Input Sensor Mesh Lines with Dual-Material Outer Layers
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices with input sensors face issues of sensor disconnection and corrosion, leading to reliability concerns due to the use of metal layers with different materials and structures, which can result in hillocks and damage.
Innovation Solution
The electronic device incorporates a dual-layered mesh sensing electrode system with a bridge pattern and insulating layers, where the first mesh lines have a three-layer structure and the second mesh lines have a two-layer structure, with different materials for the outermost layers, and a bridge pattern electrically connects the second mesh lines, preventing disconnection and corrosion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If different materials are used for outermost metal layers in first and second portions of mesh lines, then corrosion resistance is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different materials to different portions of the mesh lines based on their specific functional requirements. The first portion of the first mesh line uses a first material optimized for its location and function, while the second portion uses a second material suited to its requirements. This local differentiation improves overall corrosion resistance without requiring uniform material changes throughout the entire structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material structures where multiple materials are combined in a single mesh line system. The mesh lines comprise first metal layers, second metal layers, and third metal layers with different material properties, creating a composite structure that leverages the advantages of each material while mitigating their individual disadvantages.
2Reliability
If bridge pattern is added to connect second mesh lines, then sensor disconnection is prevented, but device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The bridge pattern acts as an intermediary element that connects the second mesh lines to each other. This intermediate structure provides a reliable electrical and mechanical connection path between the mesh lines, preventing disconnection while maintaining the overall sensor functionality. The bridge pattern serves as a mediating component that resolves the connection issue without requiring direct complex interconnections between mesh lines.
3Reliability
If multiple metal layers with different materials are used, then corrosion resistance is improved, but hillock formation and damage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent carefully controls the thickness and material composition parameters of each metal layer to optimize performance. By adjusting the thickness of the first, second, and third metal layers, and selecting appropriate materials for each layer, the patent achieves corrosion resistance while minimizing hillock formation. The parameter optimization balances protective functionality with structural integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device including: a display panel; and an input sensor disposed on the display panel, wherein the input sensor is configured to sense an external input, the input sensor including: a first sensing electrode including a plurality of first mesh lines; and a second sensing electrode including a plurality of second mesh lines insulated from the first mesh lines and a bridge pattern overlapping the first mesh lines, and wherein the first mesh lines include a plurality of metal layers, the first mesh lines include a first portion overlapping the bridge pattern and a second portion that does not overlap the bridge pattern, wherein the first portion includes an outermost metal layer including a material different from a material of an outermost metal layer of the second portion, and wherein the outermost metal layers of the first and second portions are adjacent to a display surface of the electronic device.