Electronic device

Abstract

An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a display layer; a sensor layer; and a sensor drive unit. The sensor layer includes: a plurality of first electrodes each extending in a first direction; a plurality of second electrodes each extending in a second direction crossing the first direction; and a plurality of auxiliary electrodes each extending in the first direction and insulated from the plurality of second electrodes. The sensor drive unit is driven in a first mode or a second mode including a charging mode and a sensing mode. In the first mode, the sensor drive unit can electrically connect a first end and a second end of each of the plurality of second electrodes, and transmit a drive signal to each of the plurality of second electrodes. In the sensing mode, the sensor drive unit can connect the first end to ground and receive a first sensing signal through the second end.

Description

electronic devices

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic device capable of sensing input by a pen.

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

[0003] The above information disclosed in this background section is intended to enhance understanding of the background of the present invention and may therefore include information that does not constitute prior art.

[0004] The purpose of the present invention is to provide an electronic device capable of sensing input by a pen.

[0005] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a display layer, a sensor layer disposed on the display layer, and a sensor driving unit for driving the sensor layer, wherein the sensor layer includes a plurality of first electrodes each extending in a first direction, a plurality of second electrodes each extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and a plurality of auxiliary electrodes each extending in the first direction and insulated from the plurality of second electrodes, wherein the sensor driving unit includes a first mode for sensing a touch or a charging mode and a sensing mode, and is driven in a second mode for sensing an external input device, wherein the sensor driving unit electrically connects a first end and a second end of each of the plurality of second electrodes in the first mode, transmits a driving signal to each of the plurality of second electrodes, and receives a first sensing signal through the second end in the sensing mode.

[0006] Each of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes includes at least one pattern electrode, and when viewed in a plane, each of the plurality of first electrodes can surround a corresponding pattern electrode.

[0007] The area of ​​each of the plurality of first electrodes may be smaller than the area of ​​each of the plurality of second electrodes.

[0008] When viewed on a plane, the length of each of the plurality of first electrodes in the first direction may be smaller than the length of each of the plurality of second electrodes in the second direction.

[0009] The above plurality of auxiliary electrodes can be electrically connected to each other.

[0010] The sensor driving unit can directly receive the current of the first sensing signal in the sensing mode, and the sensor driving unit can receive the second sensing signal transmitted by capacitive coupling between the plurality of first electrodes and the plurality of auxiliary electrodes in the sensing mode.

[0011] The intensity of the first sensing signal may be greater than the intensity of the second sensing signal.

[0012] The sensor driving unit may include a driving unit that generates the driving signal and the charging signal, a sensing unit comprising an analog front end, a voltage providing unit having a predetermined voltage level, a first pad unit electrically connected to the first terminal, a second pad unit electrically connected to the second terminal, a first switch connected to the first pad unit and switching between the voltage providing unit and the second pad unit, and a second switch connected to the second pad unit and switching between the driving unit and the sensing unit.

[0013] The above sensing unit can be configured in single-ended mode.

[0014] The above sensing unit can be configured in differential mode.

[0015] In the first mode, the first switch may be connected to the first pad portion and the second pad portion, and the second switch may be connected to the second pad portion and the driving portion.

[0016] In the above charging mode, the sensor driving unit can transmit a first charging signal to one of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes and a second charging signal to another of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes.

[0017] The first charging signal and the second charging signal may have opposite phases to each other.

[0018] During the above charging mode, the plurality of second electrodes can be floated.

[0019] One of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes and the other of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes may be spaced apart from each other with at least one of the remaining plurality of auxiliary electrodes interposed therebetween.

[0020] In the charging mode, the first switch is connected to the first pad portion and the voltage providing portion, the second switch is connected to the second pad portion and the driving portion, and can transmit a first charging signal to one of the plurality of second electrodes and a second charging signal to another of the plurality of second electrodes.

[0021] The first charging signal and the second charging signal may have opposite phases to each other.

[0022] One of the plurality of second electrodes and the other of the plurality of second electrodes may be spaced apart from each other with at least one of the remaining plurality of second electrodes interposed therebetween.

[0023] The sensor layer may define an active region and a peripheral region adjacent to the active region, the plurality of first electrodes, the plurality of second electrodes, and the plurality of auxiliary electrodes may be arranged in the active region, and the sensor layer may further include a plurality of sensing wires arranged in the peripheral region and respectively connected to the plurality of second electrodes.

[0024] In the charging mode, a first distance in a first direction between one of the plurality of second electrodes and another of the plurality of second electrodes may be greater than a second distance in a second direction intersecting the first direction between one of the plurality of sensing wires connected to one of the plurality of second electrodes and another of the plurality of sensing wires connected to another of the plurality of second electrodes.

[0025] An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a display layer, a sensor layer disposed on the display layer, and a sensor driving unit for driving the sensor layer, wherein the sensor layer includes a plurality of first electrodes each extending in a first direction, a plurality of second electrodes each extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and a plurality of auxiliary electrodes each extending in the first direction and insulated from the plurality of second electrodes, wherein the sensor driving unit is driven in a charging mode or a sensing mode, wherein the sensor driving unit transmits a first charging signal to one of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes in the charging mode and transmits a second charging signal to another of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes, and in the sensing mode, directly receives a current of a first sensing signal from the plurality of second electrodes, and in the sensing mode, receives a second sensing signal transmitted by capacitive coupling between the plurality of first electrodes and the plurality of auxiliary electrodes.

[0026] Each of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes includes at least one pattern electrode, and when viewed in a plane, each of the plurality of first electrodes can surround a corresponding pattern electrode.

[0027] The area of ​​each of the plurality of first electrodes may be smaller than the area of ​​each of the plurality of second electrodes.

[0028] When viewed on a plane, the length of each of the plurality of first electrodes in the first direction may be smaller than the length of each of the plurality of second electrodes in the second direction.

[0029] The above plurality of auxiliary electrodes can be electrically connected to each other.

[0030] The intensity of the first sensing signal may be greater than the intensity of the second sensing signal.

[0031] The first charging signal and the second charging signal may have opposite phases to each other.

[0032] During the above charging mode, the plurality of second electrodes can be floated.

[0033] However, the present invention is not limited to the above aspects and features, and these and additional aspects and features will be set forth in part in the detailed description that follows with reference to the drawings, and in part will be obvious therefrom or may be learned by practicing one or more of the presented embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0034] As described above, in the case of the plurality of second electrodes having a Direct Loop structure, since the sensor driver directly receives the second sensing signal from each of the plurality of second electrodes, the intensity of the second sensing signal may be greater than the intensity of the first sensing signal received based on capacitive coupling from the plurality of first electrodes having a Cap-Assisted Loop structure. All of the sensing electrodes of the sensor layer may have improved pen sensing bandwidth of the sensor layer compared to the Cap-Assisted Loop structure. Therefore, an electronic device with improved pen sensing reliability may be provided.

[0035] Furthermore, as described above, one of the short or long axes can be formed as a Direct Loop structure, while the other can be formed as a Cap-Assisted Loop structure. This minimizes the increase in IC size of the sensor driver. Consequently, an electronic device with improved space efficiency can be provided.

[0036] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 1b is a rear perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 3 is a perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining the operation of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 7 is a plan view of a sensor layer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 8 is an enlarged plan view of one sensing unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 9A is a plan view illustrating a first conductive layer of a sensing unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 9b is a plan view illustrating a second conductive layer of a sensing unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 9c is a cross-sectional view of the sensor layer cut along line II' shown in Figures 9a and 9b, respectively.

[0048] FIG. 10A is a plan view illustrating a first conductive layer of a sensing unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] FIG. 10b is a plan view illustrating a second conductive layer of a sensing unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 10c is a cross-sectional view of a sensor layer according to one embodiment of the present invention taken along line II-II' shown in FIGS. 10a and 10b, respectively.

[0051] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a sensor driving unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a sensor driving unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] FIG. 13 illustrates a sensor layer and a sensor driver to explain a first mode according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] FIG. 14a illustrates a sensor layer and a sensor driver to explain a first mode according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] FIG. 14b illustrates a sensor layer and a sensor driver to explain a first mode according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] FIG. 15 illustrates a sensor layer and a sensor driving unit for explaining a second mode according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] FIG. 16 is a graph showing waveforms of a first signal and a second signal according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] FIG. 17 illustrates a sensor layer and a sensor driver for explaining a second mode according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] FIG. 18 illustrates a sensor layer and a sensor driver for explaining a second mode according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 19a is a diagram illustrating the current sensed in the first channels.

[0061] Figure 19b is a diagram illustrating the current obtained from the differential pair of first channels.

[0062] FIG. 20 illustrates a sensor layer and a sensor driver for explaining a second mode according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 21a is a diagram illustrating the current sensed in the second channels.

[0064] Figure 21b is a diagram illustrating the current obtained from the differential pair of second channels.

[0065] Fig. 22 is a plan view illustrating a sensor layer according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] FIG. 23 illustrates a sensor layer and a sensor driver for explaining a second mode according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] FIG. 24 illustrates a sensor layer and a sensor driving unit for explaining a second mode according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] FIG. 25 illustrates a sensor layer and a sensor driver for explaining a second mode according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals designate like elements throughout. However, the present invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided by way of illustration to ensure that the present invention is thorough and complete, and to sufficiently convey the characteristics of the present invention to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, processes, elements, and techniques that are not necessary for those skilled in the art to fully understand the characteristics of the present invention may not be described. Unless otherwise stated, like reference numerals designate like elements throughout the accompanying drawings and written description, and thus, redundant description thereof will not be repeated.

[0070] If a particular embodiment can be implemented differently, the order of specific processes may differ from the order described. For example, two processes described in succession may be performed simultaneously or substantially simultaneously, or may be performed in the reverse order from the described order.

[0071] Furthermore, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art in light of the entirety of the present invention, each suitable feature of the various embodiments of the present invention may be partially or wholly combined or coupled with one another, and may be technically interconnected and operated in various suitable ways, and each embodiment may be implemented independently of one another or may be implemented in any suitable manner, unless otherwise stated or implied.

[0072] The relative sizes, thicknesses, and proportions of elements, layers, and regions in the drawings may be exaggerated or simplified for clarity. Spatially relative terms such as "below," "above," etc. may be used herein for ease of description to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another as depicted in the drawings. It is to be understood that spatially relative terms are intended to encompass various orientations of the device in use or operation, in addition to the orientation depicted in the drawings. For example, if the device in the drawings is turned over, an element described as "below" another element or feature is oriented "above" the other element or feature. Thus, the example term "below" can encompass both the above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other orientations (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or in other directions), and the spatially relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0073] Furthermore, it is to be understood that the shapes depicted in the drawings may vary in practice, for example, depending on tolerances and / or manufacturing techniques. Therefore, embodiments of the present invention should not be construed as limited to the specific shapes depicted in the drawings, but rather should be interpreted in light of possible shape variations that may occur, for example, as a result of manufacturing. Accordingly, the shapes depicted in the drawings may not represent the actual shapes of the device area, and the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0074] The x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis in the drawing are not limited to the three axes of a Cartesian coordinate system and can be interpreted in a broader sense. For example, the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis can be perpendicular to each other, substantially perpendicular to each other, or can indicate different directions that are not perpendicular to each other.

[0075] While terms such as "first" and "second" may be used to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, a first component may be referred to as a "second component," and similarly, a second component may also be referred to as a "first component." Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0076] When an element or layer is referred to as being "over," "connected to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it will be understood that it may be directly over, connected to, or coupled to the other element or layer, or that one or more intermediate elements or layers may be present. Similarly, when a layer, region, or element is referred to as being "electrically connected to" another layer, region, or element, it will be understood that it may be directly electrically connected to the other layer, region, or element, and / or may be indirectly electrically connected to one or more intermediate layers, regions, or elements therebetween. Furthermore, when an element or layer is referred to as being "between" two elements or layers, it will be understood that it may be the only element or layer between the two elements or layers, or that one or more intermediate elements or layers may also be present.

