Touch Sensor Bridge Pattern Layout for Lower Contact Resistance

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Solution Overview

Problem

The challenge of high contact resistance between conductive layers in input sensors of display devices leads to reduced performance of touch-based input schemes.

Innovation Solution

A display device design with a bridge pattern that includes conductive layers connected through contact holes, where each layer has varying resistance values, and opening portions aligning with the contact hole, reducing contact resistance by using conductive materials like aluminum and titanium.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conductive layers are connected through contact holes in input sensors, then electrical connection is achieved, but contact resistance increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinput sensor performanceVSAvoidcontact resistance
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a composite conductive structure consisting of multiple conductive layers (first conductive layer and second conductive layer) stacked on top of each other. Each layer has different resistance characteristics, with the first layer providing lower resistance and the second layer providing additional conductivity. This composite structure reduces contact resistance at the interface between conductive layers while maintaining electrical connection through contact holes, thereby improving input sensor performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces opening portions in specific locations within the conductive layers, particularly in regions where contact holes are formed. These opening portions create localized areas of reduced resistance by exposing underlying conductive materials or creating direct contact paths. The opening portions are strategically positioned to minimize contact resistance at critical interfaces without compromising the overall structural integrity of the conductive layers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Object-affected harmful factors

If multiple conductive layers are stacked to reduce resistance, then contact resistance decreases, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontact resistanceVSAvoidconductive layer structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the conductive path into multiple segmented layers, with each layer serving a specific function. The first conductive layer provides primary conductivity with lower resistance, while the second conductive layer provides supplemental conductivity. This segmentation allows each layer to be optimized independently for its specific function, reducing overall contact resistance while maintaining manageable structural complexity through functional differentiation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces opening portions as intermediary features that facilitate direct contact between conductive layers. These opening portions act as mediators that reduce the contact resistance interface by creating direct exposure points where conductive materials can contact each other or underlying conductive structures. This intermediary approach simplifies the overall electrical connection pathway without requiring complex additional conductive structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 design significantly improves the performance of input sensors by minimizing contact resistance, enhancing the responsiveness and accuracy of touch inputs.

Implementation Method 1

a first detection electrode on a different layer from the first detection pattern, and including a bridge pattern electrically connected to the first detection pattern through a contact hole passing through a sensor insulation layer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS12468428B2Display device and method for manufacturing the same
Publication Date: 2025.11.11 SAMSUNG DISPLAY CO LTD
  • US12468428B2 patent drawing
  • US12468428B2 patent drawing
  • US12468428B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A display device includes a display panel and an input sensor. The input sensor may include a first detection pattern, and a first detection electrode including a bridge pattern electrically connected to the first detection pattern. The bridge pattern may include a (1-1)-th conductive layer, and a (1-2)-th conductive layer, and the first detection pattern may include a (2-1)-th conductive layer, and a (2-2)-th conductive layer. A first opening portion that exposes the one surface of the (1-1)-th conductive layer may be defined in the (1-2)-th conductive layer, and a second opening portion that exposes the one surface of the (2-1)-th conductive layer may be defined in the (2-2)-th conductive layer. The one surface of the (1-1)-th conductive layer and the one surface of the (2-1)-th conductive layer may be in contact with each other.