Controller and electronic device

Abstract

An electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a sensor disposed under a touch surface and including a plurality of first electrodes each disposed along a first direction and a plurality of third electrodes each disposed along a second direction crossing the first direction; and a controller electrically connected to the sensor and configured to control the sensor, wherein the controller is configured to apply a driving signal to at least one first electrode among the plurality of first electrodes for a predetermined time, receive a reception signal from at least one other first electrode, and electrically ground the plurality of third electrodes to determine a low mass ground (LGM) state of an object on the touch surface.

Description

Controllers and electronic devices

[0001] The present invention relates to a controller and an electronic device, and more specifically, to a controller and an electronic device capable of determining the LGM state of an object.

[0002] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating a general mutual capacitance method.

[0003] Referring to FIG. 1, in a structure to which a conventional mutual capacitance method is applied, a driving pattern (TX) and a receiving pattern (RX) are arranged adjacently. In this arrangement structure, when a driving signal is applied to the driving pattern (TX), a mutual capacitance (Cm) is formed between the driving pattern (TX) and the receiving pattern (RX).

[0004] At this time, if the driving pattern (TX) and the receiving pattern (RX) are electrically connected to each other by an external conductor that is not connected to the device's GND, the driving signal applied to the driving pattern (TX) can be transmitted to the receiving pattern (RX) through the conductor without a change in the electric field due to GND, thereby forming a Low Ground Mass (LGM) signal between the driving pattern (TX) and the receiving pattern (RX). Since the LGM signal formed in this way changes the mutual capacitance value and causes malfunctions such as ghost touch, touch signal splitting, or disappearance, a technology capable of detecting and removing the LGM signal is required.

[0005] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide an electronic device and a controller capable of detecting an LGM signal.

[0006] In addition, an electronic device and a controller capable of reducing the influence of LGM signals are provided.

[0007] In addition, the invention provides a sensor capable of distinguishing between water on a touch surface and a finger signal in an LGM state without a self-sensing circuit, a controller for controlling the sensor, and an electronic device and a controller including the same.

[0008] In addition, an electronic device and a controller capable of reducing or preventing the occurrence of flicker in a display panel are provided.

[0009] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a sensor disposed below a touch surface and each comprising a plurality of first electrodes disposed along a first direction, and each comprising a plurality of third electrodes disposed along a second direction intersecting the first direction; and a controller electrically connected to the sensor and configured to control the sensor; wherein the controller is configured to apply a driving signal to at least one of the plurality of first electrodes for a predetermined time, receive a receiving signal from at least one other first electrode, and electrically ground the plurality of third electrodes to determine the Low Mass Ground (LGM) state of an object on the touch surface.

[0010] An electronic device according to another embodiment of the present invention comprises a sensor configured such that at least two of the ends of the plurality of second electrodes are electrically connected to each other, and at least two of the ends of the plurality of fourth electrodes are electrically connected to each other. The device is disposed below a touch surface and includes a plurality of first electrodes, each disposed along the first direction and adjacent to the first electrode, a plurality of second electrodes, each disposed along a second direction intersecting the first direction, and a plurality of fourth electrodes, each disposed along the second direction and adjacent to the third electrode. and a controller configured to be electrically connected to the sensor and to control the sensor; wherein the controller is configured to apply a first driving signal to at least one of the plurality of first electrodes and receive a first receiving signal from the plurality of third electrodes during a first time period, and wherein the controller is configured to apply a second driving signal to at least one of the plurality of first to fourth electrodes and receive a second receiving signal from at least one other electrode during a second time period different from the first time period, and to electrically ground (GND) or float the remaining electrodes, wherein at least one of the remaining electrodes is positioned between the at least one electrode to which the second driving signal is applied and the at least one other electrode to which the second receiving signal is output, and wherein the controller is configured to determine the position of an object on the touch surface based on the first receiving signal during the first time period and the second receiving signal during the second time period.

[0011] A controller according to one embodiment of the present invention is configured to control a sensor by being electrically connected to the sensor, wherein the sensor comprises a plurality of first electrodes each disposed along a first direction and a plurality of third electrodes each disposed along a second direction intersecting the first direction, and wherein the controller is configured to apply a driving signal to at least one of the plurality of first electrodes for a predetermined time, receive a receiving signal from at least one other first electrode, and electrically ground the plurality of third electrodes to determine the Low Mass Ground (LGM) state of an object on the touch surface.

[0012] A controller according to another embodiment of the present invention comprises a plurality of first electrodes each disposed along a first direction and disposed adjacent to the first electrodes each disposed along the first direction and disposed adjacent to the first electrodes each, a plurality of third electrodes each disposed along a second direction intersecting the first direction and disposed adjacent to the third electrodes each, and a plurality of fourth electrodes each disposed along the second direction and disposed adjacent to the third electrodes, wherein at least two of the ends of the plurality of second electrodes are electrically connected to each other and at least two of the ends of the plurality of fourth electrodes are electrically connected to each other, and the controller is configured to control the sensor by being electrically connected to the sensor, wherein, during a first time period, the controller is configured to apply a first driving signal to at least one of the plurality of first electrodes and receive a first receiving signal from the plurality of third electrodes, and during a second time period different from the first time period, the controller applies a second driving signal to at least one of the plurality of first to fourth electrodes and receives a second receiving signal from at least one other electrode, and the remaining electrodes It is configured to be electrically grounded (GND) or floating, wherein at least one of the remaining electrodes is positioned between the at least one electrode to which the second driving signal is applied and the at least one other electrode to which the second receiving signal is output, and the controller is configured to determine the position of an object on the touch surface based on the first receiving signal at the first time and the second receiving signal at the second time.

[0013] By using an electronic device and a controller according to an embodiment of the present invention, an LGM signal can be detected.

[0014] In addition, the influence of LGM signals can be reduced.

[0015] In addition, it is possible to distinguish between water on a touch surface and finger signals in an LGM state without a self-sensing circuit.

[0016] In addition, the occurrence of flicker in the display panel can be reduced or prevented.

[0017] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating a general mutual capacitance method.

[0018] FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a driving method according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a part of a sensor according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a part of a sensor according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view along A-A' of FIG. 4, conceptually illustrating a perfect LGM state.

[0022] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a part of a sensor according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining how to operate the sensor illustrated in FIG. 6 in a predetermined driving manner.

[0024] FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a method for restoring a normal mutual capacitance change signal according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating various methods for a controller to operate the sensor shown in FIG. 6 in a predetermined driving manner.

[0026] FIG. 10 is a drawing for conceptually explaining a predetermined driving method according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating the phenomenon of sensing a finger and water in the GGM (Good Ground Mass) state and LGM (Low Ground Mass) state of an electronic device, respectively, when the controller drives the sensor in a mutual sensing manner.

[0028] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the phenomenon of sensing a finger and water in the GGM (Good Ground Mass) state and LGM (Low Ground Mass) state of an electronic device, respectively, when a controller drives the sensor in a predetermined driving manner.

[0029] FIG. 13 is a drawing for explaining an example in which a part of a sensor according to another embodiment of the present invention and a controller (controller) controls the sensor in a touch sensing mode.

[0030] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a controller controlling the sensor shown in FIG. 13 in a second driving mode.

[0031] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating another example in which a controller controls the sensor shown in FIG. 13 in a first driving mode.