[0077] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to limit the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms "a" and "an" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0078] It should be understood that terms such as "comprise" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any combination of one or more associated listed items. For example, the expression "A and / or B" refers to A, B, or A and B. Expressions such as "at least one" before a list of elements modify the list of elements as a whole and do not modify individual elements in the list. For example, expressions such as "at least one of a, b, or c," "at least one of a, b, and c," and "at least one selected from the group consisting of a, b, and c" refer to a only, b only, c only, both a and b, both a and c, both b and c, all of a, b, and c, or variations thereof.

[0079] The terms "substantially," "about," and similar terms used herein are used as approximate terms, not as terms of degree, and are intended to describe inherent variations in measured or calculated values ​​that would be recognizable by those of ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore, when describing embodiments of the present disclosure, the term "may" means "one or more embodiments of the present disclosure." As used herein, the terms "use," "used," and "used" may be considered synonymous with the terms "utilize," "utilizing," and "utilized," respectively.

[0080] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains. Furthermore, terms defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted to have a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and should not be interpreted in an overly idealistic or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0081] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1B is a rear perspective view of the electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B , the electronic device (1000) may be a device activated by an electrical signal. For example, the electronic device (1000) may display an image and sense externally applied inputs. The external input may be a user input. The user input may include various forms of external inputs, such as a part of the user's body, a pen (PN), light, heat, or pressure.

[0083] An electronic device (1000) may include a first display panel (DP1) and a second display panel (DP2). The first display panel (DP1) and the second display panel (DP2) may be separate panels. The first display panel (DP1) may be referred to as a main display panel, and the second display panel (DP2) may be referred to as an auxiliary display panel or an external display panel.

[0084] The first display panel (DP1) may include a first display portion (DA1-F), and the second display panel (DP2) may include a second display portion (DA2-F). The area of ​​the second display panel (DP2) may be smaller than the area of ​​the first display panel (DP1). Depending on the sizes of the first display panel (DP1) and the second display panel (DP2), the area of ​​the first display portion (DA1-F) may be larger than the area of ​​the second display portion (DA2-F).

[0085] When the electronic device (1000) is unfolded, the first display portion (DA1-F) may have a plane that is substantially parallel to the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2). The thickness direction of the electronic device (1000) may be parallel to a third direction (DR3) that intersects the first direction (DR1) and the second direction (DR2). Accordingly, the front (or upper surface) and the back (or lower surface) of the components constituting the electronic device (1000) may be defined based on the third direction (DR3).

[0086] The first display panel (DP1) or the first display unit (DA1-F) may include a folding area (FA) that folds and unfolds, and a plurality of non-folding areas (NFA1, NFA2) spaced apart from the folding area (FA). The second display panel (DP2) may overlap any one of the plurality of non-folding areas (NFA1, NFA2). For example, the second display panel (DP2) may overlap the first non-folding area (NFA1).

[0087] The display direction of a first image (IM1a) displayed on a portion of a first display panel (DP1), for example, a first non-folding area (NFA1), and the display direction of a second image (IM2a) displayed on a second display panel (DP2) may be opposite directions. For example, the first image (IM1a) may be displayed in a third direction (DR3), and the second image (IM2a) may be displayed in a fourth direction (DR4) that is opposite to the third direction (DR3).

[0088] In one embodiment of the present invention, the folding area (FA) can be bent based on a folding axis extending in a direction parallel to a long side of the electronic device (1000), for example, in a direction parallel to the second direction (DR2). When the electronic device (1000) is folded, the folding area (FA) has a predetermined curvature and a curvature radius. The first non-folding area (NFA1) and the second non-folding area (NFA2) face each other, and the electronic device (1000) can be inner-folded so that the first display unit (DA1-F) is not exposed to the outside.

[0089] In one embodiment of the present invention, the electronic device (1000) may be outer-folded so that the first display portion (DA1-F) is exposed to the outside. In one embodiment of the present invention, the electronic device (1000) may be capable of both in-folding and out-folding in an unfolded state, but is not limited thereto.

[0090] In FIG. 1A, an example in which a single folding area (FA) is defined in the electronic device (1000) is illustrated, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device (1000) may have a plurality of folding axes and a plurality of folding areas corresponding thereto defined, and the electronic device (1000) may be infolded or outfolded in an unfolded state in each of the plurality of folding areas.

[0091] According to one embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the first display panel (DP1) and the second display panel (DP2) can sense an input by a pen (PN) even if it does not include a digitizer. Therefore, since the digitizer for sensing the pen (PN) is omitted, an increase in the thickness, an increase in the weight, and a decrease in the flexibility of the electronic device (1000) due to the addition of the digitizer may not occur. Accordingly, not only the first display panel (DP1) but also the second display panel (DP2) can be designed to sense the pen (PN).

[0092] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 3 is a perspective view of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] In FIG. 2, it is exemplarily shown that the electronic device (1000a) is a mobile phone, and the electronic device (1000a) may include a display panel (DP'). In FIG. 3, it is exemplarily shown that the electronic device (1000b) is a laptop, and the electronic device (1000b) may include a display panel (DP').

[0094] In one embodiment of the present invention, the display panel (DP') can sense externally applied inputs. The external inputs may be user inputs. The user inputs may include various forms of external inputs, such as a part of the user's body, a pen (PN, see FIG. 1a), light, heat, or pressure.

[0095] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the display panel (DP') can sense input by a pen (PN, see FIG. 1a) even without including a digitizer. Accordingly, since the digitizer for sensing the pen (PN) is omitted, an increase in the thickness and weight of the electronic device (1000a or 1000b) due to the addition of the digitizer may not occur.

[0096] In Fig. 1a, a foldable type electronic device (1000) is illustrated as an example, and in Fig. 2, a bar type electronic device (1000a) is illustrated as an example, but the present invention described below is not limited thereto. For example, the descriptions described below can be applied to various electronic devices such as a rollable type electronic device, a slideable type electronic device, and a stretchable type electronic device.

[0097] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0098] Referring to FIG. 4, the display panel (DP) may include a display layer (100) and a sensor layer (200).

[0099] The display layer (100) may include a base layer (110), a circuit layer (120), a light-emitting element layer (130), and an encapsulation layer (140).

[0100] The base layer (110) may be a member that provides a base surface on which the circuit layer (120) is arranged. The base layer (110) may have a multilayer structure or a single-layer structure. The base layer (110) may be a glass substrate, a metal substrate, a silicon substrate, a polymer substrate, or the like, but is not particularly limited thereto.

[0101] The circuit layer (120) may be disposed on the base layer (110). The circuit layer (120) may include an insulating layer, a semiconductor pattern, a conductive pattern, and a signal line. The insulating layer, the semiconductor layer, and the conductive layer may be formed on the base layer (110) by a coating, deposition, or the like, and the insulating layer, the semiconductor layer, and the conductive layer may be selectively patterned through multiple photolithography processes.

[0102] The light-emitting element layer (130) may be disposed on the circuit layer (120). The light-emitting element layer (130) may include a light-emitting element. For example, the light-emitting element layer (130) may include an organic light-emitting material, an inorganic light-emitting material, an organic-inorganic light-emitting material, a quantum dot, a quantum rod, a micro LED, or a nano LED.

[0103] The encapsulating layer (140) can be placed on the light-emitting element layer (130). The encapsulating layer (140) can protect the light-emitting element layer (130) from foreign substances such as moisture, oxygen, and dust particles.

[0104] The sensor layer (200) may be disposed on the display layer (100). The sensor layer (200) may sense an external input applied from the outside. The sensor layer (200) may be an integrated sensor continuously formed during the manufacturing process of the display layer (100), or the sensor layer (200) may be an external sensor attached to the display layer (100). The sensor layer (200) may be referred to as a sensor, an input sensing layer, an input sensing panel, or an electronic device for sensing input coordinates.

[0105] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the sensor layer (200) can sense both inputs to a passive type input means such as a user's body and an input device (PN, see FIG. 1a) that generates a magnetic field of a predetermined resonant frequency.

[0106] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining the operation of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 5, the electronic device (1000) may include a display layer (100), a sensor layer (200), a display driver (100C) (e.g., a display driver or a display driver circuit), a sensor driver (200C) (e.g., a sensor driver or a sensor driver circuit), a main driver (1000C) (e.g., a main driver or a main driver circuit), and a power circuit (1000P).

[0108] The sensor layer (200) can sense a first input (2000) or a second input (3000) applied from the outside. Each of the first input (2000) and the second input (3000) can be an input means capable of providing a change in the electrostatic capacitance of the sensor layer (200) or an input means capable of causing an induced current in the sensor layer (200). For example, the first input (2000) can be a passive type input means, such as a user's body. The second input (3000) can be an input by a pen (PN) or an input by an RFIC tag. For example, the pen (PN) can be a passive type pen or an active type pen.

[0109] In one embodiment of the present invention, the pen (PN) may be a device that generates a magnetic field of a predetermined resonant frequency. The pen (PN) may be configured to transmit an output signal based on an electromagnetic resonance method. The pen (PN) may be referred to as an input device, an input pen, a magnetic pen, a stylus pen, or an electromagnetic resonance pen.

[0110] The pen (PN) may include an RLC resonant circuit, and the RLC resonant circuit may include an inductor (L) and a capacitor (C). In one embodiment of the present invention, the RLC resonant circuit may be a variable resonant circuit that varies the resonant frequency. In this case, the inductor (L) may be a variable inductor and / or the capacitor (C) may be a variable capacitor, but is not particularly limited thereto.

[0111] The inductor (L) generates a current by a magnetic field formed in the sensor layer (200). However, it is not particularly limited thereto. For example, when the pen (PN) operates in an active type, the pen (PN) may generate a current even if a magnetic field is not provided from the outside. The generated current is transmitted to the capacitor (C). The capacitor (C) charges the current input from the inductor (L) and discharges the charged current to the inductor (L). Thereafter, the inductor (L) can emit a magnetic field of a resonant frequency. An induced current may flow in the sensor layer (200) by the magnetic field emitted by the pen (PN), and the induced current may be transmitted to the sensor driving unit (200C) as a reception signal (or sensing signal, signal).

[0112] The main driving unit (1000C) can control the overall operation of the electronic device (1000). For example, the main driving unit (1000C) can control the operation of the display driving unit (100C) and the sensor driving unit (200C). The main driving unit (1000C) can include at least one microprocessor and can further include a graphics controller. The main driving unit (1000C) can be referred to as an application processor, a central processing unit, or a main processor.

[0113] The display driver (100C) can drive the display layer (100). The display driver (100C) can receive image data and control signals from the main driver (1000C). The control signals can include various signals. For example, the control signals can include an input vertical synchronization signal, an input horizontal synchronization signal, a main clock, and a data enable signal.

[0114] The sensor driving unit (200C) can drive the sensor layer (200). The sensor driving unit (200C) can receive a control signal from the main driving unit (1000C). The control signal can include a clock signal of the sensor driving unit (200C). In addition, the control signal can further include a mode determination signal that determines the driving mode of the sensor driving unit (200C) and the sensor layer (200).

[0115] The sensor driving unit (200C) may be implemented as an integrated circuit (IC) and electrically connected to the sensor layer (200). For example, the sensor driving unit (200C) may be directly mounted on a predetermined area of ​​the display panel or may be mounted on a separate printed circuit board in a chip on film (COF) manner and electrically connected to the sensor layer (200).

