Index Matching Layer for Touch Sensor Light Reflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrode patterns in touch screens cause undesirable reflection of external light, making them visible to users.
Innovation Solution
An index matching layer is formed without contact holes, which covers the active region of the touch screen to compensate for refractive index differences and reduce reflection, thereby minimizing the visibility of electrode patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electrode patterns are formed in the touch screen, then touch detection function is enabled, but external light reflection occurs making patterns visible
Solution Approach 1:
An index matching layer is introduced as an intermediary component between the electrode patterns and the external environment. This layer has a refractive index that matches the electrode material, causing light to pass through without reflecting off the electrode patterns, thereby eliminating visibility while preserving touch detection functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The refractive index parameter of the layer surrounding the electrodes is changed to match the electrode material's refractive index. This parameter change eliminates the optical contrast that causes reflection and visibility of the electrode patterns, while the electrodes continue to function for touch detection
2Ease of manufacture
If contact holes are formed in the index matching layer, then electrode connection is enabled, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The index matching layer is selectively removed (taken out) only in the specific regions where contact holes are needed to expose the electrodes. This extraction approach enables necessary electrical connections while preserving the index matching layer in other regions to maintain its light-reflection suppression function
Solution Approach 2:
The index matching layer is segmented into different regions: areas that are removed to form contact holes for electrode connection, and areas that are retained to suppress light reflection. This segmentation allows simultaneous achievement of electrical connection and optical performance
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
The solution effectively reduces or eliminates the visibility of electrode patterns due to external light reflection, enhancing the user experience by maintaining image clarity while detecting external touches without a complex manufacturing process.
Implementation Method 1
forming an index matching layer without contact holes formed therein... compensate for refractive index differences and reduce reflection
Data Source
AI summary
A method of manufacturing an electronic device including forming a first conductive pattern layer on a base layer, forming an organic layer on which a plurality of contact holes exposing a portion of the first conductive pattern layer on the base layer are defined, forming a resin pattern layer covering the contact holes on the organic layer, forming an insulating layer covering at least a portion of the resin pattern layer on the organic layer, removing the resin pattern layer such that an index matching layer is formed by removing at least the portion covering the resin pattern layer, and forming a second conductive pattern layer on the index matching layer. An electronic device constructed according to the method of manufacturing is also disclosed.