Capacitor modules and portable electronic devices with continuous openings in a shielding layer

Abstract

A capacitor module may include: capacitor electrodes located on a first substrate; a shielding material disposed on a second substrate, wherein the second substrate is aligned with the first substrate; an antenna, wherein the shielding material is located between the antenna and the capacitor electrodes; and a continuous opening defined in the shielding material. The continuous opening may include a branching shape having a trunk and a plurality of branches extending from the trunk; and the continuous opening may overlap with the antenna.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This specification generally relates to systems and methods for capacitive touch / proximity sensors. Specifically, this specification relates to a system and method for implementing and optimizing wireless signal transmission via capacitive touch / proximity sensors. [Previous Technology]

[0002] Capacitive touchpads are typically integrated into electronic devices such as laptops, allowing users to input and make selections using their fingers or a stylus. In some cases, capacitive touchpads may include antennas operating based on protocols such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Near Field Communication (NFC), or others. Some capacitive touchpads use electrical shielding to prevent interference from internal device noise.

[0003] U.S. Patent No. 8,985,466, granted to Yen-Liang Wu et al., discloses an example of an antenna embedded in a touchpad. It discloses a multifunctional radio frequency device integrated into a computer system, comprising: a substrate including opposing first and second surfaces; a touchpad area disposed on the first surface of the substrate for generating touch signals based on touch conditions; an antenna disposed on the first and / or second surfaces of the substrate for receiving and transmitting radio frequency signals; and a control module disposed on the second surface of the substrate and connected to the touchpad area and the antenna for generating touch control signals based on touch signals and generating identification signals to the computer system based on radio frequency signals.

[0004] Another example is disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020 / 0192542 to Wei-Hsiu Chang et al. A method and display device with an integrated antenna capable of effectively utilizing the internal space of a display device and avoiding interference are described. The display device includes a display panel, an antenna integrated in a non-active display area of ​​the display panel, and a display driver. The display panel includes an active display area and an inactive display area. The display driver is coupled to the display panel and the antenna and is configured to control the antenna and the display panel in a time-division multiplexing manner.

[0005] U.S. Patent Publication No. 2015 / 0062853, granted to Jianhua Li et al., discloses an example of an NFC antenna integrated into a touchscreen. This reference discloses a touchscreen with an integrated NFC antenna. The NFC antenna is disposed on the touchscreen and connected to a motherboard with a control chip. The NFC antenna is directly disposed on the touchscreen, thus combining touch features and NFC features into one. This prevents signal quality degradation and reception failures due to NFC antenna wear and misalignment, while facilitating antenna signal reception and transmission, thereby ensuring smooth communication.

[0006] Each of these references incorporates all of its public content into this document by reference. [Summary of the Invention]

[0007] A capacitor module may include: capacitor electrodes located on a first substrate; a shielding material disposed on a second substrate, wherein the second substrate may be aligned with the first substrate; an antenna, wherein the shielding material may be located between the antenna and the capacitor electrodes; and a continuous opening defined within the shielding material. The continuous opening may include a branching shape, wherein the branching shape may include a main trunk and a plurality of branches extending from the main trunk. The continuous opening may overlap with the antenna.

[0008] The first and second branches of a plurality of branches with continuous openings can form a branch pair that is aligned with the loop of the antenna.

[0009] Multiple branches can form at least one discontinuous ring.

[0010] Multiple branches can define discontinuous annular regions of the masking material.

[0011] Continuous openings can have the property of minimizing the formation of eddies in the shielding material when the antenna is started.

[0012] Continuous openings can improve the signal-to-noise ratio of an antenna.

[0013] The capacitor module may include a third substrate, wherein the third substrate may be aligned with the second substrate, the antenna and process resources may be disposed on the third substrate, and the process resources may be connected to the capacitor electrodes on the first substrate.

[0014] The main trunk with continuous openings can be connected to the edge of the masking material.

[0015] The trunk may extend to the central region of the masking material defined by at least one of a plurality of branches with continuous openings, wherein the trunk and at least one branch form a discontinuous annular region of the masking material.

[0016] Multiple branches with continuous openings can form multiple discontinuous annular regions, wherein at least two of the multiple discontinuous annular regions are electrically connected to each other through a shield bridge.

[0017] Multiple discontinuous annular regions can be electrically connected to the remaining masking material disposed on the second substrate.

[0018] A capacitor module may include: capacitor electrodes located on a first substrate; a masking material disposed on a second substrate, wherein the second substrate may be aligned with the first substrate; and a continuous opening defined in the masking material. The continuous opening may include a branch shape, wherein the branch shape has a trunk and a plurality of branches extending from the trunk.

[0019] The first and second branches of a plurality of branches with continuous openings can form a branch pair aligned with the loop of the antenna.

[0020] Multiple branches can form at least one discontinuous ring.

[0021] Multiple branches can define discontinuous annular regions of the masking material.

[0022] The main trunk with continuous openings can be connected to the edge of the masking material.

[0023] The trunk may extend to the central region of the masking material defined by at least one of a plurality of branches with continuous openings, wherein the trunk and at least one branch form a discontinuous annular region of the masking material.

[0024] Multiple branches with continuous openings can form multiple discontinuous annular regions, wherein at least two of the multiple discontinuous annular regions can be electrically connected to each other through a shield bridge.

[0025] Multiple discontinuous annular regions can be electrically connected to the remaining masking material disposed on the second substrate.

[0026] A portable electronic device may include: capacitor electrodes located on a first substrate; a shielding material disposed on a second substrate, wherein the second substrate may be aligned with the first substrate; an antenna, wherein the shielding material is located between the antenna and the capacitor electrodes; and a continuous opening defined in the shielding material. The continuous opening may include a branching shape, which may include a trunk and a plurality of branches extending from the trunk, and at least one of the plurality of branches may be partially aligned with a loop of the antenna.

Implementation Method

[0046] The detailed descriptions are provided as examples and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the invention. Rather, the following detailed descriptions will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description of embodiments for implementing the invention. Various changes can be made to the function and arrangement of the elements.