[0116] The sensor driving unit (200C) and the sensor layer (200) can selectively operate in a first mode or a second mode. For example, the first mode may be a mode for sensing a touch input, for example, a first input (2000). The second mode may be a mode for sensing a pen (PN) input, for example, a second input (3000). The first mode may be referred to as a touch sensing mode, and the second mode may be referred to as a pen sensing mode.

[0117] The switching between the first mode and the second mode can be accomplished in various ways. For example, the sensor driving unit (200C) and the sensor layer (200) can be time-divisionally driven in the first mode and the second mode and sense the first input (2000) and the second input (3000). Alternatively, the switching between the first mode and the second mode can occur by a user's selection or a specific action of the user, or either of the first mode and the second mode can be activated or deactivated, or can be switched from one to the other, by the activation or deactivation of a specific application. Alternatively, the sensor driving unit (200C) and the sensor layer (200) can be alternately operated in the first mode and the second mode, and when the first input (2000) is sensed, the first mode can be maintained, or when the second input (3000) is sensed, the second mode can be maintained.

[0118] The sensor driving unit (200C) can calculate input coordinate information based on a signal received from the sensor layer (200) and provide a coordinate signal having the coordinate information to the main driving unit (1000C). The main driving unit (1000C) executes an operation corresponding to a user input based on the coordinate signal. For example, the main driving unit (1000C) can operate the display driving unit (100C) so that a new application image is displayed on the display layer (100).

[0119] The power circuit (1000P) may include a power management integrated circuit (PMIC). The power circuit (1000P) may generate a plurality of driving voltages for driving the display layer (100), the sensor layer (200), the display driver (100C), and the sensor driver (200C). For example, the plurality of driving voltages may include a gate high voltage, a gate low voltage, a first driving voltage (e.g., an ELVSS voltage), a second driving voltage (e.g., an ELVDD voltage), an initialization voltage, etc., but are not particularly limited to the above examples.

[0120] Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a display panel according to one embodiment of the present invention. In describing Fig. 6, the same reference numerals are used for the components described in Fig. 4, and a description thereof is omitted.

[0121] Referring to FIG. 6, the base layer (110) may include a first charging electrode (SE). In this case, the base layer (110) may be referred to as an auxiliary layer (110). This will be described later.

[0122] At least one buffer layer (BFL) is formed on the upper surface of the base layer (110). The buffer layer (BFL) can improve the bonding strength between the base layer (110) and the semiconductor pattern. The buffer layer (BFL) can be formed as a multilayer. Alternatively, the display layer (100) may further include a barrier layer. The buffer layer (BFL) can include at least one of silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and silicon oxynitride. For example, the buffer layer (BFL) can include a structure in which silicon oxide layers and silicon nitride layers are alternately laminated.

[0123] The semiconductor pattern (SC, AL, DR, SCL) may be disposed on a buffer layer (BFL). The semiconductor pattern (SC, AL, DR, SCL) may include polysilicon. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the semiconductor pattern (SC, AL, DR, SCL) may also include amorphous silicon, low-temperature polycrystalline silicon, or oxide semiconductor.

[0124] Fig. 6 only illustrates some semiconductor patterns (SC, AL, DR, SCL), and more semiconductor patterns may be arranged in other areas. The semiconductor patterns (SC, AL, DR, SCL) may be arranged in a specific rule across the pixels. The semiconductor patterns (SC, AL, DR, SCL) may have different electrical properties depending on doping. The semiconductor patterns (SC, AL, DR, SCL) may include a first region (SC, DR, SCL) with high conductivity and a second region (AL) with low conductivity. The first region (SC, DR, SCL) may be doped with an N-type dopant or a P-type dopant. A P-type transistor may include a doped region doped with a P-type dopant, and an N-type transistor may include a doped region doped with an N-type dopant. The second region (AL) may be an undoped region or a region doped at a lower concentration than the first region.

[0125] The conductivity of the first region (SC, DR, SCL) is greater than that of the second region (AL), and can substantially function as an electrode or a signal line. The second region (AL) may substantially correspond to an active region (AL) (or channel) of the transistor (100PC). In other words, a part (AL) of the semiconductor pattern (SC, AL, DR, SCL) may be the active region (AL) of the transistor (100PC), another part (SC, DR) may be the source region (SC) or drain region (DR) of the transistor (100PC), and another part (SCL) may be a connection electrode or a connection signal line (SCL).

[0126] Each pixel can have an equivalent circuit including seven transistors, one capacitor, and a light-emitting element, and the equivalent circuit diagram of the pixel can be modified in various forms. FIG. 6 illustrates an example of one transistor (100PC) and a light-emitting element (100PE) included in a pixel.

[0127] A source region (SC), an active region (AL), and a drain region (DR) of a transistor (100PC) can be formed from semiconductor patterns (SC, AL, DR, SCL). The source region (SC) and the drain region (DR) can extend in opposite directions from the active region (AL) in a cross-section. Fig. 6 illustrates a portion of a connection signal line (SCL) formed from the semiconductor patterns (SC, AL, DR, SCL). Although not illustrated separately, the connection signal line (SCL) can be connected to the drain region (DR) of the transistor (100PC) in a plane.

[0128] The first insulating layer (10) may be disposed on a buffer layer (BFL). The first insulating layer (10) may overlap a plurality of pixels in common and cover semiconductor patterns (SC, AL, DR, SCL). The first insulating layer (10) may be an inorganic layer and / or an organic layer, and may have a single-layer or multi-layer structure. The first insulating layer (10) may include at least one of aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, zirconium oxide, and hafnium oxide. In the present embodiment, the first insulating layer (10) may be a single-layer silicon oxide layer. Not only the first insulating layer (10), but also the insulating layer of the circuit layer (120) described below may be an inorganic layer and / or an organic layer, and may have a single-layer or multi-layer structure. The inorganic layer may include at least one of the above-described materials, but is not limited thereto.

[0129] The gate (GT) of the transistor (100PC) is disposed on the first insulating layer (10). The gate (GT) may be a part of a metal pattern. The gate (GT) overlaps the active area (AL). In a process of doping or reducing a semiconductor pattern (SC, AL, DR, SCL), the gate (GT) may function as a mask.

[0130] The second insulating layer (20) is disposed on the first insulating layer (10) and can cover the gate (GT). The second insulating layer (20) can be commonly overlapped with pixels. The second insulating layer (20) can be an inorganic layer and / or an organic layer, and can have a single-layer or multi-layer structure. The second insulating layer (20) can include at least one of silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and silicon oxynitride. In the present embodiment, the second insulating layer (20) can have a multi-layer structure including a silicon oxide layer and a silicon nitride layer.

[0131] The third insulating layer (30) may be disposed on the second insulating layer (20). The third insulating layer (30) may have a single-layer or multi-layer structure. For example, the third insulating layer (30) may have a multi-layer structure including a silicon oxide layer and a silicon nitride layer.

[0132] The first connection electrode (CNE1) may be placed on the third insulating layer (30). The first connection electrode (CNE1) may be connected to the connection signal line (SCL) through a contact hole (CNT-1) penetrating the first, second, and third insulating layers (10, 20, 30).

[0133] The fourth insulating layer (40) may be disposed on the third insulating layer (30). The fourth insulating layer (40) may be a single-layer silicon oxide layer. The fifth insulating layer (50) may be disposed on the fourth insulating layer (40). The fifth insulating layer (50) may be an organic layer.

[0134] The second connection electrode (CNE2) may be placed on the fifth insulating layer (50). The second connection electrode (CNE2) may be connected to the first connection electrode (CNE1) through a contact hole (CNT-2) penetrating the fourth insulating layer (40) and the fifth insulating layer (50).

[0135] The sixth insulating layer (60) is placed on the fifth insulating layer (50) and can cover the second connection electrode (CNE2). The sixth insulating layer (60) may be an organic layer.

[0136] The light-emitting element layer (130) may be disposed on the circuit layer (120). The light-emitting element layer (130) may include a light-emitting element (100PE). For example, the light-emitting element layer (130) may include an organic light-emitting material, an inorganic light-emitting material, an organic-inorganic light-emitting material, a quantum dot, a quantum rod, a micro LED, or a nano LED. Hereinafter, the light-emitting element (100PE) is described as an example of an organic light-emitting element, but is not particularly limited thereto.

[0137] The light-emitting element (100PE) may include a first electrode (AE), a light-emitting layer (EL), and a second electrode (CE).

[0138] The first electrode (AE) may be placed on the sixth insulating layer (60). The first electrode (AE) may be connected to the second connection electrode (CNE2) through a contact hole (CNT-3) penetrating the sixth insulating layer (60).

[0139] The pixel defining film (70) is disposed on the sixth insulating layer (60) and can cover a portion of the first electrode (AE). An opening (70-OP) is defined in the pixel defining film (70). The opening (70-OP) of the pixel defining film (70) exposes at least a portion of the first electrode (AE).

[0140] The first display unit (DA1-F, see FIG. 1A) may include a light-emitting area (PXA) and a non-light-emitting area (NPXA) adjacent to the light-emitting area (PXA). The non-light-emitting area (NPXA) may surround the light-emitting area (PXA). In the present embodiment, the light-emitting area (PXA) is defined to correspond to a portion of the first electrode (AE) exposed by the opening (70-OP).

[0141] The light-emitting layer (EL) may be disposed on the first electrode (AE). The light-emitting layer (EL) may be disposed in an area corresponding to the opening (70-OP). That is, the light-emitting layer (EL) may be formed separately for each pixel. When the light-emitting layer (EL) is formed separately for each pixel, each of the light-emitting layers (EL) may emit light of at least one color among blue, red, and green. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the light-emitting layer (EL) may be connected to the pixels and included in common. In this case, the light-emitting layer (EL) may provide blue light or white light.

[0142] The second electrode (CE) may be disposed on the light-emitting layer (EL). The second electrode (CE) may have an integral shape and may be commonly included in a plurality of pixels.

[0143] In one embodiment of the present invention, a hole control layer may be disposed between the first electrode (AE) and the light emitting layer (EL). The hole control layer may be commonly disposed in the light emitting area (PXA) and the non-light emitting area (NPXA). The hole control layer may include a hole transport layer and may further include a hole injection layer. An electron control layer may be disposed between the light emitting layer (EL) and the second electrode (CE). The electron control layer may include an electron transport layer and may further include an electron injection layer. The hole control layer and the electron control layer may be commonly formed in a plurality of pixels using an open mask or inkjet process.

[0144] The encapsulating layer (140) may be disposed on the light-emitting element layer (130). The encapsulating layer (140) may include sequentially laminated inorganic layers, organic layers, and inorganic layers, but the layers constituting the encapsulating layer (140) are not limited thereto. The inorganic layers may protect the light-emitting element layer (130) from moisture and oxygen, and the organic layers may protect the light-emitting element layer (130) from foreign substances such as dust particles. The inorganic layers may include a silicon nitride layer, a silicon oxynitride layer, a silicon oxide layer, a titanium oxide layer, or an aluminum oxide layer. The organic layer may include an acrylic-based organic layer, but is not limited thereto.

[0145] The sensor layer (200) may include a base layer (201), a first conductive layer (202), a sensing insulating layer (203), a second conductive layer (204), and a cover insulating layer (205).

[0146] The base layer (201) may be an inorganic layer including at least one of silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, and silicon oxide. Alternatively, the base layer (201) may be an organic layer including an epoxy resin, an acrylic resin, or an imide-based resin. The base layer (201) may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure laminated along the third direction (DR3).

[0147] Each of the first conductive layer (202) and the second conductive layer (204) may have a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure laminated along the third direction (DR3).

