (F), the curves may have a meandering shape to be continuous.

[0088] The above describes an example of the input device configuration.

[0089] [Example of pixel composition]

[0090] Hereinafter, an example of the configuration of a pixel of a display panel (70) having a touch panel (100) of one form of the present invention will be described.

[0091] As described above, a plurality of pixels are provided in the display portion of the display panel (70). Additionally, the pixel has one or more display elements (60). When the display panel (70) is configured to display a full-color image, for example, it is preferable to have a configuration in which three color display elements (60) of red (R), green (G), and blue (B) are provided in one pixel. Additionally, it is preferable to have a configuration in which one pixel has a yellow (Y) or white (W) display element (60) in addition to the three colors, as this can reduce power consumption. Here, a configuration having one display element (60) and a corresponding pixel circuit may also be referred to as a subpixel. When a pixel has three display elements (60), the pixel may be configured to include three subpixels.

[0092] In addition, when the input device (10) is placed overlappingly on the display panel (70), it is preferable to position the electrode (31) and electrode (32) of the input device (10) between the display elements (60). As a result, light from the display elements (60) is not blocked by the electrode (31) and electrode (32), so the decrease in brightness of the display panel (70) when the input device (10) is provided can be substantially eliminated or made very small. Therefore, a touch panel with high visibility and reduced power consumption can be realized. Furthermore, since the electrode (31) and electrode (32) do not overlap with the display elements (60), there is no need to use a light-transmitting conductive material with relatively high resistance for the electrode (31) and electrode (32). Therefore, a metal or alloy material with low resistance can be used for the electrode (31) and electrode (32), and the electrode (31) and electrode (32) can be formed very thinly to the extent that they cannot be seen with the naked eye. Therefore, since the electrode (31) or electrode (32) can be suppressed from being visible by reflecting light, a touch panel with higher visibility can be realized.

[0093] FIG. 10 illustrates an enlarged view of the display portion (81) as viewed from the display surface side of the touch panel (100) shown in FIG. 1 (A), and the input device (10) superimposed thereon. Here, the case is shown in which the pixels (40) of the display panel (70) have four display elements (60) (display element (60R), display element (60G), display element (60B), display element (60Y)) that display different colors. Additionally, when describing matters common to the four types of display elements below, they will be described using the designation "display element (60)."

[0094] FIG. 10 illustrates the positional relationship between the electrode (31) and each display element (60). Although the electrode (31) is shown here, the same applies to the electrode (32) (or electrode (33) and bridge electrode (34)). Also, FIG. 10 shows three scan lines (scan line (87a), scan line (87b), scan line (87c)) as dashed lines to explain the direction of the scan line (87) of the display panel (70), and also shows the direction (80) which is the extension direction of the scan line.

[0095] In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 10, the case is shown where the angle formed by the straight portion of the grid of the electrode (31) and the scan line (87) is 45°. The display elements (60) are arranged along the straight portion of the electrode (31). Here, the plurality of display elements (60) arranged obliquely in FIG. 10 are arranged alternately with two types of display elements (60) corresponding to two different colors. One pixel (40) is configured to include four adjacent display elements (60) (display element (60R), display element (60G), display element (60B), display element (60Y)). Here, the display element (60R) is a display element that displays red, the display element (60G) is a display element that displays green, the display element (60B) is a display element that displays blue, and the display element (60Y) is a display element that displays yellow.

[0096] It is preferable that one display element (60) has a portion of its outline parallel to the straight portion of the grid having the electrode (31). By making it this shape, the gap between two display elements (60) can be reduced when arranging the display elements (60), thereby increasing the aperture ratio. In FIG. 10, the outline of the display element (60) is made in the shape of a square with rounded corners, but it is not limited thereto and may be made in the shape of a square, rectangle, polygon, ellipse, circle, or a polygon with rounded corners.

[0097] The scan line (87a) shown in FIG. 10 corresponds to a scan line that drives a subpixel including, for example, a display element (60R). Also, the scan line (87b) corresponds to a scan line that drives a subpixel including a display element (60G) and a subpixel including a display element (60Y). Also, the scan line (87c) corresponds to a scan line that drives a subpixel including a display element (60B). Each scan line is electrically connected to the gate of a transistor included in each subpixel. That is, in the configuration exemplified in FIG. 10, one pixel can be driven by three scan lines (87).

[0098] In FIG. 10, a configuration is illustrated in which one pixel (40) (i.e., four display elements (60)) is included in one of the openings of the electrode (31), but this is not limited thereto, and the electrode (31) can be of various shapes processed to be placed between adjacent display elements (60).

[0099] FIG. 11 (A) illustrates a case in which a display element (60) is arranged to be included in the opening of the grid of the electrode (31). FIG. 11 (B) illustrates a case in which the electrode (31) has a stripe shape. FIG. 11 (C) illustrates an example in which a plurality of pixels (40) are arranged in one opening of the grid of the electrode (31). FIG. 11 (D) illustrates a case in which the pitch of the grid in two directions orthogonal to the grid of the electrode (31) is different. FIG. 11 (E) and FIG. 11 (F) illustrate examples in which the electrode (31) has a zigzag shape, as illustrated in FIG. 7 (C).

[0100] Additionally, FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate an example in which a display element (60) of four colors is provided in a single pixel (40), but is not limited thereto and may provide a display element of three colors or five or more colors.

[0101] FIG. 12 illustrates an example in which a single pixel (40) has three color display elements (60). In FIG. 12, for ease of explanation, pixels (40a), (40b), and (40c) are shown separately from other pixels, and the same hatch pattern is applied to the three display elements (60) included in each of pixels (40a), (40b), and (40c).

[0102] In FIG. 12, the pixels (40a) and pixels (40b) arranged in the vertical direction have the same arrangement of three display elements (60) included therein. Also, the pixels (40a) and pixels (40c) arranged in the horizontal direction have the upper and lower sides of the display elements (60) reversed, respectively.

[0103] In addition, in FIG. 12, display elements (60) of the same color are arranged in the vertical direction of the surface. This configuration is desirable because it makes it easier to form color filters or light-emitting elements when dividing them according to different colors of display elements (60).

[0104] Figure 13 (A) illustrates an example in which a single pixel has three-color display elements (60). The display elements (60) are shown in an example in which their outline has a straight portion along the direction of the grid of the electrodes (31) and a rounded rectangular shape at the corners. Additionally, display elements (60) of the same color are arranged along the direction of the grid of the electrodes (31) to form a stripe arrangement. Furthermore, Figures 13 (B) to (D) illustrate examples in which the electrodes (31) are arranged in a shape different from that of Figure 13 (A).

[0105] In addition, in FIGS. 10 to 13, symbols such as R, G, B, and Y were assigned to some of the multiple display elements (60) to facilitate explanation, but this arrangement method is an example and does not limit the arrangement method of the display elements (60). R, G, B, and Y can be interchanged. Also, W, which corresponds to a white display element, may be placed in place of any one of R, G, B, and Y.

[0106] The above content is an explanation of the compositional examples of pixels.

[0107] [Example of cross-sectional composition]

[0108] Below, an example of a cross-sectional configuration of a touch panel (100) is described with reference to the drawings.

[0109] [Cross-sectional Composition Example 1]

[0110] FIG. 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a touch panel (100). FIG. 14 shows cross-sectional views of the area including the FPC (73) in FIG. 1 (A), the area including the driving circuit (82), the area including the display unit (81), and the area including the FPC (50).

[0111] The substrate (71) and the substrate (72) are bonded by an adhesive layer (151), and the substrate (72) and the substrate (30) are bonded by an adhesive layer (152). Here, a configuration including the substrate (71), the substrate (72), and a component sandwiched between them corresponds to a display panel (70). It also corresponds to an input device (10) including the substrate (30) and a component provided on the substrate (30).

[0112] <Display panel (70)>

[0113] Between the substrate (71) and the substrate (72), a transistor (201), a transistor (202), a transistor (203), a display element (60), a capacitance element (205), a connection part (206), wiring (207), etc. are provided.

[0114] On the substrate (71), insulating layers (211), insulating layers (212), insulating layers (213), insulating layers (214), insulating layers (215), spacers (216), etc. are provided. A portion of the insulating layer (211) functions as the gate insulating layer of each transistor, and another portion functions as the dielectric of the capacitive element (205). The insulating layers (212), insulating layers (213), and insulating layers (214) are provided to cover each transistor or the capacitive element (205), etc. The insulating layer (214) functions as a flattening layer. Although the case shown here has three layers of insulating layers (212), insulating layers (213), and insulating layers (214) as insulating layers covering the transistor, it is not limited thereto and may have four or more layers, a single layer, or two layers. Additionally, the insulating layer (214) functioning as a flattening layer may not be provided if it is not needed.

[0115] A display element (60) is provided on an insulating layer (214). Here, an example is shown in which a top-surface injection type (top emission type) light-emitting element (organic EL element) is applied as the display element (60). The display element (60) emits light toward the second electrode (223). By arranging a transistor (202), a transistor (203), a capacitive element (205), and wiring, etc., in overlap with the light-emitting region of the display element (60), the aperture ratio of the display portion (81) can be increased.

[0116] The display element (60) has an EL layer (222) between the first electrode (221) and the second electrode (223). Additionally, an optical adjustment layer (224) is provided between the first electrode (221) and the EL layer (222). An insulating layer (215) is provided to cover the ends of the first electrode (221) and the optical adjustment layer (224).

[0117] In FIG. 14, a cross-section of one pixel is shown as an example of a display unit (81). Here, the case in which the pixel has a current control transistor (202), a switching control transistor (203), and a capacitance element (205) is shown. One of the source or drain of the transistor (202) and one electrode of the capacitance element (205) are electrically connected to the first electrode (221) through an opening provided in the insulating layer (212), the insulating layer (213), and the insulating layer (214).

[0118] Also, FIG. 14 illustrates a configuration in which a transistor (201) is provided as an example of a driving circuit (82).

[0119] The transistor (201), transistor (202), and transistor (203) each have a conductive layer (241) that functions as a gate electrode, a semiconductor layer (242), a pair of conductive layers (243) that one side functions as a source electrode and the other side functions as a drain electrode, and an insulating layer (211) that functions as a gate insulating layer.

[0120] FIG. 14 illustrates an example in which a semiconductor layer in which a channel is formed in a transistor (201) and a transistor (202) is interposed between two gate electrodes (conductive layer (241) and conductive layer (244)). Compared to other transistors, such a transistor can increase field-effect mobility and increase on-current. As a result, a circuit capable of high-speed operation can be manufactured. Furthermore, the occupied area of ​​the circuit can be reduced. By applying a transistor with a large on-current, even if the number of wires increases when the display panel is enlarged or made highly detailed, signal delay in each wire can be reduced and variation in brightness of the display can be reduced.

[0121] In addition, the transistors provided in the driving circuit (82) and the display unit (81) may each be transistors of the same structure, or transistors of different structures may be combined and used.

[0122] It is preferable that at least one of the insulating layer (212) and insulating layer (213) covering each transistor be made of a material that is difficult for impurities such as water or hydrogen to diffuse. That is, the insulating layer (212) or the insulating layer (213) can function as a barrier film. By making this configuration, the diffusion of impurities from the outside to the transistor can be effectively suppressed, thereby enabling the realization of a highly reliable touch panel.

