Input Device Proximity Detection Using Stacked Electrodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing input devices and display devices face challenges in detecting external proximity objects with high accuracy and efficiency, particularly in reducing thickness while maintaining effective capacitance detection and light emission functionality.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a configuration with a first substrate, a first light-emitting element unit, and a third electrode unit, where the first light-emitting element unit includes a first electrode unit, a second electrode unit, and a luminescent layer, and the third electrode unit is insulated from the first electrode unit, allowing for detection of changes in the electric field based on the proximity of objects. This configuration enables accurate proximity detection and efficient light emission while reducing device thickness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If the device thickness is reduced, then the device form factor is improved, but the capacitance detection capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from planar electrode arrangement to a three-dimensional stacked configuration where the first and second electrode units are positioned in different layers. This vertical stacking creates capacitance detection capability in the thickness dimension, allowing effective proximity detection despite reduced overall device footprint and thickness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent embeds the second electrode unit within the same substrate structure as the first electrode unit, with the luminescent layer positioned between them. This nested arrangement allows multiple functional layers to occupy the same spatial envelope, maintaining detection capability while minimizing device thickness.
2Length of stationary object
If the device thickness is reduced, then the device form factor is improved, but the light emission efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By stacking the luminescent layer between the first and second electrode units in the vertical dimension, the patent maintains effective charge injection and light emission pathways despite reduced lateral space. This three-dimensional arrangement preserves light emission efficiency while achieving thinner overall device profile.
3Device complexity
If the first and second electrode units are in the same layer, then the device structure is simplified, but the proximity detection accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the first and second electrode units in different layers rather than the same plane, creating a vertical capacitance detection pathway. This layered arrangement enhances proximity detection accuracy by providing a more sensitive electric field distribution in the thickness direction, while the overall structure remains manageable through systematic integration.
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 the accuracy of proximity detection and maintains efficient light emission, achieving a thinner device form factor while improving detection capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a third electrode unit insulated from the first electrode unit and that detects a change in an electric field between the first electrode unit and the third electrode unit depending on coordinates of a proximity object
Implementation Method 2
a luminescent layer electrically in contact with at least a part of the first electrode unit and a part of the second electrode unit, and formed between the first electrode unit and the second electrode unit
Data Source
AI summary
An input device includes a first substrate, a first light-emitting element unit, and a third electrode unit. The first substrate has a first surface and a second surface. The first light-emitting element includes a first electrode unit formed on the second surface, a second electrode unit formed in a layer different from that of the first electrode unit, and a luminescent layer electrically in contact with at least a part of the first electrode unit and a part of the second electrode unit, and formed between the first electrode unit and the second electrode unit. The third electrode unit is insulated from the first electrode unit and detects a change in an electric field between the first electrode unit and the third electrode unit depending on coordinates of a proximity object present at a position overlapping with the first surface in planar view.