[0148] Each of the first conductive layer (202) and the second conductive layer (204) of the single-layer structure may include a metal layer or a transparent conductive layer. The metal layer may include molybdenum, silver, titanium, copper, aluminum, or an alloy thereof. The transparent conductive layer may include a transparent conductive oxide such as indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZnO), or indium zinc tin oxide (IZTO). In addition, the transparent conductive layer may include a conductive polymer such as poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT), metal nanowires, graphene, or the like.

[0149] Each of the first conductive layer (202) and the second conductive layer (204) of the multilayer structure may include metal layers. The metal layers may have a three-layer structure of, for example, titanium / aluminum / titanium. The conductive layer of the multilayer structure may include at least one metal layer and at least one transparent conductive layer.

[0150] At least one of the sensing insulating layer (203) and the cover insulating layer (205) may include an inorganic film. The inorganic film may include at least one of aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, zirconium oxide, and hafnium oxide.

[0151] At least one of the sensing insulating layer (203) and the cover insulating layer (205) may include an organic film. The organic film may include at least one of an acrylic resin, a methacrylic resin, a polyisoprene, a vinyl resin, an epoxy resin, a urethane resin, a cellulose resin, a siloxane resin, a polyimide resin, a polyamide resin, and a perylene resin.

[0152] Fig. 7 is a plan view of a sensor layer according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 8 is an enlarged plan view of one sensing unit according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 9a is a plan view illustrating a first conductive layer of a sensing unit according to one embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 9b is a plan view illustrating a second conductive layer of a sensing unit according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Fig. 9c is a cross-sectional view of the sensor layer taken along line II' illustrated in Figs. 9a and 9b, respectively.

[0153] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 9C, the sensor layer (200) may define an active area (200A) and a peripheral area (200NA) adjacent to the active area (200A). The active area (200A) may be an area activated by an electrical signal. For example, the active area (200A) may be an area that detects an input.

[0154] The sensor layer (200) may be defined by a plurality of sensing units (SU) arranged in the active area (200A). The plurality of sensing units (SU) may be arranged along a first direction (DR1) and a second direction (DR2).

[0155] The sensor layer (200) may include a plurality of first electrodes (210), a plurality of second electrodes (220), and a plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230).

[0156] A plurality of first electrodes (210) may be insulated and intersect with a plurality of second electrodes (220), respectively. Each of the plurality of first electrodes (210) may extend along the second direction (DR2). The plurality of first electrodes (210) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the first direction (DR1).

[0157] Each of the plurality of second electrodes (220) may extend along the first direction (DR1). The plurality of second electrodes (220) may be arranged spaced apart from each other in the second direction (DR2).

[0158] The area of ​​each of the plurality of first electrodes (210) may be smaller than the area of ​​each of the plurality of second electrodes (220).

[0159] When viewed on a plane, the first length (W1) of each of the plurality of first electrodes (210) in the second direction (DR2) may be smaller than the second length (W2) of each of the plurality of second electrodes (220) in the first direction (DR1).

[0160] A sensing unit (SU) of a sensor layer (200) may be an area where one first electrode (210) and one second electrode (220) intersect. The sensing unit (SU) may include one first electrode (210) among a plurality of first electrodes (210), and one second electrode (220) among a plurality of second electrodes (220).

[0161] Each of the plurality of first electrodes (210) may include segmented electrodes (210dv1, 210dv2). The segmented electrodes (210dv1, 210dv2) may extend along the second direction (DR2) and be spaced apart from each other in the first direction (DR1). The segmented electrodes (210dv1, 210dv2) may have a shape that is line-symmetrical with respect to a line extending in the second direction (DR2).

[0162] Each of the plurality of second electrodes (220) may include a sensing pattern (221) and a bridge pattern (222). The sensing pattern (221) and the bridge pattern (222) may be disposed on different layers and may be electrically connected to each other through a first contact (CNa1). For example, the bridge pattern (222) may be included in the first conductive layer (202SU), and the sensing pattern (221) and the first segmented electrodes (210dv1, 210dv2) may be included in the second conductive layer (204SU). The first conductive layer (202SU) may be included in the first conductive layer (202) of FIG. 6, and the second conductive layer (204SU) may be included in the second conductive layer (204) of FIG. 6.

[0163] Each of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230) may extend along the second direction (DR2). The plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230) may be arranged spaced apart from each other in the first direction (DR1). The plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230) may be insulated from the plurality of second electrodes (220).

[0164] In one embodiment of the present invention, each of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230) may include at least one pattern electrode (230S) connected in parallel. The number of the plurality of pattern electrodes (230S) included in each of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230) may vary. For example, as the number of the pattern electrodes (230S) included in each of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230) increases, the resistance of each of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230) decreases, thereby improving power efficiency and sensing sensitivity. Conversely, as the number of the pattern electrodes (230S) included in each of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230) decreases, the loop coil pattern formed using the plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230) can be implemented in more diverse forms.

[0165] In Fig. 7, one auxiliary electrode (230) is exemplarily illustrated as including two pattern electrodes (230S), but this is not particularly limited. The pattern electrodes (230S) may be arranged in one-to-one correspondence with a plurality of first electrodes (210). Accordingly, one sensing unit (SU) may further include a portion of one pattern electrode (230S).

[0166] Each of the plurality of first electrodes (210) may surround a corresponding pattern electrode (230S). A coupling capacitor may be defined between one first electrode (210) and one auxiliary electrode (230). In this case, the induced current generated during pen sensing may be transmitted from the auxiliary electrode (230) to the first electrode (210) through the coupling capacitor (Ccp, see FIG. 18). That is, the auxiliary electrode (230) may serve to reinforce the signal (or current) transmitted from the first electrode (210) to the sensor driver (200C). Therefore, the greatest effect may be obtained when the phase of the signal induced in the auxiliary electrode (230) and the phase of the signal induced in the first electrode (210) are identical. Accordingly, the center of the second direction (DR2) of each of the plurality of first electrodes (210) and the center of the second direction (DR2) of each of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230) may overlap each other. In addition, the center of the first direction (DR1) of each of the plurality of first electrodes (210) and the center of the first direction (DR1) of each of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230) may also overlap each other.

[0167] In one embodiment of the present invention, since one auxiliary electrode (230) includes two pattern electrodes (230S), one auxiliary electrode (230) may correspond to (or overlap) two first electrodes (210). Accordingly, the number of the plurality of first electrodes (210) included in the sensor layer (200) may be greater than the number of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230). For example, the number of the plurality of first electrodes (210) may be equal to the product of the number of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230) included in the sensor layer (200) and the number of pattern electrodes (230S) included in each of the auxiliary electrodes (230). In FIG. 7, the number of first electrodes (210) may be eight, the number of auxiliary electrodes (230) may be four, and the number of pattern electrodes (230S) included in each of the auxiliary electrodes (230) may be two.

[0168] Each of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230) may include a first auxiliary pattern (231) and a second auxiliary pattern (232). The first auxiliary pattern (231) and the second auxiliary pattern (232) may be arranged in different layers. The first auxiliary pattern (231) and the second auxiliary pattern (232) may be electrically connected to each other through a second contact (CNb). The first auxiliary pattern (231) may be included in the first conductive layer (202SU), and the second auxiliary pattern (232) may be included in the second conductive layer (204SU).

[0169] In one embodiment of the present invention, a portion of the first auxiliary pattern (231) may overlap a portion of each of the first segmented electrodes (210dv1, 210dv2). Accordingly, a coupling capacitance may be provided (or formed) between the first electrode (210) and the auxiliary electrode (230).

[0170] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first conductive layer (202SU) may further include dummy patterns (DMP). Each of the dummy patterns (DMP) may be electrically floating or electrically grounded. In one embodiment of the present invention, the dummy patterns (DMP) may be omitted.

[0171] The sensor layer (200) may further include a plurality of first trace lines (210t) arranged in a peripheral area (200NA), a plurality of first pads (PD1) connected in a one-to-one correspondence to the first trace lines (210t), a plurality of second trace lines (220t), and a plurality of second pads (PD2) connected in a one-to-one correspondence to the second trace lines (220t).

[0172] The first trace lines (210t) may be electrically connected to the first electrodes (210) in a one-to-one correspondence, respectively. Two first segmented electrodes (210dv1, 210dv1) included in one first electrode (210) may be connected to one first trace line among the first trace lines (210t). Each of the first trace lines (210t) may include a plurality of branches for connecting to the two first segmented electrodes (210dv1, 210dv1). In one embodiment of the present invention, the two first segmented electrodes (210dv1, 210dv1) may be connected to each other within the active region (200A).

[0173] The second trace lines (220t) may be electrically connected to the first and second ends of each of the second electrodes (220) in a one-to-one correspondence. That is, one second electrode (220) may be connected to two second trace lines (220t). The connection method of the second trace lines (220t) may be referred to as a double routing method.

[0174] The sensor layer (200) may further include a charging trace line (230rt) and a plurality of third pads (PD3) arranged in a peripheral area (200NA).

[0175] The charging trace line (230rt) may include the 3-1 trace line (230rt1) and the 3-2 trace lines (230rt2).

[0176] A plurality of third pads (PD3) can be connected in one-to-one correspondence to one end and the other end of the 3-1 trace line (230rt1) and the 3-2 trace lines (230rt2).

[0177] The 3-1 trace line (230rt1) may be electrically connected to the auxiliary electrodes (230). For example, the 3-1 trace line (230rt1) may be electrically connected to all of the auxiliary electrodes (230). As a result, a plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230) may be electrically connected to each other. The 3-1 trace line (230rt1) may include a first line portion (231t) extending along a first direction (DR1) and electrically connected to the auxiliary electrodes (230), a second line portion (232t) extending along a second direction (DR2) from a first end of the first line portion (231t), and a third line portion (233t) extending along the second direction (DR2) from a second end of the first line portion (231t).

[0178] In one embodiment of the present invention, the resistance of the second line portion (232t) and the resistance of the third line portion (233t) may each be substantially equal to the resistance of the third electrode of one of the auxiliary electrodes (230). Therefore, the second line portion (232t) and the third line portion (233t) may function as the auxiliary electrodes (230), and the same effect as if the auxiliary electrodes (230) were also disposed in the peripheral area (200NA) may be obtained. For example, either one of the second line portion (232t) and the third line portion (233t) or one of the auxiliary electrodes (230) may form a coil. Therefore, a pen located in an area adjacent to the peripheral area (200NA) may also be sufficiently charged by a loop including the second line portion (232t) or the third line portion (233t).

[0179] In one embodiment of the present invention, in order to adjust the resistance of the second line portion (232t) and the resistance of the third line portion (233t), the width of each of the second line portion (232t) and the third line portion (233t) in the first direction (DR1) may be adjusted. However, this is merely an example, and the first to third line portions (231t, 232t, 233t) may have substantially the same width.

[0180] The 3-2 trace lines (230rt2) can be connected to the auxiliary electrodes (230) in a one-to-one correspondence, respectively. That is, the number of the 3-2 trace lines (230rt2) can correspond to the number of the auxiliary electrodes (230). In Fig. 7, four 3-2 trace lines (230rt2) are illustrated as an example.

[0181] FIG. 10A is a plan view illustrating a first conductive layer of a sensing unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 10B is a plan view illustrating a second conductive layer of a sensing unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 10C is a cross-sectional view of a sensor layer according to an embodiment of the present invention taken along the line II-II' illustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B, respectively.