[0123] A spacer (216) is provided on an insulating layer (215) and has the function of adjusting the distance between a substrate (71) and a substrate (72). Although FIG. 14 illustrates a case where there is a gap between the spacer (216) and the light-blocking layer (232), they may be in contact. Also, although the configuration shown here depicts the spacer (216) being provided on the substrate (71) side, it may be provided on the substrate (72) side (for example, on the substrate (71) side rather than the light-blocking layer (232). Alternatively, a particulate spacer may be used instead of the spacer (216). While materials such as silica may be used as the particulate spacer, it is preferable to use an elastic material such as an organic resin or rubber. In this case, the particulate spacer may have a shape that is compressed in the vertical direction.

[0124] A coloring layer (231), a light-blocking layer (232), etc. are provided on the substrate (71) side of the substrate (72). The light-blocking layer (232) has an opening and is positioned so that this opening overlaps with the display area of ​​the display element (60). The coloring layer (231) is provided to overlap with the display element (60).

[0125] Materials that can be used as the light-blocking layer (232) include carbon black, metal oxides, and composite oxides containing solid solutions of multiple metal oxides. Additionally, a laminated film containing the material of the coloring layer (231) may be used for the light-blocking layer (232). For example, by using a material containing acrylic resin for the coloring layer (231), a laminated structure may be used in which a film containing the material used for the coloring layer that transmits light of a certain color and a film containing the material used for the coloring layer that transmits light of a different color are used. It is desirable to have the materials of the coloring layer (231) and the light-blocking layer (232) common so that the device can be standardized and the process can be simplified.

[0126] For example, materials that can be used for the coloring layer (231) may include metal materials, resin materials, pigments, or resin materials containing dyes.

[0127] In addition, an insulating layer that functions as an overcoat may be provided by covering the coloring layer (231) and the light-blocking layer (232).

[0128] A connection portion (206) is provided in an area near the end of the substrate (71). The connection portion (206) is electrically connected to the FPC (73) through a connection layer (209). The configuration shown in FIG. 14 illustrates an example in which the connection portion (206) is formed by laminating a conductive layer formed by processing a conductive film identical to that of the first electrode (221) and a part of the wiring (207) that is electrically connected to the driving circuit (82). By configuring the connection portion (206) by laminating two or more conductive layers in this manner, not only can the electrical resistance be reduced, but the mechanical strength of the connection portion (206) can also be increased.

[0129] In addition, FIG. 14 illustrates a cross-sectional structure of an intersection (86) in which a wiring formed by processing a conductive film identical to the gate electrode of a transistor and a wiring formed by processing a conductive film identical to the source electrode and drain electrode of a transistor intersect.

[0130] Here, a case is shown in which a scan line (87) is provided at the intersection (86) by processing a conductive film identical to the gate electrode of the transistor. Additionally, the scan line (87) may be a wiring formed by processing a conductive film identical to the source electrode and drain electrode of the transistor, or a different conductive film may be used.

[0131] <Input device (10)>

[0132] Electrodes (31) and (32) are provided on the substrate (72) side of the substrate (30). Here, an example is shown in which the electrode (31) has electrodes (33) and bridge electrodes (34). As shown in the intersection (86) in FIG. 14, electrodes (32) and electrodes (33) are formed on the same plane. Additionally, a bridge electrode (34) is provided on an insulating layer (161) covering electrodes (32) and electrodes (33). The bridge electrode (34) is electrically connected to two electrodes (33) provided to insert electrodes (32) through an opening provided in the insulating layer (161).

[0133] In addition, the configuration illustrated in FIG. 14 illustrates an example in which the electrode (33) is positioned so as not to overlap with the display element (60). That is, the electrode (33) is positioned so that the opening of the electrode (33) overlaps with the display element (60). At this time, it is preferable that the electrode (33) is positioned so as not to overlap with the coloring layer (231). It is also preferable that the electrode (33) is positioned so as to overlap with the light-blocking layer (232). Furthermore, although an example of the electrode (33) is shown here, it is also preferable that the electrode (31), electrode (32), and bridge electrode (34) are positioned so as not to overlap with the display element (60).

[0134] A connection portion (106) is provided in an area near the end of the substrate (30). The connection portion (106) is electrically connected to the FPC (50) through a connection layer (109). In the configuration shown in FIG. 14, an example is shown in which a part of the wiring (42) and the bridge electrode (34) form a connection portion (106) by laminating a conductive layer obtained by processing the same conductive film.

[0135] As the connection layer (109) or connection layer (209), an anisotropic conductive film (ACF) or anisotropic conductive paste (ACP) can be used.

[0136] Here, the substrate (30) can also be used as a substrate to which a test object, such as a finger or a stylus, is directly contacted. In this case, a protective layer (ceramic coat, etc.) may be provided on the substrate (30). For example, the protective layer may use an inorganic insulating material such as silicon oxide, aluminum oxide, yttrium oxide, or yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ). Additionally, tempered glass may be used for the substrate (30). Tempered glass may be used in which physical or chemical treatment is performed by ion exchange or air cooling, and compressive stress is applied to its surface. By providing a touch sensor on one side of the tempered glass and providing the opposite side, for example, on the outermost part of the electronic device, to be used as a touch surface, the overall thickness of the device can be reduced.

[0137] <About Each Component>

[0138] The following describes each of the components mentioned above.

[0139] A material having a flat surface can be used for the substrate of the touch panel. A material that transmits this light is used for the substrate on the side that extracts light from the display element. For example, materials such as glass, quartz, ceramic, sapphire, and organic resin can be used.

[0140] By using a thin substrate, the touch panel can be made lighter and thinner. In addition, by using a substrate with a thickness sufficient to be flexible, a flexible touch panel can be realized.

[0141] For example, alkali-free glass, barium borosilicate glass, aluminoborosilicate glass, etc. can be used as glass.

[0142] Examples of materials having flexibility and transmittance to visible light include glass with a thickness sufficient to be flexible, polyester resins such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyacrylonitrile resin, polyimide resin, polymethyl methacrylate resin, polycarbonate (PC) resin, polyethersulfone (PES) resin, polyamide resin, cycloolefin resin, polystyrene resin, polyimide resin, polyvinyl chloride resin, and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) resin. In particular, it is desirable to use materials with a low coefficient of thermal expansion, and examples include polyimide resin, polyimide resin, and PET. Additionally, a substrate in which glass fibers are impregnated with an organic resin, or a substrate in which an inorganic filler is mixed with an organic resin to lower the coefficient of thermal expansion, may be used. Since substrates made of such materials are lightweight, touch panels using these substrates can also be made lightweight.

[0143] In addition, since the substrate on the side that does not extract light emission does not need to be transparent, a metal substrate, a ceramic substrate, or a semiconductor substrate may be used in addition to the substrate described above. A metal substrate is desirable because it has high thermal conductivity and can easily conduct heat throughout the metal substrate, thereby suppressing localized temperature rise of the touch panel. To obtain flexibility or bendability, the thickness of the metal substrate is preferably 10 μm or more and 200 μm or less, and more preferably 20 μm or more and 50 μm or less.

[0144] The material constituting the metal substrate is not particularly limited, but, for example, metals such as aluminum, copper, and nickel, or alloys such as aluminum alloys or stainless steel, can be suitably used.

[0145] In addition, a substrate that has undergone insulation treatment by oxidizing the surface of a metal substrate or forming an insulating film on the surface may be used. For example, an insulating film may be formed using coating methods such as spin coating or dipping methods, electrodeposition, deposition, or sputtering methods, and an oxide film may be formed on the surface of the substrate by an anodic oxidation method, in addition to being left in an oxygen atmosphere or heating.

[0146] A hard coating layer (e.g., silicon nitride layer, etc.) that protects the surface of the touch panel from damage, etc., or a layer of a material capable of dispersing pressure (e.g., aramid resin layer, etc.) may be laminated on a flexible substrate. In addition, to suppress the degradation of the lifespan of the display element due to moisture, etc., a low-permeability insulating film may be formed on the flexible substrate. For example, a film containing nitrogen and silicon, such as a silicon nitride film or a silicon oxide nitride film, or a low-permeability insulating film containing nitrogen and aluminum, such as an aluminum nitride film, may be provided.

[0147] The substrate may also be used by stacking multiple layers. In particular, if configured with a glass layer, it can be made into a highly reliable touch panel that improves barrier properties against water or oxygen.

[0148] For example, a substrate in which a glass layer, an adhesive layer, and an organic resin layer are laminated on the side close to the display element may be used. The thickness of this glass layer is 20 μm or more and 200 μm or less, preferably 25 μm or more and 100 μm or less. A glass layer of this thickness can simultaneously achieve high barrier properties against water or oxygen and flexibility. In addition, the thickness of the organic resin layer is 10 μm or more and 200 μm or less, preferably 20 μm or more and 50 μm or less. By providing this organic resin layer on the outer side of the glass layer, breakage or cracking of the glass layer can be suppressed, thereby improving mechanical strength. By applying such a composite material of glass material and organic resin to the substrate, an extremely reliable flexible touch panel can be produced.

[0149] A transistor has a conductive layer that functions as a gate electrode, a semiconductor layer, a conductive layer that functions as a source electrode, a conductive layer that functions as a drain electrode, and an insulating layer that functions as a gate insulating layer.

[0150] Furthermore, the structure of the transistor in a touch panel of one embodiment of the present invention is not particularly limited. For example, it may be a staggered type transistor or an inverse staggered type transistor. In addition, it may be a top-gate type or a bottom-gate type transistor structure. The semiconductor material used for the transistor is not particularly limited, and examples include oxide semiconductors, silicon, germanium, organic semiconductors, etc.

[0151] The crystallinity of the semiconductor material used in the transistor is not particularly limited, and any of the following may be used: amorphous semiconductors or crystalline semiconductors (microcrystalline semiconductors, polycrystalline semiconductors, single-crystal semiconductors, or semiconductors having crystalline regions in some parts). Using a crystalline semiconductor is preferable because it can suppress the degradation of transistor characteristics.

[0152] In addition, as semiconductor materials used in transistors, for example, elements of Group 14, compound semiconductors, or oxide semiconductors can be used in the semiconductor layer. Representative examples include semiconductors containing silicon, semiconductors containing gallium arsenide, or oxide semiconductors containing indium.

[0153] In particular, it is desirable to apply an oxide semiconductor to the semiconductor where the transistor channel is formed. In particular, it is desirable to apply an oxide semiconductor with a larger band gap than silicon. It is desirable to use a semiconductor material that has a wider band gap than silicon and also has a lower carrier density, as this can reduce the current in the off state of the transistor.

[0154] For example, it is preferable that the oxide semiconductor comprises at least indium (In) or zinc (Zn). More preferably, it comprises an oxide denoted as an In-M-Zn-based oxide (where M is a metal such as Al, Ti, Ga, Ge, Y, Zr, Sn, La, Ce, or Hf).

[0155] In particular, it is preferable to use an oxide semiconductor film having a plurality of crystal portions as a semiconductor layer, wherein the c-axis of the crystal portions is oriented substantially perpendicularly to the surface to be formed of the semiconductor layer or the upper surface of the semiconductor layer, and grain boundaries are not observed between adjacent crystal portions.

[0156] Since these oxide semiconductors do not have grain boundaries, cracks in the oxide semiconductor film are suppressed due to stress when the display panel is bent. Therefore, these oxide semiconductors can be suitably used in touch panels that are flexible and can be bent.