[0047] Therefore, various processes or elements may be appropriately omitted, substituted, or added in the various embodiments. For example, it should be understood that these methods may be performed in a sequence different from that described, and various steps may be added, omitted, or combined. Moreover, aspects and elements described with respect to a particular embodiment may be combined in a variety of other embodiments. It should also be understood that the following systems, methods, apparatuses, and software may be elements of a larger system individually or collectively, wherein other processes may be applied preferentially or otherwise modified.

[0048] For the purposes of this specification, the term "aligned" generally refers to parallel, substantially parallel, or forming an angle of less than 35.0 degrees. For the purposes of this specification, the term "lateral" generally refers to perpendicular, substantially perpendicular, or forming an angle between 55.0 and 125.0 degrees. For the purposes of this specification, the term "length" generally refers to the longest dimension of an object. For the purposes of this specification, the term "width" generally refers to the dimension of an object from one side to the other, and may refer to a measurement across the object perpendicular to its length.

[0049] For the purposes of this specification, the term "electrode" may generally refer to a portion of an electrical conductor intended for use in making a measurement, and the terms "path" and "trace" generally refer to portions of an electrical conductor not used for measurement. For the purposes of this specification, when referring to a circuit, the term "circuit" generally refers to a combination of an electrode and a portion of a "path" or "trace" of an electrical conductor. For the purposes of this specification, the term "Tx" generally refers to a transmitting line, an electrode, or a portion of a transmitting line and an electrode, and the term "Rx" generally refers to an induction line, an electrode, or a portion of an induction line and an electrode.

[0050] For the purposes of this specification, the term "electronic device" may generally refer to a device that can be transported and includes a battery and electronic components. Examples may include: notebook computers, desktop computers, mobile phones, tablet computers, personal digital devices, watches, game controllers, gaming wearable devices, wearable devices, measuring devices, automation devices, security devices, displays, computer mice, vehicles, infotainment systems, audio systems, consoles, other types of devices, motion tracking devices, tracking devices, card readers, purchasing stations, self-service terminals, or combinations thereof.

[0051] It should be understood that the terms "capacitive module," "touchpad," and "touch sensor" used in this document are interchangeable with "capacitive touch sensor," "capacitive sensor," "capacitive touch and proximity sensor," "proximity sensor," "touch and proximity sensor," "touch panel," "trackpad," "touchpad," and "touchscreen." Capacitive modules can be integrated into electronic devices.

[0052] It should also be understood that, as used herein, the terms “vertical,” “horizontal,” “lateral,” “up,” “down,” “left,” “right,” “inner,” “outer,” etc., may refer to the relative orientation or position of features in the disclosed devices and / or elements shown in the figures. For example, “up” or “top” may refer to a feature that is closer to the top of the page than another feature. However, these terms should be interpreted broadly to include devices and / or elements having other orientations—e.g., inverted or tilted orientations—where top / bottom, above / below, upper / lower, upper / lower, and left / right may be interchanged according to orientation.

[0053] In some cases, the capacitor module is located inside the housing. The capacitor module may be located below the housing and be able to detect objects outside the housing. In an example, where the capacitor module can detect capacitance changes through the housing, the housing is a capacitor reference surface. For example, the capacitor module may be exposed within a cavity formed by the keyboard housing of a computer, such as a notebook computer or other type of computing device, and the sensor may be disposed below the surface of the keyboard housing. In this example, the keyboard housing adjacent to the capacitor module is a capacitor reference surface. In some examples, an opening may be formed in the housing, and a cover layer may be positioned within the opening. In this example, the cover layer is a capacitor reference surface. In this example, the capacitor module may be located adjacent to the back of the cover layer, and the capacitor module may sense the presence of an object through the thickness of the cover layer. For the purposes of this specification, the term "reference surface" may generally refer to a surface through which a pressure sensor, a capacitance sensor, or another type of sensor is positioned to sense pressure, presence, position, touch, proximity, capacitance, magnetism, electrical properties, another type of characteristic, or another characteristic or a combination of the above. For example, the reference surface can be a housing, a cover, or another type of surface through which inputs are sensed. In some examples, the reference surface has no moving parts. In some examples, the reference surface can be made of any suitable type of material, including but not limited to plastics, glass, dielectric materials, metals, another type of material, or combinations thereof.

[0054] For the purposes of this specification, the term "display" may generally refer to a display or screen not depicted in the same area as the capacitive reference surface. In some cases, the display is integrated into a notebook computer, with the keyboard located between the display and the capacitive reference surface. In some examples where the capacitive reference surface is integrated into a notebook computer, the capacitive reference surface may be part of a touchpad. Pressure sensors may be integrated into the stack that constitutes the capacitive module. However, in some cases, pressure sensors may be located in another part of the notebook computer, such as below the keyboard housing, but outside the area used for sensing touch input, on the side of the notebook computer, above the keyboard, on the side of the keyboard, in another location on the notebook computer, or in yet another location. In examples where these elements are integrated into a notebook computer, the display may be pivotally connected to the keyboard housing. The display may be a digital screen, a touchscreen, another type of screen, or a combination thereof. In some cases, the display is located on the same device as the capacitive reference surface, while in other examples, the display is located on a different device than the device on which the capacitive reference surface is located. For example, the display may be projected onto a different surface, such as a wall or a projector screen. In some examples, the reference surface may be located on an input or game controller, and the display may be located on a wearable device, such as a virtual reality or augmented reality screen. In some cases, the reference surface and the display are located on the same surface, but at different locations on that surface. In other examples, the reference surface and the display may be integrated into the same device, but on different surfaces. In some cases, the reference surface and the display may be oriented at different angles relative to each other.

[0055] Figure 1 depicts an example of an electronic device 100. In this example, the electronic device is a notebook computer. In the illustrated example, the electronic device 100 includes input elements such as a keyboard 102 and capacitive modules such as a touchpad 104 integrated into a housing 103. The electronic device 100 also includes a display 106. Programs operated by the electronic device 100 can be displayed on the display 106 and controlled by a sequence of instructions provided by the user via the keyboard 102 and / or via the touchpad 104. An internal battery (not shown) can be used to power the operation of the electronic device 100.