[0182] Referring to FIGS. 10A to 10C, each of the plurality of first electrodes (210) may include first sensing patterns (211) and a plurality of first bridge patterns (212). The first sensing patterns (211) may be spaced apart in the second direction (DR2), and the first bridge patterns (212) may extend in the second direction (DR2) and be electrically connected to the first sensing patterns (211) through a first contact (CNa1). In FIGS. 12A and 12B, two adjacent first sensing patterns (211) are electrically connected to each other by two first bridge patterns (212), but the present invention is not particularly limited thereto. For example, two adjacent first sensing patterns (211) may be electrically connected to each other by one first bridge pattern (212), or may be electrically connected to each other by three or more first bridge patterns (212).

[0183] The first sensing patterns (211) that are adjacent in the second direction (DR2) with the second electrode (220) interposed therebetween may be spaced apart. In one embodiment of the present invention, the first sensing patterns (211) and the second electrode (220) may be included in the second conductive layer (204SUa), and the first bridge patterns (212) may be included in the first conductive layer (202SUa). The first bridge patterns (212) may insulate and intersect with the second electrode (220) that overlaps therewith.

[0184] Each of the pattern electrodes (230S) may extend in the second direction (DR2). The pattern electrodes (230S) may be included in the first conductive layer (202SUa). One or more holes may be defined in each of the pattern electrodes (230S). One first bridge pattern (212) may be arranged in one hole. Accordingly, the first bridge pattern (212) may be electrically insulated from the pattern electrodes (230S).

[0185] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first conductive layer (202SUa) may further include first dummy patterns (DMP1), and the second conductive layer (204SUa) may further include second dummy patterns (DMP2). Each of the first dummy patterns (DMP1) and the second dummy patterns (DMP2) may be floated or electrically floated. Each of the first dummy patterns (DMP1) and the second dummy patterns (DMP2) may be divided into a plurality of conductive patterns. For example, one first dummy pattern (DMP1) may include a plurality of floating dummy patterns that are separated or electrically separated from each other.

[0186] Referring to FIG. 10c, the area of ​​the pattern electrode (230S) and the area of ​​the first sensing pattern (211) can be adjusted. For example, the position of the boundary between the pattern electrode (230S) and the first dummy patterns (DMP1) and the position of the boundary between the first sensing pattern (211) and the second dummy patterns (DMP2) can be adjusted. In this case, the area of ​​the overlapping region where the pattern electrode (230S) and the first sensing pattern (211) overlap can be adjusted, thereby adjusting the capacitance size of the coupling capacitor (C-CP) between the pattern electrode (230S) and the first sensing pattern (211).

[0187] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a sensor driving unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0188] Referring to FIG. 5 and FIG. 11, the sensor driving unit (200C) can be configured to be selectively driven in any one of the first operation mode (DMD1), the second operation mode (DMD2), and the third operation mode (DMD3).

[0189] The first operation mode (DMD1) may be referred to as a touch and pen standby mode, the second operation mode (DMD2) may be referred to as a touch activation and pen standby mode, and the third operation mode (DMD3) may be referred to as a pen activation mode. The first operation mode (DMD1) may be a mode that stands by for a first input (2000) and a second input (3000). The second operation mode (DMD2) may be a mode that senses the first input (2000) and stands by for a second input (3000). The third operation mode (DMD3) may be a mode that senses the second input (3000).

[0190] In one embodiment of the present invention, the sensor driving unit (200C) may first be driven in a first operation mode (DMD1). When the first input (2000) is sensed in the first operation mode (DMD1), the sensor driving unit (200C) may be switched (or changed) to a second operation mode (DMD2). Alternatively, when the second input (3000) is sensed in the first operation mode (DMD1), the sensor driving unit (200C) may be switched (or changed) to a third operation mode (DMD3).

[0191] In one embodiment of the present invention, when the second input (3000) is sensed in the second operation mode (DMD2), the sensor driving unit (200C) can be switched to the third operation mode (DMD3). When the first input (2000) is released (or not detected) in the second operation mode (DMD2), the sensor driving unit (200C) can be switched to the first operation mode (DMD1). When the second input (3000) is released (or not detected) in the third operation mode (DMD3), the sensor driving unit (200C) can be switched to the first operation mode (DMD1).

[0192] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a sensor driving unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0193] Referring to FIGS. 5, 7, 11, and 12, the operations in each of the first to third operation modes (DMD1, DMD2, DMD3) are exemplarily illustrated in time (t) order.

[0194] In the first operation mode (DMD1), the sensor driving unit (200C) can be repeatedly driven in the second mode (MD2-d) and the first mode (MD1-d). During the second mode (MD2-d), the sensor layer (200) can be scan-driven to detect the second input (3000). During the first mode (MD1-d), the sensor layer (200) can be scan-driven to detect the first input (2000). In Fig. 12, it is exemplarily illustrated that the sensor driving unit (200C) operates in the first mode (MD1-d) consecutively after the second mode (MD2-d), but the order is not limited thereto.

[0195] In the second operation mode (DMD2), the sensor driving unit (200C) can be repeatedly driven in the second mode (MD2-d) and the first mode (MD1). During the second mode (MD2-d), the sensor layer (200) can be scan-driven to detect the second input (3000). During the first mode (MD1), the sensor layer (200) can be scan-driven to detect the coordinates by the first input (2000).

[0196] In the third operation mode (DMD3), the sensor driving unit (200C) may be driven in the second mode (MD2). During the second mode (MD2), the sensor layer (200) may be scan-driven to detect coordinates by the second input (3000). In the third operation mode (DMD3), the sensor driving unit (200C) may not be driven in the first mode (MD1-d or MD1) until the second input (3000) is released (or not detected).

[0197] FIGS. 13 and 14a illustrate a sensor layer and a sensor driver to explain a first mode according to one embodiment of the present invention. In explaining FIGS. 13 and 14a, the same reference numerals are used for the components explained in FIG. 7, and a description thereof is omitted.

[0198] Referring to FIGS. 12, 13, and 14a, each of the first mode (MD1-d) and the first mode (MD1) may be a mode for sensing touch.

[0199] The first mode (MD1-d) and the first mode (MD1) may include a mutual capacitance detection mode. However, this is exemplary, and the first mode (MD1-d) and the first mode (MD1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a self-capacitance detection mode.

[0200] The sensor driving unit (200C) may include a driving unit (DP) (e.g., a driver or a driving circuit), a plurality of sensing units (SP) (e.g., a plurality of sensors or a plurality of sensing circuits), a ground (GND) (e.g., a ground voltage), a plurality of pad units, a first switch (SW1), and a second switch (SW2).

[0201] The driving unit (DP) can generate signals provided to the sensor layer (200). The driving unit (DP) can generate a driving signal (TX) (or output signal).

[0202] Each of the plurality of sensing units (SP) may be configured as an analog front end. Each of the plurality of sensing units (SP) may include an amplifier (AMP) and a capacitor (CAP).

[0203] A first input terminal of an amplifier (AMP) may be connected to a second switch (SW2). A second input terminal of the amplifier (AMP) may be connected to a voltage providing unit having a predetermined voltage level. A voltage level corresponding to ground may be provided to the voltage providing unit. The ground connected to the second input terminal may be substantially the same as the ground (GND) illustrated in FIG. 13. However, this is exemplary, and a configuration connected to the second input terminal of the amplifier (AMP) according to an embodiment of the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, a predetermined voltage may be provided to the second input terminal of the amplifier (AMP).

[0204] The signal output through the output terminal of the amplifier (AMP) can be filtered. The filtered signal can then be converted into a digital signal.

[0205] A capacitor (CAP) can be connected between the first input terminal and the output terminal of the amplifier (AMP).

[0206] The plurality of pad portions may include first pad portions each connected to a plurality of first pads (PD1, see FIG. 7), second pad portions each connected to a plurality of second pads (PD2), and third pad portions each connected to a plurality of third pads (PD3).

[0207] The second pad portions may include a second-first pad portion (PD-1) and a second-second pad portion (PD-2). The second-first pad portion (PD-1) and the second-second pad portion (PD-2) may be connected to corresponding two second pads (PD2, see FIG. 7) among a plurality of second pads (PD2, see FIG. 7), respectively.

[0208] The second-first pad portion (PD-1) may be electrically connected to a first terminal (E1) of one of the plurality of second electrodes (220). The second-first pad portion (PD-1), the second pad (PD2, see FIG. 7), the second trace line (220t), and the first terminal (E1) may be connected to each other.

[0209] The second-second pad portion (PD-2) may be electrically connected to the second terminal (E2) of one of the plurality of second electrodes (220). The second-second pad portion (PD-2), the second pad (PD2, see FIG. 7), the second trace line (220t), and the second terminal (E2) may be connected to each other.

[0210] The first switch (SW1) can be connected to the second-first pad section (PD-1). The first switch (SW1) can switch between a voltage providing section having a predetermined voltage level and the second-second pad section (PD-2). The voltage providing section can be ground (GND).

[0211] The second switch (SW2) can be connected to the second-second pad section (PD-2). The second switch (SW2) can switch between the driving section (DP) and the sensing section (SP).

[0212] In the first mode (MD1-d) and the first mode (MD1), the sensor driving unit (200C) can electrically connect the first end (E1) and the second end (E2) of each of the plurality of second electrodes (220). The first switch (SW1) can be connected to the second-first pad unit (PD-1) and the second-second pad unit (PD-2), and the second switch (SW2) can be connected to the second-second pad unit (PD-2) and the driving unit (DP).

[0213] In the sensor layer (200), one end of the second trace line (220t) connected to the first end (E1) and one end of the second trace line (220t) connected to the second end (E2) may not be connected to each other.

[0214] One end of the second trace line (220t) connected to the first stage (E1) and one end of the second trace line (220t) connected to the second stage (E2) can be connected to each other by the first switch (SW1) and the second switch (SW2) in the sensor driving unit (200C).

[0215] According to the present invention, each of the plurality of second electrodes (220) can be double-routed within the sensor driving unit (200C) by the first switch (SW1) and the second switch (SW2). The driving signal (TX) can be transmitted through both sides of each of the plurality of second electrodes (220). The intensity of the driving signal (TX) can be prevented from being reduced. Accordingly, sensing reliability can be improved.

[0216] In addition, according to the present invention, the sensor driving unit (200C) can easily drive the sensor layer (200) according to the mode by the first switch (SW1) and the second switch (SW2). Therefore, an electronic device (1000) with improved reliability can be provided.

[0217] In Fig. 13, it is exemplarily illustrated that a driving signal (TX) is provided to one second electrode (220). To clarify the representation of the signal, hatching is indicated only on one second electrode (220) to which the driving signal (TX) is provided in Fig. 13.

[0218] The sensor driving unit (200C) can sequentially transmit a driving signal (TX) to each of the plurality of second electrodes (220).

[0219] Among the plurality of pad parts, the first pad parts connected to the plurality of first pads (PD1, see FIG. 7) can be respectively connected to the plurality of sensing parts (SP). Each of the plurality of sensing parts (SP) can be configured in a single-end mode.

[0220] Each of the plurality of sensing units (SP) may include an amplifier (AMP) and a capacitor (CAP) connected to the amplifier (AMP). A first input terminal of the amplifier (AMP) may be connected to a corresponding one of the first pad units. A second input terminal of the amplifier (AMP) may be connected to ground. The ground connected to the second input terminal may be substantially identical to the ground (GND). A signal output through an output terminal of the amplifier (AMP) may be filtered. Thereafter, the filtered signal may be converted into a digital signal.

[0221] A plurality of sensing units (SP) can each receive a reception signal (RX) from a plurality of first electrodes (210). The sensor driving unit (200C) can detect coordinates for the first input (2000) using the reception signal (RX). For example, the sensor driving unit (200C) can sense a change in mutual electrostatic capacitance between the first electrodes (210) and the second electrodes (220) based on the digital signal to calculate coordinates for a touch.

