Laser Scribing Capacitive Touch Panels with Dynamic Focusing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for scribing electrode patterns on two layers of a projective capacitive touch panel require separate lasers or complex recalibration, limiting the ability to create different patterns on each layer efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A method using a single laser with adjustable lenses and beam parameters to scribe different electrode patterns on each transparent electrically conductive layer of a capacitive touch panel by directing the laser beam through focal spots on each layer, allowing for relative movement in two axes to create distinct patterns without damaging the substrate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a single laser is used to scribe both layers simultaneously, then substrate damage is minimized and process complexity is reduced, but the ability to create different patterns on each layer is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic focusing capability where a single laser beam can be focused at different depths (first focal spot for first layer, second focal spot for second layer) by adjusting the lens position. This dynamic adjustment allows the same laser to create different patterns on each layer by selectively focusing energy at different z-positions, resolving the contradiction between using a single laser and achieving pattern differentiation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two separate lasers are used to scribe each layer, then different patterns can be created on each layer, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes a single laser system perform multiple functions by enabling it to scribe both the first and second conductive layers with different patterns. Through dynamic focusing and parameter adjustment, one laser replaces what would traditionally require two separate lasers, reducing device complexity while maintaining the ability to create distinct patterns on each layer.
3Productivity
If laser parameters are increased to scribe through both layers, then scribing efficiency improves, but substrate damage occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by concentrating laser energy at specific focal points within each layer rather than distributing energy throughout the entire substrate thickness. By focusing the beam at the first focal spot for the first layer and at the second focal spot for the second layer, high energy density is achieved only where needed for scribing, while the substrate between and beyond the layers remains unaffected, thus maintaining productivity without causing damage.
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
Enables efficient and precise scribing of different electrode patterns on both layers of a capacitive touch panel using a single laser, reducing the need for complex recalibration and minimizing substrate damage, while allowing for identical or distinct patterns on each layer.
Implementation Method 1
directing a laser beam through one or more lenses to a first focal spot on or closely adjacent an exposed surface of a first of the two layers
Implementation Method 2
initiating relative movement between the laser and the substrate in two axes in a plane orthogonal to the axis of the laser beam whereby to scribe an electrode pattern
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for laser scribing two transparent electrically conductive layers (72A,B; 73A,B) deposited on opposite surfaces of a transparent substrate (71A; 71B) comprising; a laser beam (74A), one or more lenses (75A, 76A, 77A) configured and positioned for adjusting the focal spot (78A; 78B) of the laser beam between a first position (78A) and a second position (78B), means for holding a substrate in a plane between the first and second position and means for moving the relative positions of the substrate (71A; 71B) and laser beam (74A) in two dimensions within the plane or a plane parallel to it, wherein in use, the first and second positions (78A; 78B) coincide with or are adjacent to exposed surfaces of the two transparent electrically conducting layers (72A,B; 73A,B).