[0032] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating another example in which a controller controls the sensor shown in FIG. 13 in a second driving mode.

[0033] FIG. 17 is a graph showing test results when the controller drives the sensor shown in FIG. 13 in a first driving mode and a second driving mode when only water is present in one part of the touch surface.

[0034] FIG. 18 is a graph showing test results when the controller drives the sensor shown in FIG. 13 in a first driving mode and a second driving mode when only water is present in each of the two parts on the touch surface.

[0035] FIG. 19 is a graph showing test results when the controller drives the sensor illustrated in FIG. 13 in a first driving mode and a second driving mode when water is present in one part of the touch surface and a finger touch in an LGM state is present in another part.

[0036] FIG. 20 is a graph showing test results when the controller drives the sensor illustrated in FIG. 13 in a first driving mode and a second driving mode when water is present in one part of the touch surface and a big finger touch in an LGM state is present in another part.

[0037] FIG. 21 is a graph showing test results when the controller drives the sensor illustrated in FIG. 13 in a first driving mode and a second driving mode when water is present in one part of the touch surface and big finger touch and normal finger touch in an LGM state are present in another part.

[0038] FIG. 22 is a graph showing test results when the controller drives the sensor shown in FIG. 13 in a first driving mode and a second driving mode when only a big finger touch in an LGM state exists on one part of the touch surface.

[0039] FIG. 23 is a graph showing test results when the controller drives the sensor illustrated in FIG. 13 in a first driving mode and a second driving mode when there is a big finger touch in an LGM state on one part of the touch surface and a normal finger touch on the other part.

[0040] FIG. 24 is a table comparing a method of subtracting a touch signal value obtained through a second driving mode from a touch signal value obtained through a first driving mode mentioned in FIG. 17 to 23 with a conventional self-sensing method.

[0041] The following detailed description of the invention refers to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. It should be understood that various embodiments of the invention are different but need not be mutually exclusive.

[0042] FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a driving method according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Referring to FIG. 2, in a sensor structure to which a driving method according to one embodiment of the present invention is applied, a driving pattern (TX) and a receiving pattern (RX) are not placed immediately adjacent to each other, but are placed apart by a distance such that mutual capacitance is not formed, or is almost or substantially not formed. Additionally, an electrically grounded ground pattern (GND) is placed between the driving pattern (TX) and the receiving pattern (RX). The driving pattern (TX), the ground pattern (GND), and the receiving pattern (RX) are determined by a controller (or controller) that controls the sensor.

[0044] In the sensor structure of FIG. 2, even when a driving signal is applied to the driving pattern (TX) by the controller, the driving pattern (TX) and the receiving pattern (RX) are spaced apart from each other by a distance such that mutual capacitance is not substantially formed, and a ground pattern (GND) is placed between them, so almost no mutual capacitance is formed between the driving pattern (TX) and the receiving pattern (RX). On the other hand, in the LGM (Low Ground Mass) state, the driving signal applied to the driving pattern (TX) can be directly transmitted to the receiving pattern (RX) through a conductive object, and accordingly, the LGM signal can be output through the receiving pattern (RX). Through this driving method, the controller can determine that the input touch is in the LGM state, and can sense the input touch by applying an algorithm that matches the LGM state.

[0045] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a part of a sensor according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 3, a sensor according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of patterns (101, 103). The plurality of patterns (101, 103) include a plurality of first patterns (101) and a plurality of third patterns (103).

[0047] The first pattern (101) may be a rhombus-shaped pattern. The first pattern (101) may have an opening inside, and a dummy pattern may be placed in this opening.

[0048] A plurality of first patterns (101) are arranged along a first direction (x) and are electrically connected to each other. Conductive patterns or bridges may be used to electrically connect them to each other. A plurality of first patterns (101) electrically connected to each other along the first direction (x) may form a single first electrode (110). At least one other first electrode (110') may be arranged in a second direction (y) from the single first electrode (110). The single first electrode (110) and the other first electrode (110') are not immediately adjacent but are spaced apart by a distance such that mutual capacitance is not formed between them.

[0049] The third pattern (103) may be a rhombus-shaped pattern. The third pattern (103) may have an opening inside, and a dummy pattern may be placed in this opening.

[0050] A plurality of third patterns (103) are arranged along a second direction (y) that intersects the first direction (x), and they are electrically connected to each other. Conductive patterns or bridges may be used to electrically connect them to each other. A plurality of third patterns (103) electrically connected to each other along the second direction (y) may form a single third electrode (130). At least one other third electrode (not shown) may be arranged in the first direction (x) from the single third electrode (130). The single third electrode (130) and the other third electrode (not shown) are not immediately adjacent but are spaced apart by a distance such that mutual capacitance is not formed between them.

[0051] The third pattern (103) and the first pattern (101) are arranged adjacently or immediately next to each other. At least one part of the third pattern (103) is arranged immediately next to at least one part of the first pattern (101). Mutual capacitance may be formed between them.

[0052] A plurality of first patterns (101) and a plurality of third patterns (103) may be arranged together on the same layer. A plurality of first patterns (101) and a plurality of third patterns (103) may be formed of a metal mesh.

[0053] An electronic device according to another embodiment of the present invention may include a controller (or controller) (not shown) for controlling the sensor. The controller may be configured to operate the sensor in the driving and receiving manner described in FIG. 2 to determine the LGM state of a touched object.

[0054] As an example, the controller may be configured to apply a driving signal (Tx signal) to one end of the one first electrode (110) and receive a receiving signal (Rx signal) from one end of the other first electrode (110'). Mutual capacitance is hardly or completely formed between the one first electrode (110) and the other first electrode (110').

[0055] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a part of a sensor according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 4, a sensor according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of patterns (101, 102, 103, 104). The plurality of patterns (101, 102, 103, 104) include a plurality of first patterns (101), a plurality of second patterns (102), a plurality of third patterns (103), and a plurality of fourth patterns (104).

[0057] The first pattern (101) and the second pattern (102) are arranged adjacently or immediately next to each other. The first pattern (101) may be arranged to surround at least a portion of the second pattern (102). The second pattern (102) may be a rhombus-shaped pattern, and the first pattern (101) may also be a rhombus-shaped pattern. The first pattern (101) may have an opening inside, and the second pattern (102) may be placed in this opening.

[0058] A plurality of first patterns (101) are arranged along a first direction (x) and are electrically connected to each other. Conductive patterns or bridges may be used to electrically connect them to each other. A plurality of first patterns (101) electrically connected to each other along the first direction (x) may form a single first electrode (110). At least one other first electrode (110') may be arranged in a second direction (y) from the single first electrode (110). The single first electrode (110) and the other first electrode (110') are not immediately adjacent but are spaced apart by a distance such that mutual capacitance is not formed between them.

[0059] A plurality of second patterns (102) are arranged along a first direction (x). They are electrically connected to each other. Conductive patterns or bridges may be used to electrically connect them to each other. A plurality of second patterns (102) electrically connected to each other along the first direction (x) may form a single second electrode (120). At least one other second electrode (120') may be arranged in a second direction (y) from the single second electrode (120).