[0222] However, this is exemplary, and in another embodiment of the present invention, the coordinates for the first input (2000) may be detected based on a signal output differentially from a digital signal sensed from another adjacent first electrode (210).

[0223] In the first mode (MD1-d) and the first mode (MD1), among the plurality of pad portions, the pad portions connected to the plurality of first pads (PD1, see FIG. 7) can be connected to the ground (GND). The plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230) can all be electrically connected to the ground (GND). Therefore, touch noise can be prevented from being introduced through the plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230).

[0224] Unlike the present invention, the sensor layer may further include additional electrodes that extend in the same direction as the plurality of second electrodes (220) for sensing the pen (PN) and form coupling capacitors with the plurality of second electrodes (220), respectively. In this case, the area of ​​each of the plurality of second electrodes (220) may be reduced compared to a shape in which the additional electrodes are omitted. In addition, parasitic capacitance may be formed with other adjacent electrodes by the additional electrodes, which may cause a reduction in touch bandwidth. However, according to the present invention, the sensor driving unit (200C) may include a first switch (SW1) and a second switch (SW2). Even if the additional electrodes are omitted, sensing of the pen (PN) may be facilitated by the driving operations of the first switch (SW1) and the second switch (SW2). The area of ​​each of the plurality of second electrodes (220) may be relatively large. The resistance of each of the plurality of second electrodes (220) may be reduced. Due to this, the load of each of the plurality of second electrodes (220) can be reduced. The touch bandwidth of the signal detected by the sensor driver (200C) can be improved. Accordingly, an electronic device (1000) with improved touch reliability can be provided.

[0225] FIG. 14b illustrates a sensor layer and a sensor driver to explain a first mode according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0226] Referring to FIGS. 12, 13, and 14b, among the plurality of pad portions, the first pad portions connected to the plurality of first pads (PD1, see FIG. 7) may be respectively connected to the plurality of sensing portions (SPa). The plurality of sensing portions (SPa) may be configured in a differential mode.

[0227] Each of the plurality of sensing units (SPa) may include an amplifier (AMPa) and a plurality of capacitors (CAP1, CAP2). A first input terminal of the amplifier (AMPa) may be connected to a corresponding one of the first pad units. A second input terminal of the amplifier (AMPa) may be connected to another one of the first pad units. A signal output through an output terminal of the amplifier (AMPa) may be filtered. Thereafter, the filtered signal may be converted into a digital signal.

[0228] A first capacitor (CAP1) can be connected between a first input terminal and an output terminal. A second capacitor (CAP2) can be connected between a second input terminal and an output terminal.

[0229] Each of the plurality of sensing units (SPa) can receive a first reception signal (RXa) from one of the plurality of first electrodes (210) and a second reception signal (RXb) from another of the plurality of first electrodes (210). Each of the plurality of sensing units (SPa) can receive reception signals (RXa, RXb) from one of the plurality of first electrodes (210) and another adjacent one of the plurality of first electrodes (210) and differentially amplify them.

[0230] The sensor driving unit (200C) can detect coordinates for the first input (2000, see FIG. 5) using the first reception signal (RXa) and the second reception signal (RXb). For example, the sensor driving unit (200C) can sense changes in mutual electrostatic capacitance between the first electrodes (210) and the second electrodes (220) to calculate coordinates for a touch.

[0231] FIG. 15 illustrates a sensor layer and a sensor driver for explaining a second mode according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 16 are graphs illustrating waveforms of a first signal and a second signal according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0232] Referring to FIGS. 5, 13, 15, and 16, the second mode (MD2, MD2-d) may include a charging mode and a sensing mode.

[0233] In charging mode, the sensor driving unit (200C) can transmit a charging signal (SG1, SG2) to the sensor layer (200).

[0234] The sensor driving unit (200C) may include a driving unit (DP) and a plurality of pad units.

[0235] The driving unit (DP) can generate charging signals (SG1, SG2). The charging signals (SG1, SG2) can include a first charging signal (SG1) and a second charging signal (SG2). The second charging signal (SG2) can be a reverse signal of the first charging signal (SG1). For example, each of the first charging signal (SG1) and the second charging signal (SG2) can be a sine wave signal. However, this is exemplary, and each of the first charging signal (SG1) and the second charging signal (SG2) according to an embodiment of the present invention can also be a square wave signal.

[0236] The plurality of pad portions may include third pad portions connected to a plurality of third pads (PD3, see FIG. 7). A first charging signal (SG1) may be applied to at least one of the third pad portions. The sensor driving unit (200C) may transmit the first charging signal (SG1) to one auxiliary electrode (230-1) among the plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230).

[0237] A second charging signal (SG2) may be applied to at least one other pad unit among the third pad units. The sensor driving unit (200C) may transmit the second charging signal (SG2) to another auxiliary electrode (230-2) among the plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230).

[0238] One auxiliary electrode (230-1) and another auxiliary electrode (230-2) can be spaced apart from each other with at least one of the remaining auxiliary electrodes (230) interposed therebetween. The sensor driving unit (200C) can control the size of the charging loop by adjusting the spacing between one auxiliary electrode (230-1) and another auxiliary electrode (230-2).

[0239] Since the first charging signal (SG1) and the second charging signal (SG2) have an inverse phase relationship with each other, noise caused in the display layer (100) by the first charging signal (SG1) can be canceled out by noise caused by the second charging signal (SG2). Accordingly, a flicker phenomenon does not occur in the display layer (100), and the display quality of the display layer (100) can be improved.

[0240] At least two third pads (PD3, see FIG. 7) may be provided with a first charging signal (SG1) and a second charging signal (SG2), such that the current (RFS) may have a current path that flows through at least one third pad to at least one other third pad. In addition, since the first charging signal (SG1) and the second charging signal (SG2) are in opposite phases to each other, the direction of the current (RFS) may change periodically.

[0241] The current path may have a coil shape. In this case, the current path may be referred to as a single Direct Loop Pathway. Therefore, in charging mode, the resonant circuit of the pen (PN) can be charged by the current path.

[0242] The charging mode may include a searching charging mode and a tracking charging mode.

[0243] Since the position of the pen (PN) is not sensed in the searching charge mode, the first charge signal (SG1) or the second charge signal (SG2) can be sequentially provided to all channels included in the sensor layer (200). For example, the first charge signal (SG1) or the second charge signal (SG2) can be sequentially scanned in the first direction (DR1). That is, the entire active area (200A, see FIG. 7) of the sensor layer (200) can be scanned in the searching charge driving mode.

[0244] When the pen (PN) is sensed in the searching charging mode, the sensor layer (200) can be driven in tracking charging mode. For example, in the tracking charging driving mode, the sensor driving unit (200C) can output the first charging signal (SG1) and the second charging signal (SG2) to an area overlapping with the point where the pen (PN) is sensed, rather than the entire sensor layer (200).

[0245] Accordingly, after the position of the pen (PN) is sensed, the channels subject to charge operation can be limited in response to the position of the pen (PN) in the previous frame. Accordingly, the efficiency of charge operation can be improved as channels overlapping an area where the pen is not positioned are not subject to charge operation.

[0246] FIG. 17 illustrates a sensor layer and a sensor driver for explaining a second mode according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0247] Referring to FIGS. 5, 13, 15, and 17, in the charging mode, the first switch (SW1) connected to the 2-1 pad portion (PD-1) of the sensor driving unit (200C) may not be connected to the ground (GND) and the 2-2 pad portion (PD-2). The second switch (SW2) connected to the 2-2 pad portion (PD-2) may not be connected to the driving unit (DP) and the sensing unit (SP).

[0248] The plurality of first electrodes (210) and the plurality of second electrodes (220) may be electrically floated. As a result, current (RFS) may not flow to the plurality of first electrodes (210) and the plurality of second electrodes (220).

[0249] FIG. 18 illustrates a sensor layer and a sensor driver for explaining a second mode according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 19a is a diagram illustrating current sensed from first channels. FIG. 19b is a diagram illustrating current obtained from a differential pair of first channels. In explaining FIG. 18, the same reference numerals are used for components explained through FIG. 14a, and a description thereof is omitted.

[0250] Referring to FIGS. 5, 12, 18 to 19b, in the sensing mode of the second mode (MD2), the RLC resonant circuit of the pen (PN) discharges the stored charge, and current can flow through the coil of the inductor (L). A magnetic field can be formed by the current. The pen (PN) can emit a magnetic field at the resonant frequency.

[0251] A first induced current (I1) may be generated in a plurality of first electrodes (210) and a plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230) by a magnetic field provided from a pen (PN). The first induced current (I1) may be formed in an opposite direction to the current.

[0252] When viewed on a plane, a first induced current (I1) can be formed in a second direction (DR2) at the first electrodes (210) and auxiliary electrodes (230) located on the left side of the pen (PN). A first induced current (I1) can be formed in a direction opposite to the second direction (DR2) at the first electrodes (210) and auxiliary electrodes (230) located on the right side of the pen (PN).

[0253] The magnitude of the first induced current (I1) may decrease as the distance from the pen (PN) increases. If the pen (PN) is not tilted and is provided in a direction parallel to the third direction (DR3), the magnitude of the first induced current (I1) may be symmetrical left and right based on the position of the pen (PN).

[0254] A coupling capacitor (Ccp) may be formed between each of the plurality of first electrodes (210) and each of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230). The first induced current (I1) formed in each of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230) may be transmitted to each of the plurality of first electrodes (210) through the coupling capacitor (Ccp). The sensor driving unit (200C) may receive a first sensing signal (PRX1) based on the first induced current (I1).

[0255] The sensor driving unit (200C) can receive a first sensing signal (PRX1) transmitted by capacitive coupling by a coupling capacitor (Ccp) between a plurality of first electrodes (210) and a plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230) in sensing mode.

[0256] Among the plurality of pad parts, the first pad parts connected to the plurality of first pads (PD1, see FIG. 7) can be respectively connected to the plurality of sensing parts (SP).

[0257] Each of the plurality of sensing units (SP) can receive a first sensing signal (PRX1). The sensor driving unit (200C) can use the first sensing signal (PRX1) to calculate a sensing current for each channel or differential channel. The sensing current can correspond to the first sensing signal (PRX1). This will be described later.

[0258] In the above pen sensing mode, one end of each of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230) may be floated. The compensation of the first sensing signal (PRX1) may be maximized by the coupling between the plurality of first electrodes (210) and the plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230). In addition, the other end of each of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230) may be grounded or floated. As a result, the first induced current (I1) of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230) may be sufficiently transmitted to the plurality of first electrodes (210).

[0259] The plurality of first electrodes (210) may be referred to as a plurality of first channels, respectively. The directions of the first induced currents (I1) sensed from the first channels spaced apart from each other with respect to the portion where the pen (PN) is positioned may be different. The directions of the currents flowing from the first channels on the left and the first channels on the right based on the position of the pen (PN) may be different. Accordingly, the sensor driving unit (200C) may sense currents flowing in different directions based on the position of the pen (PN). The sensor driving unit (200C) may calculate coordinates based on the zero crossing value (PT1a) of the sensing current graph for each channel.

[0260] Alternatively, the sensor driving unit (200C) may sense current by differentially sensing adjacent channels or spaced-apart channels among a plurality of first channels. For example, the sensing current may be obtained by differentially sensing the Nth first electrode and the N+2th first electrode, but this is exemplary, and the number of differentially sensed first electrodes according to an embodiment of the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the Nth first electrode and the N+3rd first electrode may also be differentially sensed. The sensor driving unit (200C) may calculate coordinates based on the peak value (PT2a) of the sensing current graph for each differential channel.

