Touch Detecting Unit Proximity Sensing Bezel Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Display devices, such as smartphones, face challenges in minimizing bezel width due to the need for a proximity sensor, which occupies non-display area, and existing solutions fail to effectively replace this sensor without compromising touch detection accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A touch detecting unit with sensor electrodes arranged in specific configurations to detect changes in mutual capacitance, allowing for proximity sensing without a dedicated proximity sensor, enabling bezel width reduction by integrating touch and proximity sensing functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a proximity sensor is disposed in the bezel, then proximity sensing function is achieved, but bezel width cannot be minimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the proximity sensing function with the touch sensor electrodes already present in the display. The third sensor electrodes are integrated into the touch sensing structure, allowing the same electrode system to perform both touch detection and proximity sensing functions, thereby eliminating the need for a separate proximity sensor in the bezel.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor electrodes are designed to serve multiple functions: they detect touch events when contacted and simultaneously detect proximity events when a object approaches without contact. This multi-functionality allows the display system to replace the dedicated proximity sensor with the existing touch sensor infrastructure.
2Area of stationary object
If touch sensor electrodes are used for proximity sensing, then bezel width is reduced, but touch detection accuracy may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor electrode system is divided into multiple groups: first sensor electrodes arranged in a first direction, second sensor electrodes arranged in a second direction crossing the first direction, and third sensor electrodes. This segmentation allows different electrode combinations to be used for different sensing modes (touch vs. proximity), maintaining accuracy for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions and configurations of sensor electrodes are optimized for different functions. The first and second sensor electrodes form mutual capacitances suitable for touch detection, while the third sensor electrodes are specifically configured for proximity sensing. This local optimization ensures that each sensing mode operates with high accuracy using the most suitable electrode configuration.
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 accurate detection of proximity and touch events, reducing bezel width by eliminating the need for a separate proximity sensor, while maintaining touch sensitivity and accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
Amounts of change in first capacitances between the first sensor electrodes and the second sensor electrodes are detected in a first mode. Amounts of change in the first capacitances and amounts of change in a second capacitance between the first sensor electrodes and the third sensor electrodes are detected in a second mode.
Data Source
AI summary
A touch detecting unit comprises first sensor electrodes arranged in a first direction and electrically connected with one another; second sensor electrodes arranged in a second direction crossing the first direction, and electrically connected with one another, the second sensor electrodes electrically separated from the first sensor electrodes, and third sensor electrodes electrically separated from the first sensor electrodes and the second sensor electrodes. Amounts of change in first capacitances between the first sensor electrodes and the second sensor electrodes are detected in a first mode. Amounts of change in the first capacitances and amounts of change in a second capacitance between the first sensor electrodes and the third sensor electrodes are detected in a second mode.