[0157] In addition, by using an oxide semiconductor having such crystallinity as a semiconductor layer, fluctuations in electrical characteristics are suppressed, making it possible to realize a highly reliable transistor.

[0158] In addition, transistors using oxide semiconductors with a larger band gap than silicon can maintain the charge accumulated in a capacitance connected in series with the transistor for a long period due to their low off-current. By applying such transistors to pixels, the driving circuit can be stopped while maintaining the gradation of the image displayed in each display area. As a result, a display device with significantly reduced power consumption can be realized.

[0159] Alternatively, it is preferable to use silicon for the semiconductor in which the transistor channel is formed. While amorphous silicon may be used as silicon, it is particularly preferable to use silicon with crystallinity. For example, it is preferable to use microcrystalline silicon, polycrystalline silicon, or single-crystal silicon. In particular, polycrystalline silicon can be formed at a lower temperature compared to single-crystal silicon, and it also possesses higher field-effect mobility and higher reliability compared to amorphous silicon. By applying such polycrystalline semiconductors to pixels, the aperture ratio of the pixels can be improved. Furthermore, even when pixels are of very high precision, the scan line driving circuit and the signal line driving circuit can be formed on the same substrate as the pixels, thereby reducing the number of components constituting the electronic device.

[0160] Materials that can be used for conductive layers, such as various wirings and electrodes constituting a touch panel, in addition to the gate, source, and drain of a transistor, include metals such as aluminum, titanium, chromium, nickel, copper, yttrium, zirconium, molybdenum, silver, tantalum, or tungsten, or alloys having these as main components. In addition, films containing these materials can be used as a single layer or as a stacked structure. For example, there are single-layer structures of an aluminum film containing silicon, two-layer structures in which an aluminum film is laminated on a titanium film, two-layer structures in which an aluminum film is laminated on a tungsten film, two-layer structures in which a copper film is laminated on a copper-magnesium-aluminum alloy film, two-layer structures in which a copper film is laminated on a titanium film, two-layer structures in which a copper film is laminated on a tungsten film, three-layer structures in which an aluminum film or a copper film is laminated over a titanium film or a titanium nitride film and then a titanium film or a titanium nitride film is formed thereon, and three-layer structures in which a molybdenum film or a molybdenum nitride film is laminated over a molybdenum film or a molybdenum nitride film and then an aluminum film or a copper film is laminated over it and then a molybdenum film or a molybdenum nitride film is formed thereon, etc. Additionally, transparent conductive materials containing indium oxide, tin oxide, or zinc oxide may be used. Furthermore, using copper containing manganese is preferable because it increases the controllability of the shape by etching.

[0161] In addition, as a transparent material that can be used for the conductive layer, such as various wirings and electrodes constituting a touch panel, conductive oxides such as indium oxide, indium tin oxide, indium zinc oxide, zinc oxide, or gallium-added zinc oxide, or graphene may be used. Alternatively, metallic materials such as gold, silver, platinum, magnesium, nickel, tungsten, chromium, molybdenum, iron, cobalt, copper, palladium, or titanium, or alloy materials containing these metallic materials may be used. Furthermore, nitrides of these metallic materials (e.g., titanium nitride) may also be used. Moreover, when using metallic materials or alloy materials (or their nitrides), it is preferable to make them thin enough to be transparent. Additionally, a laminated film of the above materials may be used as a conductive layer. For example, using a laminated film of an alloy of silver and magnesium and indium tin oxide is preferable because it can increase conductivity.

[0162] As insulating materials that can be used for each insulating layer, overcoat, spacer, etc., in addition to resins such as acrylic and epoxy and resins having siloxane bonds, inorganic insulating materials such as silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon nitride, silicon nitride, and aluminum oxide may also be used.

[0163] In addition, it is preferable that the light-emitting element be provided between a pair of low-permeability insulating films. This prevents impurities, such as water, from entering the light-emitting element, thereby preventing a decrease in the reliability of the device.

[0164] Examples of insulating films with low permeability include films containing nitrogen and silicon, such as silicon nitride films and silicon oxide nitride films, or films containing nitrogen and aluminum, such as aluminum nitride. Additionally, silicon oxide films, silicon oxide nitride films, and aluminum oxide films may also be used.

[0165] For example, the water vapor permeability of a low-permeability insulating film is 1×10 -5 [g / (m2 ·day)] or less, preferably 1×10 -6 [g / (m 2 ·day)] or less, more preferably 1×10 -7 [g / (m 2 ·day)] or less, more preferably 1×10 -8 [g / (m 2 ·day)] is less than or equal to

[0166] For each adhesive layer, various types of curing adhesives may be used, such as photocuring adhesives like UV-curing adhesives, reaction-curing adhesives, thermosetting adhesives, and anaerobic adhesives. Examples of these adhesives include epoxy resin, acrylic resin, silicone resin, phenolic resin, polyimide resin, imide resin, PVC (polyvinyl chloride) resin, PVB (polyvinyl butyral) resin, and EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) resin. In particular, materials with low moisture permeability, such as epoxy resin, are preferred. Additionally, a two-component mixed resin may be used. Furthermore, adhesive sheets may also be used.

[0167] In addition, the resin may include a desiccant. For example, a material that adsorbs moisture by chemical adsorption, such as an oxide of an alkaline earth metal (e.g., calcium oxide or barium oxide), may be used. Alternatively, a material that adsorbs moisture by physical adsorption, such as zeolite or silica gel, may be used. It is desirable to include a desiccant because it can suppress the intrusion of impurities, such as moisture, into the functional element, thereby improving the reliability of the display panel.

[0168] In addition, the light extraction efficiency from the light-emitting element can be improved by mixing a filler with a high refractive index or a light-scattering member with the above resin. For example, titanium oxide, barium oxide, zeolite, zirconium, etc., can be used.

[0169] As light-emitting elements, self-emissive elements may be used, and elements whose brightness is controlled by current or voltage are included in the category. For example, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), organic EL elements, inorganic EL elements, etc. may be used.

[0170] The light-emitting element may be of the top emission type, bottom emission type, or dual emission type. A conductive film that transmits visible light is used on the electrode on the side that extracts light. In addition, it is preferable to use a conductive film that reflects visible light on the electrode on the side that does not extract light.

[0171] The EL layer has at least a light-emitting layer. The EL layer may further include a layer other than the light-emitting layer, comprising a material with high hole injection properties, a material with high hole transport properties, a hole blocking material, a material with high electron transport properties, a material with high electron injection properties, or a bipolar material (a material with high electron transport properties and hole transport properties).

[0172] Any low-molecular-weight compound or high-molecular-weight compound may be used for the EL layer, and may also include an inorganic compound. Each layer constituting the EL layer can be formed by a deposition method (including vacuum deposition), a transfer method, a printing method, an inkjet method, a coating method, etc.

[0173] When a voltage higher than the threshold voltage of the light-emitting device is applied between the cathode and the anode, holes are injected into the EL layer from the anode side and electrons are injected from the cathode side. The injected electrons and holes recombine in the EL layer, causing the light-emitting material contained in the EL layer to emit light.

[0174] When applying a white light-emitting light-emitting device as a light-emitting element, it is preferable to configure the EL layer to include two or more types of light-emitting materials. For example, white light emission can be obtained by selecting light-emitting materials such that the light emission of each of the two or more types of light-emitting materials is in a complementary color relationship. For example, it is preferable to include two or more light-emitting materials that emit light such as R (red), G (green), B (blue), Y (yellow), and O (orange), or light-emitting materials that emit light containing spectral components of two or more colors among R, G, and B. Furthermore, it is preferable to apply a light-emitting device in which the spectrum of light emission from the light-emitting device has two or more peaks within the wavelength range of the visible light region (e.g., 350 nm to 750 nm). Additionally, it is preferable that the light emission spectrum of a material having a peak in the yellow wavelength region is a material that also has spectral components in the green and red wavelength regions.

[0175] It is preferable that the EL layer be configured such that a emitting layer containing a emitting material that emits one color and a emitting layer containing a emitting material that emits another color are stacked. For example, multiple emitting layers in the EL layer may be stacked in contact with each other, or may be stacked with a separating layer interposed therebetween. For example, it may be configured such that a separating layer is provided between a fluorescent emitting layer and a phosphorescent emitting layer. For example, it may be configured such that a region is provided between the fluorescent emitting layer and the phosphorescent emitting layer that includes a material identical to that of the fluorescent emitting layer or the phosphorescent emitting layer (e.g., a host material, an assist material) and does not include any emitting material. This facilitates the fabrication of the emitting device and reduces the driving voltage.

[0176] A conductive film that transmits visible light can be formed using, for example, indium oxide, indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide, zinc oxide, zinc oxide with added gallium, etc. In addition, metal materials such as gold, silver, platinum, magnesium, nickel, tungsten, chromium, molybdenum, iron, cobalt, copper, palladium, or titanium, alloys containing these metal materials, or nitrides of these metal materials (e.g., titanium nitride) can also be used by forming them thin enough to be transparent. Furthermore, a laminate of the above materials can be used as a conductive film. For example, using a laminate of an alloy of silver and magnesium and ITO is preferable because it can increase conductivity. Graphene may also be used.

[0177] A conductive film that reflects visible light may be formed using metal materials such as aluminum, gold, platinum, silver, nickel, tungsten, chromium, molybdenum, iron, cobalt, copper, or palladium, or alloys containing these metal materials. Additionally, lanthanum, neodymium, or germanium may be added to the metal materials or alloys. Furthermore, it may be formed using aluminum-containing alloys (aluminum alloys), such as aluminum-titanium alloys, aluminum-nickel alloys, or aluminum-neodymium alloys, or silver-containing alloys, such as silver-copper alloys, silver-palladium-copper alloys, or silver-magnesium alloys. Alloys containing silver and copper are preferred because they have high heat resistance. Additionally, oxidation of the aluminum alloy film can be suppressed by laminating a metal film or a metal oxide film in contact with the aluminum alloy film. Examples of materials for this metal film or metal oxide film include titanium and titanium oxide. In addition, a film made of a metal material and a conductive film that transmits visible light may be laminated. For example, a laminated film of silver and ITO, a laminated film of an alloy of silver and magnesium and ITO, etc. may be used.

[0178] The conductive film is preferably formed using deposition or sputtering methods, respectively. Alternatively, it can be formed using extrusion methods such as inkjet printing, printing methods such as screen printing, or plating methods.

[0179] In addition, the light-emitting device may be a single device having one EL layer, or a tandem device in which multiple EL layers are stacked with a charge generating layer interposed therebetween.

[0180] The above is a description of each component.

[0181] Below, an example having a configuration that differs in some aspects from the above-mentioned cross-sectional configuration example 1 will be described with reference to the drawings. Furthermore, the following description will omit explanations regarding parts that overlap with the above-mentioned content and explain the differences.

[0182] [Cross-sectional Composition Example 2]

[0183] FIG. 15 illustrates a cross-sectional configuration example of a touch panel (100) that differs in some configuration from FIG. 14.

[0184] In FIG. 15, the transistor (201) and transistor (202) are provided with a conductive layer between an insulating layer (213) and an insulating layer (214) that functions as their second gate. This configuration is preferable because it allows for a reduction in the voltage applied to the second gate compared to the configuration shown in FIG. 14.