[0056] The keyboard 102 includes an arrangement of keys 108 that can be individually selected when a user presses the keys with sufficient force to press the keys 108 against a switch located below the keyboard 102. In response to the selection of the keys 108, the program can receive instructions on how to operate, such as determining which type of word processing program to process. The user can use the touchpad 104 to give different types of instructions to the program running on the computing device 100. For example, a cursor depicted on the display 106 can be controlled via the touchpad 104. The user can control the position of the cursor by sliding his or her hand along the surface of the touchpad 104. In some cases, the user can move the cursor to or near an object located on or near the display of the computing device and issue instructions via the touchpad 104 to select the object. For example, the user can provide instructions to select the object by tapping the surface of the touchpad 104 once or multiple times.

[0057] The touchpad 104 is a capacitive module comprising a stack disposed below the keyboard housing, below a cover layer fitted into an opening in the keyboard housing, or below another capacitive reference surface. In some examples, the capacitive module is located in an area of ​​the keyboard surface where a user's palm can rest while typing. The capacitive module may include a substrate, such as a printed circuit board or another type of substrate. One layer of the capacitive module may include a sensor layer comprising a first set of electrodes oriented in a first direction and a second layer of electrodes oriented in a second direction transverse to the first direction. These electrodes may be spaced apart from each other and / or electrically isolated from each other. Electrical isolation can be achieved by depositing at least a portion of the electrodes on different sides of the same substrate or by providing a dedicated substrate for each set of electrodes. Capacitance can be measured at the overlapping intersections between different sets of electrodes. However, when an object with a dielectric value different from that of the surrounding air (e.g., a finger, a stylus, etc.) approaches the intersection between the electrodes, the capacitance between the electrodes may change. This change in capacitance and the relevant position of the object relative to the capacitive module can be calculated to determine the position where the user touches or hovers the object within the detection range of the capacitive module. In some examples, the first and second sets of electrodes are spaced equidistantly from each other. Therefore, in these examples, the sensitivity of the capacitor module is the same in both directions. However, in other examples, the distance between the electrodes can be non-uniform to provide higher sensitivity for movement in a specific direction.

[0058] In some cases, the display 106 is mechanically independent and movable relative to the keyboard using the connecting mechanism 114. In these examples, the display 106 and the keyboard 102 can be connected and movable relative to each other. The display 106 can move relative to the keyboard 102 within a range of 0 degrees to 180 degrees or greater. In some examples, when in the closed position, the display 106 can fold onto the upper surface of the keyboard 102, and when the display 106 is in the operating position, the display 106 can fold open from the keyboard 102. In some examples, when the user uses the display 106, the display 106 can be oriented at an angle of 35 to 135 degrees relative to the keyboard 102. However, in these examples, the display 106 is located at any angle desired by the user.

[0059] In some examples, the display 106 may be a non-touch-sensitive display. However, in other examples, at least a portion of the display 106 is touch-sensitive. In these examples, the touch-sensitive display may also include a capacitive module located behind the outer surface of the display 106. When a user's finger or other object approaches the touch-sensitive screen, the capacitive module can detect a change in capacitance as user input.

[0060] Although the example in Figure 1 depicts an example of an electronic device being a notebook computer, capacitive sensors and touch surfaces can be integrated into any suitable device. The non-exhaustive list of devices includes, but is not limited to, desktop computers, monitors, screens, self-service kiosks, computing devices, tablet computers, smartphones, position sensors, card reader sensors, another type of electronic device, another type of device, or combinations of the above.

[0061] Figure 2 depicts an example of a portion of a capacitor module 200. In this example, the capacitor module 200 may include a substrate 202, a first set of electrodes 204, and a second set of electrodes 206. The orientation of the first set of electrodes 204 and the second set of electrodes 206 may be laterally oriented relative to each other. Further, the first set of electrodes 204 and the second set of electrodes 206 may be electrically isolated from each other, preventing short circuits between the electrodes. However, capacitance can be measured where the first set of electrodes 204 and the second set of electrodes 206 overlap. The capacitor module 200 may include one or more electrodes from the first set of electrodes 204 or the second set of electrodes 206. This substrate 202 and multiple sets of electrodes may be integrated into a touchscreen, touchpad, position sensor, game controller, button, and / or detection circuitry.

[0062] In some examples, the capacitor module 200 is a mutual capacitance sensing device. In such an example, the substrate 202 has a set of row electrodes 204 and a set of column electrodes 206, which define a touch / proximity sensitive area of ​​the component. In some cases, the element is configured as a rectangular grid of an appropriate number of electrodes (e.g., 8x6, 16x12, 9x15, etc.).

[0063] As shown in FIG2, the capacitive module 200 includes a touch controller 208. The touch controller 208 may include at least one of a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), an analog front end (AFE) including an amplifier, a peripheral interface controller (PIC), another type of microprocessor, and / or a combination of the above, and may be implemented as an integrated circuit, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a special-purpose integrated circuit (ASIC), a combination of logic gates, other types of digital or analog electrical design elements, or a combination of the above, selected from available operating modes using appropriate circuitry, hardware, firmware, and / or software.

[0064] In some cases, the touch controller 208 includes at least one multiplexing circuit to alternate which of the two sets of electrodes 204, 206 is used as the driving electrode and the sensing electrode. The driving electrodes can be driven one at a time sequentially, randomly, or multiple electrodes can be driven simultaneously in an coded mode. Other configurations are also possible, such as a self-capacitance mode in which electrodes are simultaneously driven and sensed. The electrodes can also be arranged in a non-rectangular array, such as a radial pattern, a linear series, etc. A masking layer (see Figure 3) can be provided below the electrodes to reduce noise or other interference. The masking layer can extend beyond the grid of electrodes. Other configurations are also possible.

[0065] In some cases, no fixed reference point is used for measurement. The touch controller 208 can generate a signal that is sent directly to the first set of electrodes 204 or the second set of electrodes 206 in various modes.

