Active Matrix Substrate Layout for Edge Touch and ESD Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing active matrix substrates face issues with high defect rates due to static electricity and increased short-circuit risks when both touch detection and defect reduction structures are integrated in the frame region, leading to reduced yield and performance.
Innovation Solution
The active matrix substrate incorporates a frame touch electrode at a first layer and a frame element at a second layer in the frame region, with specific regions for touch sensitivity and electrostatic discharge protection, respectively, to minimize overlap and reduce short-circuit risks while maintaining touch detection sensitivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If both a structure for detecting a touch and a structure for reducing the percent defective of structures in the pixel region are disposed in the frame region, then the touch detection capability at pixel region edges is improved, but the area of overlap between these structures increases, leading to a higher possibility of short circuit occurring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the contradiction by transitioning from a two-dimensional planar layout to a three-dimensional stacked architecture. The touch detection electrode is positioned at a first position (e.g., upper layer) while the electrostatic discharge protection structure is positioned at a second position (e.g., lower layer) in the vertical dimension. This spatial separation in the thickness direction allows both structures to coexist in the frame region without overlapping in plan view, thereby maintaining touch detection capability while eliminating short circuit risks.
2Reliability
If dummy structures are disposed in the frame region to protect pixels from static electricity, then the percent defective of pixels is reduced, but the area occupied by these structures increases, reducing the effective frame region area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent places the electrostatic discharge protection structure at a different vertical position (second position in thickness direction) compared to the touch detection electrode (first position). This vertical stacking enables the protection structure to occupy space in the thickness direction rather than lateral plane, thereby reducing the lateral area occupied by protection structures and increasing the effective frame region area while maintaining protection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame region structures are designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously. The electrostatic discharge protection structure not only protects pixels from static electricity but also allows the frame region to maintain its structural and functional integrity. By positioning it at a different vertical level, it coexists with other frame region components without compromising their functionality or occupying excessive lateral space.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration enhances touch detection sensitivity at the pixel region edges and reduces the likelihood of short circuits, improving yield and stability of the active matrix substrate.
Implementation Method 1
a frame element, formed at a second layer different from the first layer in the frame region, that suppresses an electrostatic discharge failure of at least one of the plurality of pixels
Data Source
AI summary
An active matrix substrate includes a touch electrode disposed in a pixel region, a frame touch electrode disposed in a frame region, and a dummy array segment disposed in the frame region. The frame region includes a first dummy region, provided in a position adjacent to the pixel region, where the frame touch electrode is disposed and a second dummy region provided in a position opposite to the pixel region across the first dummy region. In the second dummy region, the frame touch electrode is not disposed, but the dummy array segment is disposed.