[0185] In addition, the display element (60) illustrated in FIG. 15 represents an example of a case formed by a segmented coating method. Specifically, an EL layer (222) that emits a different color is formed for each pixel of a different color. Additionally, there is an area that is outer from the light-emitting region of the display element (60) and where the end of the EL layer (222) is covered by a second electrode (223). The EL layer (222) can be formed, for example, by a deposition method using a metal mask, a printing method, an inkjet method, etc.

[0186] Also, FIG. 15 illustrates an example in which the optical adjustment layer (224) or coloring layer (231) exemplified in FIG. 14 is not provided.

[0187] Additionally, FIG. 15 illustrates an example in which a protective film (217) is provided to cover the second electrode (223). The protective film (217) functions as a barrier film to prevent impurities, such as water, from spreading into the display element (60). Also, although not shown here, if the protective film (217) is provided to cover the end of the EL layer (222) or the end of the second electrode (223), it can more effectively suppress the intrusion of moisture into the display element (60).

[0188] As the protective film (217), an organic insulating material or an inorganic insulating material may be used. Using an inorganic insulating material is preferable because it allows for the formation of a thin film with high barrier properties. When using an inorganic insulating material for the protective film (217), it is preferable to use, for example, silicon nitride, silicon nitride oxide, aluminum oxide, aluminum nitride oxide, aluminum nitride oxide, aluminum nitride, hafnium oxide, etc. Aluminum oxide is particularly preferable because it has excellent barrier properties. In addition, sputtering, deposition, CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition), ALD (Atomic Layer Deposition), etc., may be used as the film formation method for the protective film (217). In particular, using the ALD method is preferable because it allows for suppression of damage to the display element (60) during film formation. Additionally, while thermal ALD can be used as the ALD method, using PEALD (Plasma Enhanced ALD) is more preferable because it allows for film formation at a low temperature of about room temperature.

[0189] In addition, the configuration of the transistor, the configuration of the display element (60), the configuration of the protective film (217) exemplified here can be substituted with the configuration of the transistor or the display element, etc. in each cross-sectional configuration exemplified in FIG. 14 and below.

[0190] [Cross-section Composition Example 3]

[0191] The touch panel illustrated in FIG. 16 has a substrate (111) and a substrate (112). The substrate (111) and the substrate (72) are bonded by an adhesive layer (152), and the substrate (111) and the substrate (112) are bonded by an adhesive layer (153).

[0192] The electrode (32), wiring (42), etc. are formed on the substrate (111). Also, the electrode (31), wiring (41) (not shown), etc. are formed on the substrate (112). Although FIG. 16 is configured to provide an FPC (50) on the substrate (111), an FPC is similarly connected to the substrate (112) in an area not shown.

[0193] In this way, when two substrates are used as the configuration of the input device (10), it is preferable to use substrates (111) and (112) that are the same as or thinner than substrate (71) or substrate (72). In particular, it is preferable to use a flexible material as described above for substrate (111) or substrate (112). This allows the thickness of the touch panel (100) to be reduced.

[0194] In addition, as shown in FIG. 16, a protective substrate (130) may be provided by interposing an adhesive layer (154) on a substrate (112). The side of the protective substrate (130) opposite to the substrate (112) functions as a touch surface. As the material of the protective substrate (130), the substrate of the substrate (30) may be used.

[0195] [Cross-sectional Composition Example 4]

[0196] The touch panel illustrated in FIG. 17 has a substrate (113). The substrate (113) and the substrate (72) are bonded by an adhesive layer (152).

[0197] Electrodes (32), wiring (42), etc. are provided on one side of the substrate (113). Additionally, electrodes (31), wiring (41), etc. are provided on the other side of the substrate (113). That is, the electrodes or wiring constituting the touch sensor have a configuration provided on the surface or back side of the substrate (113).

[0198] Additionally, FIG. 17 illustrates an example in which an FPC (50a) and a connection layer (109a) are provided at a connection part (106a) where a portion of the wiring (42) is exposed, and an FPC (50b) and a connection layer (109b) are provided at a connection part (106b) where a portion of the wiring (41) is exposed. Additionally, the connection part (106a) and the connection part (106b) may overlap when viewed in a planar view, or they may be arranged offset so as not to overlap.

[0199] [Cross-section Composition Example 5]

[0200] The touch panel illustrated in FIG. 18 is provided with electrodes constituting a touch sensor on the side opposite to the substrate (71) of the substrate (72). Specifically, a bridge electrode (34) is provided on the substrate (72), an insulating layer (161) covering a part of the bridge electrode (34), and electrodes (31), electrodes (32), wiring (41) (not shown), wiring (42), etc. are provided on the insulating layer (161).

[0201] In addition, as shown in FIG. 18, the protective substrate (130) and the substrate (72) may be bonded together with an adhesive layer (152).

[0202] By configuring it this way, the input device (10) and the display panel (70) can share a substrate, so the thickness of the touch panel can be made very thin.

[0203] [Cross-section Composition Example 6]

[0204] FIG. 19 illustrates an example of a touch panel configuration in which the configuration of the touch sensor exemplified in FIG. 18 and the configuration of the light-emitting element to which the separation coating method exemplified in FIG. 15 is applied are used in the display element (60). FIG. 19 also illustrates an example in which a light-blocking layer (232) is not provided.

[0205] [Cross-section Composition Example 7]

[0206] The touch panel illustrated in FIG. 20 has electrodes, etc. constituting a touch sensor provided on the side of the substrate (71) of the substrate (72). Specifically, electrodes (32), electrodes (33), wiring (41) (not shown), wiring (42), etc. are provided on the substrate (72), an insulating layer (161) covering them, and a bridge electrode (34), etc. are provided on the insulating layer (161).

[0207] In addition, an insulating layer (233) is provided to cover the electrodes constituting the touch sensor. Additionally, a coloring layer (231), a light-blocking layer (232), etc. are provided on the insulating layer (233).

[0208] By configuring it in this way, the input device (10) and the display panel (70) can share the substrate, and one side of the substrate (72) can be used as a touch surface, so the thickness of the touch panel (100) can be made thinner.

[0209] [Cross-section Composition Example 8]

[0210] FIG. 21 shows a modified example of the touch panel illustrated in FIG. 20.

[0211] The touch panel illustrated in FIG. 21 has a stacked structure of a substrate (91), an adhesive layer (92), a substrate (93), and an insulating layer (94) instead of a substrate (71). Or, instead of a substrate (72), it has a stacked structure of a substrate (191), an adhesive layer (192), a substrate (193), and an insulating layer (194).

[0212] The insulating layer (94) and the insulating layer (194) may be made of a material that is difficult for impurities such as water or hydrogen to diffuse. By making this configuration, even if a material with moisture permeability is used for the substrate (91), substrate (93), substrate (191) and substrate (193), the diffusion of impurities from the outside to the display element (60) or each transistor can be suppressed, and a highly reliable touch panel can be realized.

[0213] The substrate (93) and the substrate (193) may use materials such as a flexible resin. It is preferable to use a flexible film or the like for the substrate (91) and the substrate (191). By using a flexible material for these substrates, a bendable touch panel can be realized.

[0214] [Cross-section Composition Example 9]

[0215] In the touch panel illustrated in FIG. 22, a light-blocking layer (232) is provided between the electrodes constituting the touch sensor and the substrate (72). Specifically, the light-blocking layer (232) is provided on the substrate (72), and an insulating layer (234) is provided to cover the light-blocking layer (232). On the insulating layer (234), an electrode (32), an electrode (33), a wiring (41) (not shown), a wiring (42), an insulating layer (161) covering them, and a bridge electrode (34) are provided on the insulating layer (161). Additionally, an insulating layer (233) is provided on the bridge electrode (34) and the insulating layer (161), and a coloring layer (231) is provided on the insulating layer (233).

[0216] The insulating layer (233) and the insulating layer (234) function as flattening films. Additionally, the insulating layer (233) and the insulating layer (234) do not need to be provided if they are not required.

[0217] By configuring it in this way, the reflection of external light from the electrodes, etc., can be prevented by the light-blocking layer (232) provided on the visible side rather than the electrodes, etc. constituting the touch sensor, and the visibility of the electrodes, etc. can be suppressed. Therefore, a touch panel that is not only thin but also has improved visibility can be realized.

[0218] [Cross-sectional Composition Example 10]

[0219] FIG. 23 shows a modified example of the touch panel illustrated in FIG. 22.

[0220] The touch panel illustrated in FIG. 23 has a laminated structure of a substrate (91), an adhesive layer (92), and an insulating layer (94) instead of a substrate (71). It also has a laminated structure of a substrate (191), an adhesive layer (192), and an insulating layer (194) instead of a substrate (72).

[0221] A bendable touch panel can be realized by using a flexible material on the substrate (91) and the substrate (191).

[0222] [Cross-sectional Composition Example 11]

[0223] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of a touch panel in which a liquid crystal display device is applied as a display panel (70). The touch panel shown in FIG. 24 has a liquid crystal element applied as a display element (208). In addition, the touch panel has a polarizing plate (131), a polarizing plate (132), and a backlight (133).

[0224] Here, an example is shown in which a liquid crystal element with an FFS (Fringe Field Switching) mode is applied as a display element (208). The display element (208) has an electrode (251), an electrode (252), and a liquid crystal (253). The electrode (251) is provided with an insulating layer (254) interposed over the electrode (252) and has a comb shape or a slit shape.

[0225] Additionally, an overcoat (255) is provided to cover the coloring layer (231) and the light-blocking layer (232). The overcoat (255) has the function of preventing pigments, etc. contained in the coloring layer (231) or the light-blocking layer (232) from spreading into the liquid crystal (253).

[0226] In addition, regarding the overcoat (255), insulating layer (254), and electrode (251), etc., an alignment film for suppressing the alignment of the liquid crystal (253) may be provided on the surface in contact with the liquid crystal (253).

[0227] In FIG. 24, a polarizing plate (131) is attached to a substrate (71) by an adhesive layer (157). Also, a backlight (133) is attached to the polarizing plate (131) by an adhesive layer (158). Additionally, a polarizing plate (132) is positioned between the substrate (72) and the substrate (30). The polarizing plate (132) is attached to the substrate (72) by an adhesive layer (155) and also attached to the substrate (30) (specifically, a part of the insulating layer (161) on the substrate (30)) by an adhesive layer (156).

[0228] In addition, although the above description explains liquid crystal devices with FFS mode applied, other modes such as VA (Vertical Alignment) mode, TN (Twisted Nematic) mode, IPS (In-Plane-Switching) mode, ASM (Axially Symmetric Aligned Micro-cell) mode, OCB (Optically Compensated Birefringence) mode, FLC (Ferroelectric Liquid Crystal) mode, and AFLC (AntiFerroelectric Liquid Crystal) mode can also be used.

[0229] In addition, thermotropic liquid crystals, low-molecular-weight liquid crystals, high-molecular-weight liquid crystals, ferroelectric liquid crystals, antiferroelectric liquid crystals, and polymer dispersed liquid crystals (PDLC) can be used as liquid crystals. Furthermore, using a liquid crystal that exhibits a blue phase is preferable because it eliminates the need for an alignment layer and allows for a wide viewing angle.