[0066] In some cases, the element does not rely on absolute capacitance measurements to determine the position of a finger (or stylus, indicator, or other object) on the surface of the capacitive module 200. The capacitive module 200 can measure the charge imbalance of the electrodes used as sensing electrodes. In some examples, the sensing electrodes can be any set of electrodes specified in the two sets of electrodes 204, 206, or in other examples, a dedicated sensing electrode can be used for measurement. When no directional object is located on or near the capacitive module 200, the touch controller 208 may be in a balanced state, and there is no signal on the sensing electrodes. When a finger or other directional object causes an imbalance due to capacitive coupling, a change in capacitance can occur at the intersection of the two sets of electrodes 204, 206 constituting the touch / proximity sensitive area. In some cases, the change in capacitance is measured. However, in optional examples, the absolute capacitance value can be measured.

[0067] Although this example describes the capacitor module 200 having the flexibility to switch between two sets of electrodes 204, 206 between the sensing electrode and the transmitting electrode, in other examples, each set of electrodes is dedicated to either the transmitting or sensing function.

[0068] FIG. 3 depicts an example of a substrate 202, wherein a first set of electrodes 204 and a second set of electrodes 206 are deposited on the substrate 202 integrated into a capacitor module. The first set of electrodes 204 and the second set of electrodes 206 may be spaced apart from each other and electrically isolated from each other. In the example depicted in FIG. 3, the first set of electrodes 204 is deposited on a first side of the substrate 202, and the second set of electrodes 206 is deposited on a second side of the substrate 202, wherein the second side is opposite to the first side and spaced apart by the thickness of the substrate 202. The substrate may be made of an electrically insulating material to prevent the first set of electrodes 204 and the second set of electrodes 206 from short-circuiting with each other. As shown in FIG. 2, the first set of electrodes 204 and the second set of electrodes 206 may be laterally oriented relative to each other. Capacitance measurement can be performed at the intersection point where the first set of electrodes 204 and the second set of electrodes 206 overlap. In some examples, a voltage may be applied to the transmitting electrode, and the voltage of the sensing electrode overlapping with the transmitting electrode may be measured. The voltage from the sensing electrode may be used to determine the capacitance at the intersection point where the sensing electrode overlaps with the transmitting electrode.

[0069] In the example of FIG3 depicting a cross-section of the capacitor module, the substrate 202 may be located between the capacitor reference surface 212 and the masking layer 214. The capacitor reference surface 212 may be a cover layer placed on a first side of the substrate 202 and at least partially penetrated by an electric field. When a user's finger or stylus approaches the capacitor reference surface 212, the presence of the finger or stylus can affect the electric field on the substrate 202. The voltage measured from the sensing electrode in the presence of the finger or stylus may differ from the voltage when the finger or stylus is not present. Therefore, changes in capacitance can be measured.

[0070] The masking layer 214 may be a conductive layer that masks electrical noise from internal components of the electronic device. This masking layer can prevent the influence of electric fields on the substrate 202. In some cases, the masking layer is a conductive solid material. In other cases, the masking layer has a substrate and a conductive material disposed on at least one substrate. In other examples, the masking layer is a layer in a touchpad that performs a function and also masks electrodes to protect them from electrical interference noise. For example, in some examples, a primitive layer in a display application may form an image visible through a capacitive reference surface, but also mask the electrodes to protect them from electrical interference noise.

[0071] The voltage applied to the transmitting electrode can be controlled by an electrical connection 216 from the touch controller 208 to an appropriate set of electrodes. The voltage applied to the sensing electrode by the electric field generated from the transmitting electrode can be detected by an electrical connection 218 from the sensing electrode to the touch controller 208.

[0072] Although the example in Figure 3 is depicted as having two sets of electrodes deposited on a substrate, one set of electrodes deposited on the first side and the second set of electrodes deposited on the second side; in other examples, each set of electrodes may also be deposited on its own dedicated substrate.

[0073] Further, while the above example describes a touchpad with a first set of electrodes and a second set of electrodes, in some examples, the capacitive module has a single set of electrodes. In such examples, the electrodes of the sensor layer can be used simultaneously as transmitting and receiving electrodes. In some cases, a voltage can be applied to the electrodes for a duration, thereby changing the capacitance around the electrodes. When the duration ends, the application of voltage stops. The voltage can then be measured from the same electrode to determine the capacitance. If there is no object (e.g., a finger, stylus, etc.) on or near the capacitive reference surface, the voltage measured from the electrode after the voltage application stops can be a value consistent with the baseline capacitance. However, if an object touches or approaches the capacitive reference surface, the measured voltage can indicate the change in capacitance compared to the baseline capacitance.

[0074] In some examples, the capacitor module has a first set of electrodes and a second set of electrodes and communicates with a controller that is configured to perform mutual capacitance measurement (e.g., capacitance measurement using both the first set of electrodes and the second set of electrodes) or self-capacitance measurement (e.g., capacitance measurement using only one set of electrodes).

[0075] FIG4 depicts an example of a capacitive module integrated into a touchscreen. In this example, the substrate 202, the two sets of electrodes 204, 206, and the electrical connections 216, 218 can be arranged similarly to those described in conjunction with FIG3. In the example of FIG4, a mask layer 214 is located between the substrate 202 and the display layer 400. The display layer 400 can be a pixel layer or a diode layer that emits light to generate an image. The display layer can be a liquid crystal display, a light-emitting diode display, an organic light-emitting diode display, an electroluminescent display, a quantum dot light-emitting diode display, an incandescent filament display, a vacuum fluorescent lamp display, a cathode gas display, another type of display, or a combination of the above. In this example, the mask layer 214, the substrate 202, and the capacitive reference surface 212 can be at least partially optically transparent so that the image depicted in the display layer is visible to the user through the capacitive reference surface 212. Such touchscreens can be included in displays, display elements, laptops, mobile phones, mobile devices, tablet computers, dashboards, display panels, infotainment devices, other types of electronic devices, or combinations thereof.