[0261] FIG. 20 illustrates a sensor layer and a sensor driver for explaining a second mode according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 21a is a diagram illustrating current sensed in second channels, and FIG. 21b is a diagram illustrating current obtained from a differential pair of second channels. In explaining FIG. 20, the same reference numerals are used for components explained through FIG. 13, and a description thereof is omitted.

[0262] Referring to FIG. 12, FIG. 20 to FIG. 21b, in the sensing mode of the second mode (MD2, MD2-d), the RLC resonant circuit of the pen (PN) discharges the stored charge, and current can flow through the coil of the inductor (L). A magnetic field can be formed by the current. The pen (PN) can emit a magnetic field at the resonant frequency.

[0263] A second induced current (I2) may be generated in the plurality of second electrodes (220) by a magnetic field provided from the pen (PN). The second induced current (I2) may be formed in the opposite direction of the current.

[0264] When viewed on a plane, a second induced current (I2) can be formed in the first direction (DR1) at the second electrodes (220) located on the upper side of the pen (PN). A second induced current (I2) can be formed in the opposite direction to the first direction (DR1) at the second electrodes (220) located on the lower side of the pen (PN).

[0265] The magnitude of the second induced current (I2) may decrease as the distance from the pen (PN) increases. If the pen (PN) is not tilted and is provided in a direction parallel to the third direction (DR3), the magnitude of the second induced current (I2) may be symmetrical vertically with respect to the position of the pen (PN).

[0266] The second induced current (I2) formed in the plurality of second electrodes (220) can be transmitted to the sensor driving unit (200C). The sensor driving unit (200C) can receive a second sensing signal (PRX2) based on the second induced current (I2).

[0267] The sensor driving unit (200C) can directly receive the current of the second sensing signal (PRX2) in sensing mode.

[0268] The sensor driving unit (200C) can receive a second sensing signal (PRX2) based on the second induced current (I2). The sensor driving unit (200C) can detect the coordinates of the pen (PN) based on the first sensing signal (PRX1, see FIG. 18) and / or the second sensing signal (PRX2).

[0269] In each of the sensing modes of the second mode (MD2-d) and the second mode (MD2), the first switch (SW1) can be connected to the second-1 pad section (PD-1) and the ground (GND), and the second switch (SW2) can be connected to the second-2 pad section (PD-2) and the sensing section (SP).

[0270] The sensing unit (SP) can receive a second sensing signal (PRX2). The sensor driving unit (200C) can use the second sensing signal (PRX2) to calculate a sensing current for each channel or differential channel. The sensing current can correspond to the second sensing signal (PRX2). This will be described later.

[0271] The plurality of second electrodes (220) may be referred to as a plurality of second channels, respectively. The direction of the second induced current (I2) sensed from the second channels spaced apart from the portion where the pen (PN) is positioned may be different. The direction of the current flowing to the second channels located above and below the position of the pen (PN) may be different. Accordingly, the sensor driving unit (200C) may sense current flowing in different directions based on the position of the pen (PN). The sensor driving unit (200C) may calculate the coordinates based on the zero crossing value (PT1b) of the sensing current graph for each channel.

[0272] Alternatively, the sensor driving unit (200C) may sense current by differentially sensing adjacent channels or spaced-apart channels among a plurality of second channels. For example, the sensing current may be obtained by differentially sensing the Nth second electrode and the N+2th second electrode, but this is exemplary, and the number of differentially sensed second electrodes according to an embodiment of the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the Nth first electrode and the N+3rd first electrode may also be differentially sensed. The sensor driving unit (200C) may calculate coordinates based on the peak value (PT2b) of the sensing current graph for each differential channel.

[0273] Referring to FIGS. 7, 18, and 20, the sensor driving unit (200C) can receive a first sensing signal (PRX1) transmitted by capacitive coupling by a coupling capacitor (Ccp) between a plurality of first electrodes (210) and a plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230) in a sensing mode. That is, the first sensing signal (PRX1) can be sensed by a Cap-Assisted Loop structure of the plurality of first electrodes (210) and the plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230).

[0274] The sensor driving unit (200C) can directly receive the current of the second sensing signal (PRX2) from the plurality of second electrodes (220) in the sensing mode. That is, the second sensing signal (PRX2) can be sensed by the Direct Loop structure of the plurality of second electrodes (220).

[0275] That is, the pen coordinates of the x-axis and y-axis can be sensed respectively by utilizing loop structures of different structures.

[0276] The sensor layer (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention may have both the Cap-Assisted Loop structure and the Direct Loop structure. For example, a short axis having a relatively short first length (W1) may be formed with a plurality of first electrodes (210) and a plurality of auxiliary electrodes (230) in the Cap-Assisted Loop structure, and a long axis having a relatively long second length (W2) may be formed with a plurality of second electrodes (220) in the Direct Loop structure.

[0277] The intensity of the second sensing signal (PRX2) sensed from the Direct Loop structure and the intensity of the first sensing signal (PRX1) sensed from the Cap-Assisted Loop structure may be different from each other.

[0278] According to the present invention, in the Direct Loop structure, since the sensor driving unit (200C) directly receives the second sensing signal (PRX2) from each of the plurality of second electrodes (220), the intensity of the second sensing signal (PRX2) may be greater than the intensity of the first sensing signal (PRX1). All of the sensing electrodes of the sensor layer may have improved pen sensing bandwidth of the sensor layer (200) compared to the Cap-Assisted Loop structure. Therefore, an electronic device (1000, see FIG. 1A) with improved pen sensing reliability can be provided.

[0279] Unlike the present invention, when both the short axis and the long axis are formed with the Direct Loop structure, the number of switches (SW1, SW2) included in the sensor driving unit (200C) increases by more than two times, so that the number of pads of the ball grid array (BGA) increases, which may increase the size of the IC. However, according to the present invention, one of the short axis or the long axis may be formed with the Direct Loop structure, and the other may be formed with the Cap-Assisted Loop structure. As a result, the increase in the IC size of the sensor driving unit (200C) may be minimized. Accordingly, an electronic device (1000, see FIG. 1A) with improved space efficiency may be provided.

[0280] Referring to FIG. 12, FIG. 18, and FIG. 20, the first sensing signal (PRX1) and the second sensing signal (PRX2) can be utilized to sense the coordinates of the pen (PN) in the sensing mode of the second mode (MD2).

[0281] During the second mode (MD2-d), the sensor layer (200) can be scan-driven to detect the second input (3000). In the sensing mode of the second mode (MD2-d), the focus is on detecting the pen (PN), so the sensor driving unit (200C) can utilize only the second sensing signal (PRX2).

[0282] According to the present invention, in the second mode (MD2-d), the first sensing signal (PRX1) is not used to detect the pen (PN), and only the second sensing signal (PRX2) can be used. That is, the amount of calculation of the sensor driving unit (200C) can be relatively reduced. Accordingly, an electronic device (1000, see FIG. 1A) with reduced power consumption can be provided.

[0283] According to the present invention, since the intensity of the second sensing signal (PRX2) is higher than that of the first sensing signal (PRX1), it is easy to determine whether the second sensing signal (PRX2) has been transmitted to the sensor driving unit (200C) by the pen (PN). Even when the pen (PN) is hovering, the sensor driving unit (200C) can easily detect the second sensing signal (PRX2). Therefore, an electronic device (1000, see FIG. 1A) with improved detection reliability can be provided.

[0284] Thereafter, when the pen (PN) is detected by the second sensing signal (PRX2), the sensor driving unit (200C) can operate in the third operation mode (DMD3).

[0285] Fig. 22 is a plan view illustrating a sensor layer according to one embodiment of the present invention. In describing Fig. 22, the same reference numerals are used for components described with reference to Fig. 7, and a description thereof is omitted.

[0286] Referring to FIG. 22, the sensor layer (200-1) may further include a charging trace line (230t-1) and a plurality of third pads (PD3) arranged in a peripheral area (200NA).

[0287] The charging trace line (230t-1) may include a first line portion (231t) extending along a first direction (DR1) and electrically connected to the auxiliary electrodes (230), a second line portion (232t) extending along a second direction (DR2) from a first end of the first line portion (231t), and a third line portion (233t) extending along a second direction (DR2) from a second end of the first line portion (231t).

[0288] For example, the charging trace line (230t-1) illustrated in FIG. 22 may be defined as an embodiment in which the third-second trace lines (230rt2) are excluded from the charging trace line (230t) illustrated in FIG. 7.

[0289] Fig. 23 illustrates a sensor layer and a sensor driver for explaining a second mode according to one embodiment of the present invention. In explaining Fig. 23, the same reference numerals are used for the components explained through Fig. 15, and a description thereof is omitted.

[0290] Referring to FIGS. 22 and 23, in the charging mode, the sensor driving unit (200C) can transmit a charging signal (SG1, SG2) to the sensor layer (200).

[0291] Among the plurality of pad portions, the second pad portions may be respectively connected to the plurality of second pads (PD2). The second pad connected to the first terminal of each of the plurality of second electrodes (220) among the plurality of second pads (PD2) may be connected to the 2-1 pad portion (PD-1). The second pad connected to the second terminal of each of the plurality of second electrodes (220) among the plurality of second pads (PD2) may be connected to the 2-2 pad portion (PD-2).

[0292] In charging mode, the first switch (SW1) connected to the 2-1 pad portion (PD-1) of the sensor driving unit (200C) can be connected to the ground (GND). The second switch (SW2) connected to the 2-2 pad portion (PD-2) can be connected to the driving unit (DP).

[0293] The driving unit (DP) can generate charging signals (SG1, SG2). The charging signals (SG1, SG2) can include a first charging signal (SG1) and a second charging signal (SG2). The second charging signal (SG2) can be a reverse signal of the first charging signal (SG1).

[0294] The sensor driving unit (200C) can transmit a first charging signal (SG1) to one second electrode (220-1) among the plurality of second electrodes (220), and can transmit a second charging signal (SG2) to another second electrode (220-2) among the plurality of second electrodes (220).

[0295] The second electrode (220-1) and the second electrode (220-2) may be spaced apart from each other with at least one of the remaining second electrodes (220) interposed therebetween. In FIG. 23, the second electrode (220-1) and the second electrode (220-2) are illustrated as being spaced apart from each other with two second electrodes (220) interposed therebetween. However, this is merely exemplary, and the number of second electrodes (220) disposed between the second electrode (220-1) and the second electrode (220-2) according to one embodiment of the present invention is not limited thereto. The sensor driving unit (200C) may control the size of the charging loop by adjusting the number of second electrodes (220) disposed between the second electrode (220-1) and the second electrode (220-2).

[0296] A first current (RFSa) can flow through the second electrode (220-1) by a second charging signal (SG2).

[0297] A second current (RFSb) can flow through the second electrode (220-2) by the first charging signal (SG1).

[0298] The current path of the first current (RFSa) and the current path of the second current (RFSb) may have a coil shape. Therefore, in the charging mode, the resonant circuit of the pen (PN) may be charged by the current path. The current path of the first current (RFSa) may be referred to as the inner loop, and the current path of the second current (RFSb) may be referred to as the outer loop.

[0299] In the charging mode, a first distance (DS1) in a second direction (DR2) between the second electrode (220-1) and the second electrode (220-2) may be greater than a second distance (DS2) in the first direction (DR1) between one of the plurality of second trace lines (220t) connected to the second electrode (220-1) and another of the plurality of second trace lines (220t) connected to the second electrode (220-2). For example, the first distance (DS1) may be 4 mm (millimeter) to 20 mm. The second distance (DS2) may be 100 um (micrometer) to 900 um.

[0300] According to the present invention, the sensor driving unit (200C) can easily drive the sensor layer (200) according to the mode by the first switch (SW1) and the second switch (SW2). Accordingly, an electronic device (1000) with improved reliability can be provided.