[0060] The third pattern (103) and the fourth pattern (104) are arranged adjacently or immediately next to each other. The third pattern (103) may be arranged to surround at least a portion of the fourth pattern (104). The fourth pattern (104) may be a rhombus-shaped pattern, and the third pattern (103) may also be a rhombus-shaped pattern. The third pattern (103) may have an opening inside, and the fourth pattern (104) may be placed in this opening.

[0061] A plurality of third patterns (103) are arranged along a second direction (y) that intersects the first direction (x), and they are electrically connected to each other. Conductive patterns or bridges may be used to electrically connect them to each other. A plurality of third patterns (103) electrically connected to each other along the second direction (y) may form a single third electrode (130). At least one other third electrode (not shown) may be arranged in the first direction (x) from the single third electrode (130). The single third electrode (130) and the other third electrode (not shown) are not immediately adjacent but are spaced apart by a distance such that mutual capacitance is not formed between them.

[0062] A plurality of fourth patterns (104) are arranged along the second direction (y). They are electrically connected to each other. Conductive patterns or bridges may be used to electrically connect them to each other. A plurality of fourth patterns (104) electrically connected to each other along the second direction (y) may form a single fourth electrode (140). At least one other fourth electrode (not shown) may be arranged from the single fourth electrode (140) in the first direction (x).

[0063] The third pattern (103) and the first pattern (101) are arranged adjacently or immediately next to each other. At least one part of the third pattern (103) is arranged immediately next to at least one part of the first pattern (101). Mutual capacitance may be formed between them.

[0064] A plurality of first patterns (101), a plurality of second patterns (102), a plurality of third patterns (103), and a plurality of fourth patterns (104) may be arranged together on the same layer. A plurality of first patterns (101), a plurality of second patterns (102), a plurality of third patterns (103), and a plurality of fourth patterns (104) may be formed of a metal mesh.

[0065] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a controller (or controller) (not shown) for controlling the sensor. The controller may be configured to operate the sensor in the driving and receiving manner described in FIG. 2 to determine the LGM state of a touched object.

[0066] As an example, the controller may be configured to apply a driving signal (Tx signal) to one end of the first electrode (110) and to receive a receiving signal (Rx signal) from one end of the other first electrode (110'). Mutual capacitance is hardly or completely formed between the first electrode (110) and the other first electrode (110'). At this time, the controller may be configured to electrically float a plurality of second electrodes (120) and electrically ground (GND) a plurality of third electrodes (130) and a plurality of fourth electrodes (140).

[0067] In FIG. 4, when viewed from the AA' direction, at least one third pattern (103) and a fourth pattern (104) are disposed between the first pattern (101) of the first electrode (110) and the first pattern (101') of the other first electrode (110'). When the third pattern (103) and the fourth pattern (104) are configured to be grounded by a controller, as previously mentioned in FIG. 2, little or no mutual capacitance is formed between the first pattern (101) of the first electrode (110) and the first pattern (101') of the other first electrode (110').

[0068] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view along A-A' of FIG. 4, conceptually illustrating a perfect LGM state.

[0069] FIG. 5 is a diagram assuming that a water drop falls on a part of the sensor shown in FIG. 4. Since placing a water drop on a part of the sensor is equivalent to placing a conductor that is not grounded (GND), the water drop is in an LGM state.

[0070] As illustrated in FIG. 5, when a water droplet is placed on a portion of the surface of the sensor (i.e., in an LGM state), the sensor is driven by a controller in the driving manner described in FIG. 2 (i.e., the controller is configured to apply a driving signal to a first electrode (110) containing a plurality of first patterns (101), receive a receiving signal from another first electrode (101') containing a plurality of first patterns (101'), electrically float a second electrode (120) containing a plurality of second patterns (102), and electrically ground a third electrode (130) containing a plurality of third patterns (103) and a fourth electrode (104) containing a plurality of fourth patterns (104), the driving signal can be transmitted from the one first electrode (110) to the other first electrodes (110') through the water droplet, which is a conductor. In this case, the received signal output from the other first electrode (110') does not contain a touch signal corresponding to the change in mutual capacitance, but only an LGM signal. Therefore, the controller can detect the LGM signal from the received signal from the other first electrode (110'). The controller can also determine the LGM state from the detected LGM signal. For reference, in FIG. 5, D1 represents the interval between the second pattern (102) and the fourth pattern (104).

[0071] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a part of a sensor according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] The sensor illustrated in FIG. 6 includes a plurality of first electrodes (110, 110'), a plurality of second electrodes (120, 120'), a plurality of third electrodes (130, 130'), and a plurality of fourth electrodes (140, 140').

[0073] The sensor illustrated in FIG. 6 includes the sensor illustrated in FIG. 4. The differences compared with FIG. 4 will be explained below.

[0074] A plurality of third electrodes (130, 130') include one third electrode (130) and at least one other third electrode (130'). The other third electrode (130') is positioned along a first direction (x) from one third electrode (130).

[0075] The second patterns (102, 102') of the plurality of second electrodes (120, 120') are electrically connected. The plurality of second electrodes (120, 120') include at least one connection pattern (102c). The connection pattern (102c) extends along the second direction (y) and electrically connects the second patterns (102, 102') of the plurality of second electrodes (120, 120').

[0076] Fourth patterns (104, 104') of a plurality of fourth electrodes (140, 140') are electrically connected. A plurality of fourth electrodes (140, 140') include at least one connection pattern (104c). The connection pattern (104c) extends along a first direction (x) and electrically connects the fourth patterns (104, 104') of a plurality of fourth electrodes (140, 140').

[0077] The sensor illustrated in FIG. 6 can sense a conductive object, such as a finger or a conductor, and can drive or sense a stylus pen. Specifically, a controller that controls the sensor may be configured to sense the object using a plurality of first electrodes (110, 110') and a plurality of third electrodes (130, 130'). Additionally, the controller may drive the stylus pen using any one of the plurality of first to fourth electrodes, and may be configured to sense a signal from the stylus pen using two of the plurality of first to fourth electrodes.

[0078] In relation to the operation of the above controller sensing the object, the controller may be configured to apply a touch driving signal to a plurality of first electrodes (110, 110') and receive a touch detection signal from a plurality of third electrodes (130, 130'). This is referred to as a mutual driving method (or mutual driving mode). The touch detection signal received by the controller through the mutual driving method may include a noise signal as well as a signal (ΔCm) regarding the normal mutual capacitance change amount. The noise signal includes a noise signal caused by LGM (Low Ground Mass) (hereinafter referred to as the LGM signal). As shown in the left diagram of FIG. 8, the LGM signal distorts the signal (ΔCm) regarding the normal mutual capacitance change amount.

[0079] To eliminate the above LGM signal, the controller may operate the sensor in a manner different from the mutual driving method (hereinafter referred to as a predetermined driving method for convenience of explanation). The predetermined driving method may be implemented as a time-division method that operates at a different time from the mutual driving method. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, unlike the mutual driving method, the controller may be configured to apply a touch driving signal to one of the multiple first electrodes (110, 110') and receive a touch detection signal from the other first electrode (110'). At this time, the controller may be configured to electrically ground (GND) or float the multiple second electrodes (120, 120'), the multiple third electrodes (130, 130'), and the multiple fourth electrodes (140, 140'). The touch detection signal received by the controller through the above-described driving method includes only an LGM signal, as shown in the middle diagram of FIG. 8. Here, the touch driving signal applied to one first electrode (110) may be the same signal as the touch driving signal in the mutual driving method described above, or it may be a different signal.