[0076] Figure 5 depicts an example of a capacitor module 500. In this example, the capacitor module 500 is a three-layer stack, including a sensor layer 502, a mask layer 504, and a component layer 506. Although the capacitor module 500 in this example includes three layers, in other examples, the capacitor module may include a different number of layers. For example, the capacitor module may include four, five, or different numbers of layers.

[0077] The sensor layer 502 may include a first set of electrodes 508 and a second set of electrodes 510, which may be used in a capacitor circuit to detect and / or measure capacitance changes. Although this example depicts a sensor layer 502 with two sets of electrodes, in other examples, the sensor layer may include one set of electrodes, three sets of electrodes, or different numbers of electrode sets. Although this example depicts a single sensor layer 502, in other examples, the capacitor module may include more than one sensor layer.

[0078] The first set of electrodes 508 and the second set of electrodes 510 can operate using mutual capacitance, self-capacitance, or a combination thereof. In an example where the sensor layer includes a single set of electrodes, the single set of electrodes can operate using self-capacitance.

[0079] The masking layer 504 is located within the capacitor module 500 near the sensor layer 502. In other examples, the masking layer may be located at a different position relative to other layers in the stack.

[0080] The masking layer 504 may be made of a masking material 512 that blocks or reduces electromagnetic and / or electrical interference. In some examples, the masking material may be a conductive material, such as copper, aluminum, silver, or a combination thereof. In other examples, the masking material may be a composite material, such as plastic, glass, other composite structures, or a combination thereof. In other examples, the masking layer may be a masking material coating applied to a substrate, such as indium tin oxide (ITO), graphene, a conductive polymer, another coating, or a combination thereof. In some cases, the masking material may be a magnetic material, such as iron, ferrite, other metals, their composites, their alloys, their mixtures, or a combination thereof.

[0081] In this example, the masking layer 504 is implemented using a single masking material 512. In other examples, the masking layer can be implemented in different ways. Different masking layer implementations may have specific advantages. For example, the masking layer can be a mesh-like masking layer, in which a grid or mesh pattern of conductive material is used. This implementation can reduce the weight and cost of the masking layer while still providing sufficient masking effect. In another example, the masking layer can be implemented in segments, in which segments of conductive material are interspersed with non-conductive gaps. This implementation can improve the construction and layout flexibility of the capacitor module, thereby improving thermal management and accommodating complex component configurations within the electronic device.

[0082] In this example, the masking layer 504 is located between the sensor layer 502 and the component layer 506. The masking layer 504 can be used to prevent electromagnetic interference from external sources, such as the component 518 or capacitor module on the component layer 506, from interfering with the first set of electrodes 508 and / or the second set of electrodes 510 on the sensor layer 502.

[0083] By using the masking layer 504 to mask the sensor layer 502, the accuracy and stability of the capacitance measurements taken by the first set of electrodes 508 and the second set of electrodes 501 can be improved. Masking the sensor layer 502 can reduce noise, thereby improving the sensitivity and accuracy of user input on the capacitance module 500. The position of the masking layer 504 can block interference from batteries, power supplies, memory resources, processing resources, electronic components, other components, or combinations thereof that may be located within the electronic device cavity.

[0084] In this example, component layer 506 is adjacent to masking layer 504. In other examples, component layers may be located at other positions relative to other layers in the stack or portions of capacitor modules. Component layer 506 includes antenna 516 and other components 518.

[0085] The components 518 included on the component layer 506 can facilitate the function of the capacitor module 500. The components on the component layer may include a central processing unit (CPU), a microcontroller, an operational amplifier, a memory unit, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an interface controller, a power management integrated circuit, processing resources, an antenna, another type of component, or a combination of the above.

[0086] Antenna 516 may facilitate wireless communication according to Near Field Communication (NFC) protocol, Wi-Fi protocol, short-range wireless protocol, another wireless protocol or a combination thereof.

[0087] In this example, component layer 506 includes antenna 516. In other examples, layers in a capacitor module may include more than one antenna.

[0088] Antenna 516 may be made of a highly conductive material to maximize the efficiency of signal transmission and reception. In some examples, the antenna may be made of copper, silver, gold, another conductive material, a composite thereof, a mixture thereof, an alloy thereof, or a combination thereof.

[0089] In some examples, the antenna 516 may be deposited on the component layer 506. In other examples, the antenna 516 may be etched into the component layer 506 by a process such as photolithography.

[0090] The antenna may have a coil shape, a dipole shape, another type of shape, or a combination thereof. The shape of the antenna may correspond to the wireless protocol of the antenna configured for transmission and the radiation pattern of the antenna. In this example, antenna 516 has a coil shape, which can be used to transmit wireless signals according to the NFC protocol.

[0091] The shielding layer 504 may include a series of continuous openings 514. The continuous openings 514 may be a series of interconnecting openings defined in the shielding layer 504. The continuous openings 514 may be configured to allow electromagnetic radiation from the antenna 516 to pass through the shielding layer 504 with minimal attenuation, while the shielding layer blocks radiation from the component 518 on the component layer, the battery near the component layer, or other electromagnetic radiation sources. The example shown in FIG5 can allow wireless signals from the antenna to pass through the shielding material and the capacitive sensor layer, while blocking interference from noise generated by other electromagnetic sources.

[0092] In this example, the continuous opening 514 extends through a first surface of the masking layer to a second surface of the masking layer 504, which is opposite to the first surface. The continuous opening includes a trunk 520 connected to a plurality of branches. A first branch 522 and a second branch 524 form a first branch pair 526 of the continuous opening 514. The first branch pair 526 forms a first discontinuity loop. A third branch 528 and a fourth branch 530 form a second branch pair 532 of the continuous opening 514. The second branch pair 532 forms a second discontinuity loop. The continuous opening 514 also includes a fifth branch 534 and a sixth branch 536, which form a third branch pair 538. The first branch pair 526, the second branch pair 532, and the third branch pair 538 intersect the trunk at different locations. In this example, the first branch pair surrounds the second branch pair and is connected to the second branch pair only through the trunk. Further, in this example, the second branch pair surrounds the third branch pair and is connected to the third branch pair only through the trunk.

