Pixel Electrode Layout for Integrated Touch Sensing Displays

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Solution Overview

Problem

The manufacturing cost of display devices increases due to the need for a separate process to form the sensing electrode layer for touch sensors.

Innovation Solution

A display device is designed where the electrode pattern is formed on the same layer as the internal lines of each pixel and used as a sensing electrode for the touch sensor, eliminating the need for a separate sensing electrode layer.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a separate sensing electrode layer is formed on the panel to create a touch sensor, then the touch sensing function is achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases due to additional processes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetouch sensing functionVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the sensing electrode function with the existing electrode pattern layer that is already part of the pixel structure. The electrode pattern that originally served only for pixel operation is designed to also function as the sensing electrode for touch detection, merging two functions into a single layer and eliminating the need for a separate sensing electrode layer.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The electrode pattern is designed to serve dual purposes: it acts as both the internal electrode for pixel operation and as the sensing electrode for touch sensor functionality. This multi-functional design allows the same structural element to fulfill multiple roles, reducing overall device complexity and manufacturing steps.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If a separate sensing electrode layer is formed, then the touch sensor functionality is achieved, but the device thickness increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetouch sensor functionalityVSAvoiddevice thickness

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The sensing electrode is merged with the existing electrode pattern layer within the pixel structure, eliminating the need for an additional separate layer. This integration maintains the touch sensing capability while avoiding the thickness increase that would result from adding another distinct layer.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes the existing two-dimensional electrode pattern layout and enhances its functionality rather than adding a new layer in the third dimension. By making the existing pattern multi-functional, the design avoids increasing device thickness while still achieving touch sensing capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS12230739B2Display device

Publication Date: 2025.02.18 SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO LTD

AI summary

A display device includes pixel areas; and a pixel disposed in each of the pixel areas. The pixel includes a first electrode and a second electrode disposed on a substrate and disposed on a same layer, a light emitting element disposed on the first electrode and the second electrode, a third electrode electrically connecting the first electrode to a first end of the light emitting element, a fourth electrode electrically connecting the second electrode to a second end of the light emitting element, and an electrode pattern and the electrode pattern and one of the third electrode and the fourth electrode being disposed on a same layer.