Touch Sensor Ground-Layer Extension for Contour-Edge Static Discharge

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing touch sensors are susceptible to static electricity due to through holes being arranged away from the contour end of the insulating layer, leading to ineffective grounding and potential malfunctions.

Innovation Solution

Incorporation of a ground layer and first lightning arresters on the insulating board, positioned to extend from the ground layer to the contour end of the insulating board near the connection area, facilitating the flow of static electricity into the ground potential and preventing it from affecting the sensor board.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If through holes are arranged away from the contour end of the insulating layer, then the insulating layer structure is simplified and easier to manufacture, but static electricity cannot be effectively guided to the conductive layer, reducing reliability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinsulating layer structureVSAvoidstatic electricity elimination
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extends the ground layer in the vertical dimension from the through-hole level down to the contour end of the insulating layer. This dimensional extension creates a direct grounding path at the contour end without requiring through holes to be positioned there, thus maintaining manufacturing simplicity while improving static electricity elimination capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The grounding function is segmented into two parts: through holes provide grounding in the central region, while the extended ground layer provides grounding at the contour end. This segmentation allows each component to fulfill its specific function without compromising the other, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing ease and reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If through holes are positioned near the connection area, then static electricity guidance is improved, but the risk of static electricity affecting the sensor board increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestatic electricity guidanceVSAvoidstatic electricity impact on sensor board
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The extended ground layer acts as an intermediary between the through holes and the sensor board. It provides a controlled path for static electricity discharge away from the connection area, allowing static electricity to be eliminated without directly exposing the sensor board to harmful electrical discharges

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The harmful effect of static electricity is extracted and redirected through the extended ground layer to a safe discharge path at the contour end, separating the static electricity elimination function from the sensitive connection area and preventing damage to the sensor board

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

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

Effectively prevents static electricity from reaching the sensor board, thereby avoiding malfunctions and ensuring reliable operation of the touch sensor.

Implementation Method 1

at least one first lightning arrester electrically connected to the ground layer, which is arranged on at least one surface of the insulating board. The first lightning arrester extends from the ground layer to a contour end of the insulating board positioned near a connection area

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS12443307B2Touch sensor
Publication Date: 2025.10.14 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD
  • US12443307B2 patent drawing
  • US12443307B2 patent drawing
  • US12443307B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A flexible wiring board includes an insulating board, a ground layer, and at least one first lightning arrester electrically connected to the ground layer. The first lightning arrester extends from the ground layer to a contour end of the insulating board positioned near a connection area. The first lightning arrester is configured so that one end is positioned at the contour end of the insulating board near the connection area.