[0230] [Cross-sectional Composition Example 12]

[0231] FIG. 25 is an example of a cross-sectional configuration of a touch panel in which a liquid crystal display device is applied as a display panel (70). In the touch panel illustrated in FIG. 25, a polarizing plate (132) is positioned on the visible side, such as an electrode constituting a touch sensor. Specifically, a substrate (114) on which electrodes (31), electrodes (32), etc. are formed is attached to the substrate (72) by an adhesive layer (152), and a polarizing plate (132) is attached to the substrate (114) by an adhesive layer (155). Additionally, a protective substrate (130) is provided on the visible side of the polarizing plate (132) and is attached to the polarizing plate (132) by an adhesive layer (156).

[0232] It is preferable to use a flexible film or the like on the substrate (114) so ​​that the thickness of the touch panel can be reduced.

[0233] [Cross-sectional Composition Example 13]

[0234] FIG. 26 is an example of a cross-sectional configuration of a touch panel in which a liquid crystal display device is applied as a display panel. The touch panel illustrated in FIG. 26 represents an example in which electrodes constituting a touch sensor, etc., are formed on the substrate (71) side of the substrate (72). Specifically, electrodes (32), electrodes (33), wiring (41) (not shown), wiring (42), etc., and an insulating layer (161) covering them are provided on the substrate (72), and bridge electrodes (34), etc., are provided on the insulating layer (161). Additionally, an insulating layer (233) is provided to cover electrodes constituting a touch sensor, etc. Additionally, a coloring layer (231), a light-blocking layer (232), etc., are provided on the insulating layer (233).

[0235] In addition, a polarizing plate (132) is attached to the opposite side of the substrate (72) by an adhesive layer (155). Also, a protective substrate (130) is attached to the polarizing plate (132) by an adhesive layer (156).

[0236] By configuring it this way, the input device and the display panel can share the substrate, and one side of the substrate (72) can be used as a touch surface, so the thickness of the touch panel can be made thinner.

[0237] [Cross-sectional Composition Example 14]

[0238] FIG. 27 is an example of a cross-sectional configuration of a touch panel in which a liquid crystal display device is applied as a display panel. The touch panel illustrated in FIG. 27 represents an example in which electrodes constituting a touch sensor are provided on the side opposite to the side of the substrate (71) of the substrate (72). Specifically, a bridge electrode (34), an insulating layer (161) covering a part of the bridge electrode (34), and electrodes (31), electrodes (32), wiring (41) (not shown), and wiring (42) are provided on the side opposite to the side provided with the coloring layer (231) of the substrate (72). Additionally, a polarizing plate (132) is attached to the substrate (72) by an adhesive layer (152), and a protective substrate (130) is attached to the polarizing plate (132) by an adhesive layer (156).

[0239] The above content is an explanation of the cross-sectional configuration example.

[0240] [Example of production method]

[0241] Here, we explain how to manufacture a flexible touch panel.

[0242] For convenience, configurations including pixels or circuits, configurations including optical components such as color filters, and configurations including electrodes or wiring constituting a touch sensor shall be referred to as device layers. The device layer may include, for example, a display element, and may also include, in addition to the display element, wiring electrically connected to the display element, and components such as transistors used in pixels or circuits.

[0243] Also, here, a support having an insulating surface on which a device layer is formed (e.g., the substrate (91) or substrate (191) in FIG. 23) is referred to as a substrate.

[0244] As a method for forming a device layer on a substrate having a flexible insulating surface, there is a method of forming the device layer directly on the substrate, and a method of forming the device layer on a rigid supporting substrate, and then peeling off the device layer and the supporting substrate to transfer the device layer to the substrate.

[0245] If the material constituting the substrate has heat resistance to the heat applied during the process of forming the device layer, it is desirable to form the device layer directly on the substrate, as this simplifies the process. At this time, it is also desirable to form the device layer while the substrate is fixed to a support substrate, as this facilitates transport within and between devices.

[0246] In addition, when using a method of transferring a device layer onto a substrate after forming it on a support substrate, a release layer and an insulating layer are first laminated on the support substrate to form a device layer on the insulating layer. Subsequently, the support substrate and the device layer are peeled off and transferred onto a substrate. At this time, a material in which peeling occurs at the interface between the support substrate and the release layer, at the interface between the release layer and the insulating layer, or within the release layer can be selected.

[0247] For example, it is preferable to use a layer containing a high-melting-point metal material such as tungsten and a layer containing an oxide of this metal material as a release layer, and to use a layer formed by stacking multiple silicon nitride or silicon oxide nitride layers as an insulating layer on top of the release layer. Using a high-melting-point metal material is preferable because it increases the degree of freedom in the process of forming the device layer.

[0248] Delamination may be performed by applying mechanical force, etching the delamination layer, or by dropping a liquid onto a part of the delamination interface and allowing it to penetrate the entire delamination interface. Alternatively, delamination may be performed by applying heat to the delamination interface using the difference in the coefficient of thermal expansion.

[0249] In addition, if peeling is possible at the interface between the support substrate and the insulating layer, a peeling layer may not be provided. For example, glass may be used as the support substrate and an organic resin such as polyimide may be used as the insulating layer, and peeling may be performed at the interface between the glass and the insulating layer by forming a peeling initiation point by locally heating a portion of the organic resin using laser light, etc. Alternatively, a metal layer may be provided between the support substrate and the insulating layer containing the organic resin, and peeling may be performed at the interface between the metal layer and the insulating layer by passing an electric current through the metal layer and heating the metal layer. Alternatively, a layer of a light-absorbing material (metal, semiconductor, insulator, etc.) may be provided between the support substrate and the insulating layer containing the organic resin, and a peeling initiation point may be formed by locally heating the layer by irradiating it with light such as laser light. In the method presented herein, the insulating layer containing the organic resin may be used as a substrate.

[0250] Examples of flexible substrates include polyester resins such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyacrylonitrile resin, polyimide resin, polymethyl methacrylate resin, polycarbonate (PC) resin, polyethersulfone (PES) resin, polyamide resin, cycloolefin resin, polystyrene resin, polyimide resin, and polyvinyl chloride resin. It is particularly desirable to use a material with a low coefficient of thermal expansion, for example, a thermal expansion coefficient of 30×10 -6 Polyimide resins, polyimide resins, PET, etc., with a coefficient of thermal expansion of / K or less can be suitably used. In addition, a substrate in which a fiber is impregnated with resin (also called prepreg) or a substrate in which an inorganic filler is mixed with an organic resin to lower the coefficient of thermal expansion can also be used.

[0251] If the above materials include fibers, high-strength fibers made of organic or inorganic compounds are used. Specifically, high-strength fibers refer to fibers with a high tensile modulus or Young's modulus, and representative examples include polyvinyl alcohol fibers, polyester fibers, polyamide fibers, polyethylene fibers, aramid fibers, polyparaphenylenebenzobisoxazole fibers, glass fibers, or carbon fibers. Examples of glass fibers include E-glass, S-glass, D-glass, Q-glass, etc. These are used in the form of woven or non-woven fabrics, and a structure formed by impregnating the fibers with resin and curing the resin may be used as a flexible substrate. Using a structure containing fibers and resin as a flexible substrate is desirable because it improves reliability against breakage caused by bending or localized pressure.

[0252] Alternatively, thin glass or metal that is flexible may be used as the substrate. Or, a composite material in which glass and resin materials are bonded may be used.

[0253] For example, in the configuration illustrated in FIG. 23, a first peeling layer and an insulating layer (94) are sequentially formed on a first support substrate, and then a structure is formed above them. Separately, a second peeling layer and an insulating layer (194) are sequentially formed on a second support substrate, and then a structure is formed above them. Subsequently, the first support substrate and the second support substrate are bonded by an adhesive layer (151). Then, the second support substrate and the second peeling layer are removed by peeling at the interface between the second peeling layer and the insulating layer (194), and the insulating layer (194) and the substrate (191) are bonded by an adhesive layer (192). Additionally, the first support substrate and the first peeling layer are removed by peeling at the interface between the first peeling layer and the insulating layer (94), and the insulating layer (94) and the substrate (91) are bonded by an adhesive layer (92). In addition, peeling and bonding may be performed in either order.

[0254] The above content is an explanation of how to manufacture a flexible touch panel.

[0255] In addition, although examples are shown herein where a light-emitting element or a liquid crystal element is used as a display element, one embodiment of the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0256] For example, display devices utilizing display elements such as MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) devices or electron emission devices may be used. Examples of MEMS display elements include shutter-type MEMS display elements and optical interference-type MEMS display elements. Carbon nanotubes may also be used as electron emission devices. Additionally, electronic paper may be used. As for electronic paper, devices applying the microcapsule method, electrophoresis method, electro-wetting method, or electronic liquid powder (registered trademark) method may be used.

[0257] This embodiment may be implemented by appropriately combining at least a part thereof with other embodiments described in this specification.

[0258] (Embodiment 2)

[0259] In this embodiment, an example of an input device or a driving method for an input / output device of one form of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0260] [Example of sensor detection method]

[0261] FIG. 28 (A) is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a mutual capacitance type touch sensor. FIG. 28 (A) illustrates a pulse voltage output circuit (601) and a current detection circuit (602). Additionally, an electrode (621) to which a pulse voltage is applied and an electrode (622) that detects a change in current are each illustrated with six wires, X1 to X6 and Y1 to Y6, respectively. FIG. 28 (A) also illustrates a capacitance (603) formed by the overlap of the electrode (621) and the electrode (622). Furthermore, the electrode (621) and the electrode (622) may have their functions swapped.

[0262] The pulse voltage output circuit (601) is a circuit for sequentially applying pulses to the wiring (X1 to X6). When a pulse voltage is applied to the wiring (X1 to X6), an electric field is generated between the electrode (621) and the electrode (622) that form the capacitance (603). By utilizing the fact that the electric field generated between these electrodes causes a change in the mutual capacitance of the capacitance (603) through shielding, etc., the proximity or contact of the object to be tested can be detected.

[0263] The electrode detection circuit (602) is a circuit for detecting a change in the current value in the wiring (Y1~Y6) caused by a change in capacitance in the capacitance (603). In the wiring (Y1~Y6), there is no change in the detected current value if there is no proximity or contact with the object being detected, but if the capacitance decreases due to proximity or contact with the object being detected, a change in the current value is detected. Additionally, it is preferable to perform the detection of the current using an integration circuit or the like.

[0264] Next, FIG. 28 (B) shows a timing chart of the input / output waveforms of the mutual capacitance type touch sensor shown in FIG. 28 (A). In FIG. 28 (B), detection of the object to be detected in each matrix is ​​performed during one frame period. FIG. 28 (B) also shows two cases: when the object to be detected is not detected (non-touch) and when the object to be detected is detected (touch). Additionally, for the wiring (Y1~Y6), a waveform is shown with a voltage value corresponding to the detected current value.

[0265] Pulse voltages are applied sequentially to the wirings (X1 to X6), and the waveforms in the wirings (Y1 to Y6) change according to these pulse voltages. When there is no proximity or contact with the object to be tested, the waveforms of Y1 to Y6 change according to the change in voltage of the wirings (X1 to X6). On the other hand, in the part where the object to be tested is in proximity or contact, the current value decreases, so the waveform of the corresponding voltage value also changes.

[0266] In this way, proximity or contact of the subject to be tested can be detected by detecting a change in volume.