[0080] As shown in FIG. 8, the controller can restore the normal state mutual capacitance change signal (ΔCm) by compensating the LGM signal based on the touch detection signal received by the mutual driving method and the touch detection signal received by the predetermined driving method.

[0081] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating various methods for a controller to operate the sensor shown in FIG. 6 in a predetermined driving manner.

[0082] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 9, a first embodiment of a predetermined driving method is configured such that the controller applies a touch driving signal to one of a plurality of first electrodes (110, 110'), receives a touch detection signal from another first electrode (110'), and electrically floats or / and grounds (GND) a plurality of second electrodes (120, 120'), a plurality of third electrodes (130, 130'), and a plurality of fourth electrodes (140, 140').

[0083] A second embodiment of a predetermined driving method is configured such that the controller applies a touch driving signal to one of the second electrodes (120, 120') and receives a touch detection signal from another second electrode (120'), and the first electrodes (110, 110'), third electrodes (130, 130'), and fourth electrodes (140, 140') are electrically floating or / and grounded (GND).

[0084] A third embodiment of a predetermined driving method is configured such that the controller applies a touch driving signal to one of a plurality of first electrodes (110, 110') and one of a plurality of second electrodes (120, 120'), receives a touch detection signal from another first electrode (110') and another second electrode (120'), and electrically floats or / and grounds (GND) the plurality of third electrodes (130, 130') and the plurality of fourth electrodes (140, 140').

[0085] A fourth embodiment of a predetermined driving method is configured such that the controller applies a touch driving signal to a plurality of first electrodes (110, 110'), receives a touch detection signal from a plurality of fourth electrodes (140, 140'), and electrically floats or / and grounds (GND) the plurality of second electrodes (120, 120') and the plurality of third electrodes (130, 130').

[0086] A fifth embodiment of a predetermined driving method is configured such that the controller applies a touch driving signal to a plurality of second electrodes (120, 120'), receives a touch detection signal from one of the plurality of third electrodes (130, 130') and one of the plurality of fourth electrodes (140, 140'), and the plurality of first electrodes (110, 110'), another third electrode (130'), and another fourth electrode (140') are electrically floated or / and grounded (GND).

[0087] A sixth embodiment of a predetermined driving method is configured such that the controller applies a touch driving signal to a plurality of second electrodes (120, 120'), receives a touch detection signal from a plurality of third electrodes (130, 130') and a plurality of fourth electrodes (140, 140'), and electrically floats or / and grounds (GND) the plurality of first electrodes (110, 110').

[0088] Through the five embodiments shown in FIG. 9, the controller can operate the sensor shown in FIG. 6 in a predetermined driving manner to receive a touch detection signal from the sensor. The received touch detection signal does not contain a normal capacitance change signal and contains almost entirely an LGM signal. Therefore, the controller can restore the capacitance change signal in a normal state by using the touch detection signal received through the predetermined driving method and the touch detection signal received through the mutual driving method.

[0089] FIG. 10 is a drawing for conceptually explaining a predetermined driving method according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0090] Referring to FIG. 10, a predetermined driving method according to one embodiment of the present invention controls a controller to electrically ground (GND) or / and float at least one electrode disposed between one first electrode (110) to which a driving signal is applied and another first electrode (110') to which a receiving signal is output. For example, one electrode may be disposed between one first electrode (110) to which a driving signal is applied and another first electrode (110') to which a receiving signal is output, and the controller may ground (GND) the one electrode. Additionally, two electrodes may be disposed between one first electrode (110) to which a driving signal is applied and another first electrode (110') to which a receiving signal is output, and the controller may ground (GND) one of the two electrodes and ground (GND) or float the other one.

[0091] In addition, a predetermined driving method according to one embodiment of the present invention may have a controller apply the driving signal to one electrode (150) immediately adjacent to the first electrode (110) among two or more electrodes disposed between one first electrode (110) to which the driving signal is applied and another first electrode (110') to which the receiving signal is output, and ground the remaining electrode (GND). Alternatively, the receiving signal may be received from one electrode (160) immediately adjacent to the other first electrode (110') among two or more electrodes disposed between one first electrode (110) to which the driving signal is applied and another first electrode (110') to which the receiving signal is output, and ground the remaining electrode (GND).

[0092] A controller included in an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present invention can distinguish between water and a finger located on the surface of the electronic device using a predetermined driving method according to one embodiment of the present invention. In particular, it can distinguish between water and a finger when in an LGM state. Such a controller has the advantage of lowering manufacturing costs as it does not require a separate self-sensing circuit. It will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0093] Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating the phenomenon of sensing a finger and water in the GGM (Good Ground Mass) state and LGM (Low Ground Mass) state of an electronic device, respectively, when the controller drives the sensor in a mutual sensing manner.

[0094] The left diagram of FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram showing the case where the controller operates using a mutual sensing method when a finger in the GGM state contacts the touch surface. In the left diagram of FIG. 11, C m1 is a general mutual touch signal, and C m1 It is reduced by the grounded finger. C m1 This decrease is represented as a + touch signal (+touch signal). The driving signal applied to the transmitter (TX) is a signal that passes to the receiver (RX) through the finger (hereinafter, LGM signal (C m2 There is also (referred to as ), but its amount is relatively small. Here, the above LGM signal (C m2 ) is represented as a - touch signal (-touch signal). The final touch signal is output as a mixture of the + touch signal and the - touch signal, but since the amount of the - touch signal is relatively small, the + touch signal is dominant.

[0095] The middle diagram of FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram showing the case where the controller operates using a mutual sensing method when a finger in the LGM state contacts the touch surface. In the middle diagram of FIG. 11, since the finger is in an ungrounded state, C m1 becomes relatively smaller. Therefore, the LGM signal (C) through which the driving signal travels along the finger to the receiver (RX) m2 ) becomes dominant. The final touch signal is output as a mixture of + touch signals and - touch signals, and can be + or - depending on the LGM strength.

[0096] The right-hand diagram of Fig. 11 is a conceptual diagram showing the case where the controller operates using a mutual sensing method when water comes into contact with a touch surface. In the right-hand diagram of Fig. 11, since the mass of the water is small and the water is not connected to ground, C m1 There is almost no LGM signal (C m2 Only ) exists. Only the LGM signal exists, through which the driving signal travels along the water to the receiver (RX). Therefore, the final touch signal comes out as a -touch signal.

[0097] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the phenomenon of sensing a finger and water in the GGM (Good Ground Mass) state and LGM (Low Ground Mass) state of an electronic device, respectively, when a controller drives the sensor in a predetermined driving manner.

[0098] The left diagram of FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram showing the case where a controller operates in a predetermined driving method when a finger in the GGM state contacts a touch surface. Referring to the left diagram of FIG. 12, the predetermined driving method is such that the distance between the transmitting end (TX), where the driving signal is applied, and the receiving end (RX), where the received signal is output, is C mutual Because they are separated from each other so as not to form almost or at all, the driving signal is an LGM signal (C) output to the receiving end (RX) through the finger.m2 Only ) appears. However, the amount is relatively very small.