[0093] The first branch pair 526 and the second branch pair 532 define a first discontinuous annular region 540 of the masking material. The second branch pair 532 and the third branch pair 538 define a second discontinuous annular region 542 of the masking material. The third branch pair 538 and the trunk 520 define a third discontinuous annular region 544. In this example, the trunk extends to the central region of the masking material and partially branches the central region to form the third discontinuous annular region 544. Each of the first discontinuous annular region 540, the second discontinuous annular region 542, and the third discontinuous annular region 544 is electrically connected to each other and to the remainder of the masking material. In the example shown in FIG. 5, each of the first discontinuous annular region 540, the second discontinuous annular region 542, and the third discontinuous annular region 544 is electrically connected to the first masking bridge, the second masking bridge, and the third masking bridge.

[0094] In the example shown in Figure 5, the first masking bridge, the second masking bridge, and the third masking bridge are aligned with each other to form a row. In other examples with masking bridges, the masking bridges may be misaligned and / or offset from each other.

[0095] Continuous openings 514 can be fabricated on the mask layer 504 using various techniques. In some examples, the continuous openings 514 can be laser-cut into the substrate of the mask layer 504, thereby achieving complex continuous opening shapes. In other examples, the continuous openings 514 can be etched into the mask layer 504 using lithography, chemical etching, another etching process, or a combination thereof. In other examples, the continuous openings 514 can be formed into the substrate of the mask layer 504 by machine milling or drilling. In other examples, the continuous openings 514 can be formed into the substrate of the mask layer 504 by imprinting or punching.

[0096] The shape of the continuous opening 514 can be configured to ensure that the shielding material 512 of the shielding layer 504 shares a common electrical ground. For example, each in a discontinuous annular region can share a common electrical ground. Sharing a common electrical ground throughout the shielding layer 504 can offer several advantages. Using a single common electrical ground simplifies the structure and layout of the shielding layer. A single grounding point eliminates the possibility of grounding noise between multiple grounding points, thereby contributing to a uniform potential distribution on the shielding layer.

[0097] The branching shape of the continuous openings 514 can reduce the formation of eddy currents on the shielding layer 504. The branching pattern of the continuous openings 514 can divide the shielding layer 504 into smaller regions. This division can disrupt the paths that would otherwise allow eddy currents to flow freely on the shielding layer 504. The branching shape can also create interruptions and irregular paths in the shielding material 512, thereby preventing the formation of large closed loops that could facilitate eddy current formation. In some examples, the branching shape of the continuous openings can cause a non-uniform distribution of magnetic flux. This non-uniformity may reduce the likelihood of forming large eddy currents because the magnetic field lines are more dispersed and less likely to induce strong currents.

[0098] In some examples, the discontinuous annular shape can interrupt the formation of eddy currents. In examples where the antenna ring is adjacent to a solid, continuous shielding material, eddy currents may form naturally, with a size similar to that of the antenna ring, and the electron flow in the eddy currents mimics the electron flow path traveling along the antenna ring. While not bound by any particular theory, it is thought that eddy currents formed in discontinuous annular regions near the antenna ring can be at least partially reduced or weakened because this discontinuity can interrupt the electron flow that would otherwise flow around the continuous annular region. Therefore, the principles of this specification can provide openings in the shielding material to allow the antenna signal to pass through the shielding material and through the capacitive sensor, while blocking other electromagnetic transmissions from other sources from passing through the shielding material, and minimizing or preventing the antenna from inducing eddy currents in the shielding material.

[0099] The branching shape of the continuous opening 514 can improve the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the wireless signal transmitted by the antenna 516 through the shielding layer 504. The branching shape of the continuous opening 514 can allow the desired signal of a specific frequency to pass through the aperture, while blocking or attenuating unwanted frequencies and electromagnetic noise that may originate from the components 518 on the component layer. Therefore, the branching shape can facilitate antenna signal filtering. This selectivity can enhance the transmission of the desired signal relative to noise. The complex shape of the continuous opening 514 can also help reduce unwanted signal reflections that may occur at the edges of apertures of other shapes. The shape of the continuous opening 514 can reduce eddy currents, thereby reducing the electromagnetic interference generated by these eddy currents.

[0100] While the continuous opening 514 shown in this example has a three-branch pair shape, in other examples, the continuous opening can have different shapes. In some examples, the continuous opening can have different numbers of branch pairs, such as two branch pairs, one branch pair, four branch pairs, another number of branch pairs, or combinations thereof. In other examples, the shape of the continuous opening can be determined in part by the shape of the antenna configured to transmit wireless signals through the shielding layer. The shapes of these continuous openings can include helical, dipole, other types of shapes, or combinations thereof. In some examples, the shape of the continuous opening can be asymmetrical.

[0101] Further, in some examples, the first and second branches of a branch pair may not intersect the trunk at the same location. In other examples, the first and second branches of a branch pair may intersect the trunk at the same location. In some examples, at least one branch is laterally oriented to the trunk. In some examples, the branch may include at least one bend or curve to help define a discontinuous annular region.

[0102] At least one branch pair may be aligned with at least one loop of the antenna; overlap with at least one loop of the antenna; extend along at least one loop of the antenna; and / or be located above, adjacent to, or below at least one loop of the antenna. In some examples, at least one branch pair of continuous openings may be offset from at least one loop of the antenna. In some examples, the width of the continuous opening is approximately the width of the antenna loop, within 10% of the width of the antenna loop, within 25% of the width of the antenna loop, or a combination thereof. In some examples, the length of the continuous opening is approximately the length of the antenna loop, within 10% of the length of the antenna loop, within 25% of the length of the loop antenna, or a combination thereof. In some examples, the thickness of the trunk and / or at least one branch is approximately equal to the thickness of the antenna loop, within 10% of the thickness of the antenna loop, within 25% of the thickness of the antenna loop, or a combination thereof.