[0267] In addition, it is mounted on the touch panel in the form of an integrated IC as a pulse voltage output circuit (601) and a current detection circuit (602). Alternatively, it is preferable to mount it on a substrate within the housing of an electronic device. Furthermore, when using a flexible touch panel, there is a concern that parasitic capacitance increases in the curved portions and the influence of noise may increase; therefore, it is preferable to use an IC with a driving method that is resistant to noise influence. For example, it is preferable to use an IC with a driving method that increases the signal-to-noise ratio (S / N ratio).

[0268] In addition, (A) of FIG. 28 illustrates the configuration of a passive matrix type touch sensor that provides only a capacitance (603) at the intersection of the wiring as a touch sensor, but an active matrix type touch sensor equipped with a transistor and a capacitance may also be used. FIG. 29 illustrates an example of a sensor circuit included in an active matrix type touch sensor.

[0269] The sensor circuit has a capacitance (603), a transistor (611), a transistor (612), and a transistor (613). A signal (G2) is supplied to the gate of the transistor (613), a voltage (VRES) is supplied to one of the source and drain, and the other side is electrically connected to one electrode of the capacitance (603) and the gate of the transistor (611). One of the source and drain of the transistor (611) is electrically connected to one of the source and drain of the transistor (612), and a voltage (VSS) is supplied to the other side. A signal (G1) is supplied to the gate of the transistor (612), and the other side of the source and drain is electrically connected to the wiring (ML). A voltage (VSS) is supplied to the other electrode of the capacitance (603).

[0270] Next, the operation of the sensor circuit is described. First, a potential that turns the transistor (613) on is supplied as a signal (G2), thereby supplying a potential corresponding to the voltage (VRES) to node n, to which the gate of the transistor (611) is connected. Next, a potential that turns the transistor (613) off is supplied as a signal (G2), thereby maintaining the potential of node n.

[0271] Next, as the capacity of the capacity (603) changes due to proximity or contact with the test body such as a finger, the potential of node n changes from VRES.

[0272] The reading operation supplies a potential to the signal (G1) that turns on the transistor (612). Depending on the potential of node n, the current flowing through the transistor (611), that is, the current flowing through the wiring (ML), changes. By detecting this current, proximity or contact of the object to be detected can be detected.

[0273] As transistors (611), transistor (612), and transistor (613), it is preferable to use transistors in which an oxide semiconductor is applied to the semiconductor layer where the channel is formed. In particular, by applying such a transistor to transistor (613), the potential of node n can be maintained over a long period of time, and the frequency of the operation of supplying VRES to node n again (refresh operation) can be reduced.

[0274] [Configuration example of an in-cell touch panel]

[0275] Although the above description illustrates a case where the electrode constituting the touch sensor is formed on a substrate different from the substrate on which the display element, etc. is provided, it is also possible to provide one or both of the pair of electrodes constituting the touch sensor on the substrate on which the display element, etc. is provided.

[0276] The following describes an example of a touch panel configuration in which a touch sensor is provided on a display portion having multiple pixels. Here, an example is shown in which a liquid crystal element is applied as the display element provided to the pixels.

[0277] (A) of FIG. 30 is an equivalent circuit diagram of a part of the pixel circuit provided in the display part of the touch panel exemplified in the present configuration example.

[0278] A single pixel has at least a transistor (3503) and a liquid crystal element (3504). Additionally, a wire (3501) is electrically connected to the gate of the transistor (3503), and a wire (3502) is electrically connected to one of the source and drain.

[0279] The pixel circuit has a plurality of wires extending in the X direction (e.g., wire (3510_1), wire (3510_2)) and a plurality of wires extending in the Y direction (e.g., wire (3511)), these are provided to intersect, and a capacitance is formed between them.

[0280] In addition, among the pixels provided to the pixel circuit, some adjacent multiple pixels are electrically connected to one electrode of each provided liquid crystal element to form a block. This block is classified into two types: an island-shaped block (e.g., block (3515_1), block (3515_2)) and a line-shaped block extending in the Y direction (e.g., block (3516)). Also, although only a part of the pixel circuit is shown in FIG. 30, in reality, these two types of blocks are repeatedly arranged in the X and Y directions.

[0281] A wiring (3510_1) (or wiring (3510_2)) extending in the X direction is electrically connected to an island-shaped block (3515_1) (or block (3515_2)). Additionally, although not illustrated, a wiring (3510_1) extending in the X direction electrically connects a plurality of island-shaped blocks (3515_1) that are discontinuously arranged along the X direction by interposing a line-shaped block. Furthermore, a wiring (3511) extending in the Y direction is electrically connected to a line-shaped block (3516).

[0282] Figure 30 (B) is an equivalent circuit diagram showing the connection configuration of a plurality of wires (3510) extending in the X direction and a plurality of wires (3511) extending in the Y direction. An input voltage or a common potential can be input to each of the wires (3510) extending in the X direction. Additionally, a ground potential can be input to each of the wires (3511) extending in the Y direction, or the wires (3511) can be electrically connected to a detection circuit.

[0283] Hereinafter, the operation of the touch panel described above will be explained with reference to (A) and (B) of FIG. 31.

[0284] Here, the 1-frame period is divided into a recording period and a detection period. The recording period is a period for recording image data as pixels, and wiring (3510) (also called a gate line or scan line) is selected sequentially. Meanwhile, the detection period is a period for performing sensing by a touch sensor, and wiring (3510) extending in the X direction is selected sequentially to input an input voltage.

[0285] Figure 31 (A) is an equivalent circuit diagram during the recording period. During the recording period, a common potential is input to both the wiring (3510) extending in the X direction and the wiring (3511) extending in the Y direction.

[0286] Figure 31 (B) is an equivalent circuit diagram at any point in the detection period. During the detection period, each of the wiring (3511) extending in the Y direction is electrically connected to the detection circuit. Additionally, among the wiring (3510) extending in the X direction, an input voltage is input to the selected one, and a common potential is input to the others.

[0287] In addition, the driving method exemplified herein can be applied not only to the in-cell method but also to the touch panel exemplified above, and can be used in combination with the method presented in the driving method example above.

[0288] In this way, it is desirable to provide the image recording period and the period for sensing by the touch sensor independently. By doing so, the degradation of the touch sensor's sensitivity caused by noise during pixel recording can be suppressed.

[0289] (Embodiment 3)

[0290] In this embodiment, an electronic device and lighting device of one form of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0291] By using an input device, display device, or input / output device of one embodiment of the present invention, electronic devices or lighting devices can be manufactured. By using an input device, display device, or input / output device of one embodiment of the present invention, electronic devices or lighting devices having a curved surface and high reliability can be manufactured. In addition, by using an input device, display device, or input / output device of one embodiment of the present invention, electronic devices or lighting devices having flexibility and high reliability can be manufactured. Furthermore, by using an input device or input / output device of one embodiment of the present invention, electronic devices or lighting devices with improved detection sensitivity or detection precision of a touch sensor can be manufactured.

[0292] Examples of electronic devices include, for instance, television devices (also called television or television receivers), monitors for computers, digital cameras, digital video cameras, digital photo frames, mobile phones (also called mobile phones or mobile phone devices), portable game consoles, portable information terminals, sound playback devices, and large game machines such as pachinko machines.

[0293] In addition, if an electronic device or lighting device of one form of the present invention has flexibility, it may be provided along the inner or outer wall of a house or building, or along the curved surface of the interior or exterior of a car.

[0294] In addition, an electronic device of one embodiment of the present invention may have a secondary battery, and it is preferable that the secondary battery can be charged using non-contact power transmission.

[0295] Examples of secondary batteries include lithium-ion secondary batteries such as lithium polymer batteries (lithium-ion polymer batteries) using a gel electrolyte, lithium-ion batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, organic radical batteries, lead-acid batteries, air secondary batteries, nickel-zinc batteries, silver-zinc batteries, etc.

[0296] An electronic device of one embodiment of the present invention may have an antenna. By receiving a signal with the antenna, images or information can be displayed on a display unit. Additionally, if the electronic device has a secondary battery, the antenna may be used for non-contact power transmission.

[0297] An example of an electronic device having a curved display portion (7000) is illustrated in (A), (B), (C1), (C2), (D), and (E) of FIG. 32. The display portion (7000) is provided with a curved display surface and can perform a display along the curved display surface. Additionally, the display portion (7000) may be flexible.

[0298] The display unit (7000) is manufactured using a display device or an input / output device of one form of the present invention. By providing a curved display unit according to one form of the present invention, a highly reliable electronic device can be provided.

[0299] An example of a mobile phone is illustrated in FIG. 32 (A). The mobile phone (7100) has a housing (7101), a display unit (7000), an operation button (7103), an external connection port (7104), a speaker (7105), a microphone (7106), etc.

[0300] The mobile phone (7100) illustrated in (A) of FIG. 32 is equipped with a touch sensor on the display (7000). All operations, such as making a call or entering text, can be performed by touching the display (7000) with a finger or a stylus.

[0301] In addition, the ON / OFF operation of the power or the type of image displayed on the display unit (7000) can be switched by operating the operation button (7103). For example, the email composition screen can be switched to the main menu screen.

[0302] An example of a television device is illustrated in (B) of FIG. 32. The television device (7200) has a display unit (7000) provided in a housing (7201). Here, a configuration is illustrated in which the housing (7201) is supported by a stand (7203).

[0303] The operation of the television device (7200) illustrated in Fig. 32 (B) can be performed by an operation switch provided by the housing (7201) or by a separate remote controller (7211). Additionally, a touch sensor may be provided on the display unit (7000), or the device may be operated by touching the display unit (7000) with a finger or the like. The remote controller (7211) may have a display unit that displays information output from the remote controller (7211). Channels or sound can be operated by an operation key or touch panel provided by the remote controller (7211), and images displayed on the display unit (7000) can be operated.

[0304] Additionally, the television device (7200) is configured to include a receiver or a modem. It can receive general television broadcasts through the receiver, and can also communicate information in one direction (from the sender to the receiver) or in two directions (between the sender and the receiver, or between receivers, etc.) by connecting to a communication network via wired or wireless means through the modem.

[0305] Examples of portable information terminals are illustrated in (C1), (C2), (D), and (E) of FIG. 32. Each portable information terminal has a housing (7301) and a display unit (7000). It may also have an operation button, an external connection port, a speaker, a microphone, an antenna, or a battery. The display unit (7000) is equipped with a touch sensor. Operation of the portable information terminal can be performed by touching the display unit (7000) with a finger or a stylus.

[0306] (C1) of FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a portable information terminal (7300), and (C2) of FIG. 32 is a top view of the portable information terminal (7300). (D) of FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a portable information terminal (7310). (E) of FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a portable information terminal (7320).

[0307] The portable information terminal exemplified in this embodiment has one or more functions selected from, for example, a telephone, a notebook, or an information viewing device. Specifically, each can be used as a smartphone. The portable information terminal exemplified in this embodiment can execute various applications, such as mobile phone, email, text viewing and composition, music playback, internet communication, and computer games.

[0308] The portable information terminal (7300), portable information terminal (7310), and portable information terminal (7320) can display text or image information on multiple surfaces. For example, as shown in (C1) and (D) of FIG. 32, three operation buttons (7302) can be displayed on one surface and information (7303) displayed as a rectangle can be displayed on another surface. (C1) and (C2) of FIG. 32 illustrate an example of information being displayed on the upper side of the portable information terminal, and (D) of FIG. 32 illustrates an example of information being displayed on the side of the portable information terminal. Additionally, information may be displayed on three or more surfaces of the portable information terminal, and (E) of FIG. 32 illustrates an example in which information (7304), information (7305), and information (7306) are each displayed on different surfaces.

