One-Layer Pressure Sensor for Foldable Displays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pressure sensors in display devices have thickness limitations that affect their reliability and sensitivity, especially when the device is bent or folded, and they require complex processing due to the separation of the pressure sensing layer from the driving and sensing electrodes.
Innovation Solution
A pressure sensor design with a reduced thickness is achieved by having the driving and sensing electrodes directly on the same layer as the pressure sensing layer, with surface irregularities that increase contact area upon pressure application, allowing for a one-layer structure that maintains sensitivity and simplifies processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the pressure sensing layer is separated from the driving and sensing electrodes, then the device can be manufactured with conventional processes, but the thickness increases and reliability decreases when bent or folded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the pressure sensing layer with the driving and sensing electrodes into a single integrated layer. The pressure sensing layer includes first and second regions that directly contact the driving electrode and sensing electrode respectively, eliminating the need for separate layers and reducing overall thickness while improving reliability in bent or folded states.
2Measurement precision
If the driving and sensing electrodes are on different layers, then the structure is more flexible for manufacturing, but the contact area with pressure sensing layer is reduced and sensitivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent places both the driving electrode and sensing electrode on the same layer as the pressure sensing layer. The pressure sensing layer includes first and second regions that directly contact the driving electrode and sensing electrode respectively, maximizing the contact area and improving sensitivity while simplifying the manufacturing process.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple layers are used for pressure sensor structure, then the components can be positioned precisely, but the overall thickness increases and processing becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the pressure sensing layer, driving electrode, and sensing electrode into a single-layer structure. The pressure sensing layer includes first and second regions positioned to contact the driving electrode and sensing electrode respectively, achieving precise positioning without requiring multiple separate layers, thereby reducing processing complexity.
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 design enhances the reliability and sensitivity of the pressure sensor by eliminating gaps between the electrodes and the pressure sensing layer, even when the device is bent or folded, while reducing overall thickness and processing complexity.
Implementation Method 1
the first portion may be spaced apart from the driving electrode and the sensing electrode with a space therebetween... a first contact area between the second portion and the driving electrode and between the second portion and the sensing electrode before pressure is applied to the pressure sensor may be smaller than a second contact area between the second portion and the driving electrode and between the second portion and the sensing electrode after pressure is applied to the pressure sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A pressure sensor, includes: a first substrate; a pressure sensing layer on one surface of the first substrate; and a driving electrode and a sensing electrode on the pressure sensing layer and spaced apart from each other, wherein the driving electrode and the sensing electrode are on a same layer, and each of the driving electrode and the sensing electrode is directly on the pressure sensing layer.