[0099] The middle diagram of FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram showing the case where a controller is driven in a predetermined driving method when a finger in the LGM state contacts a touch surface. Referring to the middle diagram of FIG. 12, since the finger is in an ungrounded state, the LGM signal (C m2 Only ) appears. The final touch signal is -touch signal only exists, and its absolute value may vary depending on the LGM intensity.

[0100] The right-hand diagram of FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram showing the case where the controller operates in a predetermined driving manner when water comes into contact with the touch surface. In the right-hand diagram of FIG. 12, the driving signal travels through the water to the receiving end (RX) and the LGM signal (C m2 Only ) exists. Therefore, the final touch signal comes out as a -touch signal.

[0101] Referring to the left drawings of FIGS. 11 and FIGS. 12, when the controller subtracts the final touch signal obtained through a predetermined driving method in FIGS. 12 from the final touch signal obtained through the mutual sensing method in FIGS. 11, the negative touch signal is mostly removed and almost only the positive touch signal remains.

[0102] Referring to the middle drawings of FIGS. 11 and FIGS. 12, when a controller subtracts the final touch signal obtained through a predetermined driving method in the LGM state of FIGS. 12 from the final touch signal obtained through a mutual sensing method in the LGM state of FIGS. 11, most of the negative touch signals are removed and almost only positive touch signals remain.

[0103] Referring to the right-hand drawings of FIGS. 11 and 12, when the controller subtracts the final touch signal obtained through a predetermined driving method in the LGM state of FIG. 12 from the final touch signal obtained through the mutual sensing method in the LGM state of FIG. 11, the -touch signal is removed and becomes almost 0.

[0104] When the controller compares the subtraction value obtained through the middle diagrams of FIGS. 11 and 12 mentioned above with the subtraction value obtained through the right diagrams of FIGS. 11 and 12, it can determine whether what is in contact with the touch surface in the LGM state is a finger or water. Specifically, the subtraction value obtained through the middle diagrams of FIGS. 11 and 12 is '+touch signal', and the subtraction value obtained through the right diagrams of FIGS. 11 and 12 is '0'. Therefore, through the two subtraction values, it can be determined whether what is in contact with the touch surface in the LGM state is a finger or water.

[0105] FIG. 13 is a drawing for explaining an example in which a part of a sensor according to another embodiment of the present invention and a controller (controller) controls the sensor in a touch sensing mode.

[0106] Referring to FIG. 13, a sensor according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of first electrodes (1100, 1100', 1100'', 1100'''), a plurality of second electrodes (1200, 1200', 1200'', 1200'''), a plurality of third electrodes (1300, 1300', 1300'', 1300'''), and a plurality of fourth electrodes (1400, 1400', 1400'', 1400''').

[0107] Each first electrode (1100, 1100', 1100'', 1100''') has a shape that extends in a first direction (x). A plurality of first electrodes (1100, 1100', 1100'', 1100''') are arranged parallel along a second direction (y). Each first electrode (1100, 1100', 1100'', 1100''') includes a plurality of first patterns (1101) arranged along the first direction (x) and includes connecting patterns that connect the spaces between the plurality of first patterns (1101). Each first pattern (1101) has an opening in which a second pattern (1201) is disposed.

[0108] A plurality of first electrodes (1100, 1100', 1100'', 1100''') are electrically connected to a controller (controller, not shown) through a conductive trace or a conductive pattern. Some of the first electrodes (1100, 1100') have one end of their two ends electrically connected to the controller and the other end electrically floating. The remaining first electrodes (1100'', 1100''') have the other end of their two ends electrically connected to the controller and one end electrically floating.

[0109] Each second electrode (1200, 1200', 1200'', 1200''') has a shape that extends in a first direction (x). A plurality of second electrodes (1200, 1200', 1200'', 1200''') are arranged in parallel along a second direction (y). Each second electrode (1200, 1200', 1200'', 1200''') includes a plurality of second patterns (1201) arranged along the first direction (x) and includes connecting patterns that connect the spaces between the plurality of second patterns (1201). Each second pattern (1201) is placed inside an opening of a first pattern (1101).

[0110] A plurality of second electrodes (1200, 1200', 1200'', 1200''') are electrically connected to a controller (controller, not shown) through a conductive trace or a conductive pattern. Some of the second electrodes (1200, 1200') have one end electrically connected to the controller and one end electrically floating. The remaining second electrodes (1200'', 1200''') have one end electrically connected to the controller and the other end electrically floating. The other end of some of the second electrodes (1200, 1200') is not in the same direction as one end of some of the first electrodes (1100, 1100'), but in a different, opposite direction. Due to this arrangement structure, the thickness of both bezels of the electronic device can be reduced.

[0111] Each third electrode (1300, 1300', 1300'', 1300''') has a shape that extends in a second direction (y). A plurality of third electrodes (1300, 1300', 1300'', 1300''') are arranged parallel along a first direction (x). Each third electrode (1300, 1300', 1300'', 1300''') includes a plurality of third patterns (1301) arranged along the second direction (y) and includes connecting patterns that connect the spaces between the plurality of third patterns (1301). Each third pattern (1301) has an opening in which a fourth pattern (1401) is disposed.

[0112] A plurality of third electrodes (1300, 1300', 1300'', 1300''') are electrically connected to a controller (controller, not shown) through a conductive trace or a conductive pattern. One end of the two ends of the plurality of third electrodes (1300, 1300', 1300'', 1300''') is electrically connected to the controller, and the other end is electrically floating.

[0113] Each fourth electrode (1400, 1400', 1400'', 1400''') has a shape that extends in a second direction (y). A plurality of fourth electrodes (1400, 1400', 1400'', 1400''') are arranged parallel along a first direction (x). Each fourth electrode (1400, 1400', 1400'', 1400''') includes a plurality of fourth patterns (1401) arranged along the second direction (y), and includes connecting patterns that connect the spaces between the plurality of fourth patterns (1401). Each fourth pattern (1401) is placed inside an opening of a third pattern (1301).

[0114] A plurality of fourth electrodes (1400, 1400', 1400'', 1400''') are electrically connected to a controller (controller, not shown) through a conductive trace or a conductive pattern. At least two of the portions of the fourth electrodes (1400, 1400', 1400'', 1400''') have one end portions electrically connected in parallel to the controller. At least two of the remaining portions of the fourth electrodes (1400'', 1400''') have one end portions electrically connected in parallel to the controller. The other ends of a plurality of fourth electrodes (1400, 1400', 1400'', 1400''') are electrically connected in parallel.

[0115] A plurality of first electrodes (1100, 1100', 1100'', 1100'''), a plurality of second electrodes (1200, 1200', 1200'', 1200'''), a plurality of third electrodes (1300, 1300', 1300'', 1300'''), and a plurality of fourth electrodes (1400, 1400', 1400'', 1400''') may be disposed on the same layer. Alternatively, at least one of a plurality of first electrodes (1100, 1100', 1100'', 1100'''), a plurality of second electrodes (1200, 1200', 1200'', 1200'''), a plurality of third electrodes (1300, 1300', 1300'', 1300'''), and a plurality of fourth electrodes (1400, 1400', 1400'', 1400''') may be disposed on a different layer from the rest.

[0116] A controller (controller, not shown) electrically connected to the sensor described above can operate the sensor in various driving modes. The various driving modes may be operated in time-divided intervals. The various driving modes include a touch sensing mode, a stylus driving mode, and a stylus receiving mode.