[0309] In addition, examples of information include notifications from Social Networking Services (SNS), indications of incoming emails or phone calls, the subject or sender name of emails, date and time, battery level, and antenna signal strength. Alternatively, control buttons, icons, etc., may be displayed instead of information at the location where information is displayed.

[0310] For example, a user of a portable information terminal (7300) can check the display (information (7303) in this case) while the portable information terminal (7300) is placed in a top pocket.

[0311] Specifically, the phone number or name of the caller is displayed in a location that can be observed from above the portable information terminal (7300). The user can check the display and decide whether to answer the call without taking the portable information terminal (7300) out of the pocket.

[0312] An example of a lighting device having a curved light-emitting part is illustrated in (F) to (H) of FIG. 32.

[0313] The light-emitting part of each lighting device illustrated in (F) to (H) of FIG. 32 is manufactured using a display device or an input / output device, etc., of one form of the present invention. By providing a curved light-emitting part according to one form of the present invention, a lighting device with high reliability can also be provided.

[0314] The lighting device (7400) illustrated in (F) of FIG. 32 is equipped with a light-emitting part (7402) having a wave-shaped light-emitting surface. Therefore, it becomes a lighting device with high design potential.

[0315] The light-emitting part (7412) provided by the lighting device (7410) illustrated in (G) of FIG. 32 is configured such that two light-emitting parts, which are curved in a convex shape, are symmetrically arranged. Therefore, it can illuminate in all directions centered on the lighting device (7410).

[0316] The lighting device (7420) illustrated in (H) of FIG. 32 is provided with a light-emitting part (7422) that is curved in a concave shape. Accordingly, light from the light-emitting part (7422) is concentrated on the front surface of the lighting device (7420), making it suitable for brightly illuminating a specific area. In addition, by taking this shape, it has the effect of making it difficult for shadows to form.

[0317] Additionally, each light-emitting part provided by the lighting device (7400), lighting device (7410), and lighting device (7420) may be flexible. The light-emitting part may be fixed with a plastic member or a movable frame, and configured so that the light-emitting surface of the light-emitting part can be freely bent according to the application.

[0318] In addition, the lighting device (7400), the lighting device (7410), and the lighting device (7420) each have a support member (7401) equipped with an operating switch (7403) and a light-emitting part supported on the support member (7401).

[0319] Here, an example of a lighting device in which the light-emitting part is supported by a base has been provided, but a housing equipped with a light-emitting part can be fixed to the ceiling or suspended from the ceiling. Since the light-emitting part can be used by bending it, the light-emitting surface can be bent into a concave shape to brightly illuminate a specific area, or the light-emitting surface can be bent into a convex shape to brightly illuminate the entire room.

[0320] FIG. 33 illustrates an example of a portable information terminal having a flexible display unit (7001).

[0321] The display unit (7001) is manufactured using a display device or an input / output device of one form of the present invention. For example, a display device or an input / output device capable of being curved with a radius of curvature of 0.01 mm or more and 150 mm or less may be applied. Additionally, the display unit (7001) may be equipped with a touch sensor, and the portable information terminal can be operated by touching the display unit (7001) with a finger or the like. By providing a flexible display unit according to one form of the present invention, a highly reliable electronic device can also be provided.

[0322] (A1) of FIG. 33 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a portable information terminal, and (A2) of FIG. 33 is a side view illustrating an example of a portable information terminal. The portable information terminal (7500) has a housing (7501), a display unit (7001), an extraction member (7502), an operation button (7503), etc.

[0323] The portable information terminal (7500) has a flexible display part (7001) rolled into a roll shape within a housing (7501).

[0324] Additionally, the portable information terminal (7500) can receive a video signal through a built-in control unit and display the received video on a display unit (7001). Additionally, the portable information terminal (7500) has a built-in battery. Furthermore, the housing (7501) may be provided with a terminal unit for connecting a connector, so that the video signal or power is supplied directly from the outside via a wire.

[0325] In addition, the power ON / OFF operation or the switching of the displayed image can be performed by the operation button (7503). Also, in (A1), (A2), and (B) of FIG. 33, an example is shown in which the operation button (7503) is placed on the side of the portable information terminal (7500), but it is not limited thereto and may be placed on the same side (front side) or the back side as the display surface of the portable information terminal (7500).

[0326] Figure 33 (B) illustrates a portable information terminal (7500) in a state where the display unit (7001) is withdrawn by the withdrawal member (7502). In this state, an image can be displayed on the display unit (7001). Additionally, the portable information terminal (7500) may be configured to perform different displays in the state of Figure 33 (A1), where a part of the display unit (7001) is rolled up, and in the state of Figure 33 (B), where the display unit (7001) is withdrawn by the withdrawal member (7502). For example, when in the state of Figure 33 (A1), the power consumption of the portable information terminal (7500) can be reduced by making the rolled-up part of the display unit (7001) non-displayable.

[0327] In addition, a reinforcing frame may be provided on the side of the display part (7001) to fix the display surface of the display part (7001) so that it becomes flat when the display part (7001) is withdrawn.

[0328] In addition to this configuration, a speaker may be provided in the housing to output sound based on the audio signal received along with the video signal.

[0329] Examples of foldable portable information terminals are illustrated in FIGS. 33 (C) to (E). FIG. 33 (C) shows the device in an unfolded state, FIG. 33 (D) shows the device in a state of transition from one side of the unfolded or folded state to the other, and FIG. 33 (E) shows the portable information terminal (7600) in a folded state. The portable information terminal (7600) has excellent portability in the folded state and excellent readability of the display due to the wide, seamless display area in the unfolded state.

[0330] The display unit (7001) is supported by three housings (7601) connected by a hinge (7602). By bending the two housings (7601) together through the hinge (7602), the portable information terminal (7600) can be reversibly deformed from an unfolded state to a folded state.

[0331] An example of a foldable portable information terminal is illustrated in FIG. 33 (F) and (G). FIG. 33 (F) shows a portable information terminal (7650) in a state where the display portion (7001) is folded inward, and FIG. 33 (G) shows a state where the display portion (7001) is folded outward. The portable information terminal (7650) has a display portion (7001) and a non-display portion (7651). When the portable information terminal (7650) is not in use, the display portion (7001) can be folded inward to prevent the display portion (7001) from becoming dirty or damaged.

[0332] An example of a flexible portable information terminal is illustrated in (H) of FIG. 33. The portable information terminal (7700) has a housing (7701) and a display unit (7001). It may also have input means such as buttons (7703a), (7703b), voice output means such as speakers (7704a), (7704b), an external connection port (7705), a microphone (7706), etc. Additionally, the portable information terminal (7700) may be equipped with a flexible battery (7709). The battery (7709) may be placed, for example, overlapping with the display unit (7001).

[0333] The housing (7701), the display unit (7001), and the battery (7709) are flexible. Therefore, the portable information terminal (7700) can be bent into a desired shape or the portable information terminal (7700) can be easily twisted. For example, the portable information terminal (7700) can be folded so that the display unit (7001) is on the inside or outside. Additionally, the portable information terminal (7700) can be rolled up and used. In this way, since the housing (7701) and the display unit (7001) can be freely deformed, the portable information terminal (7700) has the advantage of being difficult to damage even when dropped or when an unintended external force is applied.

[0334] In addition, since the portable information terminal (7700) is lightweight, it can be conveniently used in various situations, such as by holding the upper part of the housing (7701) tightly with a clip or the like and hanging it, or by fixing the housing (7701) to a wall with a magnet or the like.

[0335] An example of a wristwatch-type portable information terminal is illustrated in FIG. 33 (I). The portable information terminal (7800) has a band (7801), a display unit (7001), an input / output terminal (7802), an operation button (7803), etc. The band (7801) functions as a housing. Additionally, the portable information terminal (7800) may be equipped with a flexible battery (7805). The battery (7805) may be placed, for example, overlapping with the display unit (7001) or the band (7801).

[0336] The band (7801), display (7001), and battery (7805) are flexible. Therefore, the portable information terminal (7800) can be easily bent into a desired shape.

[0337] The operation button (7803) can be configured to have various functions in addition to time setting, such as power ON / OFF operation, wireless communication ON / OFF operation, activation and deactivation of silent mode, and activation and deactivation of power saving mode. For example, the functions of the operation button (7803) can be freely configured by the operating system provided to the portable information terminal (7800).

[0338] In addition, the application can be launched by touching the icon (7804) displayed on the display unit (7001) with a finger or the like.

[0339] In addition, the portable information terminal (7800) can perform short-range wireless communication according to communication standards. For example, it can make hands-free calls by communicating with a headset capable of wireless communication.

[0340] Additionally, the portable information terminal (7800) may have an input / output terminal (7802). If it has an input / output terminal (7802), it may directly exchange data with another information terminal through a connector. It may also be charged through the input / output terminal (7802). Furthermore, the charging operation of the portable information terminal exemplified in this embodiment may be performed by non-contact power transmission without using the input / output terminal.

[0341] The exterior of a vehicle (9700) is illustrated in FIG. 34 (A). The driver's seat of a vehicle (9700) is illustrated in FIG. 34 (B). The vehicle (9700) has a vehicle body (9701), wheels (9702), a dashboard (9703), lights (9704), etc. A display device or input / output device of one form of the present invention can be used in a display unit of the vehicle (9700), etc. For example, a display device or input / output device of one form of the present invention can be provided in the display unit (9710) to the display unit (9715) illustrated in FIG. 34 (B).

[0342] The display unit (9710) and the display unit (9711) are a display device or input / output device provided on the windshield of a vehicle. In one form of the present invention, the display device or input / output device may be made into a so-called see-through state display device or input / output device in which the opposite side is visible by manufacturing the electrodes of the display device or input / output device with a conductive material having light-transmitting properties. If the display device or input / output device has a see-through state, it does not obstruct the field of view even when driving the vehicle (9700). Therefore, the display device or input / output device of one form of the present invention can be installed on the windshield of the vehicle (9700). In addition, when providing a transistor, etc. for driving the display device or input / output device, it is preferable to use a transistor having light-transmitting properties, such as an organic transistor using an organic semiconductor material or a transistor using an oxide semiconductor.

[0343] The display unit (9712) is a display device or input / output device provided in the pillar portion. For example, by displaying an image from an imaging means provided in the vehicle body on the display unit (9712), the field of view blocked by the pillar can be supplemented. The display unit (9713) is a display device or input / output device provided in the dashboard portion. For example, by displaying an image from an imaging means provided in the vehicle body on the display unit (9713), the field of view blocked by the dashboard can be supplemented. That is, by displaying an image from an imaging means provided on the exterior of the vehicle, blind spots can be supplemented to enhance safety. Additionally, by displaying an image that supplements the unseen parts, safety can be confirmed more naturally and without any sense of unease.

[0344] Additionally, (C) of FIG. 34 illustrates the interior of a vehicle equipped with bench seats in the driver's seat and passenger seat. The display unit (9721) is a display device or input / output device provided in the door unit. For example, the view blocked by the door can be supplemented by displaying an image from an imaging means provided in the vehicle body on the display unit (9721). Additionally, the display unit (9722) is a display device or input / output device provided in the steering wheel. The display unit (9723) is a display device or input / output device provided in the center of the seating surface of the bench seat. Additionally, the display device or input / output device can be installed on the seating surface or backrest, and the display device or input / output device can be used as a seat heater using the heat generated by the display device or input / output device as a heat source.

