Touch-Sensitive Electrode Layer Layout for Slim LED Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing touch-sensitive arrangements with light-emitting semiconductor bodies are typically thick due to their dual function of illumination and touch sensitivity, which poses a challenge in maintaining a slim form factor.
Innovation Solution
A touch-sensitive arrangement is designed with a low layer stack height, comprising a carrier, an electrode layer with detection and illuminating areas, at least one light-emitting semiconductor body, and an encapsulation layer, where the electrode layer is partially transparent and has a grid structure to minimize thickness while maintaining functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a touch-sensitive arrangement uses separate foils for LEDs and touch sensitivity that are laminated together, then both illumination and touch detection functions are achieved, but the thickness of the arrangement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the illumination function (LEDs with contact connections) and touch detection function (capacitive sensor electrodes) into a single integrated electrode layer. This merging eliminates the need for separate laminated foils, thereby reducing the overall thickness while maintaining both functional capabilities in one unified structure
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode layer serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides illumination through integrated LEDs, enables touch detection through capacitive sensor electrodes, and offers electrical connections. This multi-functionality allows a single layer to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate components, thus reducing thickness
2Strength
If the electrode layer is made continuous for structural integrity, then mechanical strength is improved, but transparency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode layer is segmented into a grid pattern with discrete connection lines rather than being continuous. This segmentation creates openings between the conductive elements, allowing light to pass through while the distributed grid structure still provides sufficient mechanical support and electrical connectivity across the layer
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 proposed solution achieves a slim thickness for the touch-sensitive arrangement while integrating both touch detection and illumination capabilities, enhancing the design flexibility and usability in various applications.
Implementation Method 1
at least one light-emitting semiconductor body (13)
Implementation Method 2
the detection area of the first number N of detection areas is configured such that an electric field between the first electrode and the second electrode can be influenced by touching the encapsulation layer
Data Source
AI summary
A touch-sensitive arrangement includes a carrier, an electrode layer, at least one light-emitting semiconductor body, and an encapsulation layer. The electrode layer is arranged between the carrier and the encapsulation layer and includes a first number N of detection areas and a second number M of illuminating areas. A detection area of the first number N of detection areas includes a first electrode. An illuminating area of the second number M of illuminating areas includes a first and a second contact connection line. The first contact connection line is coupled to a first terminal of the at least one light-emitting semiconductor body and the second contact connection line is coupled to a second terminal of the at least one light-emitting semiconductor body.