[0117] The above touch sensing mode includes a mutual driving mode or a first driving mode.

[0118] The above mutual driving mode is a mode in which the controller applies a mutual driving signal to at least one of a plurality of third electrodes (1300, 1300', 1300'', 1300''') and receives a mutual receiving signal from a plurality of first electrodes (1100, 1100', 1100'', 1100''').

[0119] The first driving mode described above includes, as illustrated in FIG. 13, that the controller simultaneously applies a first driving signal to each of a plurality of third electrodes (1300, 1300', 1300'', 1300''') and receives a first receiving signal from a plurality of first electrodes (1100, 1100', 1100'', 1100''').

[0120] Here, when the controller operates in the first driving mode, it may apply a first driving signal (TS) to some of the third electrodes (1300, 1300'), and simultaneously apply a second driving signal (TS') to some of the third electrodes (1300'', 1300'''). The second driving signal (TS') is an inverse signal in which the phase of the first driving signal (TS) is opposite. By applying a first driving signal (TS) to some of the third electrodes (1300, 1300') and simultaneously applying a second driving signal (TS') to other of the third electrodes (1300'', 1300'''), the total sum of the driving signals applied simultaneously at the same time can be reduced, thereby reducing or preventing flicker generated in the display panel. In particular, when the total sum of the driving signals becomes zero, there is an advantage that no flicker is generated in the display panel.

[0121] In addition, the controller can control a plurality of second electrodes (1200, 1200', 1200'', 1200''') and a plurality of fourth electrodes (1400, 1400', 1400'', 1400''') to be electrically grounded (GND) when operating in the first driving mode.

[0122] Referring to FIG. 14 below, the method by which the controller operates the sensor illustrated in FIG. 13 in a second driving mode will be explained in detail.

[0123] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a controller controlling the sensor shown in FIG. 13 in a second driving mode.

[0124] Referring to FIG. 14, the second driving mode is a predetermined driving mode described above, wherein the controller applies a predetermined driving signal (TS, TS') to at least one of a plurality of fourth electrodes (1400, 1400', 1400'', 1400''') and detects a predetermined receiving signal from a plurality of first electrodes (1100, 1100', 1100'', 1100'''). Here, the controller may simultaneously apply a first TS driving signal (TS) to some of the fourth electrodes (1400, 1400') among the plurality of fourth electrodes (1400, 1400'), and simultaneously apply a second TS driving signal (TS') to other parts of the fourth electrodes (1400'', 1400'''). The second TS driving signal (TS') is the inverse signal of the first TS driving signal (TS). Meanwhile, in the second driving mode, the controller can electrically ground (GND) a plurality of second electrodes (1200, 1200', 1200'', 1200''') and a plurality of third electrodes (1300, 1300', 1300'', 1300''').

[0125] The above controller can determine the position of an object on the y-axis based on a first receiving signal output through the first driving mode of FIG. 13 and a predetermined receiving signal output through the second driving mode of FIG. 14, and can also determine whether the object on the y-axis is a finger or water by subtracting (or adding) the predetermined receiving signal output through the second driving mode of FIG. 14 from the first receiving signal output through the first driving mode of FIG. 13.

[0126] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating another example in which a controller controls the sensor shown in FIG. 13 in a first driving mode.

[0127] Referring to FIG. 15, the first driving mode is a mode in which, contrary to FIG. 13, the controller applies a driving signal (TS, TS') to at least one of a plurality of first electrodes (1100, 1100', 1100'', 1100''') and detects a first receiving signal from a plurality of third electrodes (1300, 1300', 1300'', 1300'''). Meanwhile, in the first driving mode, the controller can electrically ground (GND) a plurality of second electrodes (1200, 1200', 1200'', 1200''') and a plurality of fourth electrodes (1400, 1400', 1400'', 1400''').

[0128] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating another example in which a controller controls the sensor shown in FIG. 13 in a second driving mode.

[0129] Referring to FIG. 16, the second driving mode may be a mode in which the controller applies a predetermined driving signal (TS, TS') to at least one of a plurality of second electrodes (1200, 1200', 1200'', 1200''') and detects a predetermined receiving signal from a plurality of third electrodes (1300, 1300', 1300'', 1300'''). Meanwhile, in the second driving mode, the controller may electrically ground (GND) a plurality of first electrodes (1100, 1100', 1100'', 1100''') and a plurality of fourth electrodes (1400, 1400', 1400'', 1400''').

[0130] The above controller can determine the position of an object on the x-axis based on a first receiving signal output through the first driving mode of FIG. 15 and a predetermined receiving signal output through the second driving mode of FIG. 16, and can also determine whether the object on the x-axis is a finger or water by subtracting the predetermined receiving signal output through the second driving mode of FIG. 16 from the first receiving signal output through the first driving mode of FIG. 15.

[0131] The above controller can determine the position of an object on a touch surface by combining the position of the object on the y-axis obtained through FIGS. 13 and 14 and the position of the object on the x-axis obtained through FIGS. 15 and 16, and can also determine whether the object at that position is a finger or water.

[0132] FIG. 17 is a graph showing test results when the controller drives the sensor illustrated in FIG. 13 in a first driving mode and a second driving mode when only water is present in one part of the touch surface. In the left and right graphs of FIG. 17, the horizontal axis represents the numbering of the receiving electrodes, and the vertical axis represents the touch signal value. Here, the touch signal value may represent a change in capacitance.

[0133] The left graph of FIG. 17 is a graph showing the touch signal values ​​for each of the first driving mode (First driving) and the second driving mode (Second driving), and the right graph of FIG. 17 is a graph showing the result of subtracting the touch signal value obtained through the second driving mode (First driving - Second driving) from the touch signal value obtained through the first driving mode.

[0134] Referring to the circle indicated by the dotted line in the left graph of Fig. 17, it can be seen that water generates a signal of the same magnitude in the first driving mode and the second driving mode. Referring to the circle indicated by the dotted line in the right graph of Fig. 17, it can be seen that water is not sensed when the touch signal value obtained through the second driving mode is subtracted from the touch signal value obtained through the first driving mode (First driving - Second driving).

[0135] FIG. 18 is a graph showing test results when the controller drives the sensor shown in FIG. 13 in a first driving mode and a second driving mode when only water is present in each of the two parts on the touch surface.

[0136] Referring to the two circles indicated by the dotted lines in the left graph of Fig. 18, it can be seen that signals of the same magnitude are generated at two locations of water in the first driving mode and the second driving mode. Referring to the two circles indicated by the dotted lines in the right graph of Fig. 17, it can be seen that water is not sensed when the touch signal value obtained through the second driving mode is subtracted from the touch signal value obtained through the first driving mode (First driving - Second driving).

[0137] FIG. 19 is a graph showing test results when the controller drives the sensor illustrated in FIG. 13 in a first driving mode and a second driving mode when water is present in one part of the touch surface and a finger touch in an LGM state is present in another part.

[0138] Referring to the circle indicated by the dotted line in the left graph of Fig. 19, it can be seen that water generates a signal of the same magnitude in the first driving mode and the second driving mode. Referring to the circle indicated by the dotted line in the right graph of Fig. 19, it can be seen that water is not sensed when the touch signal value obtained through the second driving mode is subtracted from the touch signal value obtained through the first driving mode (First driving - Second driving).

