Multi-Layer Input Sensing Layer for Display Bezel Minimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Display devices face challenges in minimizing the bezel area due to the increasing number of signal lines required for touch-based input methods, which complicates the design and increases the bezel size.
Innovation Solution
A display device with an input sensing layer comprising a first and second conductive layer, where the first conductive layer includes trace lines and sensing electrodes, and the second conductive layer includes additional sensing electrodes and trace lines, all of which are strategically arranged to minimize the bezel area by overlapping the active area and optimizing signal line placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the number of sensing electrodes is increased to improve touch input sensing capability, then the touch sensitivity is improved, but the number of signal lines increases and the bezel area becomes larger
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a planar arrangement of signal lines to a three-dimensional stacked architecture where sensing electrodes and signal lines are arranged in multiple layers. The first and second conductive layers are disposed at different positions in the thickness direction, allowing signal lines to extend in different directions (first direction for first signal lines, second direction for second signal lines) without interfering with each other, thereby reducing the bezel area while maintaining touch sensitivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensing electrode array is divided into multiple independent sensing electrodes (first sensing electrodes and second sensing electrodes) arranged in different conductive layers. Each sensing electrode can be independently connected to signal lines, allowing for segmented signal routing that reduces the overall space required for signal transmission and minimizes the bezel area.
2Ease of operation
If signal lines are disposed in the bezel area to connect sensing electrodes, then the touch input function is achieved, but the bezel area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the thickness direction (third direction) to route signal lines through multiple conductive layers. First signal lines extend in the first direction within the first conductive layer, while second signal lines extend in the second direction within the second conductive layer. This multi-dimensional routing allows signal lines to connect sensing electrodes without requiring additional horizontal space in the bezel area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where the first conductive layer and second conductive layer are stacked in the thickness direction, with each layer containing its own set of signal lines and sensing electrodes. The signal lines in different layers are electrically connected through contact holes that pass through insulating layers, creating a nested configuration that consolidates signal routing within the display panel structure rather than expanding the bezel area.
3Area of moving object
If trace lines are made longer to connect sensing electrodes across the display area, then the coverage is improved, but the noise difference between touch sensitivity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces trace line length by utilizing the thickness direction for vertical connections between sensing electrodes in different conductive layers. Contact holes provide direct vertical pathways through insulating layers, eliminating the need for long horizontal trace lines to connect electrodes across the display area. This three-dimensional connectivity maintains comprehensive sensing coverage while minimizing trace line length and associated noise.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a display device which includes a display panel that includes an active area and a peripheral area and an input sensing layer that includes a first conductive layer and a second conductive layer. The first conductive layer includes first trace lines and second trace lines. The second conductive layer includes first sensing electrodes and second sensing electrodes. The first trace lines extend in a second direction, are disposed apart from each other in a first direction, and are electrically connected to the first sensing electrodes, respectively. The second trace lines extend in the second direction, are disposed apart from each other in the first direction, and are electrically connected to the second sensing electrodes, respectively. The first conductive layer and the second conductive layer overlap the active area of the display panel.