[0103] While the masking layer 504 in this example includes a single continuous opening 514, in other examples, the masking layer may include more than one continuous opening. For example, the masking layer may include two continuous openings, three continuous openings, another number of continuous openings, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the number of continuous openings on the masking layer may correspond to the number of antennas on adjacent layers within the capacitor module. However, in other examples, multiple continuous openings may be combined with a single antenna. For example, multiple continuous openings may overlap with a single antenna.

[0104] Figure 6 depicts an example of a capacitor module 600 according to this specification. In this example, the masking layer 504 includes a continuous opening 614 having two branch pairs, namely a first branch pair 616 and a second branch pair 618. Fewer branch pairs can result in a smaller internal area of ​​the masking material formed by the branch pairs. In this case, the outer annular region 620 is formed by the first branch pair 616 and the second branch pair 618, while the central region 622 is formed only by the second branch pair 618.

[0105] In this example, the main trunk 624 is connected to both the first branch pair 616 and the second branch pair 618. Also in this example, the main trunk 624 is connected to the edge 626 of the masking material 512. Moreover, in this example, the main trunk 624 does not protrude into the central region.

[0106] FIG7 depicts an example of a capacitor module 700 according to this specification. In this example, the masking layer 504 includes a continuous opening 714, which includes a plurality of openings on the masking layer substrate. In some examples, the continuous opening may be a plurality of openings extending through the masking layer substrate. In other examples, such as the example shown in FIG7, the continuous opening may include a plurality of such openings that are discontinuous with each other.

[0107] Figure 8 depicts an example of a capacitor module 800 according to this specification. In this example, component layer 506 includes an antenna 816 shaped to transmit wireless signals according to the Wi-Fi protocol. Mask layer 504 includes a continuous opening 814a. The continuous opening 814a has a first branch 814b and a second branch 814c. The shape of the continuous opening 814a may correspond to the shape of the antenna 816 on component layer 506.

[0108] In the example depicted here, multiple sub-branches extend from the first branch 814b. In this example, the sub-branches protrude inward into the space jointly defined by the first branch 814b and the second branch 814c. However, in some examples, the sub-branches may extend from the second branch 814c. In alternative embodiments, a subset of the sub-branches may extend from the first branch, while another subset of the sub-branches may extend from the second branch.

[0109] FIG9 depicts an example of a capacitor module 900 according to this specification. Component layer 506 includes a first antenna 906b and a second antenna 908b. Mask layer 504 includes a first continuous opening 906a and a second continuous opening 908a. The shape and position of the first continuous opening 906a on mask layer 504 may correspond to the shape and position of the first antenna 906b on component layer 506. Similarly, the shape and position of the second continuous opening 908a on mask layer 504 may correspond to the shape and position of the second antenna 908b on component layer 506.

[0110] Figure 10 depicts an example of a mask layer 1000 with a continuous opening 1002 having a branch pair 1004. The shape of the continuous opening 1002 can reduce manufacturing complexity and better mask component interference.

[0111] FIG11 depicts an example of a mask layer 1000 having a continuous opening 1102. The continuous opening 1102 includes a first branch pair 1104 and a second branch pair 1106.

[0112] Figure 12 depicts an example of a masking layer 1000 having a continuous opening 1202. The continuous opening 1202 includes a first branch pair 1204, a second branch pair 1206, and a third branch pair 1208. The shape of the continuous opening 1202 can reduce the formation and propagation of eddies.

[0113] In some examples, the continuous openings can have a forked shape. Figure 13 depicts an example of a shielding layer 1300 having continuous openings 1302. The continuous openings 1302 have a triangular shape. In other examples, the forked continuous openings can have a different number of forks. The shape of the continuous openings 1302 can correspond to the shape of an antenna configured to transmit wireless signals through the shielding layer 1300.

[0114] FIG14 depicts an example of a shielding layer 1300 having a continuous opening 1402. The continuous opening 1402 has a first branch region 1404a and a second branch region 1404b. The shape of the continuous opening 1402 may correspond to the shape of an antenna configured to transmit wireless signals through the shielding layer 1300.

[0115] FIG15 depicts an example of a shielding layer 1300 having a continuous opening 1502. The continuous opening 1502 includes a first branch 1504a, a second branch 1504b, and a third branch 1504c. The shape of the continuous opening 1502 may correspond to the shape of an antenna configured to transmit wireless signals through the shielding layer 1300.

[0116] Figure 16a depicts an example of a voltage graph. Voltage is represented on the vertical axis, and time is represented on the horizontal axis. The first signal 1600a is represented as a time-voltage signal on the voltage graph. The first signal 1600a may correspond to a wireless signal propagating through a shielding layer in a capacitor module.

[0117] The first difference 1602 represents the difference between the peak voltage of signal 1600a and the noise floor of the signal. The greater the difference between the peak voltage and the noise floor, the higher the signal transmission efficiency.

[0118] Figure 16b depicts an example of a voltage graph, where voltage is represented on the vertical axis and time on the horizontal axis. The second signal 1600b is represented as a time-voltage signal on the voltage graph. The second signal 1600b may correspond to a wireless signal propagating through a series of openings in the shielding layer of the capacitor module. The second difference 1604 represents the difference between the voltage peak of signal 1600b and the background noise of that signal.

[0119] Figure 16c depicts the magnitudes of the first difference 1602 and the second difference 1604. The magnitude of the second difference 1604 may be greater than the magnitude of the first difference 1602. The larger magnitude of the second difference 1604 may correspond to the inclusion of continuous openings in the masking layer. Including continuous openings in the masking layer can increase the signal-to-noise ratio of the wireless signal transmitted through the masking layer.

[0120] It should be noted that the methods, systems, and apparatus discussed above are intended only as examples. It must be emphasized that various processes or elements may be appropriately omitted, substituted, or added in different embodiments. For example, it should be understood that in alternative embodiments, these methods may be performed in a different order than described, and various steps may be added, omitted, or combined. Moreover, the features described with respect to a particular embodiment may be combined in a variety of other embodiments. Different aspects and elements of the embodiments may be combined in a similar manner. Furthermore, it should be emphasized that technology is evolving, and therefore many elements are exemplary in nature and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0121] Specific details are set forth in the description in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. For example, well-known circuits, processes, algorithms, structures, and techniques have been shown without unnecessary details to avoid obscuring the embodiments.