[0345] The display unit (9714), display unit (9715), or display unit (9722) can provide various information such as navigation data, speedometer, tachometer, mileage, fuel level, gear status, and air conditioning settings. Additionally, the display items or layout displayed on the display unit can be appropriately changed to suit the user's style. Furthermore, the above information can also be displayed on the display unit (9710) to display unit (9713), display unit (9721), and display unit (9723). Additionally, the display unit (9710) to display unit (9715) and the display unit (9721) to display unit (9723) can be used as lighting devices. Additionally, the display unit (9710) to display unit (9715) and the display unit (9721) to display unit (9723) can be used as heating devices.

[0346] A display portion to which a display device or input / output device of one form of the present invention is applied may be flat. In this case, a display device or input / output device of one form of the present invention may be configured not to have a curved surface or flexibility.

[0347] The portable game device illustrated in (D) of FIG. 34 has a housing (901), a housing (902), a display unit (903), a display unit (904), a microphone (905), a speaker (906), an operation key (907), a stylus (908), etc.

[0348] The portable game device illustrated in (D) of FIG. 34 has two display units (display unit (903) and display unit (904)). In addition, the number of display units in an electronic device of one form of the present invention is not limited to two, and may be one or three or more. When the electronic device has a plurality of display units, at least one display unit may have a display device or an input / output device of one form of the present invention.

[0349] (E) of FIG. 34 is a notebook PC and has a housing (921), a display unit (922), a keyboard (923), a pointing device (924), etc.

[0350] A display device or input / output device of one form of the present invention can be applied to the display unit (922).

[0351] The exterior of a camera (8000) is illustrated in (A) of FIG. 35. The camera (8000) has a housing (8001), a display unit (8002), an operation button (8003), a shutter button (8004), a coupling unit (8005), etc. Additionally, a lens (8006) can be mounted on the camera (8000).

[0352] The connecting part (8005) has an electrode and can connect a strobe device, etc., in addition to the finder (8100) described later.

[0353] Here, the camera (8000) is configured so that the lens (8006) can be detached from the housing (8001) and replaced, but the lens (8006) and the housing may be integrated.

[0354] An image can be taken by pressing the shutter button (8004). Additionally, the display unit (8002) functions as a touch panel, and an image can be taken by touching the display unit (8002).

[0355] A display device or input / output device of one form of the present invention can be applied to the display unit (8002).

[0356] Figure 35 (B) illustrates an example in which a finder (8100) is mounted on a camera (8000).

[0357] The finder (8100) has a housing (8101), a display (8102), a button (8103), etc.

[0358] The housing (8101) has a coupling portion that engages with the coupling portion (8005) of the camera (8000) and can mount a finder (8100) on the camera (8000). Additionally, this coupling portion has an electrode, and through this electrode, an image received from the camera (8000) can be displayed on the display portion (8102).

[0359] The button (8103) functions as a power button. The ON / OFF status of the display of the display unit (8102) can be switched by the button (8103).

[0360] A display device or input / output device of one form of the present invention can be applied to the display unit (8102).

[0361] In addition, in (A) and (B) of FIG. 35, the camera (8000) and the finder (8100) are separate electronic devices and configured to be detachable, but the housing (8001) of the camera (8000) may be provided with a finder having a display device or an input / output device of one form of the present invention.

[0362] Figure 35 (C) shows the appearance of a head-mounted display (8200).

[0363] The head-mounted display (8200) has a mounting part (8201), a lens (8202), a main body (8203), a display part (8204), a cable (8205), etc. Additionally, a battery (8206) is built into the mounting part (8201).

[0364] The cable (8205) supplies power from the battery (8206) to the main body (8203). The main body (8203) is equipped with a wireless receiver, etc., so that image information, such as received image data, can be displayed on the display unit (8204). Additionally, the user's viewpoint can be used as an input means by recognizing the movement of the user's eyeball or eyelid using a camera provided in the main body (8203) and calculating the coordinates of the user's viewpoint based on that information.

[0365] Additionally, the mounting portion (8201) may be provided with multiple electrodes at a position that contacts the user. The main body (8203) may have a function of recognizing the user's viewpoint by detecting the current flowing through the electrodes according to the movement of the user's eyeball. It may also have a function of monitoring the user's pulse by detecting the current flowing through the electrodes. Furthermore, the mounting portion (8201) may have various sensors such as a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, and an accelerometer, and may have a function of displaying the user's biometric information on the display portion (8204). Additionally, it may detect the movement of the user's head and change the image displayed on the display portion (8204) according to that movement.

[0366] A display device or input / output device of one form of the present invention can be applied to the display unit (8204).

[0367] This embodiment may be implemented by appropriately combining at least a part thereof with other embodiments described in this specification. Explanation of the symbols

[0368] 10: Input device 21: Straight line section 22: Straight line section 30: Substrate 31: Electrode 32: Electrode 33: Electrode 34: Bridge electrode 35: Dummy electrode 36: Electrode 37: Electrode 38: Intersection 40: Pixels 40a: Pixel 40b: Pixel 40c: Pixel 41: Wiring 42: Wiring 50: FPC 50a: FPC 50b: FPC 51: IC 60: Display element 60B: Display element 60G: Display element 60R: Display element 60Y: Display element 70: Display panel 71: Substrate 72: Board 73: FPC 74: IC 80: Direction 81: Display unit 82: Driving circuit 83: Wiring 86: Intersection 87: Scan line 87a: Scan line 87b: Scan line 87c: Scan line 90: Intersection 91: Board 92: Adhesive layer 93: Board 94: Insulating layer 100: Touch panel 106: Connection part 106a: Connection part 106b: Connection part 109: Connection layer 109a: Connection layer 109b: Connection layer 111: Board 112: Board 113: Substrate 114: Substrate 121: Electrode 122: Electrode 130: Protection board 131: Polarizer 132: Polarizer 133: Backlight 151: Adhesive layer 152: Adhesive layer 153: Adhesive layer 154: Adhesive layer 155: Adhesive layer 156: Adhesive layer 157: Adhesive layer 158: Adhesive layer 161: Insulating layer 191: Board 192: Adhesive layer 193: Board 194: Insulating layer 201: Transistor 202: Transistor 203: Transistor 205: Capacitive element 206: Connection section 207: Wiring 208: Display element 209: Connection layer 211: Insulating layer 212: Insulating layer 213: Insulating layer 214: Insulating layer 215: Insulating layer 216: Spacer 217: Shield 221: Electrode 222: EL layer 223: Electrode 224: Optical adjustment layer 231: Colored layer 232: Shading layer 233: Insulating layer 234: Insulating layer 241: Challenge Floor 242: Semiconductor layer 243: Challenge Floor 244: Challenge Floor 251: Electrode 252: Electrode 253: LCD 254: Insulating layer 255: Overcoat 601: Pulse voltage output circuit 602: Current detection circuit 603: Capacity 611: Transistor 612: Transistor 613: Transistor 621: Electrode 622: Electrode 901: Housing 902: Housing 903: Display unit 904: Display unit 905: Microphone 906: Speaker 907: Controls 908: Stylus 921: Housing 922: Display unit 923: Keyboard 924: Pointing device 3501: Wiring 3502: Wiring 3503: Transistor 3504: Liquid crystal element 3510: Wiring 3510_1: Wiring 3510_2: Wiring 3511: Wiring 3515_1: Block 3515_2: Block 3516: Block 7000: Display unit 7001: Display unit 7100: Mobile phone 7101: Housing 7103: Control Button 7104: External access port 7105: Speaker 7106: Microphone 7200: Television device 7201: Housing 7203: Stand 7211: Remote controller 7300: Portable Information Terminal 7301: Housing 7302: Operation Button 7303: Information 7304: Information 7305: Information 7306: Information 7310: Portable Information Terminal 7320: Portable Information Terminal 7400: Lighting device 7401: Base 7402: Light-emitting part 7403: Operation Switch 7410: Lighting device 7412: Light-emitting part 7420: Lighting device 7422: Light-emitting part 7500: Portable Information Terminal 7501: Housing 7502: Absence 7503: Operation Buttons 7600: Portable Information Terminal 7601: Housing 7602: Hinge 7650: Portable Information Terminal 7651: Non-display section 7700: Portable Information Terminal 7701: Housing 7703a: Button 7703b: Button 7704a: Speaker 7704b: Speaker 7705: External access port 7706: Microphone 7709: Battery 7800: Portable Information Terminal 7801: Band 7802: Input / Output Terminal 7803: Control Button 7804: Icon 7805: Battery 8000: Camera 8001: Housing 8002: Display unit 8003: Operation button 8004: Shutter button 8005: Joint 8006: Lens 8100: Finder 8101: Housing 8102: Display unit 8103: Button 8200: Head-mounted display 8201: Mounting part 8202: Lens 8203: Main unit 8204: Display unit 8205: Cable 8206: Battery 9700: Car 9701: Chassis 9702: Wheel 9703: Dashboard 9704: Light 9710: Display unit 9711: Display unit 9712: Display unit 9713: Display unit 9714: Display unit 9715: Display unit 9721: Display unit 9722: Display unit 9723: Display unit

Claims

Claim 1 A display device having a display unit having a plurality of scan lines and a plurality of EL elements, and a touch sensor positioned above the display unit, wherein the display device has a conductive layer having a function as an electrode of the touch sensor, wherein the conductive layer has a plurality of openings having a polygonal shape with rounded corners when viewed in a planar view, wherein at least one of the openings overlaps with a light-emitting region of one of the plurality of EL elements and does not overlap with another light-emitting region when viewed in a planar view, wherein each of the plurality of scan lines has a region extending along a direction intersecting the length direction of the display unit, wherein when viewed in a planar view, the conductive layer has a region in which the angle formed by the extension direction of one side of the polygonal shape and the extension direction of one of the plurality of scan lines is 30 degrees or more and 60 degrees or less, wherein the conductive layer does not overlap with the light-emitting region of the plurality of EL elements, and wherein, when viewed in a planar view, the display unit has a region in which one of the EL elements and another EL element adjacent to the one of the EL elements in the length direction exhibit the same color. Claim 2 A display device having a display unit having a plurality of scan lines and a plurality of EL elements, and a touch sensor positioned above the display unit, wherein the display device has a conductive layer having a function as an electrode of the touch sensor, wherein the conductive layer has a plurality of openings having a polygonal shape with rounded corners when viewed in a planar view, wherein at least one of the openings overlaps with a light-emitting region of one of the plurality of EL elements and does not overlap with another light-emitting region, wherein each of the plurality of scan lines has a region extending along a direction intersecting the length direction of the display unit, wherein when viewed in a planar view, the conductive layer has a region in which the angle formed by the extension direction of one side of the polygonal shape and the extension direction of one of the plurality of scan lines is 30 degrees or more and 60 degrees or less, wherein the conductive layer does not overlap with the light-emitting region of the plurality of EL elements, wherein when viewed in a planar view, the display unit has a region in which one of the EL elements and another EL element adjacent to the one of the EL elements in the length direction exhibit the same color, wherein the display unit has a plurality of pixels, and at least one of the pixels has an oxide semiconductor in a channel forming region. A display device having a transistor, wherein one of the plurality of scan lines is electrically connected to the gate of the transistor.

Images