[0301] Since the first charging signal (SG1) and the second charging signal (SG2) have an inverse phase relationship with each other, noise caused in the display layer (100) by the first charging signal (SG1) can be canceled out by noise caused by the second charging signal (SG2). Accordingly, a flicker phenomenon does not occur in the display layer (100), and the display quality of the display layer (100) can be improved.

[0302] Fig. 24 illustrates a sensor layer and a sensor driver for explaining a second mode according to one embodiment of the present invention. In explaining Fig. 24, the same reference numerals are used for the components explained through Fig. 20, and a description thereof is omitted.

[0303] Referring to FIG. 24, in each of the sensing modes of the second mode (MD2-d) and the second mode (MD2), the first switch (SW1) may be configured to be connected to the second-1 pad portion (PD-1) and the voltage providing portion. For example, the first switch (SW1) may be connected to provide a reference voltage (Vref) to the second-1 pad portion (PD-1). The reference voltage (Vref) may have a predetermined voltage level.

[0304] The second switch (SW2) can be connected to the second-2 pad section (PD-2) and the sensing section (SP).

[0305] At this time, a reference voltage (Vref) may be provided to the second input terminal of the amplifier (AMP). The second input terminal of the amplifier (AMP) and the first switch (SW1) may be configured to have the same voltage level.

[0306] Fig. 25 illustrates a sensor layer and a sensor driver for explaining a second mode according to one embodiment of the present invention. In explaining Fig. 25, the same reference numerals are used for the components explained through Fig. 20, and a description thereof is omitted.

[0307] Referring to Fig. 25, the second induced current (I2) formed in the plurality of second electrodes (220) can be transmitted to the sensor driving unit (200C). The sensor driving unit (200C) can receive the second sensing signal (PRX2a, PRX2b) based on the second induced current (I2). The second sensing signal (PRX2a, PRX2b) can include the 2-1 sensing signal (PRX2a) and the 2-2 sensing signal (PRX2b).

[0308] A 2-1 sensing signal (PRX2a) can be output through a first end of each of the plurality of first electrodes (210), and a 2-2 sensing signal (PRX2b) can be output through a second end spaced apart from the first end in the first direction (DR1).

[0309] The sensor driving unit (200C) may include a plurality of sensing units (SPa). Each of the plurality of sensing units (SPa) may include an amplifier (AMPa) and a plurality of capacitors (CAP1, CAP2). A first input terminal of the amplifier (AMPa) may be connected to a second-first pad unit (PD-1). A second input terminal of the amplifier (AMPa) may be connected to a second-second pad unit (PD-2). A signal output through an output terminal of the amplifier (AMPa) may be filtered. Thereafter, the filtered signal may be converted into a digital signal.

[0310] A first capacitor (CAP1) can be connected between a first input terminal and an output terminal. A second capacitor (CAP2) can be connected between a second input terminal and an output terminal.

[0311] A second-first sensing signal (PRX2a) may be provided to a first input terminal of the amplifier (AMPa). A second-second sensing signal (PRX2b) may be provided to a second input terminal of the amplifier (AMPa).

[0312] Each of the plurality of sensing units (SPa) can receive and differentially amplify the second-first sensing signal (PRX2a) and the second-second sensing signal (PRX2b).

[0313] The sensor driving unit (200C) can detect the coordinates of the pen (PN) based on the first sensing signal (PRX1, see FIG. 18) and / or the second sensing signal (PRX2a, PRX2b).

[0314] The electronic or electrical devices and / or other related devices or components according to the embodiments of the present disclosure described herein may be implemented utilizing suitable hardware, firmware (e.g., application-specific integrated circuits), software, or a combination of software, firmware, and hardware. For example, the various components of these devices may be formed on a single integrated circuit (IC) chip or separate IC chips. Furthermore, the various components of these devices may be implemented on a flexible printed circuit film, a tape carrier package (TCP), a printed circuit board (PCB), or formed on a single substrate. Furthermore, the various components of these devices may be processes or threads that execute computer program instructions on one or more computing devices running on one or more processors and interact with other system components to perform the various functions described herein. The computer program instructions are stored in a memory that may be implemented on the computing device using a standard memory device such as, for example, a random access memory (RAM). The computer program instructions may also be stored on, for example, a CD-ROM, a flash drive, or other similar non-transitory computer-readable medium. Furthermore, those skilled in the art should recognize that the functions of various computing devices may be combined or integrated into a single computing device, or that the functions of a particular computing device may be distributed across one or more other computing devices without departing from the spirit and scope of the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure.

[0315] The above describes some embodiments of the present disclosure and should not be construed as limiting. While some embodiments have been described, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications may be made to the embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. The description of features or aspects within each embodiment should generally be considered applicable to other similar features or aspects of other embodiments, unless otherwise stated. Accordingly, as will be apparent to one skilled in the art, features, characteristics, and / or elements described in connection with a particular embodiment may be used alone or in combination with features, characteristics, and / or elements described in connection with other embodiments, unless otherwise specifically indicated. Therefore, the foregoing description describes various exemplary embodiments and should not be construed as being limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, and various modifications to the disclosed embodiments and other exemplary embodiments are intended to be included within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined in the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0316] An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention may have one of its short or long axes formed as a Direct Loop structure, and the other formed as a Cap-Assisted Loop structure. This may result in a signal intensity greater than that of a first sensing signal received through capacitive coupling from a plurality of first electrodes. The pen detection bandwidth of all sensing electrodes of the sensor layer may be improved compared to the Cap-Assisted Loop structure. Therefore, the present invention relating to the electronic device has high industrial applicability.

Claims

1. Display layer; a sensor layer disposed on the display layer; and It includes a sensor driving unit that drives the above sensor layer, The above sensor layer is, A plurality of first electrodes each extending in a first direction; a plurality of second electrodes each extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction; and Each of which includes a plurality of auxiliary electrodes extending in the first direction and insulated from the plurality of second electrodes, The above sensor driving unit includes a first mode for sensing touch or a charging mode and a sensing mode, and is driven in a second mode for sensing an external input device. The above sensor driving unit, In the first mode, the first and second ends of each of the plurality of second electrodes are electrically connected, and a driving signal is transmitted to each of the plurality of second electrodes, An electronic device that receives a first sensing signal through the second stage in the above sensing mode.

2. In paragraph 1, Each of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes includes at least one pattern electrode, An electronic device in which each of the plurality of first electrodes surrounds a corresponding pattern electrode when viewed on a plane.

3. In paragraph 1, An electronic device wherein the area of ​​each of the plurality of first electrodes is smaller than the area of ​​each of the plurality of second electrodes.

4. In paragraph 1, An electronic device in which, when viewed on a plane, the length of each of the plurality of first electrodes in the first direction is smaller than the length of each of the plurality of second electrodes in the second direction.

5. In paragraph 1, An electronic device in which the above plurality of auxiliary electrodes are electrically connected to each other.

6. In paragraph 1, The above sensor driving unit directly receives the current of the first sensing signal in the sensing mode, An electronic device in which the sensor driving unit receives a second sensing signal transmitted by capacitive coupling between the plurality of first electrodes and the plurality of auxiliary electrodes in the sensing mode.

7. In paragraph 6, An electronic device wherein the intensity of the first sensing signal is greater than the intensity of the second sensing signal.

8. In paragraph 1, The above sensor driving unit, A driving unit that generates the driving signal and the charging signal; A sensing unit consisting of an analog front end; A voltage providing unit having a predetermined voltage level; A first pad portion electrically connected to the first stage; A second pad portion electrically connected to the second stage; A first switch connected to the first pad portion and switching between the voltage providing portion and the second pad portion; and An electronic device comprising a second switch connected to the second pad portion and switching between the driving portion and the sensing portion.

9. In paragraph 8, The above sensing unit is an electronic device configured in a single-ended mode.

10. In paragraph 8, The above sensing unit is an electronic device configured in differential mode.

11. In paragraph 8, An electronic device in which, in the first mode, the first switch is connected to the first pad portion and the second pad portion, and the second switch is connected to the second pad portion and the driving portion.

12. In paragraph 8, An electronic device in which, in the charging mode, the sensor driving unit transmits a first charging signal to one of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes and transmits a second charging signal to another of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes.

13. In paragraph 12, An electronic device wherein the first charging signal and the second charging signal have opposite phases to each other.

14. In paragraph 12, During the above charging mode, the plurality of second electrodes are floating electronic devices.

15. In paragraph 12, An electronic device wherein said one of said plurality of auxiliary electrodes and said other of said plurality of auxiliary electrodes are spaced apart from each other with at least one of the remaining of said plurality of auxiliary electrodes interposed therebetween.

16. In paragraph 8, In the charging mode, the first switch is connected to the first pad portion and the voltage providing portion, and the second switch is connected to the second pad portion and the driving portion. An electronic device that transmits a first charging signal to one of the plurality of second electrodes and transmits a second charging signal to another of the plurality of second electrodes.

17. In paragraph 16, An electronic device wherein the first charging signal and the second charging signal have opposite phases to each other.

18. In paragraph 16, An electronic device wherein said one of said plurality of second electrodes and said other of said plurality of second electrodes are spaced apart from each other with at least one of the remaining of said plurality of second electrodes interposed therebetween.

19. In paragraph 18, In the above sensor layer, an active area and a peripheral area adjacent to the active area are defined, The plurality of first electrodes, the plurality of second electrodes, and the plurality of auxiliary electrodes are arranged in the active area, An electronic device wherein the sensor layer is arranged in the peripheral area and further includes a plurality of sensing wires each connected to the plurality of second electrodes.

20. In paragraph 19, An electronic device wherein, in the charging mode, a first distance in a first direction between one of the plurality of second electrodes and another of the plurality of second electrodes is greater than a second distance in a second direction intersecting the first direction between one of the plurality of sensing wires connected to one of the plurality of second electrodes and another of the plurality of sensing wires connected to another of the plurality of second electrodes.

21. Display layer; A sensor layer disposed on the above display layer; It includes a sensor driving unit that drives the above sensor layer, The above sensor layer is, A plurality of first electrodes each extending in a first direction; a plurality of second electrodes each extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction; and Each of which includes a plurality of auxiliary electrodes extending in the first direction and insulated from the plurality of second electrodes, The above sensor driving unit is driven in charging mode or sensing mode, The above sensor driving unit, In the above charging mode, a first charging signal is transmitted to one of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes, and a second charging signal is transmitted to another of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes, In the above sensing mode, the current of the first sensing signal is directly received from the plurality of second electrodes, An electronic device that receives a second sensing signal transmitted by capacitive coupling between the plurality of first electrodes and the plurality of auxiliary electrodes in the sensing mode.

22. In paragraph 21, Each of the plurality of auxiliary electrodes includes at least one pattern electrode, An electronic device in which each of the plurality of first electrodes surrounds a corresponding pattern electrode when viewed on a plane.

23. In paragraph 21, An electronic device wherein the area of ​​each of the plurality of first electrodes is smaller than the area of ​​each of the plurality of second electrodes.

24. In paragraph 21, An electronic device in which, when viewed on a plane, the length of each of the plurality of first electrodes in the first direction is smaller than the length of each of the plurality of second electrodes in the second direction.

25. In paragraph 21, An electronic device in which the above plurality of auxiliary electrodes are electrically connected to each other.

26. In paragraph 21, An electronic device wherein the intensity of the first sensing signal is greater than the intensity of the second sensing signal.

27. In paragraph 21, An electronic device wherein the first charging signal and the second charging signal have opposite phases to each other.

28. In paragraph 20, During the above charging mode, the plurality of second electrodes are floating electronic devices.

Images