[0122] Additionally, it should be noted that embodiments can be described as processes, depicted as flowcharts or block diagrams. Although each flowchart or block diagram may describe operations as a sequential process, many operations may be performed in parallel or simultaneously. Furthermore, the order of operations can be rearranged. Processes may have additional steps not included in the diagrams.

[0123] Having described several embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications, alternative structures, and equivalents can be used without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, the above-described elements may simply be components of a larger system, where other rules may take precedence over or otherwise modify the application of the invention. Furthermore, steps may be taken before, during, or after considering the above-described elements. Therefore, the above description should not be considered as a limitation on the scope of the invention. [Simplified Explanation of the Diagram]

[0027] Figure 1 depicts an example of an electronic device according to this specification.

[0028] FIG2 depicts an example of a substrate having a first set of electrodes and a second set of electrodes according to this specification.

[0029] Figure 3 depicts an example of a touchpad according to this specification.

[0030] Figure 4 depicts an example of a touch screen according to this specification.

[0031] Figure 5 depicts an example of a capacitor module according to this specification.

[0032] Figure 6 depicts an example of a capacitor module according to this specification.

[0033] Figure 7 depicts an example of a capacitor module according to this specification.

[0034] Figure 8 depicts an example of a capacitor module according to this specification.

[0035] Figure 9 depicts an example of a capacitor module according to this specification.

[0036] Figure 10 depicts an example of a masking layer according to this specification.

[0037] Figure 11 depicts an example of a masking layer according to this specification.

[0038] Figure 12 depicts an example of a masking layer according to this specification.

[0039] Figure 13 depicts an example of a masking layer according to this specification.

[0040] Figure 14 depicts an example of a masking layer according to this specification.

[0041] Figure 15 depicts an example of a masking layer according to this specification.

[0042] Figure 16a depicts an example of a voltage diagram according to this specification.

[0043] Figure 16b depicts an example of a voltage diagram according to this specification.

[0044] Figure 16c depicts an example of amplitude according to this specification.

[0045] Although this specification is readily adaptable to various modifications and substitutions, specific embodiments have been illustrated by way of example in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that this specification is not intended to be limited to the specific forms disclosed. Rather, it is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A capacitor module, comprising: Capacitor electrodes are located on the first substrate; A masking material is disposed on a second substrate, the second substrate being aligned with the first substrate; Antenna, wherein the shielding material is located between the antenna and the capacitor electrode; And a continuous opening is defined in the shielding material, wherein the continuous opening includes a branching shape, the branching shape includes a trunk and a plurality of branches extending from the trunk, the continuous opening overlaps with the antenna, and the plurality of branches form at least one discontinuous ring.

2. The capacitor module according to claim 1, wherein, The first and second branches of the plurality of branches of the continuous opening form a branch pair that is aligned with the loop of the antenna.

3. The capacitor module according to claim 1, wherein, The multiple branches define discontinuous annular regions of the masking material.

4. The capacitor module according to claim 1, wherein, The continuous openings have the property of minimizing the formation of eddies in the shielding material when the antenna is activated.

5. The capacitor module according to claim 1, wherein, The continuous openings have the characteristic of improving the signal-to-noise ratio of the antenna.

6. The capacitor module according to claim 1, further comprising: A third substrate is provided, wherein the third substrate is aligned with the second substrate; the antenna and process resources are disposed on the third substrate; and the process resources are connected to capacitor electrodes on the first substrate.

7. The capacitor module according to claim 1, wherein, The main trunk of the continuous opening is connected to the edge of the masking material.

8. The capacitor module according to claim 1, wherein, The main trunk extends to the central region of the masking material, the central region being defined by at least one of the multiple branches of the continuous opening; wherein the main trunk and the at least one branch form a discontinuous annular region of the masking material.

9. The capacitor module according to claim 1, wherein, The multiple branches of the continuous opening form multiple discontinuous annular regions; at least two of the multiple discontinuous annular regions are electrically connected to each other through a shield bridge.

10. The capacitor module according to claim 9, wherein, The plurality of discontinuous annular regions are electrically connected to the remaining masking material disposed on the second substrate.

11. A capacitor module, comprising: Capacitor electrodes are located on the first substrate; A masking material is disposed on a second substrate, the second substrate being aligned with the first substrate; And a continuous opening is defined in the masking material, wherein the continuous opening includes a branching shape, the branching shape including a trunk and a plurality of branches extending from the trunk, the plurality of branches forming at least one discontinuous ring.

12. The capacitor module according to claim 11, wherein, The first and second branches of the multiple branches of the continuous opening form a branch pair aligned with the loop of the antenna.

13. The capacitor module according to claim 11, wherein, The multiple branches define discontinuous annular regions of the masking material.

14. The capacitor module according to claim 11, wherein, The main trunk of the continuous opening is connected to the edge of the masking material.

15. The capacitor module according to claim 11, wherein, The main trunk extends to the central region of the shielding material, the central region being defined by at least one of the multiple branches of the continuous opening; The main trunk and the at least one branch form a discontinuous annular region of the masking material.

16. The capacitor module according to claim 11, wherein, The multiple branches of the continuous opening form multiple discontinuous annular regions; at least two of the multiple discontinuous annular regions are electrically connected to each other through a shield bridge.

17. The capacitor module according to claim 16, wherein, The plurality of discontinuous annular regions are electrically connected to the remaining masking material disposed on the second substrate.

18. A portable electronic device, comprising: Capacitor electrodes are located on the first substrate; A masking material is disposed on a second substrate, which is aligned with the first substrate. Antenna, wherein the shielding material is located between the antenna and the capacitor electrode; And a continuous opening is defined in the shielding material, wherein the continuous opening includes a branching shape, the branching shape including a trunk and a plurality of branches extending from the trunk, at least one of the plurality of branches being partially aligned with a loop of the antenna, the plurality of branches forming at least one discontinuous loop.

Images