[0139] Referring to the rectangles indicated by dotted lines in the left and right graphs of Fig. 19, it can be seen that a touch signal value is output in the first driving mode, but almost no touch signal value is output in the second driving mode. Referring to the rectangle indicated by dotted lines in the right graph of Fig. 19, it can be seen that when the touch signal value obtained through the second driving mode is subtracted from the touch signal value obtained through the first driving mode (First driving - Second driving), the touch signal value output in the first driving mode is output. That is, when the touch signal value obtained through the second driving mode is subtracted from the touch signal value obtained through the first driving mode (First driving - Second driving), it can be seen that water is not sensed, but the finger in the LGM state is sensed.

[0140] FIG. 20 is a graph showing test results when a controller drives the sensor illustrated in FIG. 13 in a first driving mode and a second driving mode when water is present in one part of the touch surface and a big finger touch in an LGM state is present in another part. Here, the big finger touch refers to a touch having a relatively larger surface area than the finger touch in FIG. 19.

[0141] Referring to the circle indicated by the dotted line in the left graph of Fig. 20, it can be seen that water generates a signal of the same magnitude in the first driving mode and the second driving mode. Referring to the circle indicated by the dotted line in the right graph of Fig. 20, it can be seen that water is not sensed when the touch signal value obtained through the second driving mode is subtracted from the touch signal value obtained through the first driving mode (First driving - Second driving).

[0142] Referring to the rectangles indicated by the dotted lines in the left and right graphs of FIG. 20, it can be seen that in the first driving mode, a touch signal value is output, but because it is a large finger touch, the LGM signal becomes relatively large, resulting in a touch signal value of relatively small size being output, and in the second driving mode, a negative touch signal value is output due to the relatively large LGM signal. Referring to the rectangle indicated by the dotted line in the right graph of FIG. 20, it can be seen that when the touch signal value obtained through the second driving mode is subtracted from the touch signal value obtained through the first driving mode (First driving - Second driving), the LGM signal is compensated, and a touch signal value that is relatively larger than that of the left graph of FIG. 20 is output. That is, when the touch signal value obtained through the second driving mode is subtracted from the touch signal value obtained through the first driving mode (First driving - Second driving), it can be seen that water is not sensed, but the large finger touch in the LGM state is sensed normally.

[0143] FIG. 21 is a graph showing test results when the controller drives the sensor illustrated in FIG. 13 in a first driving mode and a second driving mode when water is present in one part of the touch surface and big finger touch and normal finger touch in an LGM state are present in another part.

[0144] Referring to the circle indicated by the dotted line in the left graph of Fig. 21, it can be seen that water generates a signal of the same magnitude in the first driving mode and the second driving mode. Referring to the circle indicated by the dotted line in the right graph of Fig. 21, it can be seen that water is not sensed when the touch signal value obtained through the second driving mode is subtracted from the touch signal value obtained through the first driving mode (First driving - Second driving).

[0145] Referring to the rectangles indicated by the dotted lines in the left and right graphs of Fig. 21, in the first driving mode, a touch signal value is output, but a split may occur due to multi-touch in the LGM state. In the second driving mode, it can be confirmed that a negative touch signal value is output due to the relatively increased LGM signal. Referring to the rectangle indicated by the dotted line in the right graph of Fig. 21, when the touch signal value obtained through the second driving mode is subtracted from the touch signal value obtained through the first driving mode (First driving - Second driving), it can be confirmed that the peak portion is compensated by the LGM signal and restored to a single-finger touch. When the touch signal value obtained through the second driving mode is subtracted from the touch signal value obtained through the first driving mode (First driving - Second driving), it can be confirmed that water is not sensed, but multi-touch in the LGM state is sensed.

[0146] FIG. 22 is a graph showing test results when the controller drives the sensor shown in FIG. 13 in a first driving mode and a second driving mode when only a big finger touch in an LGM state exists on one part of the touch surface.

[0147] Referring to the rectangles indicated by the dotted lines in the left and right graphs of Fig. 22, it can be seen that in the first driving mode, a touch signal value is output, but because it is a large finger touch, the LGM signal becomes relatively large, resulting in a relatively small touch signal value being output, and in the second driving mode, a negative touch signal value is output due to the relatively large LGM signal. Referring to the rectangle indicated by the dotted line in the right graph of Fig. 22, it can be seen that when the touch signal value obtained through the second driving mode is subtracted from the touch signal value obtained through the first driving mode (First driving - Second driving), the LGM signal is compensated, and a touch signal value that is relatively larger than that of the left graph of Fig. 22 is output. That is, when the touch signal value obtained through the second driving mode is subtracted from the touch signal value obtained through the first driving mode (First driving - Second driving), it can be seen that a large finger touch in the LGM state is sensed normally.

[0148] FIG. 23 is a graph showing test results when the controller drives the sensor illustrated in FIG. 13 in a first driving mode and a second driving mode when there is a big finger touch in an LGM state on one part of the touch surface and a normal finger touch on the other part.

[0149] Referring to the rectangles indicated by dotted lines in the left and right graphs of Fig. 23, in the first driving mode, the touch signal value of multiple touches in the LGM state becomes smaller than that of a single touch. In the second driving mode, it can be seen that the touch signal value of multiple touches becomes larger than that of a single touch due to the LGM signal. Referring to the rectangles indicated by dotted lines in the right graph of Fig. 23, it can be seen that when the touch signal value obtained through the second driving mode is subtracted from the touch signal value obtained through the first driving mode (First driving - Second driving), the LGM signal is compensated and the touch signal value corresponding to multiple touches is restored.

[0150] FIG. 24 is a table comparing a method of subtracting the touch signal value obtained through the second driving mode from the touch signal value obtained through the first driving mode mentioned in FIG. 17 to FIG. 23 (First driving - Second driving) with a conventional self-sensing method.

[0151] Referring to FIG. 24, the conventional self-sensing method exhibits sensitive responsiveness but has high noise and temperature dependency and requires additional IC circuitry. On the other hand, the (First driving - Second driving) method mentioned in FIGS. 17 to 23 has low noise and temperature dependency and does not require additional IC circuitry, but requires driving / sensing time. However, data obtained through the all-driving method can be extracted from data obtained through the mutual driving method.

[0152] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the attached drawings, this is merely illustrative and does not limit the invention. Those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and applications not exemplified above are possible within the scope of the essential characteristics of the embodiments. For example, each component specifically shown in the embodiments may be modified and implemented. Furthermore, differences related to such modifications and applications should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A sensor comprising a plurality of first electrodes each disposed along a first direction and a plurality of third electrodes each disposed along a second direction intersecting the first direction, disposed below a touch surface; and A controller configured to be electrically connected to the sensor and to control the sensor; including The above controller is configured to apply a driving signal to at least one of the plurality of first electrodes for a predetermined time, receive a reception signal from at least one other first electrode, and electrically ground the plurality of third electrodes to determine the LGM (Low Mass Ground) state of an object on the touch surface. Electronic device.

2. In Paragraph 1, The sensor comprises a plurality of second electrodes, each disposed along the first direction and adjacent to the first electrode. At least two of the ends of the plurality of second electrodes are configured to be electrically connected to each other, and The above controller is an electronic device configured to electrically float or ground the plurality of second electrodes during the above predetermined time.

