Integrated Input Sensor Layout for Touch and Pen Charging Displays

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing display devices lack efficient methods for precise input sensing, particularly for users familiar with writing instruments, and there is a need for improved input technologies that support both touch and pen-based inputs.

Innovation Solution

A display device with an input sensor and a charging electrode generating an induced magnetic field, combined with a specific trace line configuration and layered metal structures, enables both touch and pen-based input detection, including an RLC resonant circuit for pen charging.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a sensor layer is added for touch-based input, then input convenience is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinput convenienceVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the touch sensing function and pen input function into a single integrated sensor layer. The sensor layer includes both a sensing electrode for detecting touch inputs and a charging electrode for wireless charging of pens, merging two separate functions into one structure. This reduces the need for separate sensor layers and simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining both touch and pen input capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a charging electrode is added for pen charging, then pen-based input capability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepen-based input capabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor layer is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a touch sensing interface and as a wireless charging coil for pens. The charging electrode is integrated within the same sensor layer structure, allowing it to perform dual functions: detecting touch inputs through the sensing electrode and providing electromagnetic induction for pen charging. This universal design eliminates the need for separate charging components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If multiple metal layers are used in the trace line, then electrical connection reliability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connection reliabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The trace line is constructed using a composite multi-layer metal structure consisting of a first metal layer, a second metal layer, and a third metal layer. Each layer serves a specific function: the first metal layer provides electrical connection, the second metal layer enhances conductivity and mechanical strength, and the third metal layer provides additional connection reliability. This composite structure improves overall electrical connection reliability while managing manufacturing complexity through a systematic layered approach.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

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 provides enhanced input sensitivity and precision for both touch and pen-based inputs, supporting intuitive and accurate user interactions.

Implementation Method 1

a charging electrode in a sensing region, and configured to generate an induced magnetic field

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP4693001A1Display device comprising display panel, input sensor and charging electrode
Publication Date: 2026.02.11 SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO LTD
  • EP4693001A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4693001A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4693001A1 patent drawingFigure 3A

AI summary

Provided is a display device (DD) including a display panel (100), and an input sensor (200) including a charging electrode (CRE) in a sensing region (200-DA) and configured to generate an induced magnetic field, a first trace line (SL1) in a peripheral region (200-NDA) adjacent to the sensing region (200-DA) and electrically connected to the charging electrode (CRE), an inorganic layer (230, IOL) covering the charging electrode (CRE), a first organic layer (250, OL) above the inorganic layer (230, IOL), a sensing electrode (SE) in the sensing region (200-DA) above the inorganic layer (230, IOL), and a second organic layer (270, OL) above the first organic layer (250, OL) and overlapping the sensing electrode (SE), wherein the first trace line (SL1) includes a (1-1)-th line portion (SL1-1) below the inorganic layer (230, IOL), a (1-2)-th line portion (SL1-2) between the inorganic layer (230, IOL) and the first organic layer (250, OL), and electrically connected to the (1-1)-th line portion (SL1-1), and a (1-3)-th line portion (SL1-3) between the first organic layer (250, OL) and the second organic layer (270, OL), and electrically connected to the (1-2)-th line portion (SL1-2).