3. In Paragraph 1, The sensor comprises a plurality of fourth electrodes, each disposed along the second direction and adjacent to the third electrode. At least two of the ends of the plurality of fourth electrodes are configured to be electrically connected to each other, and The above controller is an electronic device configured to electrically ground the plurality of fourth electrodes during the above predetermined time.

4. A sensor comprising a plurality of first electrodes disposed below a touch surface, each disposed along a first direction, a plurality of second electrodes each disposed along the first direction and adjacent to the first electrode, a plurality of third electrodes each disposed along a second direction intersecting the first direction, and a plurality of fourth electrodes each disposed along the second direction and adjacent to the third electrode, wherein at least two of the ends of the plurality of second electrodes are electrically connected to each other and at least two of the ends of the plurality of fourth electrodes are electrically connected to each other; and A controller configured to be electrically connected to the sensor and to control the sensor; including The above controller is configured to apply a first driving signal to at least one of the plurality of first electrodes during a first time period and to receive a first receiving signal from the plurality of third electrodes, and The controller is configured to apply a second driving signal to at least one of the plurality of first to fourth electrodes and receive a second receiving signal from at least one other electrode during a second time different from the first time, and to electrically ground (GND) or float the remaining electrodes, wherein at least one of the remaining electrodes is positioned between the at least one electrode to which the second driving signal is applied and the at least one other electrode to which the second receiving signal is output. The above controller is configured to determine the position of an object on the touch surface based on the first received signal at the first time and the second received signal at the second time. Electronic device.

5. In Paragraph 4, The at least one electrode to which the second driving signal is applied is at least one first electrode among the plurality of first electrodes, and An electronic device in which at least one other electrode to which the second reception signal is output is at least one other first electrode among the plurality of first electrodes.

6. In Paragraph 4, The at least one electrode to which the second driving signal is applied is at least one second electrode among the plurality of second electrodes, and An electronic device in which at least one other electrode to which the second receiving signal is output is at least one other second electrode among the plurality of second electrodes.

7. In Paragraph 4, The at least one electrode to which the second driving signal is applied is at least one first electrode among the plurality of first electrodes and a second electrode adjacent to at least one first electrode among the plurality of second electrodes, and An electronic device in which at least one other electrode to which the second receiving signal is output is at least one other first electrode among the plurality of first electrodes and a second electrode adjacent to at least one other first electrode among the plurality of second electrodes.

8. In Paragraph 4, The at least one electrode to which the second driving signal is applied is at least two of the plurality of first electrodes, and The electronic device wherein the at least one other electrode to which the second reception signal is output is at least two of the plurality of fourth electrodes.

9. In Paragraph 4, The at least one electrode to which the second driving signal is applied is at least two of the plurality of second electrodes, and The electronic device wherein the at least one other electrode to which the second receiving signal is output is at least one third electrode among the plurality of third electrodes and at least one fourth electrode among the plurality of fourth electrodes.

10. In Paragraph 4, The above controller is an electronic device configured to determine whether an object on the touch surface is a finger or water based on the first received signal at the first time and the second received signal at the second time.

11. In Paragraph 4, An electronic device, wherein the controller simultaneously applies the first driving signal to all of the plurality of first electrodes during the first time, and the phase of the first driving signal applied to some of the plurality of first electrodes is opposite to the phase of the first driving signal applied to the remaining first electrodes among the plurality of first electrodes.

12. A controller configured to control a sensor electrically connected to a sensor disposed below a touch surface, the sensor comprising a plurality of first electrodes, each disposed along a first direction, and a plurality of third electrodes, each disposed along a second direction intersecting the first direction. The controller is configured to apply a driving signal to at least one of the plurality of first electrodes for a predetermined time, receive a reception signal from at least one other first electrode, and electrically ground the plurality of third electrodes to determine the LGM (Low Mass Ground) state of an object on the touch surface.

13. In Paragraph 12, The sensor comprises a plurality of second electrodes, each disposed along the first direction and adjacent to the first electrode. At least two of the ends of the plurality of second electrodes are configured to be electrically connected to each other, and The above controller is configured to electrically float or ground the plurality of second electrodes during the above predetermined time.

14. In Paragraph 12, The sensor comprises a plurality of fourth electrodes, each disposed along the second direction and adjacent to the third electrode. At least two of the ends of the plurality of fourth electrodes are configured to be electrically connected to each other, and The above controller is configured to electrically ground the plurality of fourth electrodes during the above predetermined time.

15. A controller configured to control a sensor electrically connected to a sensor and configured to control the sensor, the sensor comprising a plurality of first electrodes each disposed along a first direction and each disposed along the first direction and adjacent to the first electrode, a plurality of third electrodes each disposed along a second direction intersecting the first direction, and a plurality of fourth electrodes each disposed along the second direction and adjacent to the third electrode, wherein at least two of the ends of the plurality of second electrodes are electrically connected to each other and at least two of the ends of the plurality of fourth electrodes are electrically connected to each other. The above controller is configured to apply a first driving signal to at least one of the plurality of first electrodes during a first time period and to receive a first receiving signal from the plurality of third electrodes, and The controller is configured to apply a second driving signal to at least one of the plurality of first to fourth electrodes and receive a second receiving signal from at least one other electrode during a second time different from the first time, and to electrically ground (GND) or float the remaining electrodes, wherein at least one of the remaining electrodes is positioned between the at least one electrode to which the second driving signal is applied and the at least one other electrode to which the second receiving signal is output. The controller is configured to determine the position of an object on the touch surface based on the first received signal at the first time and the second received signal at the second time.

16. In Paragraph 15, The at least one electrode to which the second driving signal is applied is at least one first electrode among the plurality of first electrodes, and The controller, wherein the at least one other electrode to which the second reception signal is output is at least one other first electrode among the plurality of first electrodes.

17. In Paragraph 15, The at least one electrode to which the second driving signal is applied is at least one second electrode among the plurality of second electrodes, and The controller, wherein the at least one other electrode to which the second reception signal is output is at least one other second electrode among the plurality of second electrodes.

18. In Paragraph 15, The at least one electrode to which the second driving signal is applied is at least one first electrode among the plurality of first electrodes and a second electrode adjacent to at least one first electrode among the plurality of second electrodes, and The controller, wherein the at least one other electrode to which the second receiving signal is output is at least one other first electrode among the plurality of first electrodes and a second electrode adjacent to at least one other first electrode among the plurality of second electrodes.

19. In Paragraph 15, The at least one electrode to which the second driving signal is applied is at least two of the plurality of first electrodes, and The controller, wherein the at least one other electrode to which the second reception signal is output is at least two of the plurality of fourth electrodes.

20. In Paragraph 15, The at least one electrode to which the second driving signal is applied is at least two of the plurality of second electrodes, and The controller, wherein the at least one other electrode to which the second receiving signal is output is at least one third electrode among the plurality of third electrodes and at least one fourth electrode among the plurality of fourth electrodes.

21. In Paragraph 15, The controller is configured to determine whether an object on the touch surface is a finger or water based on the first received signal at the first time and the second received signal at the second time.

22. In Paragraph 15, The controller applies the first driving signal to all of the plurality of first electrodes simultaneously during the first time, wherein the phase of the first driving signal applied to some of the plurality of first electrodes is opposite to the phase of the first driving signal applied to the remaining first electrodes among the plurality of first electrodes.

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